Highlights
Quito
Ecuador’s capital city high up in the Andes, Quito is snuggled in a valley at the base of Pichincha Volcano and is surrounded by lushly forested hills. Situated just 22 miles from the Equator, it is the best-preserved and least altered historic centre in South America and it was the first city in the region to be declared a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site. The Old Town features an impressive collection of colonial architecture, while the Cuenca area has also, more recently, been recognised by UNESCO.
Otavalo
The Valley of Otavalo, situated in northern Ecuador, is home to the Otavalos, an indigenous community of skilled textile weavers who are world-renowned for their colourful garb. Otavalo’s market in Plaza de Ponchos is legendary and visitors can spend many hours shopping for Ecuadorian indigenous art products, such as blankets, wall hangings, handbags, table runners, alpaca-wool sweaters and scarves. At the very northeastern edge of Otavalo, in Peguche, visitors can view the entire weaving process, from the spinning of the wool to the mixing of the dyes by hand.
Cloud Forest
A trip to Ecuador’s Cloud Forest in Mindo will enhance any itinerary. One of the richest natural ecosystems on the planet, the biologically distinct cloud forest contains approximately 15% of the world's plant species and nearly 20% of the bird diversity. A visit to Mashpi Rainforest Biodiversity Reserve brings an extraordinary opportunity to observe the natural world close-up. Amidst giant ferns and swirling mists, nature lovers can search for brightly coloured birds, butterflies and indigenous frogs, plus the occasional Ocelot Dwarf Leopard or even a puma.
Galapagos Islands
This legendary volcanic archipelago, whose wildlife species inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, is situated around 1,000 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador. Today, it is one of the world’s leading wildlife spots and a true bucket list destination, with a diversity of plant and animal species that cannot be found elsewhere on the planet. Visitors usually explore by smaller cruise ships, which are able to hop between numerous islands, and experiences can range from land-based excursions to diving with seals.
Cotapaxi National Park
Only a short distance from Quito, this popular national park is home to the famous Cotapaxi volcano. This central valley is aptly named the Avenue of the Volcanoes for its several imposing volcanoes. The road between Quito and Riobamba runs along the valley and offers wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. Situated in the heart of the Avenue of the Volcanoes, conical-shaped Cotopaxi is the highest active volcano in the world. Visitors can hike or drive through the national park, under the shadow of Cotopaxi, or there is a scenic train journey that passes en route to the coast.
Quayaquil
Charming Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city and is also a gateway to the Galapagos Islands. Overlooking the Guayas River, the bustling waterfront, El Malecon, also known as Simón Bolívar Promenade, is the centre of the action, while Las Peñas is a neighbourhood full of colourful houses in the north of the city. Climb the 465 steps up Santa Ana Hill, lined with galleries and cafés, where visitors can explore a lighthouse and Santa Ana chapel while taking in panoramic views of the city.