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

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 Loop ● Climbing Rucu Pichincha ● The Hacienda Beneath Volcan Cotopaxi ● Hiking Around Laguna Cuicocha

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

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 Ecuador ● Must Eat Street Food in Ecuador

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 Montanita ● Learning Spanish on the Beach in Ecuador ● Beachlife at the Montañita Cabañas