Things To Do
in Ecuador
Ecuador is a South American country known for its diverse landscapes, spanning the Amazon jungle, Andean highlands, and the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands. Its capital, Quito, sits high in the Andes and is renowned for its well-preserved colonial center, replete with 16th and 17th-century palaces and religious sites, reflecting its rich indigenous and Spanish heritage.
The country's economy revolves around agriculture, including bananas, flowers, and cocoa, as well as petroleum exports, making it a nation of vast natural and cultural wealth.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic center of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy breakfast at a local café while admiring the stunning architecture.
Head to the Mitad del Mundo Monument to stand on the equator and take some memorable photos. Lunch at a traditional restaurant will give you a taste of Ecuadorian cuisine.
Stroll through the vibrant La Ronda street, known for its artsy vibe and local crafts. Dine at a rooftop restaurant with a panoramic view of the city.
Rise early and travel to Cotopaxi National Park for breathtaking views of the iconic volcano. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby lodge before starting your hike.
Spend your afternoon hiking the trails of the park, surrounded by stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature.
Return to Quito in the evening and relax at your hotel. Enjoy a quiet dinner reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking natural beauty, including the Andes mountains and Amazon rainforest.
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse indigenous communities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Stable climate in many regions, particularly in the highlands.
- Access to unique wildlife, especially in the Galápagos Islands.
- Licenses for expatriates to retire in Ecuador are straightforward.
- A rapidly developing healthcare system with both public and private options.
- Infrastructure can be lacking in rural areas and smaller cities.
- High levels of political instability and corruption issues.
- Public safety concerns, particularly with petty crime in urban areas.
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers, as English is not commonly spoken.
- Limited job opportunities, especially for foreigners without specific skills.
- Natural disasters risks, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
- Healthcare quality can vary significantly in rural versus urban areas.
Best Activities in Ecuador
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning Andes mountains on hikes that offer breathtaking scenery and a chance to encounter unique wildlife.
Experience the remarkable biodiversity and natural beauty of this iconic destination through activities like snorkeling, diving, and wildlife viewing.
Enjoy thrilling rafting adventures on the rivers of the Amazon Rainforest, surrounded by lush jungle and diverse wildlife.
Embark on a cycling tour through the Avenue of the Volcanoes, a scenic stretch of the Ecuadorian Andes featuring numerous volcanoes and picturesque landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ecuador with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ecuador
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area and the chance to stand on the equator
Provides breathtaking views of Quito from its towers and is a popular spot for photographers
Features a dramatic waterfall and lush surroundings, making it a great location for nature photography
Provides an opportunity to capture the raw beauty of a volcano and its surroundings
Food in Ecuador
Ecuador Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A refreshing dish of seafood marinated in lime juice, often served with plantain chips. Try it at Cevicherias along the coast, such as in Manta or Esmeraldas.
Must-Try!
Fried potato patties stuffed with cheese and served with a peanut sauce. Look for street vendors in Quito or Cuenca for an authentic experience.
A hearty chicken stew seasoned with beer, cilantro, and other spices. Sample this dish in local eateries in the highland cities like Otavalo or Ibarra.
A fish soup made with onions, yuca, and tomato. Best enjoyed at markets or small food stalls, especially in the coastal towns like Manta or Guayaquil.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ecuador better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Quito, this bustling market offers a wide array of street food options, including empanadas, roasted corn, and tropical fruits.
In Cuenca, this vibrant market is perfect for sampling Ecuadorian street food like hornado (roast pork), mote pillo, and various soups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ecuador, it is important to show respect to elders through polite language and deferential behavior.
Respecting people's time is essential in Ecuadorian culture, so it's important to be punctual for meetings and social engagements.
Maintaining a respectful distance and being mindful of personal space is valued in Ecuadorian culture, so it's important to be aware of this when interacting with others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ecuador with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ecuador
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ecuador, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for other services. A 10% service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants, but additional tipping for exceptional service is common.
Cash is widely used in Ecuador, especially for small transactions. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many businesses, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas. It's advisable to carry cash for payments in smaller establishments and markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ecuador.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit the Andes and the Galapagos Islands. Expect pleasant weather and good wildlife viewing.
Best time to visit the Amazon rainforest. Expect lush greenery and abundant wildlife.
Good times to visit with fewer crowds. Expect a mix of weather conditions.
Ecuador at Night
Hiking in Ecuador
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Home to the iconic Cotopaxi volcano, this national park offers numerous trails through diverse ecosystems, beautiful landscapes, and opportunities to see wildlife.
Known for its stunning lakes and rugged terrain, Cajas National Park features a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, perfect for nature lovers.
This popular trekking route takes you around the stunning Quilotoa crater lake, offering breathtaking views and a chance to experience local indigenous culture.
Located in southern Ecuador, this park features rich biodiversity and various hiking trails that take you through lush cloud forests and high-altitude ecosystems.
This lesser-known area has a range of trails suitable for all skill levels, surrounded by spectacular scenery of mountains, lakes, and diverse flora.
The highest mountain in Ecuador, Chimborazo offers challenging hikes and climbing opportunities, with breathtaking panoramas from the summit.
This reserve is known for its incredible wildlife, including the endangered Andean condor, and features several scenic hiking trails through varied landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ecuador through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Ecuador by plane.
Located in Guayaquil, this is the largest international airport in Ecuador.
Situated in Quito, it serves as the main gateway for international travelers to the capital city.
Located in Manta, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, primarily to North America.
This airport is located in Cuenca and serves both domestic and international routes.
Located in Tenerife, the Canary Islands, it's one of the larger international airports near Ecuador.
Located in Venezuela, this airport is one of the biggest in the nearby region for international travel.
Situated in Lima, Peru, this is the primary international airport serving the country and is relatively close to Ecuador.
Located in Bogotá, Colombia, this airport is one of the major international airports in South America.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mestizos constitute the majority of Ecuador's population, representing people of mixed European and Indigenous descent.
Indigenous groups make up a significant minority, with various ethnic groups such as the Quechua and Shuar.
Ecuador has a population of people of European descent, primarily of Spanish origin.
This demographic group consists of people of African descent, primarily found in the coastal regions.
Montubios are a cultural group from the coastal areas, often with mixed Indigenous and mestizo heritage.
Includes small communities of people from Asian and Middle Eastern descents, as well as other immigrant groups.
The Soul of Ecuador
Discover the essence of Ecuador through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Ecuador, with a rich tradition and numerous professional clubs, as well as a national team that competes in international tournaments.
Cycling is a widely enjoyed activity in Ecuador, especially in urban areas and during various competitions. The country's diverse terrain provides excellent opportunities for both road and mountain biking.
Volleyball has gained popularity, particularly among women, and is played both recreationally and competitively across the country.
Basketball has a growing following, especially among the youth, with amateur leagues and teams at both the school and community levels.
Rugby is increasingly popular, with a notable number of clubs forming and an official national team participating in international competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Ecuadorian cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants offer veggie-friendly options like locro de papas (potato and cheese soup), plantain-based dishes, and fresh fruit bowls.
Rice is a staple in Ecuadorian cuisine, so gluten-free eaters can enjoy dishes like arroz con pollo (chicken with rice), patacones (fried green plantains), and grilled meats with yuca.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ecuador with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ecuador.