Ecuador

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, located in northern Ecuador, is known for its indigenous culture and stunning landscapes. Otavalo is famous for its artisan heritage and craft, intricate weaving, leather, textiles and woodwork. The area is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the picturesque Cuicocha Lake and the dramatic Imbabura and Cotacachi volcanoes.

Yasuni National Park

For wildlife enthusiasts there is no way around Yasuni National Park, a designated UNESCO biosphere reserve a 45 minute flight from Quito. As the most biodiverse place on earth, Yasuni only covers 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

Ecuador’s indigenous peoples are deeply connected to their ancestral lands. The Ecuadorian Amazon is home to many indigenous groups, including the Kichwa, Shuar and Achuar. These tribes possess extensive knowledge of the rainforest, medicinal plants and sustainable agricultural practices and successfully run eco lodges such as Napo Wildlife Center which supports pivotal conservation efforts.

Galapagos At Sea

Visiting the Galapagos Islands – for many a lifelong dream. The archipelago offers an unparalleled wildlife experience both underwater and on land best explored on a cruise. Snorkel with playful sea lions, sea turtles, endemic marine iguanas, even penguins. Experience the vibrant marine ecosystem, from rocky volcanic reefs to sandy bottoms, lagoons and mangroves.

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 such as metal working, perfume making or weaving.

Galapagos on Land

Can’t go on a cruise? No problem! 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

The Avenue of the Volcanoes is a mesmerising journey through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth – an exploration into the heart of Ecuador. The majestic peaks of Cotopaxi and Chimborazo loom over emerald-green valleys home to quaint villages where time stands still. Hike to Quilotoa’s turquoise crater lake, visit the vibrant markets of Latacunga or go rafting in Baños, the adventure sports capital.

Ecuador Facts

Biodiversity

About 80% of the land birds and 97% of the reptiles and mammals in the Galapagos are endemic

Ecotourism

Ecuador has been named the world's "Leading Green Destination" 7 times since 2013

Yasuni - Amazon

Yasuni National Park in the Amazon is the most biodiverse country on earth

Avenue of the Volcanoes

Out of Ecuador's 22 volcanoes, 20 are still active including the iconic Cotopaxi

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

Nov-Mar

Rainy Season

May-Sep

Best time to visit!

Apr & Oct

Shoulder Season

What to do in Ecuador?

Otavalo

Yasuni National Park

Indigenous Heritage

Galapagos At Sea

Colonial Architecture

Galapagos on Land

Avenue of the Volcanoes

Ecuador Facts

Biodiversity

Ecotourism

Yasuni - Amazon

Avenue of the Volcanoes

Best time to travel to Ecuador

Nov-Mar

May-Sep

Apr & Oct

Learn more about Ecuador on our Blog

Kapawi Ecolodge – Ecotourism in Ecuador At Its Finest

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to the Best Galapagos Cruises (Updated 2022)

Ecuador’s Beautiful Avenue of the Volcanoes – Quito to Cuenca in 2 Weeks

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