Top 9 Things to do in Ecuador

First up, being located on the Pacific coastline, one of the best things to do in Ecuador has to be whale watching. Known as the “Poor Man’s Galapagos”, Isla de la Plata is an amazing island off the coast of mainland Ecuador and is the perfect spot to check out the local marine wildlife, including humpback whales. While you’re on the island, you can also see albatrosses, boobies, and tortoises.

Alternative destinations:

• Salinas: If you want to be in a place that loves whales like no other, head to Salinas. Located on the remote Santa Elena Peninsula, you can jump on a day trip from Guayaquil, visiting the town’s popular Whale Museum before embarking on a boat ride to spot these gentle giants for real!
• Machalilla National Park: Want to combine a stunning national park visit with a whale-watching tour? Well, you can do just that at Machalilla National Park. Once you emerge through the mystical cloud forest and arrive on the sandy coastline, you’ll be able to spot pods of humpback whales as they enjoy their annual migration!

Best season: The whale migration season passes the coast of Ecuador between June and September, so these are your key whale-watching months.

If you’re looking for beautiful colonial architecture, amazing festivals, and more, you need to visit the beautiful city of Cuenca. Located at the base of some of Ecuador’s most popular treks, the best things to do in Cuenca include learning more about indigenous culture at the Museum of Aboriginal Cultures or visiting stunning cathedrals like the new cathedral and discovering the local craft scene at the market.

Alternative destinations

• Quito: With a perfect blend of the old town and new town, the capital of Ecuador has culture and architectural sights by the bucket-load. Make sure to check out the El Palacio de Gobierno and the beautiful Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco church.
• Loja: This southern Ecuadorian city is well-known for its culture and a thriving local music scene, but it also has architectural gems like the Puerta de la Ciudad and the colorful and quirky Calle Lourdes.

Best season: The best time to check out the architecture and culture in Ecuador is during the high tourism season (June to September). The weather is very pleasant during this time and Ecuador also receives the least amount of rainfall during these months.

Let’s be honest: as the capital city, there are tons of great things to do in Quito. However, if you’re looking for retail therapy, want to buy souvenirs, or would like to learn more about indigenous arts and crafts, then Quito is your place, with some of the best independent shopping areas and markets in the country. Check out the galleries and crafts shops of the New Town or hit up one of the popular markets—we recommend the shops of Mitad del Mundo as well as the sports listed below. Check out our tours to Quito.

Recommended spots:

• Otavalo: This town’s market is legendary and draws vendors from the Highlands and mountains to share their bright fabrics, indigenous crafts, and much more. It takes over the whole town square on both Wednesdays and Saturdays, so you have ample opportunity to visit.
• Saquisili: If you’re looking for a less touristy spot for a market haul, head an hour and a half south of Quito to the Saquisili Market. This is a popular local market, but there are still plenty of textiles, arts, and crafts to be bought, and it’s a popular place to hang out with friends.

Best season: There is no best time for shopping in Ecuador. This is a year-round activity.

We can’t talk about the best things to do in Ecuador without mentioning the Galapagos Islands. From Isabela Island’s beaches to the tourism hub of Santa Cruz Island with the Charles Darwin Research Station, these mighty havens of wildlife and natural beauty have drawn travelers in for centuries. Home to animals that you won’t find anywhere else on the planet, it’s a bucket list experience. Here are our wildlife tours in the Galapagos Islands.

Alternative destinations:

• Tena: Also known as the gateway to the Amazonia, Tena is a top-tier destination for exploring local wildlife and conservation efforts. Whether you jump on a boat into the jungle or check out the conservation efforts at Amazoonico Animal Rescue Centre, you’re in for a treat.
• Isla de la Plata: If you don’t want to fly to the Galapagos or are short on time or money, check out the Isla de la Plata, which is often referred to as Little Galapagos. Here, you’ll see tortoises, amazing bird species, and tons of marine life around every corner!
• Parque Nacional Yasuni: As the biggest nature reserve on the mainland, Parque Nacional Yasuni is full of amazing wildlife, including jaguars and armadillos, and is a dedicated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It’s also home to two Indigenous communities, the Tagaeri and Taromenane tribes, who are completely self-isolated from the outside world.

Best season: The best time to visit the Galapagos is from December to May, when the waters are warm and perfect for snorkeling, diving, and boat trips!

One of the cool things about Ecuador is the sheer number of different ecosystems, from high up in the Andes to the Galapagos to the Amazon rainforests. Jump on a powered canoe and float through the river and canal systems, checking out the jaguar-filled jungles of this beautiful nation. You can find our tours to the Amazon here.

Recommended spots:

• Rio Napo: The mighty Rio Napo runs into the Amazon River, so you get two amazing rivers for the price of one. Ride down the river surrounded by sounds and sights of the rainforest, including parrots, giant otters, river dolphins, sloths, and more. Make it a multi-day trip and stay in local villages or river-front lodges for a more boutique experience.
• Tena: Ride down either the Jondachi or Jatunyacu rivers from the town of Tena to witness monkeys, sloths, river dolphins, and more. If you’re looking for a river safari, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better destination!

Best season: The best time to visit the Ecuadorian Amazon for a boat ride tends to be between December and March and then again between June and August. This widely avoids the rainy season which can make it hard to spot animals and the boat crossing perilous.

What’s better than a relaxing soak in nature after a long hike in the Andes? Well, this amazing mountain range has plenty of volcanic, naturally geothermal pools. If you’re looking to treat yourself before you fly out of Quito, head to the tiny village of Papallacta. It’s known for one thing, and that’s geothermal spas. There are luxury, boutique experiences, and some more wallet-friendly options, but with it being only two hours away from Quito, it’s the perfect day trip or weekend away.

Alternative destinations

• Banos: While there are tons of things to do in Banos, as it’s Ecuador’s outdoorsy hub, there are also a whole host of thermal spas and pools in the area, including the Balneario El Salado, with expansive views of the Andes. So, after you’ve hiked to a local waterfall, biked through steep gorges, or canoed down the Amazon, you can return to Banos and soak it all away!
• Oyacachi: Located to the west of Quito in the Parque National Cayambe-Coca is a place called Oyacachi, home to a thermal spa in the middle of the national park. If you’re looking for world-class views as you soak, this is the place for you.

Best season: The best time to visit the thermal pools in Ecuador is in the dry season between June and September, but this is also the busiest time, so book ahead!

The Quilotoa Loop in the Cotopaxi region is arguably Ecuador’s most famous (and perhaps best) multi-day hike. Spend an epic three to five days hiking the 40 km long trail. The trekking tour in Cotopaxi features exposed ridges and steep scramble sections, but by and large, the trail is pretty easy to follow, and you get to pass through indigenous villages and communities along the way.

Alternative destination:

• Cotopaxi Volcano: Not for the faint of heart, Ecuador’s second-highest mountain and active volcano, Cotopaxi, is a once-in-a-lifetime trek. Scaling glaciers, rock faces, bridges, snow, and the active crater is something that you need to train for, especially with crampons and ice picks. It’s only a two-day climb, but it’s super intense. The experience and views are worth it!

Best season: Generally the best time to hike in Ecuador is between September and February when the winds aren’t as extreme towards the top of your climbs and on exposed sections.

One of the best things to do in Guayaquil is hit the beach and check out the waves. As a major city, there are plenty of surf schools in this area where you can hire gear and get lessons, making it an ideal option for beginners looking to ride their first wave! Browse our tours to Guayaquil.

Alternative locations:

• Salinas: This peninsula city is probably best known for its coastal vibes, resort hotels, and surf breaks. There’s definitely a chilled-out vibe here compared to Guayaquil, which lends itself to the surfer way of life!
• Montanita: If you want a surf town that has bohemian bars and clubs and plenty of surf hostels to rest your head, head to Montanita. It’s a party town, so if you’re a light sleeper or looking for calmer vibes, maybe steer clear!

Best season: Ecuador’s prime surf season is from December to April, thanks to the winter storms and swells!

Known as the adventure capital of Ecuador, the best things to do in the mountain city of Banos revolve around getting your adrenaline going. Think whitewater rafting, canyoning, and of course, the End of the World Swing at Casa de Arbol.

Alternative destinations:

• Mindo: Zipline through the trees and climb up through waterfalls on a canopy adventure in the cloud forest of the beautiful and protected Mindo-Nambillo Reserve. You can also enjoy tubing through the bottom of the valley if watersports are more your thing!
• Montanita: If you want beach or open ocean-based adrenaline, head to Montanita. Known for its great surf breaks, you can easily spend the day shredding waves or soaring high above the water on a parasailing adventure!

Best season: The best time to visit Banos for adventurous activities is between June and August during the dry season, where you can safely enjoy all these activities!

No matter where in Ecuador you visit, you’re bound to see breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife and have tons of fun. So, what are you waiting for? Book that trip to Ecuador now and experience these 9 fun things to do in Ecuador. Check out our guide on how many days to spend in Ecuador to find itinerary options.