When I traveled to Ecuador three years ago, it was an eye-opening experience. I arrived in Quito at night with no knowledge of the city or the country, for that matter. It would be a pleasant surprise as the charming city is the world’s first UNESCO Cultural Heritage City. There was so much to delve into! So many interesting Ecuador facts – the culture, the history, and the food!

If you’re looking for some facts about Ecuador, you’ve come to the right place. Ecuador is a nation that needs to be seen and heard about. Here are some interesting Ecuador facts to learn about before visiting.

Fun Ecuador Facts You’ll Love

1. Ecuador was the first country in the world to recognize the rights of nature

One of the first Ecuador facts I want to mention is perhaps the most important one. The country recognized that you know, nature has a right to grow and flourish. It also recognized the right of actual humans to petition or protest on nature’s behalf. It also highlighted the government’s responsibility to step in to protect nature. This occurred in 2008.

2. Ecuador was part of the Inca Empire

Another one of those well-known Ecuador facts. Though centered in Cusco, with their home base mainly in Peru, the Inca Empire stretched long. Ecuador was one of those places.

It became part of the Inca Empire in 1463, but the area’s indigenous people didn’t submit without a fight. The tribes here were already reasonably developed and weren’t interested in outsiders ruling them. Cue years of fighting.

3. The Spanish captured the Incan Emperor in Ecuador

That was in 1533. The new emperor Atahualpa (victor, by way of killing a lot of his family, of the Inca Civil War) was ransomed; a “Ransom Room” was stacked with silver and gold, but he wasn’t released. The Spanish held a mock trial and then executed him. Then the rest of the Inca Empire fell. Ecuador gained independence in 1822 after a two-year war.

4. Amazonian and Cayapas people resisted both Inca and Spanish rule

As a result, they could keep their language and culture intact well into the 21st century. You may have heard of Amazonian, but Cayapas? They’re based in and around the rainforests on the northern coast of Ecuador.

5. The equator runs through Ecuador

Another one of those fun facts about Ecuador that most people know. It’s a pretty obvious fact about Ecuador, but yeah – in case you didn’t know, the equator practically splits the country in two. Its official name is “Republica del Ecuador” – the Republic of the Equator.

6. Because of that, the daylight hours are pretty regular

Being basically on the equator, Ecuador’s sunrise and sunset remain virtually the same throughout the year. The sun rises at 6 am and sets at 6 pm. Twelve hours of light, twelve hours of the night. Super equal.

7. From 1972 to 1979, Ecuador had a succession of military dictatorships

There was a military coup in 1972, led by General Guillermo Rodriguez, overthrowing five-time president Velasco Ibarra. Then there was a military junta in 1976, led by Admiral Alfredo Poveda, that got rid of the previous military junta.

Before the next junta came along, a colonel proposed democratic elections. Jaime Roldos Aguilera won the most votes of any Ecuadorian election ever.

8. Ecuador is more biodiverse per square kilometer than any other nation

This is a cool, fun fact about Ecuador. There are so many species represented here. It’s one of the world’s 17 most biodiverse countries, though it tops the world for the density of its biodiversity. We’re talking tens of thousands of bird species alone (15% of the world’s bird species)!

There are many endemic species here, too; the Galapagos alone has 38, but there are also 106 reptiles and 138 amphibians endemic to Ecuador.

9. Ecuador is where you’ll find the Galapagos Islands

Yep. The Galapagos. They sit around 1,000 kilometers west of Ecuador’s mainland in the Pacific Ocean. These biodiverse islands are super famous for their endemic species, such as the Galapagos land iguana, the Galapagos penguin, and the largest living tortoise (the Galapagos tortoise, of course), to name just a few.

10. Charles Darwin came up with his Theory of Evolution in the Galapagos

One of the most interesting facts about Ecuador is this one. Looking at all the different kinds of finches that lived in the Galapagos Islands, Darwin had a eureka moment when he noticed their beaks were all specialized to what the birds were eating or what particular island they lived on. Skip a few years on, and Darwin had his theory down to a T.

11. Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world

This is one of my favorite fun facts about Ecuador. That’s right – this is a fun Ecuador fact to know before you go! At 9,350 feet above sea level, it’s pretty high. Not only is it the Ecuadorian capital, but it’s also the nation’s largest. The highest capital in the world is La Paz. But what Quito has that La Paz doesn’t is another distinction: being the closest capital city to the equator. Boom.

12. Quito’s historic center is one of the best-preserved in the Americas

Not just in Ecuador, not just in South America, but in all the Americas. The historic center here has hardly been changed. In fact, it’s so impressive that – along with Krakow, Poland – it was one of the first “old towns” to be declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. 

13. And just near the capital is a very tall volcano

Cotopaxi may only be the second-highest peak in Ecuador, but it’s one of the tallest volcanoes in the world, at 19,347 ft. It looks cool, too, like an Ecuadorian Fuji. In the last 50 years, it’s erupted more than 50 times. For math fans, that’s more than one eruption per year.

14. Mount Chimborazo is the tallest mountain in Ecuador

Its summit is 20,560 feet above sea level. But because of the planet’s shape (not a sphere but an oblate spheroid) and being basically on the widest part of the Earth – because of being on the equator and all – the summit of Chimborazo is the furthest you can possibly get from the center of the Earth. Now that is a wild fact about Ecuador.

15. Ecuador is bananas for bananas (my favorite Ecuador fact)

One of my favorite Ecuador facts is this one! Well, it’s more like Ecuador is bananas for exporting bananas, actually; it’s the world’s highest exporter of bananas. Chances are the banana you’re eating right now is from Ecuador. It might not be, but it also has a high probability of being from the Republic of the Equator. Bananas account for 12.1% of the country’s exports.

16. But 40% of its exports consist of crude oil

And Ecuador has a lot of it. Oil is a significant part of the nation’s economy; they produce 520,000 barrels a day. A lot of it goes to the USA. It was partly the actions and impact of the oil industry that made Ecuador recognize the rights of nature

17. The official language of Ecuador is Spanish

Yep, not much of a surprising fact about Ecuador, but around 93% of the population speaks Spanish. However, many people also speak Amerindian languages, such as Quechua (the language of the Quecha people), or other native languages such Awapit, Paicoca, Cayapa, A’ingae, Tsa’fiki, and Wao Tededeo.

18. The “national genre of music” in Ecuador is Pasillo

It’s a blend of indigenous and Latin musical traditions, with European flavors mixed in; Pasillo has a broken-hearted, nostalgic feeling, often describing the beauty of the country. Still popular to this day, towns and villages across Ecuador have their own take on Pasillo – as well as dances to go with it.

19. One of the most popular street foods in Ecuador is hornado

A foodie fun fact about Ecuador for you now: Hornado is pork. Well, it’s a pig cooked whole on a spit, served with llapingacho (fried potato pancakes) and corn, with vegetables on the side too. There are loads of other types of street food, such as patacones (refried plantains) and seco de chivo (goat stew).

20. One of the earliest examples of Ecuadorian literature was the work of Jacinto Collahuazo 

The 1600s – a time in which the native “language” of talking via knots called quipu was banned by the Spanish. Jacinto Collahuazo, chief of a village in Ibarra, taught himself to write and decided to record Inca stories – but in the Quechua language.

His work was found, burned, and he was imprisoned. Centuries later, masons found a manuscript written by Collahuazo hidden in the walls of a church in Quito; it was a tale of the sadness Inca people felt losing their emperor, Atahualpa.

21. There’s a community of African descent in Ecuador with an amazing story

A Jesuit slave ship bound for Ecuador ran aground in the 17th century. Those on board being transported to be used as slaves swam ashore and escaped through the jungle, led by a chief named Anton. They maintained their freedom. Their descendants live in the Chota Valley, which spans the Carchi, Esmeraldas, and Imbabura provinces.

22. The official currency of Ecuador is the US Dollar

That’s right; even though it’s not US territory, the official currency of Ecuador is actually the US dollar. A bill was signed in 2000, making the US dollar the main currency. It replaced the sucre, 25,000 of which were worth just $1. This is one of those Ecuador facts that is super important for those traveling there.

23. There’s an iguana park in Ecuador

For a weird little fact about Ecuador, we head to Parque Seminario in Guayaquil. Hundreds of iguanas have, for some reason, made this park home. They wander around, sunbathe, and watch people watching them. It’s not a zoo; it’s an actual city park. There are vendors selling lettuce you can feed to the iguanas. Of course, this park is also known as Parque de las Iguanas.

24. Ecuadorian garbage trucks play music

This is one of those fun facts about Ecuador I couldn’t miss. Yes, they play songs like old-school ice cream trucks. So if you’re awakened by that music box kinda sound at 6 am, you won’t have to wonder who’s getting a popsicle; it’s just the garbage man. Gas and water trucks also play music, you know, just in case you need more. That’s life in Ecuador.

25. Ecuador has a national fruit

It’s called the guanabana, and it’s a spiky, green, sour fruit called a “soursop” in English. But being a firmly tropical country, and with all that volcanic soil, Ecuador is pretty well situated to grow a whole load of tasty fruit.

Avocados, mangos, plums, pitahaya (like a dragon fruit but yellow), mora (like a blackberry), and more known and unknown fruits besides.

26. A 15th birthday for girls in Ecuador is called a quinceanera

Sweet 16 may be more of a thing elsewhere, but in Ecuador, it’s one year earlier. Part of Mesoamerican culture, turning 15 is like a coming of age. In Ecuador, the father accompanies the daughter; there’s a waltz sort of like a first dance, then there’s more dancing, food, even more dancing, a “surprise” dance, toasts, cake-cutting, speeches… It’s a big deal!

27. Panama hats originate in Ecuador

Fun fact about Ecuador: those straw hats widely known as “Panama hats” aren’t from Panama at all; they’re from Ecuador, and they’re less commonly, known as “Ecuadorian hats.”

The art of weaving one out of toquilla palm has been recognized by UNESCO. Why the confusion? Roosevelt was pictured wearing one when he went to see the progress of the Panama Canal, so there you go.

28. Voting is compulsory in Ecuador

Yep. You have no choice in not having a choice: you must vote – which is a super interesting fact about Ecuador! This is thanks to a law passed all the way back in 1936. Even after the 1970s dictatorships, this law came back into place.

It’s compulsory between the ages of 18 and 65. But you can actually vote from as young as 16 if you want to. Even if you’re a foreigner, once you’ve registered to vote, you have to vote!

29. Ecuador is made up of four distinct regions

There’s La Costa – that’s easy; the coast. It’s full of fertile land and is where a lot of bananas and rice are grown. Then there’s La Sierra; these are the highlands, comprising the Andes (home to volcanoes, tall peaks, and a lot of potato-growing).

La Amazonia – or El Oriente – consists of the Amazon, national parks, and is home to Amazonian tribes (and oil). Then there’s La Region Insular, i.e., the Galapagos, which needs no introduction.

30. Measuring the equator began in Ecuador

In 1736, French astronomers started to calculate where the equator – the imaginary line halving the Earth – would be. They made a pretty accurate measurement of the Earth, so accurate that they could also prove that the world was far from a perfect sphere. (Obviously, modern techniques have refined this measurement).

I hope you enjoyed these fun Ecuador facts! If you know any you think we should add please leave a comment and let us know!

It’s a place unlike any other on earth, and it’s easy to understand how the islands inspired Charles Darwin. However, “unlike any other place on earth” usually come with a high price tag, and the Galapagos is no exception. We’re here to cover all the details and help you decide whether a cruise around the Galapagos is for you.

Our Amazing Galapagos Cruise

Getting to the Galapagos Islands

The majority of flights into Ecuador arrive via the capital city of Quito. That’s not a problem as Quito is a fantastic colonial city and the first city to be listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site worldwide.

It’s a city that you should absolutely explore for a day or two on your way to the Galapagos. Trust me – it’s worth it – especially if you have never been to South America.

Several South American airlines offer flights to Baltra and San Cristobal from Quito, the main airports in the Galapagos. We flew with LATAM to Baltra with a thirty-minute layover in Guayaquil for $495 a person roundtrip. Quite honestly, we hated our LATAM experience.

It was every bit the same as a Ryan Air, Jetstar, or Spirit Airlines flight, but at a much higher price point (They don’t even provide free coffee on a flight that was four hours with the layover).  However, we had no choice as the flight times coincided with the departures of our boat. If you have the option to book with Avianca, who offers a direct from Quito, we suggest you go with them. (We heard Tame was worse than LATAM but we have never experienced them).

When you depart from the brand new Quito Airport, you’ll need to get your Galapagos immigration card. This costs $20 per person and is preferably paid in cash. At check-in, they will direct you to the counter. It’s pretty self-explanatory, so don’t worry! Make sure you don’t have any fruits or vegetables on you as they are not allowed on the Galapagos, and your bag will be checked.

Once you arrive in the Galapagos, you must go through their immigration process and pay another $100 cash per person in National Park fees, as 97% of the islands are protected parks. From the airport, many cruise lines and tour companies like ours will pick you right up from the neighboring port. It was a short 10-minute bus ride followed by a dingy to board our vessel.

For those on their way to the main inhabited island of Santa Cruz and the port of Puerto Ayora, you’ll need to catch a bus to the ferry and to another bus. It’s typically not a very pleasant journey as buses on the island are run down and without A/C and packed full as passengers from your flight fill up the seats. However, the journey only costs a couple of dollars.

What is the best time to visit the Galapagos?

With their location on the Equator, the Galapagos Islands don’t see a wide range of seasons. Temperatures year-round are in the 70-80s F (21 – 26C). The islands are mostly dry but see a small rain season from January to April. While air temperatures do not change much throughout the year, water temperatures can vary.

Water temperatures vary due to the strong Humboldt current in September and October. The result is rougher and colder water. The water temperature then drops to around 60 degrees from 70-degree Fahrenheit.

The Galapagos beaches are never bad, and in general, you can visit any time of year, but it’s best to avoid summer holiday time and the holidays as prices are higher and options book up quickly.

The Santa Cruz II with Metropolitan Touring

We toured around Ecuador with the oldest Ecuadorian tour operator, Metropolitan Touring. They’ve been providing tours to the Galapagos since the sixties and were one of the first local operators to run a cruise ship around the islands in 1969. So we were in well-seasoned hands and knew the ins and outs of tourism in the Galapagos.

Our vessel during our journey was their latest boat, the Santa Cruz II. The vessel happens to be one of the largest cruise boats in the Galapagos, with enough room for 90 passengers. There is a limit on boat size, but we’ll get into details later.

This was actually the first cruise Tasha, and I have ever taken together and probably the largest in size we’ll ever go. (Later we would venture on the Steam Ship Sudan, and to Antarctica – both bucket list experiences!)

The ship was very spacious even though there were 81 people on board and plenty of crew. We never had a problem finding some deck or lounge to tuck away and watch the islands pass by.  They had a deck for everything, whether it was soaking in a hot tub, a fitness center, sundowner drinks, or even star gazing.

When it came to our room, it was spacious enough for us to sleep comfortably. The ability to slide our suitcase under the bed also came in handy as we would never have survived without killing each other if not. Our bathroom, while not spacious, was clean and had biodegradable shampoo, conditioner, and body soap (but no lotion, so be sure to bring some!). I have to say the hot water pressure was better than most hotels we stay at, so we were super happy to have that on a boat at sea. Kudos!

It’s been said the best way to keep people happy is to keep them full. Breakfast and lunch both consisted of large buffets full of various options from omelets to pancakes and ceviche to roast beef. The wide selection of options became our favorite meals of the day, especially lunch. Dinner is a full-service dinner with waiters delivering a starter, main, and dessert. They could even cater to dietary needs and improvise dishes for everyone.

The staff was friendly, attentive, and professional. Above all, what impressed us most about the ship was how well things seemed to run at sea, given the isolation of the cruise ship.  Despite being world-famous, the Galapagos is not some well-developed chain of tropical islands like the Caribbean or Hawaii.

What’s the best Galapagos cruise itinerary?

We don’t like to consider anything the best, but there are certain highlights that we’ve been advised to seek. No matter what itinerary or boat you go with, you’ll likely see plenty of Galapagos wildlife, as it is everywhere.

It’s pretty tough to miss seeing sea lions, iguanas, and blue-footed boobies as they’re abundant. When it comes to daily itineraries, they are very similar from ship to ship as they are regulated by authorities.

The biggest difference you’ll see with itineraries is the visited islands. Central islands are the most popular as they’re easy to reach, but that means a less natural environment with dispersed wildlife. The outer islands are more remote and only some vessels travel to the islands. You should look out for the islands of Fernandina, Isabela, Genovesa, Española, and North Seymour.

We visited Fernandina and Isabela, which were easily the highlight of our Galapagos trip. Fernandina is the youngest island in the Galapagos, with a still active volcano that erupted five days after we left. (Sad we missed the light show and once-in-a-lifetime photo chance).

Isabela is considered the best area for spotting turtles, which could not be truer as we saw maybe 100 in an hour while snorkeling. On our trip to Isabela, we found ourselves swimming in a group so large you had to dodge them! The Western Islands are also the only ones where you can spot the flightless cormorant – one of the Galapagos Big 15.

What to expect on a Galapagos cruise?

Similar to an African safari, a Galapagos cruise is not a leisure holiday, but it is an amazing one that is not easily forgotten. Our first full day on board looked like this to give you an idea of the average day. As you can see, it’s a pretty busy day, so save your book reading for flights and before bed if you have the energy.

• 07:30 – Wake-up call
• 08:00 – Breakfast
• 09:00 – Boat ride around the coastline to spot birds and marine life
• 10:30 – Back on board to change into swimsuits
• 11:00 – Deepwater snorkeling or glass-bottom boat
• 12:30 – Lunch and Siesta
• 15:00 – Afternoon tea and coffee
• 16h00 – Hiking on an island
• 18:00 – Return to the boat and evening drinks
• 19:00 – Evening briefing
• 20:00 – Dinner time
• 21:00 – Relax

Wildlife in the Galapagos

We’ve talked a lot about Africa’s Big Five animals, but Galapagos has its own list called the Galapagos Big 15. Here are a few animals you may see and a few experiences to have.

• Swimming with a massive flotilla of sea turtles – fun fact, a group of sea turtles is called a flotilla.
• Playing with sea lions in the water. They’re super curious and love to swim directly at you and blow bubbles inches away into your face. If you keep your nerve, they may even touch you – I ended up playing a game of chicken with one sea lion.
• Penguins attacking the blinking light on our GoPro
• Manta Rays doing backflips out of the water
• Eagle Rays beneath your kayak
• Fernandina island full of marine iguanas
• Blue-footed boobies always make our day better
• Darwin’s Finches, the inspiration for natural selection!
• One night, a frenzy of Galapagos sharks attracted to the ship’s lights. It was literally hundreds of sharks with a few brave sea lions hunting fish attracted to the lights.
• Flightless cormorants dreaming about flying

Top Activities on Board

If you come to the Galapagos with leisure in mind, you may have picked the wrong destination. While the Galapagos is stunningly beautiful, you want to see all the islands, so be prepared for early starts and busy days. While on the cruise, you have a wide variety of things on offer.

Snorkeling

This was fantastic! We love snorkeling, and the Galapagos easily ranks up on our list of best places in the world. It’s the only place where you can snorkel with turtles, marine iguanas, penguins, sharks, and sea lions all in one place! Most cruises in the Galapagos offer several options for snorkeling, if not daily. We went snorkeling three times on our Western Itinerary and loved every experience.

While shallow water snorkeling may be more comforting for the less experienced, we encourage travelers to try the deep water as it provides a much better experience in large marine life. It’s possible to spot sharks, whales, manta rays, and sunfish in the deep water. You have the option to wear a wetsuit for a charge as the water is a little chilly, but it adds buoyancy. We gave them a skip, and we’re happy we did as we got to play with the sea lions in the water.

Glass Bottom Boat

While not everyone on a cruise feels up to snorkeling, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the marine life. Our cruise had two opportunities to provide those not confident swimmers, the elderly, or young children, with the ability to view the marine life underneath the boat.

We skipped out on this activity since we’re competent swimmers, but we heard from others they had a great time spotting sharks, turtles, and plenty of fish. Just be mindful of taking Dramamine if you’re prone to seasickness, as you’ll be staring down the whole time.

Sea Kayaking

A few cruises, including the Santa Cruz II, carry sea kayaks on board the vessel. There were two opportunities for us to go kayaking, and we’re happy we enjoyed it in Tortuga Bay while on Santa Cruz island. It’s a great way to get some sun, relax, and spot marine life from the comforts of your own boat. We were lucky and spotted sharks, turtles, and spotted eagle rays.

Bike Ride

This was a short experience, but for those who like to get active, there was a fun bike ride while on the island of Santa Cruz. Most of the islands are a no-bike zone considering it’s a national park, but on the largest inhabited island, we were able to take a bike ride along paved roads to a chocolate farm.

SUP Board

The growing craze of stand-up paddle boarding has made its way onto cruise ships in the Galapagos. We gave this one a skip as we wanted more time to snorkel, but if you’ve never tried it, it’s hard to think of a better place than the Galapagos!

Hiking

This will be available almost daily as you explore the island on foot. All boats in the Galapagos are required by law to divide into groups of 16, so many boats will operate with that as their max capacity.

Larger boats like the Santa Cruz II employ a handful of guides who lead the smaller groups around the islands. Hiking is the best way to spot birdlife and understand the geology that has created the Galapagos.

Photography

We love taking photographs, so a place like the Galapagos is a photographer’s haven. It didn’t take long for our guide to realize we were always hanging behind in the group, snapping lots of photos while staring at a pair of finches in the tree. Sorry Enrique, we just really love wildlife.

Our ship had a presentation on board giving photography tips and insights for those budding photographers. You can take a photo-specific journey with some of the smaller cruise lines. If it’s your first time photographing wildlife, check out our safari camera post to pick a camera and learn the basics.

Scuba Diving

Not all boats offer scuba diving; you need to be PADI certified for most dives in the marine national parks. However, several smaller boats offer dive-specific cruises around the islands.

Day Tour

Most cruises make a stop at the main port of Puerto Ayora. The small town is home to the Darwin research center and several wildlife sanctuaries for the famous tortoises.

Gratuities on Board

As with everything, tips are at your discretion. However, we encourage you to tip your guides and boat crew. They do a tremendous job and work around the clock to ensure an amazing cruise. On board our ship, there was a box at check out, and they had the option to tip on a credit card with the reception.

Generally, tips range from $10 – $20 per day per person, with more going to the staff. We tipped our guides $50 a person and the boat staff $75 a person for a four-night, five-day cruise ($100 and $150).

Fun Ecuador Fact – US dollars are used in Ecuador, making cash for tips easy. ATMs around Ecuador dispense USD, so there is no need to bring in outside currency – read our post on travel banking if you need information on how we manage finances abroad.

What to look for in a Galapagos cruise ship

Size

This will have the largest impact on the kind of trip you have. There are two options regarding the boat size – big expedition ships like we did or smaller yachts. Both types of ships offer similar itineraries but vary in cost, comfort, and space. The larger ships generally have more deck space and are stable in the open seas around the Galapagos Islands.

We were happy for the more stability because even with our large ship, guests were still experiencing mild sea sickness. Larger boats can also offer multiple activities (for example, you can pick between snorkeling or a glass-bottom boat). The big boats generally cost more too. While the smaller boats tend to be more intimate and luxurious, and you feel a little less like a number.

Itinerary

We discussed the itinerary earlier and again. I suggest looking for an itinerary that includes the more remote islands. You must have a licensed guide, break into groups of up to 16, and only 100 people can visit an island at a time. So, smaller boats often see other boats in the bay while they visit an island, but large expedition ships will be the only ones in the area. Even if you book a small boat, don’t think it will only be your group in an area.

Guides

Our ship employed well-educated Ecuadorian guides who were knowledgeable and passionate about their islands. All guides in the Galapagos are required to be residents and from the islands. They used to break the guides into I, II, and III categories. III is considered the highest with guides who speak multiple languages and have a university education.

Our guide Enrique on the Santa Cruz II was fantastic. He was personal, polite, knowledgeable, and good at sensing the mood of our group. We’ve been on countless safaris and tours with many guides, and he stands out as one of the best. Every boat in the Galapagos must have one guide for every 16 guests. Larger cruise ships will break you into groups. We got lucky with our “Dolphins” group as we all got along very well!

Company

We always like to go with more experienced companies. The little details that might trip up smaller or new companies won’t cause any headaches. Luckily there are several operators with good experience in cruising around the Galapagos. Metropolitan Touring is one of those companies.

Price vs. Length of Galapagos Cruise

We’ll not lie to you and say that a cruise around the Galapagos islands is an affordable travel experience. It’s expensive, and anyone who gets to go on the incredible trip is very fortunate. The price points for cruises are proportional to the number of days on the boat. You’ll find an itinerary based on several of the following day options.

4 Days

This is generally too short as your first and last days are used for flying, so you only get two full days, which does not feel like enough. The price difference between longer itineraries is not vast when adding flights and logistics.

5 Days

This is the cruise we took on the Santa Cruz II. It was three full days and four nights on board the vessel. It felt like enough to take a bite out of the islands but still left us clamoring for more. They are amazing!

8 Days

A lot of travelers opt for this cruise length when booking the Galapagos. We’d be jealous of anyone fortunate enough to spend eight days. The longer itinerary also makes costs the best value when broken down daily.

15 Days

A few boats offer 15 days itinerary that does a complete circumnavigation of the Galapagos islands. It will be pricey, but you won’t be disappointed if you have the time.

Be Grateful!

Due to strict regulations on boat numbers, visitors, and itineraries, only about 75,000 people get to take a Galapagos Islands to cruise a year. That means if you can cruise around the islands, you are in the minority and one of the few lucky enough to see these incredible islands.

The Ultimate Galapagos Packing List

Bathing Suit

You’re going to the Galapagos and will be surrounded by water. Don’t forget at least two pairs of bathing suits. It’s always nice to be able to swap between instead of getting into a wetsuit from the day before. My favorite bathing suit for women is Andies Swim. They are supportive and make genuinely great eco-friendly products.

Wetsuit

You may want to have a wetsuit if you do any snorkeling. Most operators will provide you with a wetsuit for a charge, but you may want to pack your own if you have a wetsuit and space. We snorkeled three times in the Galapagos in June. Each time, we opted out of a wetsuit, and while the water was chilly, it wasn’t freezing.

Light and Loose clothing

Light, comfortable, loose clothing is excellent for active trips like these, and you’ll stay active while walking under the sun. There’s nothing that I wouldn’t say I like more than having skin-tight clothes on in the middle of a hot day. We traveled with prAna hemp pants.

Rain Jacket

I always travel with a rain jacket just in case. A rain jacket is essential if traveling the Galapagos in the wet season (December to May). While the weather mainly stays mild in the Galapagos, the hot Panama currents and the Northeast trade winds can cause rain around the islands. Rain is typically short-lived, but you won’t want to get soaked during that time. I have this one from Kathmandu, which has kept me dry for years.

Hoodie/fleece

It gets chilly at night in the Galapagos. I was really happy I packed a hoodie to keep me warm while outside.

Bugsaway Shirt

There are a lot of little critters around the islands, and you’ll be walking around the islands exploring almost every day of your trip. For trips like this, I would recommend the ExOfficio Breez’R Shirt. It’s 100% nylon and has “Insect Shield” technology, repelling all those creepy crawlers (and mosquitos!) We traveled all over Africa on safari with them and avoided many bites. 

Lounge Clothes

There will be downtime while you check out the Galapagos, so make sure you are comfy. A pair of flip-flops for walking around at your leisure never hurts.

Essential Galapagos Packing List Items

Sunscreen

You’re at the equator, so you will 100% need sunscreen in the Galapagos. Most hotels and ships won’t provide this and will charge a premium to purchase on the islands, so bring yours from home. We choose eco-friendly sunscreen when going into the ocean so that we don’t release chemicals into the environment. This is the exact kind we traveled with to the Galapagos and never got burned. Don’t skimp on the sunscreen for the sake of a tan! Even the locals slather it all over their bodies here.

Bug Spray

You’ll be exploring and walking around some pretty amazing wildlife destinations here, but that also means there will be bugs. Bring a small tube of bug spray to protect yourself.

Dry Bag

If I could return and redo my Galapagos packing list, I would have 100% thrown a dry bag in. I didn’t think about it before we got to Ecuador, but once we boarded the ship, I realized how nice it would have been to stick my valuables and electronics in a dry bag while on the dingy between islands. You’re surrounded by water almost always, and a dry bag will help you protect your valuables, especially when traveling between islands.

Small Backpack

Since your main home while in the Galapagos will most likely be on a ship or Santa Cruz island, you will be packing up every day to explore from your base. A backpack to throw all your necessities in is also essential for the Galapagos. Here’s a review of all of our favorites.

Galapagos Packing List Accessories

Sunhat

Remember what I said about the equator? There will be a lot of sun in the Galapagos, and a hat will help protect your face and eyes from it. Bring a baseball cap or sun hat from home. Or you can purchase Ecuador’s famous Panama Hats just about anywhere in the country!

(Including the airport, they are everywhere!) Hint: Don’t roll your Panama Hat into your suitcase. I made that mistake, and now it is ruined after only wearing it a few times. Instead, wear your hat on the plane when you travel.

Sunglasses

Sun+equator. I sound like a broken record, but I don’t want you to hurt your eyes! The Galapagos guides I spoke with recommended good quality sunglasses with UV protection in the Galapagos since the sun is so strong and often bounces off the water.

Walking Shoes

A good pair of walking shoes is essential for touring the islands. I traveled to the Galapagos with my Hoka One Ones Speedgoat 5,  and they were perfect. Check out more of my favorite travel shoes here.

Walking Sandals

Cameron and I – and just about everyone in our group traveled with either Tevas or Chacos. That’s because there will be many times when you may be walking in water or will have a wet landing on an island. For these times, you’ll want something sturdier than a flip-flop, but you obviously won’t want to get your tennis shoes wet. Sturdy sandals are perfect for this.

Buff

I travel everywhere with a Buff because it pulls my hair back when it looks like crap, keeps the sweat out of my face, and also protects from the sun. Even the local guides were wearing their buff to protect their faces.

Cameras and Lenses

You’re heading to a seriously hard place to get to in the world. Don’t leave home without a camera to capture some of your memories. A good travel camera is essential. We traveled with a Fuji X Series camera with a 50-200 mm lens.

Along with a Canon 5D and 600mm lens, we could get some up close shots of the wildlife. If underwater photography interests you, I would suggest purchasing the Sony RX100v. We just got this camera with underwater housing and can’t recommend it enough – small, lightweight, and great image quality!

Binoculars

I think we were the only people in our group without binoculars, and it was a major bummer. Binoculars offer you the chance to view wildlife much better than your bare eye – and you’ll be seeing lots of wildlife. There are options that aren’t too expensive online, and if I could redo my Galapagos packing list I definitely would have purchased a pair to have on this trip.

Dramamine

If you’re cruising around the islands and get sick sea easily make sure to pack Dramamine in your medicine kit. Our ship, the Santa Cruz, had a doctor on board and extra Dramamine but you can’t guarantee that yours will.

Lotion

It gets really hot around the Galapagos and the sun is baking on you so your skin is bound to take a hit and get dry. Bring some kind of lotion (I like cocoa butter to keep your skin hydrated. I thought that our ship would have lotion and be well stocked with amenities like in a typical hotel room, but it wasn’t so I was happy I had back up lotion in my bag.

Lip balm

Hot sun + dry climate = chapped lips. We suggest chapstick with UPF as the sun is very strong at the equator.

Waterbottle

You’re cruising around one of the most biodiverse areas of our planet. Please do not buy plastic water bottles and contribute to the world’s pollution problem. Use a travel water bottle on your trip and keep refilling it.

Walking Poles

We personally didn’t bring walking poles but saw many older people venturing around the islands with them. If you are used to walking or trekking with poles than I would suggest putting them on your Galapagos packing list.

Long Socks

These aren’t necessary, but I personally love longer socks when I’m hiking around areas with lots of grass and bugs.

A Good Book

You won’t have a TV or WiFi cruising around the Galapagos. Bring a book or Kindle with you to keep you occupied at night.

Galapagos Packing Tips

• Remember that staterooms will be small if you are on board a ship like we were, and transfers will be on a dinghy. It’s best not to bring big suitcases.
• Your accommodation provider may provide biodegradable toiletries, but it’s good to remember to adjust your products for the environment you’re in. The Galapagos are very precious, and anything put on your body and then in the water goes into the ecosystem.
• All bags are run through customs when you leave Quito or Guayaquil and again when you arrive in the Galapagos. Do not bring fresh fruit or things that will set off the alarm.

Whether you’re looking for a quick morning tour around a crater lake or a multi-day trek through mountain ranges, this list of the best hikes in Ecuador has you covered. With diverse landscapes and a welcoming culture, it’s impossible not to fall in love with Ecuador. 

Hiking in Ecuador? Here are the 15 Best Hikes in Ecuador!

Rucu Pichincha

We’re starting the list off strong with a hike up a volcano. Rucu Pichincha is a volcano near Quito, the nation’s capital. It’s very easy to reach if you are staying in town. There’s even a cable car to take you to the beginning of the trail to maximize your hiking time. Surprisingly, many tourists don’t frequent this hike, so it’ll be a relaxing trek free of crowds.

The cable car drops you at 3945 meters, and it’s an additional 755m to the top. This part of the hike takes around four hours, leading you through grassland and rocky patches. You’ll need to get used to the altitude, but once you’re at the top, the views of Quito are unreal.

• Location: Just outside Quito
• Insider Tip: Watch out for the sacred Incan bird, the Curiquingue.

Lake Cuicocha

If you’re hiking in Ecuador, you must check out Lake Cuicocha. Only an hour or so away from the town of Otavalo is a beautiful crater lake that makes for a perfect day hike. It’s a four-hour trip around the lake, and there’s plenty to look at, so you won’t be bored.

From the two islands nestled in the middle of the lake (supposedly shaped like guinea pigs) to the region’s rich diversity of flora and fauna (keep your eyes peeled for beautiful exotic butterflies), you’ll be glad you carved out some time for this beautiful hike. Though it’s not a long Ecuadorian hike, start early to wrap up before the sun gets too hot. Because this lake is quite high, be sure to have enough water, snacks, and a rain jacket in case of a sudden drizzle.

• Location: Otavalo
• Insider Tip: Don’t miss the massive weekly market for which Otalavo is famous.

The Inca Trail

For those unaware, the Inca Trail marks an ancient path connecting Quito to Cusco, Peru. This particular leg of the route follows the Inca Road to Ingapirca, which takes around three days to complete. The trail has a lot of altitude difference —4200m at its highest—and starts from Achupallas.

As the name suggests, it finishes at Ingapirca, the site of some 1000-year-old Incan ruins. In addition to the legendary ruins, you’ll pass stunning lagoons, and the ancient but impressive water system ruins from Incan times.

• Location: Alausi, Chimborazo Province
• Insider Tip: This is another route where you’ll want to acclimatize to the altitude before setting out. 

Papallacta

This is a small village in the province of Napo, northern Ecuador. It sits at an impressive altitude of 3300 meters—a city in the clouds! The region is well known for volcanic hot springs, and the wealth of wild mammal life makes this a unique place to hike in Ecuador. Watch out for possums, weasels, and the rare pampas cat.

Back in the city, there are quaint hostels, cozy restaurants, and the well-known Termas Thermal Resort, a hot springs spa perfect for relaxation after trekking. Boiled trout caught fresh is a common local dish that’s a must when you’re in the area.

• Location: Napo Province
• Insider Tip: If you partake in the resort pools, the water will be freshest in the morning. 

Yasuní National Park

Yasuní National Park is tricky to reach, but it can be a rewarding place to travel. You’ll need to fly from Quito to Coca, the nearest city to the park, and then a boat to the specific area you want to hike. Given that the Amazon is one of the most biologically diverse regions on the planet, it will be worth the journey.

Tourism here is well-managed, so tour groups and guides are available to ensure your safety and the park’s preservation. You’ll see animals you’ve probably only seen on a screen, like toucans, parrots, spider monkeys, and anacondas. 

• Location: Coca, Ecuador
• Insider Tip: Most hiking routes are pretty digestible, only around two hours, so it’s worth staying a few days and doing several.

Casa de Arbol

This gorgeous hike is situated on the outskirts of a jungle near the town of Bãnos. While the surrounding valley has several hikes to choose from, the Casa de Arbol is a four to five-hour climb up to a well-known treehouse (how cool is that?), from which you’ll have some pretty awesome views of the town below. If you visit on a cloudless day, you’ll be able to see all the way to the Tungurahua volcano.

The trail starts right in the city. Just follow the signage. Entrance into the treehouse is $1, and there’s even a swing that soars out over an open valley (for that Instagram snapshot).

• Location: Bãnos, Tungurahua
• Insider Tip: This region is famous for its hot springs, which are a great way to relax after this uphill hike.

The Condor Trek

This is a multi-day hike in Ecuador, where you will pass through beautiful rainforest terrain between each evening campsite. The hike ranges in elevation, some of it through lowlands and some as high as Santa Lucia Lake, which sits at a staggering 4,500 m. The scenery ranges from lush greenery to huge glaciers, giving you a wide range of landscapes to experience.

You’ll arrive in Papallacta, head to the village of El Tambo, and begin your trek. The route finishes with the Mica Lagoon before heading back into Quito.

• Location: East of Quito
• Insider Tip: If you hadn’t planned on an equipment-heavy expedition, many options for guide-led tours would include gear rental.

Rumiñahui Volcano

This volcano often gets ignored in favor of its much larger neighbor, Cotopaxi. It’s a great option if you want something a little tamer or you need to acclimatize yourself before tackling Cotopaxi. The volcano is fully extinct, and thanks to a year-round absence of snow and relatively forgiving terrain, it actually is quite popular as an Ecuador hiking route.

Though not as famous as Cotopaxi, the views of this volcano from Rumiñahui are impressive. You’ll also get an incredible vantage point to see El Corazón, Los Ilinizas, and Sincholagua.

• Location: Cotopaxi Province
• Insider Tip: Don’t miss nearby Limpiopungo, a stunning lake ideally situated for 360° views.

Sangay National Park

The largely unvisited Sangay National Park occupies a hefty territory in Ecuador. From extinct volcanoes to waterfalls and lush, sweeping valleys, this national park pretty much has it all. There are also glaciers and tropical rainforests, two landscapes you typically wouldn’t think exist in the same region, let alone the same country. 

There aren’t many human settlements here, so it’s a rich tapestry of wildlife—think pumas, foxes, bears, guinea pigs, jaguars, and more. There are a few peaks to climb and some volcanic craters. Do your research beforehand because the difficulty ranges wildly from one park area to another.

• Location: Morona Santiago, Chimborazo, and Tungurahua provinces
• Insider Tip: Skip Tungurahua for climbing, as the volcano has become quite active in recent years and is no longer considered sufficiently safe. Admire from a distance!

Mandago Loop

The town of Vilcabamba is becoming a popular relocation spot for ex-pats, but fortunately, it hasn’t lost any of its charms. The Mandago Loop is the town’s most popular Ecuador hiking route, and it’s most challenging—so much so that we recommend undertaking this one with an experienced guide.

The way up is steep, rocky, and often dangerous drop-offs, so it’s not recommended for new hikers or those afraid of heights. Find the start of the path behind the town bus station it costs $1.50. The full loop is around four hours, and you’ll get beautiful views of the surrounding valleys.

• Location: Vilcabamba, Loja Province
• Insider Tip: Hikers occasionally get lost, so a compass & map is recommended for this hike.

The Pululahua Crater

This is the crater of an extinct volcano—the largest on the continent! It’s four kilometers wide and 300 meters deep, and surprisingly, it’s full of extremely fertile soil, so it’s a haven for growing crops. It’s located in a geological reserve, thanks to a staggering diversity of plant and animal life unique to this region (particularly birds and insects). 

There are homes within the crater, which has its own kind of magic—a lush oasis with a small community tucked within. It’s so close to Quito, yet has very few visitors. Take an hour-long bus ride for less than $0.50 to get there; most paths are around five-hour loops.

• Location: One hour north of Quito
• Insider Tip: Rain clouds tend to roll in towards the late morning, so this is an Ecuador hike best done early in the day.

Pinãn Trek

This is a challenging trail but worth the effort. Located north of Quito in the Cotacachi Cayapas reserve, the Pinãn Trek takes you up Churoloma Mountain, through the Andean forests, and down along the edges of the Yanacocha Lagoon. There is a little bit of everything on this hike.

The full hike in Ecuador is around four to five days, and guided tours are available. It’s recommended for at least an intermediate-level hiker due to the range in elevation and difficulty. But if you can swing it, the views you’ll get of glaciers, mountain ranges, and verdant valleys are worth it.

• Location: North of Quito
• Insider Tip: The route technically starts in Otavalo, but many guides will meet you in Quito.

Cotopaxi Volcano

Calling all adventurers, this is a hike to the world’s highest active volcano. The Cotopaxi volcano is a couple of hours south of Quito, the capital city, and there are always transport options to get you there if you aren’t staying in the nearby countryside. 

The climb to the top, usually snowy, needs to be guided since it’s a whopping 5000m elevation, and symptoms like altitude sickness are common. Be sure to pack sunglasses and a hat because the sun reflecting off the snow can be blinding! Despite these minor inconveniences, if you visit on a clear day, you’ll have some pretty unreal views from the highest point.

• Location: Cotopaxi Province
• Insider Tip: Little to no ATMs in the surrounding areas outside of Quito, so make sure you’ve got the cash.

Cajas National Park

This national park is a UNESCO heritage site, so you know it will be amazing. This isn’t so much a specific route as an enormous region covering some 280 square kilometers and trails that alternate between moderate and high altitude, just to give you options.

Natural wonders include ancient volcanic rock, cloud forests, and endless lakes. Even a section of the famous Inca Trail passes through the park. The most popular route is only eight km and winds past three of the most-visited lakes in the area.

• Location: Azuay Province
• Insider Tip: The park is huge, with lots to explore and a higher chance of getting lost. Either grab a guide or do research in advance.

Quilotoa Loop

If you want to see some of the more rural parts of Ecuador and really immerse yourself in the culture, this is a great place to start. The Quilotoa Loop is more of a trek than a hike and spans around three days. There are guesthouses and homestays along the route, and food and water can be refilled.

This trek is the definition of roughing it, but will give you a new perspective on life in a South American country as you make your way quietly through the farming communities. Despite the length of the hike, it’s not an arduous journey. Aside from the odd climb here and there, it’s fairly level, and you still get incredible views of the valleys and mountains.

• Location: Cotopaxi
• Insider Tip: This isn’t a loop so you can start from either end—Quilotoa or Isinlivi.
• Insider Tip: Overnight accommodations are possible along this route.

But with Ecuador famously located on the Equator, it can be difficult to know the best time to visit. You may even be wondering if it has seasons at all—surprisingly, it does. And that’s where our best time to visit Ecuador guide comes into play. It provides a month-by-month account of the country’s weather and even a rundown of Ecuador’s best festivals to help you plan your trip.

The Best Time to Visit Ecuador

Weather in Ecuador in January

When January comes around in Ecuador, it’s warm. In fact, this summery time of year marks one of the country’s warmest months, but temperatures are still pleasant enough for exploring. For some prime beach time in January, head to the coastal city of Montanita. It’s a very warm 26°C on average here, and I can even see highs of 29 °C. Elsewhere along the coast, Guayaquil boasts average temperatures of 27°C.

In the high-altitude capital of Quito, the highs are around 18°C but the average daily temperature hovers at around 13°C. At night, temperatures can fall as low as 8°C. Rain at this time of year can be expected across 9 days – that’s around 70 millimeters of rain on average across the country. So all in all, it’s not a bad time to visit Ecuador.

Weather In Ecuador In February

February is cooler than January, and rain begins to appear across more days – especially in Quito (which sees around 13 days of rain) and throughout the highlands. Temperatures in the capital sit at around 13°C. Needless to say, it’s fairly chilly. In the region of Oriente, you can expect dry weather, with bright, sunny days and warm temperatures hovering around the mid-20s. Beach days are still viable on the coast.

In Montanita, temperatures are still an average of 26°C (with highs of 28°C). Rain, however, is on the increase. It’s expected across seven days throughout February. It’s a great time to go to Banos and the Mashpi Cloud Forest, especially for bird watchers as there is a strong presence of migratory birds.

Weather In Ecuador In March

March is one of the best times of year to visit Ecuador if you want to travel to Oriente and explore parts of the Amazon Rainforest. Temperatures are mild, and it’s one of the driest times of year to visit (exploring a jungle in the rain isn’t as fun). Along the coast, there’s even more sunshine in March. However, storms can also be expected on Ecuador’s coastline at this time of year.

The weather is generally hot and humid, with temperatures easily hitting around 29°C. In Quito, March is still rainy (with around 90 millimeters falling over 18 days). Temperatures in the capital swing between 9°C and 17°C – expect much cloud coverage interspersed with sunshine. It’s very humid in Quito too, with 89% humidity.

Weather In Ecuador In April

Rainy season continues in the highlands in April, so a visit to this part of Ecuador means preparing for wet weather. Generally though, it’s a pattern of sunny mornings, with increased cloud cover and rainy downpours as the day goes on. Humidity is still very high (88%).

Montanita in April is still warm. The average daily temperature is 26°C, and rainfall has decreased. It’s still a great time to visit Ecuador for beach days. Guayaquil, the country’s largest city, sees highs of 32°C and lows of 24°C.

Weather In Ecuador In May

May marks the start of the dry season for the highlands. This means Quito is gradually getting drier (and less humid). Rainfall decreases to 60 millimeters across the month. Meanwhile, things are getting wetter and warmer in Guayaquil. Temperatures easily rise into the early 30s, while downpours are still not uncommon.

If you’re planning a trip to Ecuador this time of year to visit the Galapagos Islands, you’re in luck – the days are pleasantly warm, with low humidity, but there are still afternoon downpours to contend with. Back on the mainland, Montanita looks like a good vacation choice – average temperatures of 26°C, minimal rainfall (across just four days), and sunny skies.

Weather In Ecuador In June

June is the peak travel season in Ecuador – it’s also the middle of the dry season in the highlands. Exploring Quito is perfect this time of year, but temperatures in the high-altitude city are still fairly chilly, with an average of 13°C seen daily. That being said, some of the hikes in Ecuador are ideal right now.

Elsewhere, it’s now rainy in Oriente. The Galapagos, however, are still quite dry and sunny, so it’s a good time of year to visit Ecuador if you feel like checking out these amazing islands. The winds are low, the seas are calm, and wildlife spotting is at its prime. Guayaquil’s average temperature in June hovers around the mid to late 20s, making it fairly pleasant to visit.

Weather In Ecuador In July

July is not a good time of year to visit Ecuador for Amazon explorations. The Oriente in July is wet. That said, rainfall does start to peter out towards the end of the month as the dry season appears on the horizon.

In the highlands, however, days are sunny. Quito sees clear skies, minimal cloud coverage, and pleasant days. Average temperatures are still fairly chilly, though, with lows of 8°C and highs of 18°C. Layers are definitely needed! Guayaquil’s weather in July is similar to that of June – warm, with highs of around 31°C. Sea temperatures are a refreshing 23°C.

Weather In Ecuador In August

Things start drying up in the Oriente region in August, marking a brief gap in the usually quite wet weather. The average high for Oriente this time of year hovers around 25°C and 28°C. In Quito, it’s the final month of the dry winter in this part of the country, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not a pleasant time to visit.

Temperatures can reach a pleasant 19°C on some days, with eight hours of sunshine expected. Most of the month is clear and sunny for the capital. At the coast, dolphins and whales can be spotted in August – Salinas is a recommended spot for this. The temperatures here in August sit between 21°C and 26°C, making it pretty nice (and with minimal rainfall, too).

Weather In Ecuador In September

Oriente is making its way into a dry season, making it a mixture of dry and wet days. It’s a popular time of year to visit Ecuador in general, so you can expect higher costs for travel and accommodation. Spring has sprung in Guayaquil, but it’s still pretty hot. The average temperature hovers between lows of 20°C and highs of 32°C. Montantina in September is pretty pleasant (as it is most of the year), with a low chance of rain and daily averages of 24°C.

Weather In Ecuador In October

October brings low prices and fewer tourists to the country, making it a good time of year to visit Ecuador if you want to save some money. It’s not great weather in the Galapagos, though – winds can be high in October, and can cause the seas to be very rough and choppy.

On the coast, at Salinas, for example, average temperatures are around 24°C. It’s a similar story in Montanita. Up in the highlands, the average high in Quito is around 16°C, making days feel pleasant and spring-like.

Weather In Ecuador In November

If you’re thinking about visiting Ecuador in November, it could be a good idea – but it depends on where you go. It really is a mixed bag. In Quito, for example, it’s wet – November is its rainiest month, with most days receiving some rainfall (it’s chilly, too, with average temperatures of 13°C).

In Oriente, the rain is beginning to increase again, especially towards the end of the month. Many days, however, are still fairly dry. Back on the coast, November is still pretty nice. Only two days of rainfall are expected, and temperatures hover around the mid-20s on average.

Weather In Ecuador In December

The last month of the year in Ecuador is not so great in the highlands – temperatures are cool and there’s a lot of rain. Even so, Quito sees a lot of tourists during December, but that’s more to do with the holiday season than the weather, though.

December is Guayaquil’s first month of summer, and it’s pretty hot, with highs of 32°C (and lows of 22°C). It’s also warm in the Galapagos Islands in December – around 31°C – and it’s also peak season for travelers to this unique part of the country.

Festivals to Note in Ecuador

Winter Festivals in Ecuador

From the end of November until December 6, it’s the weeklong Fiestas de Quito. This is the capital’s biggest festival – expect crowds, live music, bullfighting, flamenco dancing, and fireworks. Later in December there’s the Fiesta de Baños. Taking place in Baños on December 16, this is one of the best festivals in Ecuador, with plenty of colorful parades and festive music. It commemorates the origin of Baños.

There’s Christmas, of course, which is more of a family event. But then New Year’s celebrations start early, usually on December 28. Think parades, fireworks, and life-size effigies being burned in the streets. It’s biggest (and best) in Quito and Guayaquil.

Carnaval in Ecuador is huge and one of the country’s best festivals. Be ready to get wet – it’s celebrated with water fights and no one escapes. It’s held on the last few days before Ash Wednesday. Guaranda is particularly famous for its Carnaval celebrations.

In Ambato, there’s the Fiesta de Frutas y Flores. Slightly different to Carnaval, water throwing is banned at this fruit and flower festival. But there are still plenty of festivities in the way of bullfights, parades, and dancing.

Spring Festivals In Ecuador

Fiesta del Durazno falls on March 4. This annual harvest festival, taking place in the southern highlands, is best seen in the village of Gualaceo, where you can see an array of peaches that have been harvested alongside flowers, local crafts, and live musical performances. In late March or early April, it’s time for Semana Santa – or Holy Week. You’ll see processions around the country, but it’s particularly poignant in Quito.

For something less religious, there’s the anniversary of the founding of Cuenca. This goes on for several days around April 12. This amazing Ecuadorian festival is a huge event in the southern highlands, celebrated with floats, parades, bands and food stalls. 

Summer Festivals In Ecuador

Either falling in late May or early June, it’s time for Corpus Christi. In Ecuador, this is a harvest festival that takes places in the highland regions of the country. Expect processions and feasting. The ancient festival of Inti Raymi (literally “Festival of the Sun”) celebrates the summer solstice. It’s often merged with saint days if it falls around the same time, such as that of St John the Baptist (June 24) or St Peter (June 29). It marks the beginning of the new year for the indigenous highland communities of Ecuador.

On July 24, there’s a national holiday in celebration of Simón Bolívar’s birthday. The next day (25) commemorates the foundation of Guayaquil – with plenty of fireworks and dancing in the streets, of course. In August there’s the Fiestas de San Lorenzo. Taking place on August 10 in the Afro-Ecuadorian region of San Lorenzo, it’s a music and dance extravaganza in honor of the city’s patron saint (Lorenzo). It goes on for around nine days!

The La Virgen del Cisne – “Virgin of the Swan” – is an eye-catching procession of pilgrims carrying a shrine dedicated to the Virgin of the Swan around 70 kilometers to Loja in the highlands. Thousands will take part in this event (August 15).

Fall Festivals In Ecuador

Taking place around the Fall Equinox, the Fiesta del Yamor Imbabura celebrates both the equinox and a festival of the moon. Bullfights, cockfights, and plentiful cups of yamor (a non-alcoholic corn-based drink). In the third week of September in Machala, it’s the Feria Mundial del Banano. This celebration of bananas actually culminates in a beauty pageant to find the Banana Queen. The winner is crowned the Reina del Banano.

Guayaquil’s Independence Day is a big festival in the city. Taking place on October 9, it celebrates the day in 1820 that the city declared its independence from Spain. It’s a huge celebration that sees streets filled with party-goers, fireworks, and parades.

For something less wild but still a major event, there’s a Catholic holiday held every November 2, the day after All Saints Day. Dating back thousands of years, this is usually a family event. Families visit graveyards and share meals beside graves to honor deceased relatives.

Best Time To Visit Popular Destinations

When is the best time to visit the Galapagos?

The Galapagos are beautiful all year round, but the most reliable time to visit them is between December and May. It is now that temperatures are between 70-80 degrees meaning pleasantness all around!

When is the best time to visit Ecuador’s rainforest?

Well you can always expect a bit of rain in the rainforest, but if you’re looking for the lowest chance of rain consider visiting in the dry season between December and March.

When is the best time to visit Quito, Ecuador?

Quitos dry season typically runs from June to September, making it one of the best times to visit. Though Quito is great year-round!

When is the Cheapest time to visit Ecuador?

October is a nice shoulder season month and is when prices are lowest. Ecuador is never that expensive of a destination, and deals can be had year-round.

That was until the day we locked our sites on the visiting Ecuador together and checking out Mashpi. Lucky for us it all included a mandatory visit to UNESCO’s first World Heritage City, Quito, and Darwin’s Inspiration for The Theory of Evolution, The Galapagos Islands.

Mashpi is the brainchild of the former mayor of Quito and built on the site of an old logging operation. Now the private reserve attracts conservations and researchers from around the world to explore the forests from the hotel/research station.

 Our Experience at Mashpi Eco Lodge in Ecuador

After spending another night in the lovely Casa Gangotena in Quito we left in the morning for the Mashpi Lodge. Although Mashpi is technically in the municipality of Quito it still requires a three and half hour drive from the city. Once outside the capital, you begin the descent to Mashpi and the landscape drastically changes.

The rolling hills that surround Quito disappear and a cloud forest begins to envelop future visitors. When you finally roll through the gates of the private game reserve you feel as if you’ve reached Jurassic Park.

For all the anticipation we had for the lodge we were disappointed when we reached the front of a large concrete rectangular building. However, when you walk through the large steel door you’re greeted with a minimalist modern interior with earthy tones that fall right into the forest. The floor to ceiling windows blend the rainforest with the dining and bar area.

Those ceiling to floor windows continues into the bedrooms. While they are simple in design it’s impossible not to enjoy the amazing views. There was no need for much artwork or a TV in the room when the forest outside was the greatest view and had the greatest sound.

The window was the focal point of the room and with so many activities at the eco-lodge in Ecuador, we hardly had a moment to relax inside anyway – seriously the Mashpi staff kept us busy! I wouldn’t recommend coming here if your search of relaxed luxury, but if you have a passion for nature and activity the experience is unparalleled.

The locally sourced food is wonderful and you’ll never go hungry as it is all-inclusive. Breakfast and lunch consist of large buffets with a variety of options to fit any dietary requirement. As vegetarians, we really appreciated the options. Dinner, on the other hand, is a full-service three-course meal with a menu.

Set inside the expansive dining areas and massive windows you never forget that you’re located deep in a cloud forest while eating. We loved the lodge and it should not have been any surprise that it lived up to all expectations. On our last evening at the lodge, we sat at the bar enjoyed a drink and could not give over the beauty of the whole experience.

A National Geographic Unique Eco Lodge in Ecuador

The National Geographic brand carries a lot of weight when it comes to research and exploration. It shouldn’t have been any surprise that lodges branded with the Nat Geo logo excel at immersive guest experiences. To be a member of the collection, lodges must hold regular talks by trained professional biologist, zoologist, or geologist. With a study being conducted on the lodge’s property while we were there every night involved engaged discussions with biologists.

This all happens in the first-floor lounge with a range of books to learn more about Mashpi’s resident animals. This was our second time staying in a National Geographic Unique Lodge (the first was in Iceland) and we’re quickly learning they are a fantastic collection of eco-lodges around the world.

Mashpi Eco Lodge Activities

Night Walk

It’s tough to pick activities as there are many offered, but the one I was most eager to enjoy was a night walk. Night walks are offered every night and free for guests to join. The night walk provides a chance to see various animals not easily found during the day such as insects, snakes, frogs, and nocturnal mammals. Of particular interest was the emerald glass frog and the indigenous Mashpi frog named after the lodge. I was stoked to find both frogs on our first night!

Hummingbird Garden

The reserve contains over 22 different species of hummingbirds and a massive range of bird life. The hummingbird garden visit takes visitors for a 15-minute drive to the open garden with a number of hummingbird feeders. As the feeders are put out on display hummingbirds quickly begin darting in between guests and overhead on their way to feed.

We love hummingbirds so this was a highlight of our trip to Mashpi Lodge! Did you know that hummingbirds have the fastest metabolism of all warm-blooded animals and their little hearts beat more than 1,200 times a minute?

Observation Tower

Venture up several stories to the top of the observation tower to catch one of the best views on the reserve. We spent an hour up here watching the cloud forest inhale and exhale clouds whiles bird life darted around the treetops.

It’d make for a great place to catch the sunset and we had made plans to head up there, but due to weather conditions, there was no sunset and just clouds instead.  Guess that’s why they call it a cloud forest!

Treks & Waterfalls

We started off our first full day with a long trek through the woods. The reserve has a network of trails and waterfalls that are the perfect way to stay active and explore the forest.

The evening before we consulted with our guide on the best trail for the next morning so they always keep ability in mind. The treks through the forest included countless stops along the way to learn about the forest and animals we were witnessing.

Our hike linked a string of waterfalls together and provided us a number of opportunities to jump in the waterfalls to cool off. My favorite included a small 4m rock to jump off into the falls below. Instead of hiking back we were able to link with one of the towers on the Dragonfly and take that back to the lodge.

Life Center

Birders and lepidopterists (butterfly scientist) will find solace in the life center just a short walk from the Mashpi Lodge. It’s an elevated platform and enclosure at the site where a small farm once stood.

Now they breed and conduct studies on the butterflies of the reserve. We had a chance to get up close and personal with hundreds of butterflies and catch an amazing glimpse of birdlife from the life center deck. You’ll get a chance to learn about metamorphosis and how they conduct research on the butterflies. We even had an entire family of toucans visit us right before we left.

The Sky Bike and Dragonfly

If there is one place in the world to lose your head it’s on Mashpi Lodge’s Dragonfly experience. It’s impossible to explain the view from the Dragonfly as it unlike any experience in the world.

We’d seen shots in nature documentaries in which a camera is strung between trees and always envisioned traveling along with the camera in the treetops. It was only a matter of time until someone was daring enough to pull off the massive project.

The Dragonfly is a gondola above the forest canopy. Four riders are strapped into seats while a guide rides in the middle pointing out birds and explaining the unique flora of the forest. While the amazing treks through the forest provide great insight into the life of the forest the Dragonfly allows a larger view of life in a rainforest as around 70% of life lives in the forest canopy. It

While the massive Dragonfly floats above the forest canopy the Sky Bike takes visitors through the forest. Its distance covered is much smaller and the experience lasts about 15 minutes. However, the bike is totally self-propelled and due to its low footprint cuts straight through the canopy with branches and epiphytes.

Birdlife Gallery

If you’re in search of some amazing birdlife then look no further because Mashpi has a dizzying amount of birds. Our favorites included the hummingbirds, tanagers, and toucans.

What to pack for a trip to Mashpi

I’d recommend dressing as if you were going on safari in East Africa. We have a wonderful post detailing safari clothes if you’d like to check it out. That means lightweight quick-dry pants and long-sleeved shirts in brown or green, granted colors are not super important. Don’t bring anything that will stain easily as you will get muddy on the hikes in the forest, if you have gaiters I would highly recommend.

Make sure to pack a bathing suit as you’ll be afforded the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the waterfalls. Don’t stress about footwear as the lodge provides some wellies or rubber rain boots and even towels for walking in the forest. It gets very humid and muggy in the forest so keep that in mind when packing.

If you’re wondering what camera equipment to pack check out our post on safari cameras perfect for photographing wildlife. If you plan on bringing electronics I’d also recommend stuffing some silica gel packs in your bag to help absorb moisture.

Things to know before going to Ecuador

• If you want to have this amazing experience yourself head to the Mashpi Lodge website.  Our trip was organized by Metropolitan Touring which took us around Quito, the Galapagos, and Mashpi. They run amazing tours and I can’t recommend them more for your South America travel needs.
• The main airport, Mariscal Sucre International, is about 45 minutes outside of Quito’s city center. Taxi rides should cost $20-$25 to and from the airport. Make sure to agree to a price beforehand or make sure the meter is running. All visitors to Mashpi get complimentary transfers to and from the lodge.
• The value of the sucre took a nosedive in 2000, and ever since Ecuador has been operating with the US dollar as its main currency. If you go to the ATM to pull out cash don’t be surprised to see USD coming out of the dispenser. You may want extra cash on hand at Mashpi to tip your guides.
• The tap water in Ecuador is not drinkable. If you’re staying at a higher-end hotel like Mashpi they will likely have filtered water always available for you to refill your bottles. If not consider getting a big jug of water and refilling your bottles from that. Try not to waste plastic bottles.
• It won’t hurt to brush up on your Spanish before traveling to Ecuador. While Ecuadorians who work in tourism can usually speak English you may be hard-pressed to find it widely spoken elsewhere.
• If you’re heading to the Galapagos make sure to read all of our tips and info! 
• We never travel without travel insurance from HeyMondo. I would recommend getting HeyMondo for your trip to Ecuador, they offer flexible plans for all!

Our trip to Mashpi was in partnership with Metropolitan Touring. All thoughts about our cloud forest experience are our own.

Now we just wrapped up our first visit together to the historic city. It was a wonderful Andean adventure, and we got to sink our teeth into Ecuadorian culture. I liked my time in Quito the first time around, but I absolutely fell in love with it the second time. We spent a few days chatting with local artisans, hopping into historic churches, and trying delicious Ecuadorian food. If you’re wondering where to stay in Quito and what to do, read on!

Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador

Hire a Guide

We went on a private tour with Ramiro, a Metropolitan Touring guide who organized our Ecuador trip. On my first trip to Quito I was a budget-conscious backpacker, so I skipped out on several things, including a tour guide. So, I was eager for a local guide to better understand life in Ecuador. Guides are a wonderful way to see things that most tourists do not experience.

Ramiro picked us up at our hotel bright and early to assist us around Quito. We were met by another local resident, Patricia, who is a member of Quito’s San Roque neighborhood. When I visited Quito before, I wandered the streets aimlessly and alone, not knowing what I was looking at or not comfortable walking into the “nontouristy” places to have a conversation.

Ramiro’s intent was to help us understand more about the people who live in Quito and its history. For a few hours, we strolled in and out of local artisans, hat makers, and herbal healers’ stores. All places that we definitely would not have felt completely comfortable as foreigners walking in alone. Not that locals aren’t friendly.

We also wandered into the San Francisco Market, one of the oldest in Quito. At the market, we tried a few Ecuadorian drinks and learned more about the country’s culinary traditions. This was one of the more enlightening ways I’ve learned about a city and culture. I was so thankful to have Ramiro and Patricia to guide me through it, especially since neither Cameron nor I speak Spanish. After lunch, we dove more into the city and checked out the historical, culinary, and architectural parts of Quito.

Ride the Teleferiqo

From the city center, you may see a cable car venturing up and down the mountain all day, transporting daily commuters to and from home. Well, it’s also possible to ride the cable car 12,000 feet into the sky as a tourist!

You’ll have amazing views from the top of Cruz Loma and if it’s a clear day you can even catch a peek of Cotopaxi and other volcanoes. This Skyrail is the highest in South America and one of the highest in the world! Besides offering stellar views it’s also where you’ll jump off to hike the main peaks of the Pichincha volcano, an active stratovolcano!

Marvel at San Francisco Church and Plaza

Built between 1536 and 1580, this church is one of the largest religious complexes in America. Walking in, you’ll notice that it is Baroque style and dazzling in gold with images of the sun god and other Inca tributes. Head upstairs for a great overview of Quito’s Virgin, which is the only winged image of the Virgin Mary. Don’t forget to take a walk around the outside grounds – you may even get lucky and see some of their residential parrots.

Visit the Casa del Alabado Archaeological Museum

This fantastic museum houses pieces that date back 5,000 years, all beautifully arranged within an old 17th-century mansion near the Plaza del San Francisco. The building itself is impressive enough, but once inside you’ll see the ancient artifacts that are still in amazing condition.

Stroll down La Ronda Street

This small neighborhood is just two blocks of tiendas (small stores). This area is cute and colorful and you’ll definitely recognize it as La Ronda as soon as you find it.  It’s along these streets you’ll find small restaurants, cafes, boutique clothing stores, bakeries, bars, and a few small hotels. La Ronda is where various cultural activities in Quito take place so make sure to take a walk down it, it’s a good way to get a feeling of Ecuadorian heritage.

Enjoy a chocolate tasting

Ecuador is known to have some of the best cocoa in the world. The country produces over 60% of the world’s “fine aroma”  cocoa and has recently turned to not just exporting cocoa but actually making chocolate. I would highly recommend partaking in a chocolate tour at least once while in the country. We visited Chez Tiff on La Ronda street for a detailed explanation and chocolate tasting.

Shop at Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal

If you’re in the mood to shop and haggle you’ll have to head to the Mercado. It’s essentially half a city block filled with more than 200 crafts stalls selling all kinds of souvenirs.

Straddle the “equator”

Mitad del Mundo is outside the Quito city center and can be reached by a short taxi or bus ride. It’s perhaps the most touristy thing to do in Quito, but people flock here to stand on the equator. By now, you probably know that the monument and yellow “selfie” line here isn’t the actual equator. GPS technology has proven that the actual equator is a few hundred meters north, but there is no mention of that anywhere at Mitad del Mundo.

Instead, here you will find a few cafes, a planetarium, and street vendors selling knick-knacks and food. It’s a fun half day out even if it’s not the real thing! If you are looking for the real equator turn left when you walk out of the Mitad del Mundo walk uphill 250 meters. When you see signs for Museum Intinan, turn left and follow the road. It’s there that you will see a red line across the earth and a small marker. Now pat yourself on the back for finding the real equator.

Visit the Virgin of El Panecillo

You certainly can’t miss the giant Virgin Mary statue keeping guard over Quito. She stands 45 meters high and is impressive to see throughout the city. However, the 360-degree views get even better from the hill. The Virgin is best visited in the morning while the sun is still interrupted by the clouds. It’s advised not to hike up here as the road up has been known to be steep and dangerous with visitors getting mugged. A cab ride up should cost no more than a few dollars.

Climb the Basilica del Voto Nacional

If you’re into neo-Gothic architecture you can’t miss the Basilica that towers over the city. The Basilica can be seen from just about anywhere in Quito and is massive at a hundred and fifty meters long, thirty-five meters tall and thirty-five meters wide.

Visitors can visit the Basilica every day to see the impressive architecture. Like the famous Sagrada Del Familia parts of the Basilica are still unfinished, but that doesn’t take away from the grandeur. It’s possible to climb the steep stairs up to the top for impressive views and to marvel at the gargoyles. The access price is $ 1 for Ecuadorians and $2 for foreigners.

Have a coffee in Plaza Grande

Independent Plaza is at the center of Quito’s old town and is almost always buzzing with life. It’s where locals and tourists mix to soak in the atmosphere. At the center stands a monument commemorating Ecuador’s Independence in 1809. All around you’ll find people chatting, playing cards, and watching life pass by.

It is in this plaza where you will also see the Presidential Palace and many overpriced souvenir shops. We found many nice places to eat in this area of town, and it was always under heavy surveillance by police, making it safe at night.

Staying at Casa Gangotena

In the 18th century, one of the wealthiest families in Ecuador acquired a mansion on the corner of the San Francisco Plaza. After a fire completely destroyed the mansion, it was rebuilt in 1914 by the Gangotena family into a European-style palace. During that time it was one of the most stylish and well-regarded residences in the entire city. The style, elegance, and amazing structure still stand today and as of 2012 has been newly restored as a boutique Hotel.

Casa Gangotena is easily the most romantic hotel in all of Quito, maybe even South America. It has a beautiful building that sits in a prime location in the old town next to the San Francisco Monastery. The beautiful hotel features 31 exquisite rooms, an out-of-this-world terrace where you can watch the sun rise and set, and a lovely indoor and outdoor courtyard on the ground floor to enjoy afternoon tea or a drink.

Our experience at Casa Gangotena was exquisite, and it is easily one of our favorite city properties in the world. The property has been lovingly resorted and feels as if you’ve stepped back in time. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure you enjoy your stay. They’re quick to remember your face and refer to you by name, a touch that does not go unnoticed. Even when calling a cab, they will only do so with reliable cab drivers and ensure that you are not ripped off (which can easily happen in Quito).

Casa Gangotena also has a full-service restaurant, bar, and 24/7 room service. The lovely dining room is light and airy in the morning as they serve a healthy and delicious breakfast, the perfect way to start the day. With our busy schedule, we had two mornings where we left too early for breakfast (5 am), and the staff happily packed us a beautiful spread with coffee. The restaurant transforms into a fine dining environment serving international and Ecuadorian cuisine for lunch and dinner. It’s also possible to join in on high tea in the dining area. We did not have time to try this experience but were told by more than a few that it was well worth it.

We were surprised by the beauty of the rooms at Casa Gangotena. Many have a private terrace, large modern bathrooms, comfortable beds, satellite television, daily fresh fruits, and ground South American coffee beans waiting for you. Seriously, it was hard for us to leave the room!

Perhaps the best part about Casa Gangotena is the location, which is unbeatable for exploring Quito’s historic heart.  Just one step out the doors, and you are in the center of the Andes with South America’s most scenic old town full of restaurants, Baroque churches, local artisans, and numerous markets.

Things to Know Before Going to Quito

• The main airport, Mariscal Sucre International, is about 45 minutes outside of Quito city center. Taxi rides should cost $20-$25 to and from the airport. Make sure to agree to a price beforehand, or make sure the meter is running. Quito taxi drivers are known for being shady.
• The value of the sucre took a nosedive in 2000, and ever since, Ecuador has been operating with the US dollar as its main currency. If you go to the ATM to pull out cash, don’t be surprised to see USD coming out of the dispenser. Read more of our travel banking tips here. 
• Quito is one of the highest cities in the world. If you’re prone to altitude sickness take precautionary measures. Although, both times I’ve been to Quito I have had absolutely no problems.
• The tap water in Ecuador is not drinkable. If you’re staying at a higher-end hotel they will likely have filtered water always available for you to refill your bottles. If not consider getting a big jug of water and refilling your bottles from that. Try not to waste plastic bottles.
• Be wary of scams and pickpockets in the capital. Don’t flash expensive electronics, and always be mindful of your possessions.
• Don’t forget a jacket! While spring weather is common in Quito during the day, it can get very cold at night.
• Brushing up on your Spanish before traveling to Ecuador won’t hurt. While Ecuadorians who work in tourism can usually speak English, you may be hard-pressed to find it widely spoken elsewhere.
• Quito is a moderately conservative city. You’ll find churches on just about every corner. Make sure to dress appropriately for the country you are in.
• Tipping 10% is common in restaurants in Quito.
• If you’re heading to the Galapagos, read our tips and info! 
• We never travel without travel insurance with HeyMondo. I would recommend getting Heymondo for your trip to Ecuador, they offer flexible plans for all!

Anyone can save $500! You can read more about how we save money for travel.

I came in significantly under budget and had a great time traveling my first South American country. Ecuador’s main currency is the USD, which I found made the country more expensive than many of its neighbors.  It is still cheap compared to most western nations, but given the value of a strong US dollar right now many travelers I met were spending more than their budgets allowed.

Another thing to note is that I was backpacking, and not staying in luxury by any means.  However, I did stay in some private rooms, ate well, and participated in tours and excursions that didn’t break the bank. Travel doesn’t have to be expensive!

My Ecuador Backpacking Route

Day 1

Airport Shuttle to JFK – $5
Bus into Quito from airport – $2
Taxi to Hostel – $6
6 Bedroom hostel room – $12.50
Dinner and Water – $7

Day 1 totals – $32.50

I usually opt out of taking cabs, but I arrived at dusk in an unfamiliar city as a female so I justified the cost on this.

Day 2

RT bus to Otavalo Market – $6.50
Fresh fruit – $3
Chicken Lunch – $2
Pants I couldn’t resist but will never wear again – $7
Handmade Earrings – $6
Replacement iPhone Charger – $5
6 Bedroom hostel room – $12.50
Another late night cab – $8
Pizza Dinner in Hostel – $1.50

Day 2 totals = $51.50

Today was a more expensive day as I went to the lively Otavalo market and bought a couple things I do not need.

Day 3

6 Bedroom hostel room – $12.50
Entry into Mitad Del Mundo & Museum – $6
Horchata – $1
Public Transport RT to Mitad Del Mundo – $1
Snacks and water – $3.50
Civechi @ the best seafood restaurant in Quito – $8
Entree into Basilica Del Voto Nacional – $2
Pizza party at hostel – $3

Day 3 totals= $37

After getting to the Equator, my trip to Quito was now complete.

Day 4

Private Room in Guesthouse – $10
Taxi to Bus Depot – $3
Bus to Mindo – $3
Two course Lunch – $3
Bird watching in the rainforest – $3
Butterfly Sanctuary – $6
Coffee and Avocado smoothie (my favorite)! – $3
Beer and Dinner – $10

Day 4 totals = $41

Day 5

Private Room in Guesthouse – $10
Breakfast –  $4
Taxi to Waterfalls – $3
Terabita to waterfalls – $5
El Quetzal Chocolate Making Tour – $6
Lunch – $4
Dinner –  $10

Day 5 totals= $42

Dinner has been expensive for South American standards these past two nights, I chose to eat at a restaurant these days instead of turning to local food.

Day 6

Back to another six-bed dorm room – $8
Breakfast – $3
Transport between bus depots – $7
Bus Fares – $7
Smoothie – $1.50
Dinner – $10

Day 6 totals= $36.50

Day 7

6 Bedroom hostel room – $8
Entrance and transport to  La Casa Del Arbol – $3
Lunch – $3
Dinner – $8
Souvenirs for loved ones – $14.50
Snacks – $1.50

Day 7 totals = $38

Souvenirs did it this day, but I couldn’t go back to NYC empty handed?

Day 8

6 Bedroom hostel room with Breakfast – $10
Rental Bike to ride 61km to Puyo – $7
Entrance to Rio Verde’s Pailón del Diablo – $1.50
Lunch w/ Smoothie – $5
Taxi ride back to town – $2
Dinner – $9

Day 8 totals =$34.50

Day 9

Eight bed Hostel in Quito – $13
Lunch – $4
60 min massage – $15
Bus to Quito – $4
Cab to Hostel – $12
Dinner – $5

Day 9 totals= $53

I broke down and treated myself to a massage today which added expense. But where in New York can I get a $15 massage!?

Day 10

Bus to Quito Airport – $2
Snacks – $3
JFK Airtrain – $5

Travel Day =$10

Total Expenses for 9 days on the Ecuador backpacking route + travel day =  $376

Total Ecuador Budget Expenses

Food $116
Accommodation $96.50
Transport $81.50
Excursions $49.50
Material Goods $32.50

As you can see not only did I manage to spend less than my goal of $500, but I came in over $100 under that.  I was not living bare bones either, I was truly enjoying my time and even treated myself a few times. I managed my finances with good tactics for travel banking that I suggest you implement too.

I expected food and accommodation to be high, but the transport was more than I had anticipated. When I travel to new places, I like to get around like the locals and take public transport or use my own two feet.  An inefficient transport system, dangerous streets, and my lack of Spanish caused me to take more taxis than I wanted to. I realized that Quito was not a city I wanted to be caught alone in after dark, and therefore always went for a trusted cab.

The accommodation charges were standard hostel rates that I find in a majority of the world – around $10 a night.  I even had an awesome private guesthouse with thousands of wild hummingbirds overlooking the river in Mindo for that price.

I never skipped out an excursion I wanted to do.  Sure, I ultimately could have gone trekking through the rainforest for much more. But I was on a time crunch, and I know I will be back!

I wanted to write this post to show how affordable international travel can be.  Ecuador is not as expensive as most Western Countries, but it is not dirt cheap either.  I spent nine days in the rainforest on an average of $42/day.  That’s cheaper than the day rate of our NYC apartment in the Bronx!

Travel can be affordable. So pick a destination, set a budget, and pick a travel style that will cater to that budget.  No matter what, it will be a memorable experience.