Places to discover

Best places to visit in Ecuador

Latin America fires the imagination of travellers in search of exoticism and a change of scene. So why choose to explore the smallest of Andean countries instead of another more vast or better known one? Precisely because Ecuador, just like Uruguay, is one of the small countries of this continent in which is concentrated a powerful history, a lovely diversity of landscapes and a jolly population proud to see you stay in their country.

To familiarise you with this favourite destination, the Evaneos Travel community of travellers will know to inform you on the places not to be missed and, what's more, about some other little known gems. An original destination and a tailor-made circuit that will make you come back home with lots of pictures in your head. A big plus, Ecuador extends from the Amazon to the Pacific Ocean passing through the Cordillera of the Andes, so you will have the opportunity to experience both the sea and the mountain.

You might start your stay by a visit of Quito and its colonial architecture town centre, one of the best preserved on the continent. Not far to the north, the colourful village of Otavalo presents itself as the handicrafts capital, mostly made by the Quechuas of the region. If you are looking for invigorating mountain air, go to the beautiful plains around Zumbahua and admire the sublime lake the colour of emeralds in the Quilotoa volcano's crater.

However, a stay in Ecuador would not be complete without a visit to the Galapagos archipelago , at once the stronghold of scientists and travellers, the seat of observation of an exceptional and surprising nature. If observing wild creatures does not scare you, prolong the adventure in Amazonia for example with the exploration of Cuyabeno Reserve and its anacondas. And to rest after all of that, the Pacific coast will be the ideal place to relax, in peace and quiet at Puerto López , or in the more animated seaside resort version of Montañita .

As you will have understood, the country of the Mitad del Mundo is not lagging behind its neighbours and will delight the curious traveller seeking to make discoveries.

Misahuallí

Misahualli is a quiet port in Amazonia which is crossed the by Napo river. It has communities living in secondary jungle, out of the "selva".

Vilcabamba

Vilcabamba is in a haven of greenery, 48 km from Loja. Life is easy there and its inhabitants are reluctant to leave this world. Vilcabamba has a reputation for creating centenarians.

Chugchilan

At 20km from the Quilotoa Lagoon, in the heart of a lush, green landscape, Chugchilán is a quiet mountain village.

Guamote

A small town in centre of this country on the edge of South America, tourists love Guamote for its weekly market on Thursdays, but there are lots of other things to do!

Imbabura

Imbabura Province is one of the most well-known places for tourists to visit in Ecuador. It's possible to go on an organised tour of the region, and this is an option open to all tourists. It's essential to include Imbabura on your itinerary if you want to see and explore the Ecuadorian Sierra.

Sigchos

Sigchos is an unpretentious little village at an altitude of 3,000 m, on the Quilotoa loop. A place worth considering if you are walking or trekking!

Hacienda Tigua

Tigua is a small village located in the mountains at the foot of Cotopaxi, a few kilometres from Latacunga lagoon. It is primarily known for its highly coloured crafts that are sold throughout Ecuador.

Chimborazo

At 6,130 metres above sea level, Chimborazo is the highest volcano in Ecuador.

Papallacta

Papallacta is a little village in the Andes located at over 3000 m, or nearly 10,000 ft in altitude and fed by warm water springs.

Pichicha

At 4,794 metres high, Pichincha volcano is still active and looms dangerously over Quito. However you can climb it in about 4 hours.

Aguas Blancas

In Machalilla National Park, the Agua Blanca site is managed by the community of the same name. Guides from the village will take you around the site, which is ideal if you want to meet local people!

Cuenca

3.7

Cuenca is a peaceful, charming colonial town, which is also the third biggest town in Ecuador, the main town of the Southern region and the capital of production of the famous Panama hat.

Peguche

3.7

Peguche is an exceptional place to visit if you want to encounter and meet the local indigenous people.

Riobamba

3.5

Riobamba lies right at the heart of the mountains amidst a quite wonderful environment, and the views you get of Ecuador's highest mountain, Chimborazo, from here are simply breathtaking.

Saquisilí

3.5

12 km from Latacunga, Saquisili is a tiny, authentic village which is well worth the trip.

Mitad Del Mundo

3.5

Mitad del Mundo is a highly original tourist attraction 20 kilometres to the north of Quito. It's actually where the boundary dividing our planet into two is located. The northern hemisphere lies on one side, and the southern hemisphere on the other. You can have the unique experience of going from one to the other in a single jump here.