Perched perfectly across the equator, Ecuador is home to an absolutely huge range of landscapes – including the Amazon jungle, Galápagos Islands and the Andean Highlands. From tropical beaches to snowy mountains to lush rain forests – there is a lot of adventure to be had in Ecuador!
Quilotoa Lake
Quilotoa is a 3 km caldera formed by the collapse of a volcano approximately 600 years ago. Today, it is a 250 m deep lake, within which hot springs have developed on the lake floor. Explore the hot springs on the eastern side of the volcano for a truly thermal experience.
Quito
Quito is Ecuador’s capital and can be found perched in the Andean foothills at a crazy altitude of 2850 m. It’s foundations are actually an ancient Incan city. Head here to dip into Quito’s history and culture, set against a magnificent mountainous background.
Santa Marianita
The cute fishing village of Santa Marianita sits on the Pacific coast of Ecuador. Its beach stretches for a whole kilometre and is home to pelicans, whales and sea turtles. Head here for some wildlife spotting or even some kite surfing!
Piñas
Piñas is small village in the El Oro Province and is also known as the “Orchid of The Andes” due to the sheer amount of the flower that grow nearby. In fact, there is a National Festival of Orchids held here each year – which is Piñas’ largest festival! Head here for the Buenaventura Reserve which is an unbelievable place to spot the local wildlife.
Mercado Artesanal, Otavalo
If you’re after the perfect market in Ecuador, make sure you head to Otavalo. The market itself has actually made the city famous, with visitors travelling from far and wide, with some even claiming it as the most spectacular of its type within the whole of South America. Head here to immerse yourself in Ecuadorian culture, traditions and products that are a feast for your senses! Make sure to visit on a Saturday when the market is at its largest.
Chimborazo
The inactive stratvolcano of Chimborazo can be found in the Cordillera Occidental range of the Andes. It has a peak elevation of 6,263 m and is the highest mountain in Ecuador.
Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands are considered one of the world’s best places for wildlife spotting. It’s roughly 1000 km off the Ecuadorian coast. Head here for one of the best national parks in the world and the chance to see some truly exotic animals.