Top 14 Must See Places to Visit in Ecuador

Ecuador is a beautiful South American country with so much to explore! I found Ecuador to be a thrilling, adventurous, and cultural country. There is really something unique for everyone to explore. Below I am sharing the Top 14 Must See Places to Visit in Ecuador – believe me, you won’t want to skip these amazing destinations!

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Quito, Ecuador:

Quito is the capital of Ecuador and a mecca for history & culture! Visiting Quito is an absolute must while in Ecuador. The best things to see and do in and near Quito are Mitad del Mundo, Bascilica del National, Lake Quilotao, and Cotopaxi Volcano! Read more below about each must-see places to visit in Ecuador!

MITAD DEL MUNDO – THE EQUATOR

The number one most iconic place to visit in Ecuador is the equator line. After all, that is where the country got it’s name! The “Mitad del Mundo” (which literally translates to “The Equator”) is a monument that indicates what was believed to be the middle of the Earth. The equator (and therefore, the landmarks) are about 40 miles away from Quito. You can take a bus for less than $1.00 or taxi for around $30-$40. Mitad del Mundo is the most iconic monument, but it is roughly 250 meters off from the exact equator line.

Nearby, you can visit the Intiñan Solar Museum which is right on the actual equator and offers interesting experiments that only happen in the middle of the Earth! Be sure to take a picture standing between two hemispheres!

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Try to visit this landmark early in the morning because it is filled with tourists later in the day.

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Bascilica del National

Talk about breathtaking! This church is located in the heart of Old Town Quito and is a site to see! Construction began in 1884, and it is still technically “unfinished.” Local legend says that when it is finally finished, the world will come to an end. However, you wouldn’t know that it’s unfinished by looking at it. There are a few different parts of the church to explore (each costing around $2 entrance fee).

My favorite part was climbing to the very top of the church. But be forewarned: this is not for the faint of heart. The ladders are incredibly steep with little room for resting. You’ll be rewarded with a stunning view at the very top which, in my opinion, makes it all worth wild.

This is definitely one of my favorite must see places in Ecuador – it’s truly breathtaking!

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TelefériQo

Ecuador is known for it’s high altitude. Why not experience one of the highest aerial lifts in the world while your here! The TeleferiQo is located in Quito and rises 3,000ft above the city of Quito. This makes you almost 13,000ft above sea level. The cable car is a 15 minute ride to the top that offers great views of Quito. Please note – before doing this, be sure to acclimate yourself to the higher altitude. This is not for the faint of heart.

At the top, you’ll have stunning views of the capitol of Ecuador. You can hike along the mountains (again, only for those who are very fit and acclimated to the altitude). There is also a “Swing in the Clouds”. If you’re lucky, you may also see Alpacas at the top of the mountain.

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Lake Quilotoa

Everyone has one or two places in each country that they would keep going back to. For me, that would be Lake Quilotoa in Ecuador.

Ecuador has three crater lakes but the one that really stands out is Lake Quilotoa! It is the kind of place that casts a spell on you with its otherworldly beauty and turquoise water. This spell comes with the furry alpacas, women with coral beads, and poncho-clad men. 

The best way to experience its beauty is to do a three or four-day loop. But if you don’t have that much time, you can do a day trip. If you are coming from Quito, you can take a bus from Quitumbe to Latacunga or Ambato, and then switch to take one more from there to Quilotoa.

While visiting Lake Quilotoa, try a moderate hike or horse back ride. You can also rent a kayak to enjoy the lake! If you’re looking for a true outdoorsy experience you can even camp out here as well! So, if you are traveling to Ecuador, definitely plan on visiting Quilotoa. It will not disappoint you.

Related Post: No Nonsense Guide to Ecuador Visa’s

Contributed by Deb (The Visa Project)

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Cotopaxi Volcano

Did you know Ecuador has 48 volcanos?! Obviously this means your visit to Ecuador is not complete without visiting at least one Volcano. I recommend hiking the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano. Located a quick drive away from Quito, hiking (or exploring the area, if hiking isn’t for you) is a perfect day trip outside the city. However, a note of caution– the altitude here is no joke, so make sure you have spent a few days adjusting prior to attempting the hike, as the glacier you’re hiking to is located at 5000 meters above sea level.

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The area is jaw-droppingly gorgeous, with wraparound vistas of volcanic surroundings, as well as the huge Lago Limpiopunga and its resident wild horses. The hike is invigorating, with lots of switchbacks and opportunities for beautiful photos as you ascend. At the summit, catch your breath and warm up a bit with a hot cocoa at the Refugio, and don’t miss the photos and memorabilia on the walls of those who have hiked Cotopaxi before you. From the Refugio, it’s another 250 meters to the glacier, where the sparkling white snow contrasting with the bright red clay is sure to impress. Overall, there is no shortage of amazing things to do in Ecuador, whether outdoor adventures, exploring cities, or sampling delicious cuisine, chocolate, and coffee.

Contributed by Tegan (Why Not Walk)

If you’re looking for a two week itinerary to see volcanos in Ecuador, check out Flashpack Journal’s guide to “Ecuador’s Avenue Of The Volcanoes 2-Week Itinerary: Quito To Cuenca“. She provides so much detail on how to see all the best Volcanoes in a 2 week adventure!

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Banos, Ecuador:

Banos is known as the “Gateway to the Amazon” and it’s easy to see why. This stunning rainforest town offers amazing views of mountains, waterfalls, hot springs, and more! Banos is a must-see destination for adventurous travelers! Out of all the must-see places to visit in Ecuador, the ones in Banos were my favorite!

Swing at the End of the World

Get a taste for adventure as you swing on this infamous treehouse swing “at the end of the world.” In fact, the “Casa de Arbol” is the perfect instagram spot for your trip to Ecuador. While it may look like you’re swinging high up in the clouds, you’re really just swinging over a small drop off. But, it is 100% still worth it to visit (especially for the picture). The entrance fee is only $2 which makes it very accessible. However, this treehouse swing is now iconic so the lines are very long. Luckily, there are guides monitoring the swings to help you push off and to ensure no one stays on too long.

Travel Tip: Be sure to check the weather before you visit the Swing at the End of the World. If you’re visiting this fun spot, you’ll definitely want to get a great picture and if it’s cloudy or foggy you won’t see the magnificent views around you.

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PAILÓN DEL DIABLO – DEVIL’S CAULDRON

This waterfall is sure to take your breath away. Pailon Del Diablo is a massive 80 meter waterfall near Banos. There is a small entrance fee ($2 as of April 2020). The path around the waterfall is just as fun as the actual site. There are draw bridges, staircases, and more that put you up close to the falls! It can get slippery, and some people like to bring their raincoats to stay dry. Parking here is only $1.

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For more info on the Pailon del Diablo, check out this guide for everything you need to know!

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Guayaquil, Ecuador:

Guayaquil is the largest city in Ecuador and is the main port for shipping and receiving. It is often overlooked as just a “port city” with not much to offer. However, this is simply not the case. Guayaquil is a great city to explore if you know the areas that are worth visiting. The most notable is Las Penas Neighborhood. Read more below!

Las Penas Neighborhood

Guayaquil is not only a common stopover on the way to the Galapagos Islands, but also worth visiting as a destination in and of itself.  Las Peñas is one of the highlights of any visit to Guayaquil. 

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The Las Peñas Neighborhood sits atop a steep rounded hill called Cerro Santa Anna, beside the Guayas River. It is covered in brightly covered houses.  A steep, narrow cobbled street winds its way around the hill to the top.  It is definitely a challenge to climb (though you can also take a taxi). I recommend walking though because along the way you will pass brightly colored, well-preserved (albeit slightly – and charmingly – shabby) colonial-era houses filled with art galleries, restaurants, bars, tiny stores and homes.  You will meet families hanging out with their neighbors, kids playing on the steps and business people welcoming you into their establishments. 

The views over the river and the city are stunning.  Worth the effort (there are 444 steps) is the Plaza de Honores at the top, where there is a tiny colonial era chapel, a couple of cannons that were designed to keep the city safe from pirates, and a lighthouse.  Climb the steps of the lighthouse for an even better 360-degree view of Guayaquil. 

Contributed by James Ian (Travel Collecting)

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Galapagos, Ecuador:

I’m willing to bet you’ve heard of the Galapagos! This majestic island chain is off the coast of Ecuador and features immaculate wildlife that you cannot see anywhere else! In fact, the Galapagos is home to three must see places to visit in Ecuador! Explore the Galapagos for yourself to see how Charles Darwin discovered the theory of evolution in this very location.

Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island

Puerto Ayora is the largest city in the Galápagos Islands and probably the first one that many visit while vacationing on this unique group of islands. The town is located on the island of Santa Cruz.

Unsurprisingly, Puerto Ayora is so popular as there are tons of incredible places to experience. One of our favorites is Las Grietas. It is a small beautiful bay that is located between huge rock formations. The water here is crystal clear, so you can look far down and spot some colorful fish. On the way to Las Grietas, you will pass a picturesque beach, Playa de Los Alemanes. Make sure to have a little stop here to enjoy the beautiful nature and watch the exotic birds that frolic here.

But there are also many other great things to do in Puerto Ayora and Santa Cruz. You shouldn’t miss the city’s fish market either because a lot of sea lions gather here every day, which you can watch up close.

Contributed by Vicki (Vicki Viaja)

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Isla Isabela

Isla Isabela is one of the best places to visit in Ecuador. It is the largest island in the Galapagos archipelago and was formed approximately 1 million years ago by 6 volcanoes. Most of the volcanoes are still active today, making it one of the most volcanically active places on earth.

Don’t miss hiking to the caldera of Sierra Negra, one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos. The otherworldly landscape resembles something more akin to the moon than an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The trail to the caldera is about 16km (9.9 miles) return.

For wildlife head to Las Tintoreras. It is an islet located just off the coast of Isabela Island. Here you can see turtles, penguins, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, sea lions, blue herons, and more.

There are also stunning beaches fringing the coast of Isla Isabela. Some of the most popular include Playa del Amor, Urbina Bay, Elizabeth Bay, Playa Puerto Villamil, and El Faro. They feature white sands and green palm trees, perfect for a swim and an afternoon nap.

Contributed by Oksana & Max from Drink Tea & Travel

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San Cristobal

One of the best places to visit in Ecuador is San Cristobal. You can find this island in the Galapagos archipelago, and we guarantee that you’ll fall in love with it shortly after arriving.

San Cristobal is famous for its colony of sea lions. They have chosen the only town of the island, Puerto Baquerizo, as their breeding grounds. While going for a walk, you will see them everywhere – playing on the beach in the middle of town, lounging on benches by the harbour or relaxing on the boats anchored in the sea.

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If you want to swim with the sea lions, head over to La Loberia. Here, you can relax at the beach and snorkel with the animals in the sea. Just be careful, or you will find that the sea lions have taken over your towel when you come back out of the water!

Besides watching sea lions, you can find many more things to do on San Cristobal. Explore the island and discover a crater lagoon, a giant turtle reserve and white powdered beaches. And then finish the day observing marine iguanas at Playa Santa Carola, while watching the sun go down behind the ocean.

Contributed by Daniel and Ilona (Top Travel Sights)

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Other Amazing Locations in Ecuador:

Cuenca

Located in the southern Andes mountain of Ecuador is Cuenca, one of Ecuador’s most historic cities. In fact, the entire historic center of Cuenca is a proud UNESCO Heritage Site, mainly due to the 52 churches that exist in the city, one for every Sunday of the year.

Full of well-preserved colonial architecture, strolling through the historical center will feel like you are back in time. Every corner is dotted with colorful colonial buildings, old cobblestone streets, and a mix of Andean culture. This balance of both worlds is an interesting aspect of Cuenca’s culture.

The New Cathedral of Cuenca is Cuenca’s most iconic building and one of the largest churches in South America. No trip to Cuenca is complete without admiring the intricate details and lavish interior décor of the New Cathedral. Avid hikers can take a day trip to Cajas National Park, where the tundra-like environment offers rare unique landscapes. Beware of the high altitude if you are visiting Cajas.

As the third-largest city in Ecuador, Cuenca is full of diverse attractions and a place you cannot miss in Ecuador! 

Contributed by Sean Lau (Living Out Lau)

Mindo

Located in a cloud forest in the foothills of the Andes, Mindo is a gorgeous town that is a must-see when exploring Ecuador. If you’re visiting Quito and are in need of a bit of adrenaline (and a little relaxing, too), head northwest to Mindo for a couple of days full of fun.

There are so many amazing things to do in Mindo – no matter your interests, you’ll definitely find something to keep you busy. Adrenaline junkies will love ziplining through the cloud forest on the Mindo Canopy Adventure, enjoying the gorgeous views and the thrill of soaring through the air. If you’re in the mood for a hike, take a cable car to Nambilla Cascadas, where you can hike to 7 waterfalls in a forest that looks like something from a movie. For travelers who’d prefer to keep both feet on the ground, the town of Mindo has plenty to offer, including a chocolate factory and delicious restaurants.

Other fun things to do in Mindo include horseback riding, visiting a butterfly garden, and roaming around in a bird reserve. If you want to do more than one activity while visiting Mindo, you can purchase combination tickets to several of Mindo’s top attractions including ziplining, the waterfall hike, a chocolate factory, and more.

Contributed by Sydney Richardson (A World in Reach)

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Otavalo

No trip to Ecuador is complete without a visit to the world-famous Otavalo Market, the largest Indigenous market in South America. The market is located in the town of Otavalo, a small city in the Andean highlands surrounded by volcanic mountains. The easiest way to get there is a quick 2-hour bus ride from Quito, making it an excellent day-trip option. The market officially runs from Wednesday-Saturday between 7 am-6 pm, though it’s best to visit early in the day to avoid big crowds. 

The Otavalo Market is famous for its colorful woven textiles and handmade crafts, sold by Indigenous locals who make the goods themselves using traditional techniques. You’ll find everything from knit alpaca sweaters, bright wall hangings, hats, ponchos, jewelry, and more! We suggest walking around and checking out all the different options and stalls before making a purchase.

There is also plenty of delicious local foods on offer as well as musicians playing Indigenous music. Some of our favorite Ecuadorian specialties include yaluarlocro (a soup made with potatoes and entrails) and carne colorado (beef made with annotate seasoning, with fried plantain, corn, and boiled potatoes). 

After you’ve had your fill of the market, explore the rest of Otavalo and its rich Indigenous culture. We recommend checking out the Tejidos El Obraje Museum, which has textile exhibitions and weaving demonstrations. If you enjoy hiking, head to Cuicocha National Park for a great day hike around the crater lake. 

Contributed by Natasha (Great Ocean Road Collective)

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There you have it – the Top 14 Must See Places to visit in Ecuador. Like I said before, this country is filled with so much culture, adventure, and history.

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