Top 10 Best Things to See and Do in Ecuador

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Top 10 Best Things to See and Do in Ecuador

Ecuador is one of South America’s most fascinating travel destinations, offering an extraordinary diversity of landscapes, wildlife and cultural experiences within a relatively small country. I recently travelled to Ecuador and came away thoroughly impressed. From exploring the lush cloud forests and spotting exotic wildlife in the Amazon rainforest to discovering beautiful colonial cities, admiring snow-capped volcanoes and experiencing the country’s rich indigenous heritage, there is something for every kind of traveler. And, of course, no trip to Ecuador would be complete without visiting the legendary Galápagos Islands.

For anyone planning a holiday, I highly recommend Touring Metropolitan, a local travel company who owns the best luxury hotels in Ecuador and some of the finest boats operating in the Galápagos. Their knowledge of the country makes them an excellent partner for organizing a memorable trip. One important consideration before traveling is safety: always check the latest travel advice issued by your country’s foreign ministry, as the security situation in Ecuador can change and vary considerably between regions. The main tourist destinations featured in this article, including the Galápagos, cloud forests and Amazon, are safe and established tourism areas, but it is important not to assume that every part of the country carries the same level of risk.

What is your favorite thing to see & do in Ecuador? Leave a comment.

10. Discover the Pacific Coast’s Machalilla National Park

Stretching along Ecuador’s Pacific coastline, Machalilla National Park offers a very different experience from the country’s mountainous interior and tropical rainforests. This protected area combines beautiful beaches, dry tropical forests, offshore islands and rich marine life. One of its highlights is Playa Los Frailes, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful natural beaches on mainland Ecuador. Framed by forested hills and turquoise waters, this crescent-shaped stretch of white sand is an idyllic place to relax, swim and enjoy the scenery. Another worthwhile excursion is a boat trip to Isla de la Plata, often nicknamed the Poor Man’s Galápagos because of its remarkable birdlife. Here, visitors can encounter blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds and other seabirds, while the surrounding waters offer opportunities for snorkelling and spotting sea turtles. Between June and September, humpback whales also migrate along this stretch of coastline, making whale-watching excursions particularly rewarding. Machalilla is a wonderful introduction to Ecuador’s Pacific coast, although it is important to check the latest regional travel advice before planning a visit.

9. Be Adventurous Around Baños de Agua Santa

Nestled in a lush valley on the northern edge of the Ecuadorian Amazon basin, Baños de Agua Santa is one of the country’s most popular destinations for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by dramatic green mountains and overlooked by the active Tungurahua volcano, this charming town is famous for its thermal hot springs, spectacular waterfalls and outdoor activities. One of the best ways to explore the surrounding landscape is to follow the Ruta de las Cascadas, a scenic route that winds through a beautiful river valley and passes numerous waterfalls. The undisputed highlight is Pailón del Diablo, or Devil’s Cauldron, an impressive waterfall plunging into a deep gorge, where visitors can follow trails and walkways for spectacular close-up views. For something more adventurous, Baños offers white-water rafting, canyoning, zip-lining, mountain biking and horseback riding. Another popular attraction is the Casa del Árbol, where a famous swing extends over a steep valley with magnificent mountain views on clear days. After a day of exploring, the town’s thermal baths provide the perfect opportunity to unwind. Baños is an excellent destination for combining beautiful scenery with a little adventure.

8. Experience Indigenous Culture at Otavalo Market

For an authentic glimpse into Ecuador’s indigenous heritage, a visit to Otavalo is highly recommended. Located approximately two hours north of Quito, this Andean town is home to the Otavalo people, whose traditions, distinctive clothing and craftsmanship remain an important part of everyday life. Its famous Saturday market, centred around the Plaza de los Ponchos, is one of the largest and most colourful indigenous markets in South America. Although stalls operate throughout the week, Saturday is by far the liveliest day, when vendors from surrounding communities arrive to sell an extraordinary variety of handmade products. Visitors will find colourful woven blankets, ponchos, scarves, traditional clothing, leather goods, jewellery, ceramics and intricate handicrafts. The market is also a wonderful place to observe local traditions and interact with artisans whose skills have been passed down through generations. Beyond shopping, the surrounding region is worth exploring, with beautiful Andean landscapes, traditional villages and scenic lakes. Nearby Laguna Cuicocha is particularly impressive, with its deep-blue crater lake and two small islands formed within a volcanic caldera. Otavalo offers a fascinating cultural experience and a welcome opportunity to discover a side of Ecuador that goes beyond its spectacular natural attractions.

7. Explore the Colonial City of Cuenca

Often considered Ecuador’s most beautiful city, Cuenca is a wonderful place to discover the country’s colonial heritage and enjoy a slower pace of life. Located in a picturesque Andean valley at approximately 2,560 metres above sea level, Cuenca is renowned for its beautifully preserved historic centre, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Walking through its cobbled streets reveals elegant colonial buildings, charming plazas, flower-filled balconies and impressive churches. The city’s most recognisable landmark is the New Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, with its distinctive blue domes dominating the skyline. Across the historic centre, the Old Cathedral, numerous museums and traditional markets offer further insight into Cuenca’s fascinating history. The city also has a thriving artisan scene, particularly famous for its Panama hats, which are actually Ecuadorian in origin and traditionally produced in this region. A stroll along the Tomebamba River, which runs through the heart of the city, is another highlight, with picturesque riverside paths and historic houses overlooking the water. Cuenca is also an excellent base for exploring Cajas National Park, a spectacular high-altitude landscape of glacial lakes, rolling grasslands and misty mountains. With its combination of architecture, culture and natural beauty, Cuenca deserves a place on any Ecuador itinerary.

6. Admire the Turquoise Crater Lake of Quilotoa

One of the most spectacular natural wonders in the Ecuadorian Andes is Quilotoa, a breathtaking volcanic crater lake whose intensely turquoise and emerald-coloured waters create an almost surreal landscape. Situated at approximately 3,900 metres above sea level, the lake occupies the caldera of an extinct volcano, formed following a major eruption around 800 years ago. From the main viewpoint on the crater rim, visitors are treated to magnificent panoramic views across the lake, with the steep volcanic walls plunging towards the water below. The colours change throughout the day depending on the sunlight and weather, ranging from deep blue to brilliant turquoise and green. For those looking for a more active experience, several hiking trails follow the crater rim, offering spectacular perspectives of the surrounding Andean landscape. It is also possible to descend along a steep path to the lakeshore, where visitors can rent kayaks and explore the water. Be aware that the return hike is considerably more challenging because of the altitude and steep incline, so allowing plenty of time is essential. Quilotoa is also part of the famous Quilotoa Loop, a scenic multi-day trekking route connecting traditional Andean villages and remote mountain landscapes. Whether you visit for a short excursion or a longer hiking adventure, this extraordinary crater lake is one of Ecuador’s most photogenic destinations.

5. Marvel at the Majestic Cotopaxi Volcano

Rising dramatically above the surrounding Andean highlands, Cotopaxi is one of Ecuador’s most iconic natural landmarks and among the world’s highest active volcanoes. Reaching an elevation of approximately 5,897 metres, its almost perfectly symmetrical cone is often crowned with snow and glaciers, creating an extraordinary sight against the deep-blue Andean sky. The volcano lies within Cotopaxi National Park, a protected area characterized by vast high-altitude grasslands known as páramo, volcanic landscapes, lakes and impressive mountain scenery. One of the most accessible highlights is Limpiopungo Lagoon, a beautiful high-altitude lake that offers magnificent views of the volcano on clear days. The surrounding trails are ideal for hiking and wildlife watching, with opportunities to spot wild horses, Andean foxes and numerous bird species. More adventurous visitors can travel towards the José Rivas mountain refuge, located at 4,864 meters (15,958 feet), although the high altitude makes this a physically demanding excursion. Experienced mountaineers can also attempt the challenging summit climb with a qualified guide, typically involving glacier travel and technical equipment. Even without climbing, a visit to Cotopaxi National Park is an unforgettable experience, offering some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in South America. The combination of an immense snow-capped volcano, open highland landscapes and dramatic skies makes this one of Ecuador’s essential destinations for nature and photography enthusiasts.

4. Discover Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage City

Situated high in the Andes at approximately 2,850 metres above sea level, Quito is one of South America’s most fascinating capital cities. Surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and volcanoes, Ecuador’s capital has a spectacular setting, but its greatest attraction is its beautifully preserved historic centre. In 1978, Quito became one of the first cities in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in recognition of its remarkable colonial architecture and historical significance. The old town is a delight to explore on foot, with narrow cobbled streets, elegant plazas, ornate churches and colourful colonial buildings. Among its most impressive landmarks are the magnificent Basilica del Voto Nacional, the grand Plaza Grande and the extraordinary Church of La Compañía de Jesús, renowned for its richly decorated interior covered in gold leaf. Another highlight is the panoramic viewpoint at El Panecillo, where a monumental statue of the Virgin of Quito overlooks the city. For spectacular views across the surrounding Andes, the TelefériQo cable car climbs the slopes of Pichincha volcano to an elevation of more than 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). Quito is also an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding cloud forests and volcanic landscapes. I recommend allowing at least one full day to appreciate its historic center, architecture and museums. As with any large city, take sensible precautions, use reputable transport and follow current local security advice, particularly when exploring after dark.

Recommended hotel: Casa Gangotena

3. Explore the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest

Covering a vast area of eastern Ecuador, the Amazon Rainforest offers one of the most extraordinary wildlife and nature experiences in South America. This immense tropical ecosystem is home to an astonishing diversity of plants, birds, mammals, reptiles and insects, many of which are found nowhere else. For travellers seeking an immersive rainforest experience, Ecuador provides access to some remarkable protected areas, including Yasuní National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. The best way to discover this fascinating environment is to stay at a remote jungle lodge, usually reached by a combination of road and boat transfers. Guided excursions take visitors deep into the forest, where naturalist guides help identify colourful toucans, macaws, monkeys, sloths, caimans and countless other species. Depending on the location and season, activities can include canoe trips along forest rivers, wildlife spotting at clay licks, guided walks beneath the dense canopy and visits to local indigenous communities. One particularly memorable experience is exploring the rainforest at night, when an entirely different world comes alive with frogs, insects and nocturnal animals. The Amazon is also an opportunity to learn about the traditions and knowledge of indigenous communities who have lived in harmony with this remarkable ecosystem for generations. Staying in a comfortable eco-lodge makes it possible to experience the wilderness without sacrificing all the comforts of a memorable holiday. For me, the Amazon is an essential part of any comprehensive Ecuador itinerary.

2. Discover the Magical Cloud Forest of Mashpi

For an unforgettable nature experience, few places in Ecuador are as special as the Mashpi Cloud Forest. Located in the Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve, approximately three hours from Quito, this extraordinary ecosystem is characterised by dense tropical vegetation, mist-covered mountains, waterfalls and an incredible diversity of wildlife. The forest sits within a transition zone between the Andes and the Pacific lowlands, creating ideal conditions for an exceptional variety of plants and animals. It is particularly famous for its birdlife, including numerous hummingbirds, colourful toucanets and rare species that attract birdwatchers from around the world. One of the best ways to explore this remarkable environment is to stay at Mashpi Lodge, a spectacular luxury eco-lodge surrounded by pristine rainforest. Its striking contemporary architecture, with large windows overlooking the forest canopy, creates a wonderful connection with the natural surroundings. Guided excursions with expert naturalists reveal the secrets of the cloud forest, from tiny frogs and colourful butterflies to rare birds and fascinating botanical species. Among the most memorable activities are the Dragonfly aerial cable car, which glides above the forest canopy, and the Sky Bike, allowing guests to pedal through the treetops. There are also beautiful walking trails, hidden waterfalls and opportunities to observe wildlife from specially designed observation platforms. What makes Mashpi particularly special is the combination of conservation, scientific research and exceptional hospitality. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience one of Ecuador’s most biodiverse ecosystems while staying somewhere truly extraordinary.

Recommended hotel: Mashpi Lodge

1. Discover the Extraordinary Galápagos Islands

No visit to Ecuador would be complete without discovering the extraordinary Galápagos Islands, an isolated archipelago in the Pacific Ocean renowned for its extraordinary wildlife and unique natural landscapes. Located approximately a two hour flight off the Ecuadorian mainland, these volcanic islands are home to an incredible collection of endemic species that evolved in isolation over millions of years. It was here that Charles Darwin’s observations helped shape his theory of evolution, making the archipelago one of the most important destinations in the history of natural science. Today, visitors can encounter giant Galápagos tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, flightless cormorants and playful sea lions, often at remarkably close range. The surrounding waters are equally spectacular, offering some of the world’s best opportunities for snorkeling and diving, with sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, penguins and colourful tropical fish. Each island has its own distinctive character, from the spectacular volcanic landscapes of Bartolomé and Fernandina to the lush highlands of Santa Cruz and the wildlife-rich shores of Española. There are two main ways to explore the archipelago: staying on one or more inhabited islands and taking day excursions, or embarking on a small expedition cruise that visits more remote islands. Both offer wonderful experiences, although a cruise generally provides access to a greater variety of wildlife habitats. I was particularly impressed by the extraordinary proximity of the animals and the pristine natural environment. The Galápagos are so remarkable that they really deserve an article of their own, and I will be publishing a dedicated top-10 list of the best things to see and do in the islands shortly. If there is one destination in Ecuador that should be at the very top of your travel wish list, this is it.

Recommended hotel: Finch Bay Hotel
Recommended cruise ship: La Pinta