Things to do while exploring Ecuador

Ecuador’s greatest appeal lies in its remarkable diversity. From rainforest-cloaked lowlands and sun-soaked Pacific beaches to vibrant cities and rich cultural traditions, this compact country offers endless variety. Scattered with volcanoes and teeming with wildlife, Ecuador is a land of adventure, where both the people and the climate are warm and welcoming. Exploring Ecuador is a thrilling and enriching experience, perfect for curious travelers seeking unforgettable moments. Here’s our top things to do when exploring Ecuador!

Top things to do when exploring Ecuador

1. Hiking in Cotopaxi

A short hop from Quito, Cotopaxi National Park is a 330 square kilometer protected area of the eastern cordillera, centered on the highest active volcano in the world. Cotopaxi stands at 5,897 meters, a huge and dominant peak with a perfectly symmetrical cone, the summit of which can be tackled in a couple of tough days by those with good fitness and a guide. Guided walks that finish at the ‘base camp’ refuge can also be arranged for a closer look at the volcano without the summit slog. If you don’t have a head for such extreme heights, hiking trails through the paramo moorland could make an appealing alternative. The unique vegetation of the high tundra is adapted to surviving at 3,500 – 4,500 meters, and it is the habitat for nearly 100 species of birds.

2. Visit Cuicocha Lake

Around an hour’s drive from Otavalo, the crater lake known as Cuicocha – meaning ‘guinea pig lake’ is named after the larger of two islands, which has a distinct guinea pig-shaped silhouette. It’s a stunning spot where the blue of the sky is reflected in the calm waters of the lake, sitting at 3,060 meters in the shadow of the Cotacachi volcano, a dormant peak reaching 4,944 meters high.

The lake is 3 kilometers across, surrounded by stunning scenery, the slopes all around softened by lush greenery. A tranquil 10-kilometer trail leads full circle around the Laguna, it’s a rewarding day hike with scorching views across the lake and its islands. The path is easy to follow and on a clear day offers views of the volcanic peaks nearby, as well as the chance to spot hummingbirds and possibly condors on the wing.

3. The Devil’s Nose train ride

When the Trans-Andean railway was under construction, engineers were faced with a big problem: The Devil’s Nose, a steep-sided mountain that was right in the path of the proposed route. The solution they came up with was a spectacular zigzag train track that climbs over 500 meters in altitude in less than 12 kilometers of distance. The track is pretty vertiginous, clinging to the edge of what feels like a vertical slope at times, but the views are glorious down into the narrow gorge of the Chanchan River and up to the peaks all around. The track curves around the contours of the mountain giving photographers the perfect opportunity for shots of the train curving ahead. The train begins its round trip at the small town of Alausi, winding its way down to Sibambe where there is a museum to browse around, and the local Puruhuas put on a folk dancing show for passengers to fill the short wait for the return trip up to Alausi.

4. Explore Baños

Adventure sports hub and chillout capital of Ecuador, Baños is a great destination for a few days kicking back in the subtropical splendor. The setting is divine, with densely carpeted hills of green dropping into the town, where views of waterfalls and lush plant life lull visitors into a blissful state of calm which is the perfect prelude to upping the adrenaline with some of the activities on offer.

Whether you’re into biking, rafting, horse riding, canyoning, or trekking, Baños is an adventure-lover’s paradise. After a day of adrenaline-fueled fun, unwind in the region’s famous hot springs, natural, mineral-rich waters heated by underground volcanic activity. The warmth and buoyancy of the springs offer soothing relief for tired muscles and general aches. While the centrally located pools are a budget-friendly option, for something truly special, head to the luxurious Luna Runtun resort in the hills above town. There, you can soak in outdoor hot tubs at dusk, taking in sweeping views of Baños as the town lights begin to twinkle below, a magical way to end an active day.

5. Visit Ecuador’s historic cities

When it comes to exploring Ecuador, two cultural gems that should be at the top of your list are Quito and Cuenca. These vibrant cities offer a fascinating contrast of history, architecture, and local traditions.

Quito, the world’s highest capital city, sits at over 2,800 meters above sea level, nestled among the dramatic volcanic peaks of the Andes. Its UNESCO-listed old town is one of the best-preserved in Latin America, filled with ornate churches, beautifully restored colonial buildings, and bustling plazas. The contrast between the historic heart and the contemporary energy of the new town gives Quito a dynamic and captivating atmosphere. For panoramic views, head up to one of the surrounding hills, perfect for admiring the city’s impressive skyline.

To the south lies Cuenca, often considered the most picturesque city in Ecuador. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cuenca boasts cobblestone streets, elegant colonial architecture, and a calm, cultured vibe. Built on the foundations of a former Inca settlement, the city is known for its dazzling white churches, serene parks, and a strong artisan tradition. Whether you’re browsing handmade crafts or relaxing in a leafy plaza, Cuenca offers a slower pace that’s ideal for soaking up Ecuadorian culture.

Read more: 7 great things to do in and around Quito

6. Head to the Galápagos Islands

Although located nearly 1,000 kilometers off the coast of mainland Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands are an unmissable part of exploring the country. What sets this extraordinary archipelago apart is its unique wildlife, much of which has evolved in isolation, famously studied by Charles Darwin. These volcanic islands are geologically young, and the species that reached their shores have had to adapt to a harsh and varied environment, visiting feel like stepping into a living laboratory of evolution.

What makes a tour of the Galápagos so exciting is the chance to witness these adaptations up close. Many species are still evolving, generation by generation, to survive in distinct ecosystems ranging from barren lava fields and misty highlands to tropical beaches and nutrient-rich waters. While four of the islands are inhabited, local communities are deeply committed to preserving this pristine environment. The best way to experience the full diversity of the Galápagos? Take a cruise and explore multiple islands, each with its own distinct landscape, wildlife, and evolutionary story.

Read more: Wildlife and historic wonder on the Galapagos Islands

Make it happen

Make the most of your adventure by exploring Ecuador with the guidance of our local experts. Share your travel preferences, and our specialists will craft a personalized itinerary that ensures you experience the very best of this remarkable country. Get in touch today and start planning your unforgettable journey!