Many worlds in one small country: Ecuador tips from a local expert

Small yet perfectly formed, Ecuador holds an impressive roster of landscapes and experiences within its borders. High in the Andes, the capital Quito is a city of well-preserved colonial architecture; around it stretches the High Sierra, with its volcanic peaks and indigenous communities. Pacific coast beaches tempt visitors down from the highlands, while the emerald Amazon Rainforest and wildlife-rich Galapagos archipelago are every naturalist’s dream. Our local expert, Alvaro shares his Ecuador travel tips to inspire your next South America adventure. From the majestic sights of the Andes to unmissable culinary delights, read on to find out what he loves most about the country he calls home.

What do you love most about your home country, Ecuador?

What I love most about Ecuador is how many different worlds you find in one small country. In just a few days, you can explore the Andes with its colorful villages and high mountains, go deep into the Amazon jungle, and even visit the Galapagos Islands.

Each place feels unique, with regional specialties like ceviche, the culture of the indigenous Kichwa people, the way of life of the Galapagos people, and much more. And the best part? It’s easy to get here. There are direct flights from cities like Miami, Houston, New York, and even Madrid and Amsterdam. In just a few hours, you land in Quito or Guayaquil and your adventure begins. Ecuador is close, but it feels like a whole new world.

Read more: Seven great things to do in and around Quito

What top Ecuador travel tips do you have for first-time visitors?

I always suggest to my travelers that they don’t just visit one part of Ecuador; let’s plan for you to visit at least two or three regions. That’s where the real magic is. Go from the Andes to the Amazon, then to the Galapagos.

It’s easy to do so: in other countries, you might need long flights or full-day drives to get from one place to another, but in Ecuador, everything is close. You can drive from the mountains to the rainforest in just a few hours, or take a short flight to the islands. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can see so much in such little time, and every region feels completely different.

What’s one main piece of advice you’d share with those planning a trip to Ecuador?

My advice would be to explore Ecuador’s diversity, but don’t just rush from one place to another. For example, if you’re visiting the Galapagos, spend a few days really getting to know the islands. Don’t just tick off the main attractions — take time to walk with the giant tortoises on Santa Cruz, or sit by the shores of Española Island and watch the sea lions and birds interact.

Similarly, in the Andes, make sure to visit a local indigenous market like Otavalo, where you can not only buy beautiful handmade crafts, but also chat with the artisans about their traditions. And don’t miss the chance to connect with the Amazon — go on a guided jungle walk and learn about the flora and fauna from the local communities.

Each region offers something totally unique, and by spending more time in one place, you’ll get to experience it in a deeper, more meaningful way.

What are Ecuador’s top three travel highlights?

The Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos are unlike anywhere else on Earth. It’s not just the unique wildlife, it’s the way you experience it. Imagine snorkeling with sea lions, hiking in the company of giant tortoises, and encountering birds that aren’t afraid of humans. The islands are a living classroom of evolution, and it’s a humbling experience to witness the balance of nature in such a pristine environment. You return home with the appreciation for nature’s wonders, a sense of peace at how everything is connected, and memories of moments with animals that feel like they’ve never been touched by the outside world.

Read more: Take your family to the Galapagos Islands

The Andes and the Avenue of the Volcanoes

Ecuador’s Andes are breathtaking, and not just because of the towering volcanoes such as the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, the third-highest active volcano in the world. The land is rich with culture, history, and nature. A visit to places like Quilotoa Lake, with its emerald-colored waters nestled inside an ancient volcanic crater, will leave you speechless.

The small villages that dot the mountains are filled with tradition, from weaving to pottery. You’ll hike to high altitudes with the sound of birds and distant waterfalls in the air. What you take away from the Andes is a sense of peace and connection to both the land and its people. It’s a place where time slows down, and you realize how deeply history and nature are intertwined.

The Amazon Rainforest

Ecuador’s Amazon is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. Deciding to explore the jungle offers an immersion into a world of sound, color, and life. From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by the hum of insects, the calls of monkeys, and the rush of the river. Whether you’re staying in a jungle lodge or traveling by a river cruise, the adventure is real.

Imagine spotting a jaguar’s footprints, meeting indigenous communities who’ve lived in harmony with the forest for centuries, and discovering the natural medicines plants offer. What you’ll take away is an unmatched understanding of the world’s ecosystems and the importance of preserving them for future generations. It’s humbling, inspiring, and unforgettable.

What’s your favorite Ecuadorian dish and why would you recommend it to travelers?

Ecuadorian cuisine is incredibly diverse, with each region offering its own unique flavors and specialties.

• One dish that you absolutely must try is encebollado. This hearty fish stew is often considered the national dish of Ecuador. Made with fresh tuna, yuca (cassava), onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, it’s served with pickled onions and fried plantains on the side. It’s the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and comforting. Locals often swear by its ability to cure hangovers, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the coastal regions.
• Another iconic dish is hornado, a slow-roasted pork that’s popular in the highlands. The pork is marinated in spices and beer, then cooked until tender and served with mote (hominy corn), llapingachos (potato patties), and a spicy aji sauce. The flavors are rich and filling, making it a hearty meal that’s perfect after a long day of exploring.
• For something lighter, you can’t go wrong with ceviche de camarón (shrimp ceviche). Fresh shrimp marinated in lemon juice, mixed with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and a dash of spice, this dish is perfect alongside a warm coastal breeze. Served with crispy plantain chips, it’s a refreshing and flavorful option.

These dishes truly represent the soul of Ecuador, combining indigenous ingredients and culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations. While they may not have won international culinary contests, the pride and joy Ecuadorians take in preparing them are a testament to their excellence. If you visit Ecuador, these dishes will leave you with unforgettable memories of its flavors and culture.

Read more: Things to do while exploring Ecuador

When would you say is the best time to visit Ecuador, and why?

The best time to visit Ecuador really depends on what you want to experience, as being in the middle of the world allows us to have great weather all year round.

• If you’re exploring the Galapagos Islands, the dry season from June to November is perfect for clear skies and great snorkeling conditions. However, if you’re hoping to see more wildlife activity, the warmer months from December to May are ideal for spotting sea turtles, baby birds, and giant tortoises during their nesting season. If diving is your priority, September is the best time.
• For the Andes and highland regions, you can visit all year round to enjoy a trip without crowds, but June to September tends to have the most pleasant weather — sunny days and cooler nights — perfect for hiking around places like the Quilotoa Crater or exploring the towns of the Avenue of the Volcanoes.
• If you’re planning to visit the Amazon Rainforest, it’s best to go during the dry season from December to March. While it’s always lush and vibrant, the weather is easier to handle during these months, with less rain and more opportunities to explore on foot or by boat. Just keep in mind that as it is a rainforest, you should expect rainfalls no matter the season.

What’s great about Ecuador is that no matter when you visit, you’ll find something amazing waiting for you!

Make it happen

If these Ecuador travel tips have inspired you, get in touch with our local experts today! From the icons of the mainland to the most remote reaches of the Galapagos, a world of fascination awaits, and our on-the-ground local agents will help you plan a personalized trip you won’t forget.