Perú
Charming Ecuador, despite its diminutive size, is one of South America's most spectacular tourist destinations. This South American country is a cultural treasure trove that proudly preserves its pre-Incan and Spanish roots and is a must-visit for any adventure traveler. It's a dramatic landscape mosaic waiting for you out there.
Travelers to Ecuador can see snowy Andean peaks, hike around active volcanoes, stand on both the equator and the southernmost point of South America, delve deep into the Amazon, relax on pristine beaches, and, of course, take a cruise to the ecologically diverse Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos Islands , Quito .
Galapagos Islands , Quito , Otavalo .
Quito , Cuenca .
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Galapagos Islands , Quito .
Ecuador is mainly divided into three regions: the Coast, Highlands, Amazon Rainforest, and Galapagos. The three regions have different climates due to their geographical location and altitude. Below, we have prepared a summary of each region and the best time to visit each of them.
Ecuador offers a wealth of activities for travelers, from exploring ancient ruins and colonial cities to trekking through pristine rainforests and relaxing on tropical beaches. In Quito, visitors can take a walking tour of the historic Old Town, visit the Middle of the World Monument at the Equator, and ride the TeleferiQo cable car for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Ecuador is a destination with a geographic diversity that conditions the country's climatic characteristics. Another point to consider is the proximity to the Equator, which adds a Caribbean touch to the nearby cities. Our Gotolatam team has prepared a table with the main climatic characteristics of the most relevant destinations in Ecuador.
Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) - Quito: Located just outside the capital city of Quito, Mariscal Sucre International Airport is Ecuador's busiest airport, serving domestic and international flights to destinations across South America, North America, and Europe.
Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE)—Guayaquil: Situated in the coastal city of Guayaquil, Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport is Ecuador's second-largest airport. It offers flights to domestic destinations as well as cities in South and North America.
Simon Bolivar International Airport (GPS) - Galapagos Islands: Located on Baltra Island in the Galapagos archipelago, Simon Bolivar International Airport is the main gateway to the Galapagos Islands, serving flights from mainland Ecuador and other countries.
Mariscal Lamar International Airport (CUE)—Cuenca: Serving the city of Cuenca and the surrounding region, Mariscal Lamar International Airport offers domestic flights to Quito and Guayaquil.
Jose Maria Velasco Ibarra Airport (LOH) - Loja: Located in the southern city of Loja, Jose Maria Velasco Ibarra Airport serves domestic flights to Quito and Guayaquil, providing convenient access to the Andean region and the Amazon rainforest.
Mashpi Lodge - Mashpi: Nestled in the heart of the Ecuadorian cloud forest, Mashpi Lodge offers luxury accommodations, gourmet dining, and guided excursions to explore the region's rich biodiversity and pristine landscapes, including waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.
Casa Gangotena—Quito: Housed in a restored historic mansion overlooking Plaza San Francisco in Quito's Old Town, Casa Gangotena offers elegant rooms, fine dining, and personalized service. It is a luxurious retreat for travelers exploring the capital city.
Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel - Santa Cruz Island: Located on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos archipelago, Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel offers eco-friendly accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and guided excursions to discover the island's unique wildlife and natural wonders.
Hacienda Zuleta—Otavalo: Situated in the Andean highlands near the town of Otavalo, Hacienda Zuleta is a historic working farm and boutique hotel offering charming accommodations, farm-to-table dining, and horseback riding adventures in the surrounding countryside.
Hosteria La Cienega - Latacunga: Set amidst lush gardens and rolling hills near Cotopaxi National Park, Hosteria La Cienega offers cozy rooms, traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, and horseback riding excursions to explore the Andean landscapes and nearby volcanoes.
Casa del Suizo - Tena: Located on the banks of the Napo River in the Amazon rainforest, Casa del Suizo offers comfortable accommodations, jungle excursions, and cultural activities, including visits to indigenous communities and wildlife spotting tours.
JW Marriott Hotel Quito - Quito: Situated in the modern business district of Quito, JW Marriott Hotel Quito offers luxurious rooms, upscale dining options, and a range of amenities, including a fitness center, spa, and outdoor pool, providing a stylish retreat for business and leisure travelers.
Mashpi Lodge - Mashpi: Nestled in the heart of the Ecuadorian cloud forest, Mashpi Lodge offers luxury accommodations, gourmet dining, and guided excursions to explore the region's rich biodiversity and pristine landscapes, including waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.
Casa Gangotena—Quito: Housed in a restored historic mansion overlooking Plaza San Francisco in Quito's Old Town, Casa Gangotena offers elegant rooms, fine dining, and personalized service. It is a luxurious retreat for travelers exploring the capital city.
Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel - Santa Cruz Island: Located on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos archipelago, Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel offers eco-friendly accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and guided excursions to discover the island's unique wildlife and natural wonders.
El Crater Restaurant—Quito: Perched atop the Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve, El Crater Restaurant offers panoramic views of the surrounding crater and serves contemporary Ecuadorian cuisine, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and traditional flavors.
Zazu—Quito: Located in the trendy La Floresta neighborhood of Quito, Zazu offers creative dishes inspired by Ecuadorian and international cuisine. It uses fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking techniques to create memorable dining experiences.
Theatrum—Quito: Housed in the historic Teatro Sucre in Quito's Old Town, Theatrum offers fine dining in an elegant setting. The menu features gourmet dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, complemented by an extensive wine list and live music performances.
Urko Cocina Local—Cuenca: Located in the heart of Cuenca's historic district, Urko Cocina Local offers a culinary journey through Ecuador's diverse regions. The menu showcases traditional dishes and modern interpretations, using organic ingredients sourced from local farms and markets.
La Choza - Guayaquil: Situated in the historic Las Peñas neighborhood of Guayaquil, La Choza offers authentic Ecuadorian cuisine in a charming colonial setting, with dishes such as ceviche, encebollado, and grilled meats, served with live music and traditional dance performances.
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, carrying cash for transactions in smaller towns and rural areas is advisable. The local currency is the US dollar (USD), and ATMs are readily available in urban centers for cash withdrawal. However, it's essential to be cautious of counterfeit bills and to exchange currency at reputable establishments to avoid scams. Additionally, some businesses may offer discounts for cash payments, so it's worth keeping some dollars on hand. For added convenience, consider using a travel card to load multiple currencies and withdraw cash without foreign transaction fees.
Inti Raymi: Celebrated on June 21st, Inti Raymi is an ancient Inca festival honoring the sun god Inti. It is marked by rituals, music, dance, and traditional ceremonies, particularly in indigenous communities in the Andean highlands.
Diablada Pillareña: Held in late December in the town of Pillaro, Diablada Pillareña is a colorful and lively festival featuring masked dancers representing devils and angels, music, fireworks, and parades, celebrating the battle between good and evil.
Fiesta de la Mama Negra: Taking place in September in the city of Latacunga, Fiesta de la Mama Negra is a vibrant and eclectic festival featuring processions, folk dances, and street performances. It honors the Virgin of Mercy and pays tribute to Ecuador's cultural heritage.
Carnaval de Guaranda: Held in February in the city of Guaranda, Carnaval de Guaranda is one of Ecuador's largest and most famous carnival celebrations. It features colorful parades, water fights, music, and dance and attracts thousands of revelers from across the country.
Festival del Yamor: Celebrated in September in the town of Otavalo, Festival del Yamor is a traditional harvest festival honoring the Andean goddess Pachamama. It includes cultural events, music, dance, and the consumption of chicha, a fermented corn drink that symbolizes unity and abundance.
Before traveling to Ecuador, check visa requirements and vaccination recommendations, particularly for yellow fever, if visiting certain regions is essential. Pack appropriate clothing for the climate and activities you plan to undertake, whether hiking in the mountains, exploring the rainforest, or relaxing on the beach. Be aware of currency exchange rates and consider bringing a mix of cash and cards for convenience. Learning some basic Spanish phrases is also advisable, as English may not be widely spoken in more remote areas. Lastly, embrace the warmth and hospitality of the Ecuadorian people and prepare for a journey filled with adventure, beauty, and unforgettable experiences in this diverse and enchanting country.
Ecuador is home to some of South America's most iconic and breathtaking landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the lush Amazon rainforest and the pristine beaches of the Galapagos Islands. In the Amazon rainforest, travelers can explore one of the world's most biodiverse regions. Guided tours offer opportunities to spot wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds and learn about indigenous cultures and traditions.
Visitors can trek through stunning landscapes in the Andean highlands, visit colorful indigenous markets, and discover ancient Inca ruins such as Ingapirca and Cochasqui. The city of Baños is a popular base for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting, with its natural hot springs providing a relaxing retreat after a day of adventure.
We're flexible! Postpone your tour with zero cost up to 10 days prior to departure.
