Country Guide

Ecuador

South America

Ecuador is a compact powerhouse of biodiversity, offering everything from misty Andean cloud forests and colonial history to volcanic peaks and the world-renowned Galapagos Islands. Travelers flock here for the ease of navigating between diverse ecosystems, where you can stand on the equator in the morning and hike a glacier by the afternoon. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September, though the coastal regions are best enjoyed from December to May. Pro tip: The country uses the U.S. Dollar as its official currency, making budgeting straightforward, and the extensive network of comfortable tourist buses is the most efficient way to travel between major regions.

Top Attractions in Ecuador

The most iconic places to see in Ecuador -- tap one to open its city guide.

Galapagos IslandsThis living museum of evolution offers unparalleled wildlife encounters with giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas found nowhere else on earth.

Cotopaxi National ParkHome to one of the world's highest active volcanoes, this park features breathtaking high-altitude Andean landscapes perfect for trekking and mountain biking.

Quito Old TownAs one of the best-preserved historic centers in the Americas, its cobblestone streets and gilded churches like La Compañía de Jesús are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Quilotoa LoopThis multi-day trekking route through remote indigenous villages culminates at a stunning turquoise crater lake nestled within a volcanic caldera.

Baños de Agua SantaKnown as the adventure capital of Ecuador, this town serves as the gateway to the Amazon and is famous for its thermal springs and the iconic Swing at the End of the World.

CuencaRenowned for its colonial architecture, flower markets, and artisan workshops, this charming city is the heart of Ecuador’s traditional Panama hat production.

Cajas National ParkThis high-altitude wilderness is dotted with over 200 glacial lakes and unique paramo vegetation, offering a surreal and tranquil hiking experience.

Otavalo MarketOne of the largest and most vibrant indigenous markets in South America, it is the perfect place to purchase high-quality hand-woven textiles and traditional crafts.

Yasuni National ParkDeep in the heart of the Amazon basin, this park is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet and offers immersive jungle lodge experiences.

Mitad del MundoThis monument marks the equator, allowing you to stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and one in the Southern Hemisphere at the same time.

IngapircaThese are the most significant Inca ruins in Ecuador, showcasing a unique blend of Inca and Cañari architectural styles in a beautiful mountain setting.

Devil's Nose TrainThis engineering marvel takes you on a dramatic zig-zag descent through the Andes, offering some of the most spectacular mountain vistas in the country.

Tap an attraction to open its city guide, or search TripAdvisor if we don't have one yet.

Cities to Visit in Ecuador

6 cities in Ecuador with a guide.

Coca

Coca, officially Puerto Francisco de Orellana, is the gateway to the Ecuadorian Amazon and a bustling hub for river expeditions. Known for its confluence of the Coca and Napo rivers, it serves as the essential starting point for travelers venturing deep into the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve. The best time to visit is during the drier months from August to December to maximize river navigation and wildlife spotting.

Cuenca

Cuenca blends colonial charm with Andean scenery, famed for its red‑brick churches, vibrant markets, and nearby high‑altitude wilderness; the dry season (June‑September) offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

Guayaquil

Guayaquil, Ecuador’s bustling port city, blends vibrant riverside promenades, historic neighborhoods, and lush green spaces; it’s famed for its lively nightlife, fresh seafood, and tropical climate—best visited during the dry season from June to December.

Latacunga

Latacunga is the rugged, high-altitude gateway to the Quilotoa Loop and a treasure trove of Andean culture. Known for its vibrant indigenous markets and proximity to dramatic volcanic landscapes, it is best visited between June and September for clear, dry mountain views.

Quito

Quito is a high-altitude Andean capital renowned for its remarkably preserved colonial center and stunning volcanic backdrop. It is a city of contrasts where centuries-old cathedrals sit alongside modern urban infrastructure, best visited between June and September for clear, sunny days.

Salinas/La Libertad

Salinas, perched on Ecuador's Pacific coast in the La Libertad province, blends relaxed beach vibes with fresh seafood, surf culture and striking sunsets; it’s famed for its long boardwalk, vibrant marina and nearby wildlife. The best time to visit is from June to September when the sea is calm and the weather is sunny.