Ecuador

Ecuador, South America

Calendar

5/12 5/13 5/14 5/15 5/16 5/17 5/18

Day 1: Sat, May 12
6:10 A.M

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3:00 P.M

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5:30 P.M

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Day 2: Sun, May 13
6:10 A.M

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3:00 P.M

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5:30 P.M

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Day 3: Mon, May 14
6:10 A.M

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3:00 P.M

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5:30 P.M

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Day 4: Tue, May 15
6:10 A.M

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3:00 P.M

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5:30 P.M

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Day 5: Wed, May 16
6:10 A.M

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3:00 P.M

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5:30 P.M

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Day 6: Thu, May 17
6:10 A.M

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3:00 P.M

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5:30 P.M

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Day 7: Fri, May 18
6:10 A.M

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3:00 P.M

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5:30 P.M

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About Ecuador

Ecuador is a country known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, making it a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. One of the highlights is the Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to unique wildlife such as giant tortoises, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies. Visitors can embark on cruises around the islands, go snorkeling or diving, and explore the various ecosystems that exist here. In the ...View More

Ecuador is a country known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, making it a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. One of the highlights is the Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to unique wildlife such as giant tortoises, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies. Visitors can embark on cruises around the islands, go snorkeling or diving, and explore the various ecosystems that exist here. In the ...View More

Popular Destinations

  • Galapagos Islands
  • Quito
  • Banos
  • Cuenca
  • Otavalo
  • Guayaquil
  • Montanita
  • Tena
  • Loja
  • Manta
  • Mindo
  • Lago Agrio
  • Latacunga

Galapagos Islands

Located off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands are one of the world’s most unique and biodiverse destinations, famed for their endemic wildlife and pristine landscapes. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this volcanic archipelago offers unparalleled opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and marine enthusiasts.

Known For

Snorkeling with sea lions, marine iguanas, and hammerhead sharks at Devil’s Crown and Kicker Rock.

Observing giant tortoises in their natural habitat on Santa Cruz Island.

Exploring Bartolomé Island, home to the iconic Pinnacle Rock and panoramic views.

Hiking across lava fields and volcanic landscapes on Isabela Island.

A breathtaking and isolated area blending evolutionary wonders with extraordinary wildlife encounters.

Quito

Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, Quito is Ecuador’s capital and a city rich in colonial heritage, indigenous culture, and stunning mountain views. Its beautifully preserved Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a perfect blend of history and modern vibrancy. Ideal for history lovers, cultural travelers, and architecture enthusiasts.

Known For

Exploring Plaza Grande and La Compañía de Jesús, one of South America’s most stunning churches.

Taking a cable car ride up TelefériQo for panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.

Visiting Mitad del Mundo, where you can stand on the equator line.

Wandering through the colorful streets of La Ronda, known for artisan shops and traditional cuisine.

A vibrant and historic area blending colonial elegance with breathtaking Andean scenery.

Banos

Known as the Gateway to the Amazon, Baños de Agua Santa is a small town famous for its adventure sports, waterfalls, and hot springs. Surrounded by lush mountains and volcanoes, it’s one of Ecuador’s top destinations for outdoor activities. Ideal for adrenaline seekers, spa lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

Known For

Swinging over a cliff at La Casa del Árbol, offering stunning views of Tungurahua Volcano.

Taking the Ruta de las Cascadas to see breathtaking waterfalls like Pailón del Diablo.

Relaxing in natural hot springs, such as Termas de la Virgen, after a day of adventure.

Trying extreme sports like white-water rafting, canyoning, and zip-lining.

A thrilling and rejuvenating area blending adventure with natural relaxation.

Cuenca

A jewel of Ecuador’s southern Andes, Cuenca is a UNESCO-listed colonial city known for its cobblestone streets, historic churches, and vibrant arts scene. It offers a mix of European-style architecture and Andean culture, making it a captivating place to explore. Ideal for history buffs, retirees, and cultural travelers.

Known For

Visiting the magnificent New Cathedral of Cuenca, with its iconic blue domes.

Strolling along the Tomebamba River, lined with picturesque colonial buildings.

Exploring the Pumapungo Museum and Archaeological Park, showcasing Inca ruins and artifacts.

Shopping for authentic Panama hats, which are traditionally made in Cuenca.

A charming and sophisticated area blending colonial history with artistic vibrancy.

Otavalo

Located north of Quito, Otavalo is a highland town famous for its indigenous culture, traditional markets, and scenic Andean landscapes. It is home to one of South America’s largest and most colorful artisan markets, offering a deep connection to Ecuador’s indigenous heritage. Ideal for shoppers, culture lovers, and hikers.

Known For

Exploring the famous Otavalo Market, filled with handmade textiles, jewelry, and crafts.

Visiting Laguna Cuicocha, a stunning crater lake surrounded by hiking trails.

Learning about indigenous traditions at local weaving workshops in Peguche.

Hiking around Cascada de Peguche, a sacred waterfall important to the local Kichwa people.

A culturally rich and picturesque area blending indigenous traditions with breathtaking landscapes.

Guayaquil

As Ecuador’s largest city and main port, Guayaquil is a lively metropolis known for its modern waterfront, historic districts, and vibrant nightlife. Often considered the gateway to the Galápagos Islands, it also offers cultural attractions and coastal charm. Ideal for urban explorers, food lovers, and business travelers.

Known For

Strolling along the scenic Malecón 2000, lined with parks, museums, and riverfront restaurants.

Exploring the colorful, bohemian neighborhood of Las Peñas, home to art galleries and cafés.

Climbing Santa Ana Hill for panoramic views of the city and the Guayas River.

Visiting the Parque Seminario, famously home to dozens of free-roaming iguanas.

A dynamic and fast-paced area blending history with modern urban life.

Montanita

Located on Ecuador’s Pacific coast, Montañita is a world-famous surf town known for its golden beaches, relaxed vibe, and buzzing nightlife. With an international mix of backpackers and surfers, it’s the ultimate destination for sun, surf, and parties. Ideal for surfers, backpackers, and beach lovers.

Known For

Riding the legendary waves at Montañita Beach, one of South America’s top surf spots.

Enjoying the town’s legendary nightlife, with beachfront bars and live music venues.

Exploring nearby Olon Beach for a quieter, more laid-back coastal experience.

Trying fresh seafood and local ceviche at the town’s open-air restaurants.

A vibrant and bohemian area blending beachside adventure with non-stop entertainment.

Tena

Situated in the Amazon Basin, Tena is Ecuador’s top gateway to the rainforest, offering eco-tourism, adventure sports, and indigenous cultural experiences. Surrounded by dense jungle and winding rivers, it’s a hub for white-water rafting and wildlife exploration. Ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and cultural travelers.

Known For

Rafting on the Jatunyacu River, one of South America’s best white-water destinations.

Trekking through the Misahuallí Rainforest, home to monkeys, waterfalls, and indigenous communities.

Exploring deep caves and underground rivers in Jumandy Caves.

Visiting an indigenous Kichwa village to learn about Amazonian traditions and medicine.

A wild and adventurous area blending rainforest expeditions with cultural immersion.

Loja

Known as the Musical and Cultural Capital of Ecuador, Loja is a charming Andean city with a rich artistic heritage, colonial architecture, and beautiful surrounding landscapes. It offers a quieter, more traditional experience compared to Ecuador’s bigger cities. Ideal for history lovers, music enthusiasts, and slow travelers.

Known For

Exploring Plaza de la Independencia and the city’s colonial-era churches.

Visiting Podocarpus National Park, a biodiversity hotspot with cloud forests and rare wildlife.

Learning about Ecuadorian music at the Loja Music Conservatory, the country’s oldest.

Taking day trips to Vilcabamba, a peaceful valley known for its longevity and wellness retreats.

A tranquil and cultural area blending colonial charm with artistic traditions.

Manta

As Ecuador’s largest coastal city and a major fishing hub, Manta is known for its stunning beaches, fresh seafood, and vibrant maritime culture. A popular stop for cruise ships, it offers a mix of urban energy and relaxed coastal living. Ideal for beachgoers, seafood lovers, and water sports enthusiasts.

Known For

Enjoying sunbathing and surfing at Playa Murciélago, the city’s main beach.

Visiting Montecristi, the birthplace of the famous Panama hat.

Sampling fresh tuna and ceviche at local seafood markets and oceanfront restaurants.

Exploring Machalilla National Park, home to pristine beaches and wildlife.

A lively and coastal area blending beachside relaxation with maritime culture.

Mindo

Tucked in the Andean cloud forest of northern Ecuador, Mindo is a paradise for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. This lush, biodiverse region is famous for its waterfalls, butterfly farms, and outdoor activities. Ideal for eco-tourists, birdwatchers, and adventure enthusiasts.

Known For

Spotting rare hummingbirds and over 400 bird species in the Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve.

Visiting the Mariposario de Mindo, a butterfly farm with thousands of colorful species.

Hiking to hidden waterfalls along the Ruta de las Cascadas.

Taking a thrilling ride on the Tarabita Cable Car above the forest canopy.

A peaceful and adventure-filled area blending rich biodiversity with outdoor thrills.

Lago Agrio

As the gateway to the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, Lago Agrio (officially Nueva Loja) is a frontier town in Ecuador’s Amazon region. It serves as a starting point for jungle expeditions into one of the most biodiverse areas on Earth. Ideal for jungle explorers, eco-tourists, and wildlife lovers.

Known For

Embarking on multi-day canoe trips through Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, spotting pink dolphins and anacondas.

Visiting indigenous communities to learn about Amazonian traditions and shamanic practices.

Exploring dense rainforest trails with expert naturalist guides.

Experiencing night safaris to see caimans, owls, and nocturnal wildlife.

A remote and nature-rich area blending deep jungle adventures with cultural discovery.

Latacunga

Located in the Central Andes, Latacunga is a traditional highland city known for its colonial architecture, indigenous markets, and proximity to Cotopaxi National Park. It is a popular stop for travelers exploring Ecuador’s volcanic landscapes. Ideal for hikers, culture seekers, and photographers.

Known For

Using Latacunga as a base for climbing Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the world’s highest active volcanoes.

Visiting the colorful Latacunga Market, where locals sell textiles, produce, and handicrafts.

Exploring Quilotoa Lagoon, a stunning crater lake with hiking trails around its rim.

Attending the Mama Negra Festival, a unique Andean celebration filled with music and processions.

A historic and adventure-filled area blending highland culture with breathtaking volcano landscapes.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ecuador largely depends on your preferences for weather, budget, events and crowd levels. Also, it depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons:

Dry Season (June–September): This is the best time to visit mainland Ecuador, with cooler temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for hiking in the Andes, exploring Quito, and visiting the Amazon. It’s also peak tourist season, with higher prices and more visitors, especially in the Galápagos Islands. June and July are particularly busy with international travelers.:

Wet Season (October–May): Ecuador experiences warmer temperatures and increased rainfall, but the rain is usually brief. This is a great time for wildlife viewing in the Amazon, fewer crowds in the highlands, and lush green landscapes. The coastal regions and Galápagos have their sunniest and warmest months from December to May, making it the best season for snorkeling and diving. January and February bring more local tourists, raising prices slightly.:

*Disclaimer: Please note that the event dates and details can change, so it's advisable to check with official event websites and local sources for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.

Travel Readiness

Travel Advisory

Stay informed about potential travel risks and safety considerations before embarking on your journey. Travel advisories provide essential information about security concerns, health alerts, natural disasters, and other important updates. We recommend reviewing the latest travel advisories to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.​

TRAVEL.STATE.GOV/TRAVEL.GC.CA

Travel Entry Requirements

Before traveling, ensure you meet the entry requirements for your destination. These requirements may include vaccination records, visas, and other travel documentation. Requirements vary based on nationality and recent travel history. For the latest information, visit the official government website for your destination.

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Currency

When traveling, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local currency. Before you go, check the current exchange rates and consider exchanging some money in advance. Many destinations also accept major credit cards and digital payments, but it’s a good idea to carry local. Below is a quick guide to the official currencies used in this destinations:​

U.S. Dollar (USD)

Language

Understanding the local language can enhance your travel experience. While many destinations have English-speaking locals, knowing a few key phrases in the native language shows respect and can be very helpful. Here’s a quick overview of the official and widely spoken languages in this destinations:​

Spanish (official)

Timezone

Knowing the local time zone of your destination helps you plan your itinerary, stay connected, and avoid scheduling mishaps. Many destinations also observe daylight saving time, so it’s important to check for seasonal changes. Below is a quick reference for common time zone(s) in this destinations:

Ecuador Time (ECT), UTC -5

How To Get Around

Always consider the best mode of transport depending on your destination and the distance you need to cover:

Domestic Flight

For faster travel between major cities or to the Galápagos Islands, domestic flights operated by airlines like LATAM and Avianca are available, though more expensive than buses.

Rental Car

Renting a car allows for flexibility when exploring remote regions, with rentals starting around $30–$50 per day, though driving in rural areas can be challenging.

Train

Scenic tourist train rides, such as the Tren de los Volcanes and Nariz del Diablo, offer unique experiences but are more expensive than other transport options.

Bicycle

Ecuador is ideal for adventure tourism, with bike rentals available in tourist hubs like Baños and Cuenca for cycling through the Andes or along the coast.

Boat or Ferry

For Galápagos travel, inter-island ferries and liveaboard cruises are common ways to explore the islands.

Calendar

5/12 5/13 5/14 5/15 5/16 5/17 5/18

Day 1: Sat, May 12
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 2: Sun, May 13
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 3: Mon, May 14
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 4: Tue, May 15
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 5: Wed, May 16
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 6: Thu, May 17
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 7: Fri, May 18
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

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