Ecuador | Alpas Journeys

What to do in Ecuador?

The land of eternal spring is famous for a lot of things - the world's best chocolate, the most biological diverse place on earth, South America's largest outdoor market, its Panama hats (yes, there are actually from Ecuador!) and some of the continent's most spectacular active peaks along the Avenue of the Volcanoes from Quito to Cuenca.

Otavalo

The rolling green hills of the Otavalo region, is known for its indigenous culture and stunning landscapes such as Cuicocha Lake and the dramatic Imbabura and Cotacachi volcanoes. Otavalo is famous for its artisan heritage and craft, intricate weaving, leather, textiles and woodwork.

Yasuni National Park

As the most biodiverse place on earth, Yasuni National Park covers only around 0.15% of the Amazon basin but is home to more than a third of the Amazon’s amphibian, reptile and bird species. This richness in flora and fauna, makes it a heavenly experience for wildlife and birding.

Indigenous Heritage

The Ecuadorian Amazon is home to many indigenous groups, including the Kichwa, Shuar and Achuar. Sharing their extensive knowledge of the rainforest, they successfully run many ecolodges such as Napo Wildlife Center supporting pivotal conservation efforts.

Galapagos At Sea

The archipelago of the Galapagos Islands offers an unparalleled wildlife experience both underwater and on land and is best explored on a cruise. Snorkel with playful sea lions, sea turtles, endemic marine iguanas, even penguins.

Colonial Architecture

Wander along the narrow streets of the colonial cities of Cuenca or Quito, the county’s stunning capital. Explore its charming colonial architecture, visit some of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas, stroll through vibrant flower markets and participate in artisanal workshops.

Galapagos on Land

Besides exploring the Galapagos Islands on a cruise, there are a variety of land-based itineraries that are perfect to see the unique wildlife. There are daily inter-island ferries and flights between the three inhabited islands, which are home to over 80% of the Galapagos species.

Avenue of the Volcanoes

Journey along the Avenue of the Volcanoes through some of the world’s most amazing landscapes – explore the heart of Ecuador. The majestic peaks of Cotopaxi and Chimborazo loom over green valleys home to quaint villages while Quilotoa’s turquoise crater lake invites for some spectacular hiking.

Ecuador Facts

of the the Galapagos Islands is designated National Park territory protecting its unique ecosystems and species

volcanoes form the majestic Avenue of the Volcanoes with Cotopaxi being one of the most prominent to visit

- That's how much Yasuni National Park covers of the Amazon Basin. Yet Yasuni is the most biodiverse place on earth

islands make up the Galapagos Islands - 14 of those can be visited on a cruise and three are inhabited by humans

Ecuador - This small but diverse country has it all, the depth of the Amazon, snow-capped volcanoes and azure blue lagoons in the Andes, beautiful colonial towns, the wild Pacific Coast and of course the magical Galapagos Islands. While the Galapagos are still the main destination for most travellers visiting the country, Ecuador mainland is just as spectacular. Especially the country's Avenue of the Volcanoes from Quito to Cuenca is not to be missed on a trip to the Land of Eternal Spring!

Best time to travel to Ecuador

November - May

Best time to visit the Galapagos Islands

April - September

Best time to visit mainland Ecuador

Our favourite hotels and boats in Ecuador & the Galapagos

All
Pioneer
Explorer
Serenity
Eden

Hacienda Zuleta Otavalo

This stunning 17th century hotel and working-farm inspires with natural warmth, hospitality and community ties. Hacienda Zuleta is blessed with beautiful antique rooms, delicious home-grown Andean cuisine and a wealth of activities to choose from. Visit mountain lakes on our own breed of horses, find hidden trails by bike, learn about endangered species at our Condor Huasi facilities or take up a cookery or local embroidery class.

Pikaia Lodge Galapagos

Built on the edge of an extinct volcanic caldera in the forested hills of Santa Cruz Pikaia Lodge was designed for the environmentally conscious, physically active and adventurous traveller, who seeks close contact with the unique natural wonders of the Galapagos. Here the highest level of comfort and services are provided within the limitations of such a remote, restricted and eco-sensitive location.

Ecoventura Galapagos

The Origin, Theory, and Evolve are Galapagos expedition yachts, offering luxurious amenities while minimising environmental impacts. Their state-of-the-art design enables guests to spend less time traveling between islands, providing more time for actual exploration. Ecoventura offer two seven-night Galapagos itineraries offering access to the archipelago’s unique flora and fauna, otherworldly landscapes and fascinating history.

Mashpi Lodge

Located on a scenic plateau in the heart of the cloud forest, Mashpi features breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest, its mountains, and endless unique ecosystems. Every detail, from its architectural grandeur to its sophisticated interiors, allows guests to be deeply immersed in the splendour of nature through its expansive, floor-to-ceiling crystalline windows.

Mama Cuchara Quito

Located in Quito’s Historic Center, Hotel Mama Cuchara enjoys an ideal location in this iconic neighbourhood. It is within walking distance of Plaza de Santo Domingo, La Ronda, and many other historic attractions in the city. True to the Art Hotels brand concept, Hotel Mama Cuchara delights discerning travellers with a private art collection, complemented by rotating exhibitions of various Ecuadorian artists.

Napo Wildlife Centre

Discover Napo Wildlife Centre, an unrivalled luxury lodge nestled in the heart of Yasuní National Park—the planet’s most biodiverse region. Indulge in an experience where unparalleled comfort and exclusive design seamlessly connect you with the enchanting essence of the jungle. From observing exotic wildlife and vibrant bird species to drifting along serene Amazonian waterways, every moment here is a tribute to unspoilt nature.

Monserrat Cruise Galapagos

The Monserrat boasts fabulous, flexible itineraries with a choice of 4 and 5-day itineraries that can be combined—each featuring an excellent mix of dry and wet landings, snorkelling, swimming and beach excursions, and both nature walks and panga rides in the company of expert bilingual naturalist guides. The yacht features single, double and triple cabins.

Kapawi Lodge

Kapawi Ecolodge is an award-winning indigenous community ecotourism enterprise in the Amazon Rainforest of Ecuador that offers conscious and responsible travelers the opportunity to engage in authentic cultural experiences with people of the Ecuadorian Amazon, in an unspoiled rainforest setting, while directly supporting the sustainable development of the Achuar indigenous nation.

Hacienda El Porvenir

The friendly, folksy Hacienda el Porvenir is a few kilometres outside Cotopaxi National Park, on the treeless high altitude steppe covering the lower slopes of Rumiñahui volcano. It is very much a working ranch, specialising in wild Andean bulls and dairy cattle, and visitors are invited to take part in farm activities. Other activities include horse riding, mountain biking or chocolate making.