Ecuador

Crabs at Isla de la Plata

You miss so much if you skip over Ecuador on a Galapagos bound plane.

It’s a country of Amazon rainforest. Cloud forest where butterflies fly free. Where volcanoes tower towards the sky and loom. Crater lakes in brilliant shades of blue. Colonial cities. Rustic towns. And some pretty beautiful beaches.

Don’t miss out on Ecuador.

BEST OF ECUADOR


Laguna Quilotoa

THE ANDES

Why summit when you can finish at a crater lake?

The Quilotoa Loop is part of 200km of Andean trails near Cotopaxi. It’s an intensive trek through beautiful and remote towns, but the grand finale at Laguna de Quilotoa is worth it.

More Andes: Where to Stay on the Quilotoa LoopClimbing Rucu PichinchaThe Hacienda Beneath Volcan CotopaxiHiking Around Laguna Cuicocha

Ecuador Amazon - Village visit with Samona Lodge

THE AMAZON

Spiders and rain.

The Amazon will activate your greatest fears and your greatest imagination. Embark into the depths of the jungle in Cuyabeno National Park.

More Amazon: What to Pack for the Amazon

BEST TREKS IN SOUTH AMERICA

Taking in the view from La Basilica del Voto Nacional

THE CITIES

Quito is way cooler than you think.

If you’re not impressed by the UNESCO recognized Old Town (you will be), but the city has an emerging music industry, craft beer culture, and food scene you should check out.

More Cities: Best Street Art in EcuadorMust Eat Street Food in Ecuador

Galapagos Alternative - Blue Footed Boobies on Isla de La Plata

THE COAST

Isla de la Plata is lovingly referred to as “The Poor Man’s Galapagos”.

Come see the place where the blue-footed boobies wander and the frigate birds fly just off the coast of Ecuador.

More Coast: 8 Reasons You’ll Never Want to Leave MontanitaLearning Spanish on the Beach in EcuadorBeachlife at the Montañita Cabañas

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