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.

Quito

The capital of Ecuador, Quito, is a very long, narrow town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. It is really interesting and a complete pleasure to visit.

Otavalo

Lying 55 kilometres north of Quito, Otavalo is the tourist capital of Ecuador. It's the place where the most famous, attractive and colourful market in the whole country is held.

Amazonia

The chance to explore the Amazon during your trip to Eduador is a unique experience. You need to be well organised and trust the local guides.

Riobamba

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.

Cuenca

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.

Guayaquil

Guayaquil is an enchantingseaside town that's hot and humid. It's a pleasure to explore, perfectly blending natural and architectural elements.

Quilotoa

The incredibly beautiful lake of Quilotoa, is just waiting for walkers in the midst of picture postcard scenery in the heart of the Andes. You'll be well rewarded for the effort it takes to get there. The scenery is quite simply magnificent.

Mindo

As you're heading down towards Mindo, after passing Mitad del Mundo, you begin to detect the kind of warm humidity that suggests you're entering a region with a tropical climate, and the presence of lush vegetation confirms this to be the case.

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!

Chugchilan

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

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.

Coca

Along with Lago Agrio and Tena/Puerto Misahualli, Coca is the main entry point into the Ecuadorian part of the Amazon.

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.

Baños

Lying with a volcano on one side and a river on the other, Baños is to a certain extent the place where the Andes and the Amazon meet.

Saquisilí

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

Puerto López

Puerto López is a seaside town on the west coast of Ecuador, facing the Pacific ocean.

Cuicocha

At 32km from Otavalo, you can reach Cuicocha by shared taxi and go on a hike around some amazing countryside.

Mitad Del Mundo

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.

Chilcapamba

Chilcapamba is a Quechua community in the north of Ecuador. Tourists stay with the local inhabitants and the extra income helps in the development of the village.

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