Top 10 activities to experience in Ecuador

With its breathtaking outdoor adventures, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural diversity, Ecuador deserves a spot on every travel enthusiast's bucket list. From high-altitude Andean cities to sun-drenched beaches and wildlife-rich areas, this South American gem offers unforgettable experiences.

As soon as you arrive in Ecuador, you'll be captivated by the vast array of activities available. Whether you're eager to hike to the Earth's highest point, swim in the Galápagos Islands, or savor some of the world's finest cacao, Ecuador has it all.

Get ready for an exhilarating journey. From traversing the Avenue of Volcanoes to exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these are the top things to do in Ecuador.

1. Experience the splendor of the Galápagos Islands

Set off on an adventure to the Galápagos Archipelago, where you can discover one of the world's best-preserved natural sanctuaries. Island-hop to witness the iconic wildlife at renowned locations like the Charles Darwin Station, Tortuga Bay, Lava Tunnels, and Tintoreras Islet. The archipelago is home to a diverse array of species, including giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, iguanas, and the only penguins that inhabit the equator.

Trek along pristine trails untouched by human influence and soak in the stunning vistas. For an extraordinary experience, join guided scuba diving or snorkeling trips—encounters with sea lions, unique fish, and turtles are almost guaranteed.

Planning tip: While numerous sports rental shops and tourism companies offer courses and equipment for underwater activities, it’s wise to bring your own wetsuit, as rental options may be limited by size and demand.

2. Explore the Quilotoa Loop

Whether you choose an extensive multi-day trek or drive from Quito, a visit to the Quilotoa Loop is essential.

Situated approximately 179km south of Quito, the Quilotoa Loop is a sought-after hiking spot, reaching around 3,910m in elevation at its peak. With its emerald-green waters and breathtaking views of the Andean mountain range, this crater lake in the Andean Highlands is ideal for both hiking enthusiasts and those looking for an Instagram-worthy photo op while exploring the Andes.

Planning tip: Buses and day tour transportation are available to take you directly to the crater, and can be booked in nearby Latacunga. Hop on a ride up and hike your way back to town, finishing your adventure with a generous serving of chucchucaras, Cotopaxi’s signature dish.

3. Engage in community-based tourism in La Amazonía

Ecuadorian communities have developed sustainable initiatives to encourage community-based tourism. In the Amazon region, a variety of hotels, reserves, and guided tours are established thanks to the efforts of local villagers and Indigenous people.

Venture into the heart of the Amazon rainforest, discover the lifestyles and traditions of Indigenous communities, and admire the remarkable wildlife at locations like the Sinchi Warmi community center in Puerto Misahuallí or Sani Lodge within Yasuní National Park.

As Ecuador’s gateway to the Amazon, Puerto Misahuallí offers canoe trips along the Río Napo, guided rainforest tours, and wildlife viewing opportunities (watching Capuchin monkeys in town is free!). At Sinchi Warmi, Kichwa women welcome visitors to experience Indigenous rituals, traditional cuisine, and handcrafted goods.

Further into the Amazon jungle, Yasuní National Park is a prime destination for birdwatching, wildlife photography excursions, and learning about the Indigenous communities dedicated to preserving this incredibly diverse ecosystem.

4. Experience La Diablada Pillareña

Although it occurs just once a year, the people of Pillaro, located in Tungurahua, dedicate the entire year to preparing for La Diablada Pillareña. This festival is rich in tradition, spirituality, and a touch of irreverence, celebrating a quirky colonial custom that began as a means of resisting oppression from Spanish religious authorities by donning devil costumes.

This celebration, held every January, features intricately decorated masks, vibrant costumes, and a wealth of symbolism. Communities unite to dance in the streets day and night, accompanied by traditional banda de pueblo music.

Planning tip: La Diablada Pillareña occurs from January 1 to January 6. If you wish to join in this colorful festivity, consider making a day trip, as accommodation in Pillaro can be scarce. For convenience, you might include it as a stop while exploring the Central Highlands or traveling from the nearby city of Ambato.

5. Discover the gold-topped churches and colonial artwork in Quito

Although often overlooked as a prime destination in Ecuador, the capital city’s UNESCO-listed historic center deserves at least a day of your travel plans.

Stroll through the cobblestone streets to admire the Spanish-influenced architecture, appreciate the opulent colonial churches, and marvel at the masterpieces created by mestizo and Indigenous artists from La Escuela Quiteña (Quito’s School of Art). Key sights include the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, Iglesia Convento de San Francisco, and the Catedral Metropolitana.

Local tip: Before moving on, take time to explore the cafe-filled streets or visit the restaurants at Palacio Arzobispal to sample some favorite local dishes from quiteños.

6. Arrive in Cuenca to explore southern Ecuador

Known by several nicknames, including “the Athens of Ecuador,” Cuenca enchants visitors with its scenic streets, rich culture, and the delightful accent of the cuencanos. The city is filled with artisan shops, museums, trendy restaurants, and the famous blue-domed cathedral, which are among its top attractions.

Cuenca also serves as an ideal launching point for excursions to nearby national parks and archaeological sites, making it a great starting place for exploring southern Ecuador.

Local tip: If you're active online, you may have seen viral videos featuring energy limpias (cleansings) in Cuenca. Rooted in Indigenous traditions and syncretism, limpias are widely practiced rituals throughout Latin America. The process involves curanderas (healers) cleansing your energy and spirit by rubbing herbs like eucalyptus, rue, and rosemary over your body. For an authentic experience, visit a local market for this traditional herbal cleanse—Mercado 10 de Agosto, Mercado 27 de Febrero, and the feria libre (open market) are some of the most reputable places for a limpia in Cuenca.

7. Experience traditional music and festivals in the Northern Highlands

While Indigenous music and dance thrive throughout the Ecuadorian serranía (highlands), the Andean music tradition is especially vibrant in the northern province of Imbabura. Visitors can immerse themselves in Indigenous culture through artisan workshops, local music shops, and vibrant festivals.

In the city of Otavalo and surrounding areas, Indigenous-owned venues like Taita Gundo Casa de Música Andina and Taller Ñanda Mañachi provide insights into the creation of musical instruments and showcase traditional performances.

Festivals and religious events such as Inti Raymi and Fiesta de San Juan offer tourists a chance to enjoy and learn about Indigenous folklore.

Planning tip: To witness some of the most significant celebrations in the Northern Highlands, consider visiting during the summer. The festivities for Inti Raymi, San Juan, and San Pedro y San Pablo are held between June 21 and June 28.

8. Explore the Avenue of Volcanoes

For nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, a journey through the Andean Highlands along the Avenue of Volcanoes is a must. This segment of the mountain range beautifully separates Ecuador into its various regions.

Spanning approximately 350km, this route features beloved volcanoes and breathtaking hiking spots like Mount Chimborazo, Volcán Cotopaxi, and the Quilotoa Loop. Customize your adventure by visiting quaint towns in the Ecuadorian serranía, staying at haciendas such as La Ciénaga or Abraspungo, and partaking in trekking excursions or horseback riding tours led by chagras (Ecuadorian cowboys).

Planning tip: Due to the elevation of the mountain range, altitude sickness might affect you. Before starting your journey through the Andean region, allow your body some time to adjust. Quito, which is at an altitude of 2850m (9350ft), serves as an excellent launch point for this adventure.

9. Experience food, culture, and surfing on the Pacific Coast

Stretching across five provinces, Ecuador’s coastline offers a vibrant playground for travelers of all kinds. The varying swells make Montañita, Canoa, and Ayampe top surf spots.

In addition, National Park Machalilla is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts seeking to spot unique wildlife, including pelicans, albatrosses, boobies, and humpback whales. Secluded beaches such as Los Frailes, Playa Tortuga, and Playa Rosada provide tranquil getaways with their clear waters and minimal tourist development.

A delightful culinary experience ties these destinations together, featuring everything from traditional Ecuadorian ceviche (a flavorful seafood dish marinated in citrus juices with herbs, onions, and tomatoes) to refreshing coconut-based drinks.

Planning tip: Each May, humpback whales journey to Puerto López in Manabí, drawn by the warm waters of Machalilla National Park. The prime time for whale watching is from June to September.

10. Discover the Chocó Andino

Stretching across roughly one-third of the Pichincha province, the Chocó Andino is a biosphere reserve situated northwest of Quito. Covering over 2868 sq km, its misty hills and cloud forests host a remarkable variety of wildlife, including rare birds, numerous butterfly species, amphibians, and the Andean Spectacled Bear, all within this highly biodiverse yet threatened region.

Visitors to this protected paradise can engage in activities like bird-watching tours, wellness retreats at forested spas, wildlife photography outings, and trekking expeditions.

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