9 Best Things To Do In Ecuador

Keith

Keith Crockford

Top Things To Explore in Ecuador: An Adventurer’s Guide Best Things To Do In Ecuador – Don’t Miss ‘em!

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Ecuador, then hopefully you’re planning a trip to that oh-so-BEAUTIFUL country. Correct? We salute you, welcome, you’re in the right place. 

On this page we’ll take you through our pick of the very best things to do in Ecudaor, from the bartering in the markets of Otavalo to spotting anacondas in the Amazon (yep, really). But first? Let’s just remind you why you set that travel-junkie heart of yours on Ecuador in the first place. 

It might be compact, but Ecuador packs a punch when it comes to diversity. Nestled in South America’s western corner, Ecuador has everything. 

From verdant Amazon Rainforest to striking Andean highlands and sun-kissed Pacific coastline, it offers an irresistible blend of natural wonders, rich cultures, and historical treasures. So pack a sense of adventure and join us, as The Bucket List Company unveils the top things to do in Ecuador, the jewelled crown of South America…

In a hurry? Click here for our adventure itinerary, which includes loads of the best things to do in Ecuador!

1. The Exquisite Quito

Let’s get started in Quito, the highest official capital in the world, with a wealth of Spanish colonial architecture. Surrounded by mountains, it’s stunning. Don’t miss the city’s crown jewel; La Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus, a baroque masterpiece. 

Ride the TeleferiQo gondola lift for panoramic city-views that will leave you breathless. It’s not often you can stand with your feet on either side of the equator either, so be sure to take a day trip to Mitad del Mundo, which marks the line. Note the marked change in temperature on each side of the line too. Only joking. 

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2. The Colourful Markets of Otavalo

Visit the indigenous Otavalo Market for a riot of colours, where locals in traditional attire sell handcrafted textiles, jewellery, musical instruments, and more. You’ll be a pro at the rondador in no time (that’s a fancy set of pan pipes to you and me). 

Not far from Quito, Otavalo is a charming, unassuming mountain town and home of South America’s biggest market. Not a bad place to witness charming festivals and spiritual rituals either!

Test out your bartering skills on a Bucket List Company tour of Ecuador (we won’t judge) – click here for the full itinerary.

3. The Thrills of Banos de Agua Santa

Often dubbed as the adventure capital of Ecuador, Banos offers adrenaline-packed activities. Over in the Tungurahua Province, you can go canyoning, hike to the Devil’s Cauldron waterfall, and enjoy the thermal springs that gave the city its name (“Baths of Holy Water” or “Banos” – just “baths” for short!). 

Don’t forget to swing at “The End of the World” for an exhilarating experience too – don’t let go or it could just be the end of your world. You’ll love it. 

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4. The Biodiversity of Mindo

Considered a paradise by birdwatchers, the cloud forest of Mindo is home to countless avian species and colourful butterflies. Surrounded by rivers, waterfalls and mountains, Mindo’s not just paradise for birdwatchers, it’s perfect for just about anyone with a sense of adventure and respect for nature. 

Want to turn your pulse up a notch and tick off the best things to do in Ecuador, Bucket List Co style?! With options for hiking, zip-lining, and tubing, Mindo’s got everything for nature-lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

5. The Riches of Cuenca

Immerse yourself in history in the cobblestoned streets of Cuenca, Ecuador’s UNESCO World Heritage city, about 470km south of Quito and 200km southeast of Guayaquil. 

Rich in culture, traditional and music, Cuenca still feels really authentic, like it’s not been touched by any outside influence whatsoever. If you’re visiting, make sure you visit the blue-domed Cathedral de la Immaculada, the Museum of Aboriginal Cultures, and the tranquil riverside park, Parque Paraiso.

6. The Charm of Guayaquil

Guayaquil, Ecuador’s main port, is a vibrant city teeming with contrasts; where modern attractions and new architecture clash against old and historic charm. It’s eclectic, and it’s brilliant!

The riverside Malecon 2000 boardwalk overlooks the Guayas River and showcases the city’s picturesque charm. Be sure to stop off in the colourful neighbourhood of Las Penas too, it’s brimming with art and culture.

Take in Guayaquil and more of the best things to do in Ecuador on a Bucket List adventure – more details on our trip page HERE.

7. The Wild Rainforest Expeditions

Time for a jungle expedition, anyone? Experience the unmatched biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest, staying in eco-lodges and interacting with local indigenous communities. 

This place isn’t for the fainthearted, because in the rainforests, you could go piranha fishing, anaconda spotting, or delicious Chontacuros tasting. Don’t get too excited – that’s a big fat slimy worm, hawked as a high-in-protein snack. You really are in the wild heart of the Amazon here. Dig in.

8. The Idyllic Galapagos Islands

No visit to Ecuador is complete without a trip to the Galapagos Islands, Darwin’s living laboratory. From swimming with playful sea lions and spotting giant tortoises to observing the sassy blue-footed boobies, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter.

The volcanic archipelago lies in the Pacific, about 1,000km from the Ecuadorian coast. The isolated terrain is home to so many different species that you’ll encounter something new around every corner. Really, if you’re going all that way to Ecuador in the first place, it’d be rude not to… 

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9. The Culinary Delights of Ecuadorian Cuisine

Finally, no list of the best things to do in Ecuador would be complete without a nod to the cuisine (because it’s really rather delicious. Err, apart from those worms). 

Aside from the Chontacuros, Ecuador offers a delectable palette of flavours for every foodie. Try the delicious Ceviche (an amazing citrussy cold fish dish), flavoursome Hornado (roast pork), Locro de Papas (potato soup – better than it sounds!), and for dessert, a traditional Dulce de Higos (fig dessert). Yum.

Now you know what the best things to do in Ecuador are… When are you going?

Adventurous, enchanting, and cultural, Ecuador presents a world that caters to every traveller. So whether you’re a history aficionado, a naturalist, an adventurer, or a gourmet explorer, your journey through Ecuador promises to be nothing less than captivating. 

Here at The Bucket List Company, we’re excited to help you make the most of it, helping you cherish countless Ecuadorian treasures responsibly – and facilitating you to do it affordably at the same time. (Heard about the manageable monthly payment plans available on all of our done-for-you adventures?)

Click HERE to find out more about our Ecuador adventure, check out the next available trip dates and if you’ve got questions? Fire them in our direction. 

Don’t let life pass you by.

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