Our most recommended things to do in Ecuador

Cotopaxi National Park & Quilotoa Full-Day Tour

1. Cotopaxi National Park & Quilotoa Full-Day Tour

Depart by bus from through the Panamerican Highway admiring the diverse ecosystems of the route, as a clear sign of the majesty of the Andes. Continue to the Cotopaxi National Park, arriving at the foot of the impressive active volcano. Visit the Museum Park, the Limpiopungo Lagoon and and through an interesting hike will reach the forest of chuquirahuas to 4200 meters. (if the weather permits). See the Quilotoa Volcano. With a stunning turquoise lagoon in its crater, it's one of the most beautiful landscapes of Ecuador. Take a short hike to appreciate the magnificent view of the volcano (if weather conditions allow) and enjoy time for lunch at your own expense.

Quito-Baños: Pailón del Diablo, Manos de Dios, Columpio

2. Quito-Baños: Pailón del Diablo, Manos de Dios, Columpio

Baños de Agua Santa is a town located in the Tungurahua province of Ecuador. It is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, thermal baths, and outdoor activities. Here are some key highlights of Baños de Agua Santa: Thermal Baths: Baños is famous for its thermal baths, which are natural hot springs rich in mineral content. Many visitors come here to relax and enjoy the therapeutic properties of these hot springs. Tungurahua Volcano: The town is situated at the foothills of the active Tungurahua Volcano. While it's important to check the current status of the volcano before visiting, its presence adds to the dramatic scenery of the area. Adventure Sports: Baños is a hub for adventure sports enthusiasts. Activities like whitewater rafting, canyoning, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and mountain biking are popular among tourists seeking an adrenaline rush. Waterfalls: The region is blessed with numerous waterfalls, some of the most well-known being Pailon del Diablo (Devil's Cauldron) and Cascada de Agoyan. These waterfalls are easily accessible and make for great hiking destinations. Basilica of the Virgin of the Holy Water (Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Agua Santa): This beautiful church is an iconic landmark of the town. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and attracts both religious pilgrims and tourists. Route of the Waterfalls: Baños is part of the "Route of the Waterfalls," a scenic route that takes you through lush landscapes and allows you to see several waterfalls along the way. Casa del Árbol: This is a famous spot where you can experience the "Swing at the End of the World." It's a swing hanging from a treehouse on the edge of a steep cliff, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and mountains. Local Cuisine: Baños offers a variety of local and international cuisine to cater to its diverse range of visitors. You can find numerous restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors serving delicious Ecuadorian dishes. Overall, Baños de Agua Santa is a delightful destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to unwind in a picturesque setting surrounded by natural wonders.

Historic City of Quito and The Middle of the World

3. Historic City of Quito and The Middle of the World

Begin by a visit to one of South America's best preserved historic city centers. Go to the Basilica del Voto Nacional Church, where you can climb up its high domes. Move towards the Panecillo viewpoint, an iconic place in the city, renowned for its beauty and giant statue of the Winged Virgin - here you can admire a beautiful landscape of both colonial and modern Quito (entrance to churches not included). Continue on to the traditional La Ronda neighborhood. In this romantic setting you can find workshops where you can learn from a group of authentic artisans how their work is done. See historic trades that keep alive the cultural traditions of this charming city. Stop at Zona Rosa for approximately an hour and a half to have some free time for lunch (not included). You will then go to the Middle of the World City, where you can see the monument that divides the northern and southern hemispheres of the planet. Entrance to the Middle of the World complex is included ,where you can enjoy experiences that defy the laws of physics and occur only in this part of the world. NOTE: On Sunday, this tour operates in an inverted way, first you visit the Middle of the World and then you have the city tour.

Quito: 2.5-Hour City Bus Tour

4. Quito: 2.5-Hour City Bus Tour

Embark on a fun and relaxing tour experience as you explore Quito on a double-decker bus. See more of the city in less time, visit famous locations and enjoy informative commentary from an audio guide along the way. The itinerary includes the highlights of Quito, including its historic city center, the largest in South America. Stop at Panecillo Hill, and enjoy panoramic views from the most important lookout in Quito. Enjoy a memorable ride through the city and take great photos from the top of the bus.

3 Days 2 Nights Jungle Tour from Tena on Napo Amazon Region

5. 3 Days 2 Nights Jungle Tour from Tena on Napo Amazon Region

Day 1 | A deep amazon dive At the Tena city, you will be met by one of our Lodge staff. The manager will be waiting to greet you with a refreshing beverage, welcome lunch and a short briefing about your stay at Suchipakari Eco-Lodge & Spa Into to the Rainforest: After the lunch, one of the Naturalist Guides will give you some basic information about the tropical rainforest, the Amazon. Jumandy Trail was given the spanish name of the famous strangler fig (Ficus sp), one of many remarkable trees that you can find on this short walk. Mahogany trees over 500 years old can be seen, and your guides will share their knowlege of the flora and fauna seen along the trail with you. The water is very refreshing after a hike in the jungle. In this fun activity on a buoy, your ability to row with your hands will be the key, looking at the sky and its banks full of trees, you will feel like part of a dream. You decide if you want to undertake this adventure alone or as a couple. This is one of the quietest ways to enjoy a river in the Amazon. Don't forget your life jacket and sandals! Dinner & Night hike in the jungle, a flashlight and camera are the most important tools on this nighttime excursion, allowing guests to hear and capture the nocturnal sounds of fishing bats, owls, some insects, tarantulas, toads, frogs and possibly snakes. If the sky is clear, we could have the opportunity to observe a large number of stars Day 2 | Discovering creatures on Napo Amazon River After breakfast, we walk through the primary and secondary forest to the Napo river. We take the canoe for around the 90 minutes to visit the Amazoonico Animale Rescue Center, wich is protecting a number of different animals, some in danger of extinction. Amazoonico is not a Zoo, is a rescue center for Amazon animals in Ecuador. We can observe some animals in their natural environment at close range. We continue by the canoe to visit the Anaconda Island, it´s time to enjoy a cultural activity. An Amazonian Kichwa community passed us by and we will learn about their way of life, the interaction they have with the jungle and sharing the famous ¨chicha¨, a fermented yucca drink. For support the daily life of the indigenous people, we can help to buy some handicrafts. Box Lunch and walk to the Lagoon, where can observe the prehistoric bird ¨Hoatzin¨, woolly monkeys, squirrel monkeys, just to name a few. Return to the Lodge. Dinner & Lodging Day 3 | Chocolate Tour After breakfast learn how to make the Chocolate The Amazon on the palate, this experience begins with a journey through cacao trees, savoring the fruit, its sowing, the harvest, the careful fermentation and drying process in our "fine aroma" cocoa agrotourism project. We will end, of course, learning about the elaboration and tasting of chocolate, which includes natural benefits for those who consume them. Return to Tena city...

Quito: Middle of the World Tour with Tickets

6. Quito: Middle of the World Tour with Tickets

Begin your 3-hour tour in the northern part of Quito and head up to the middle of the city. This is where you will find the monument that stands on the line that divides the northern and the southern hemispheres. The Equatorial Monument was built during the 17th century when the precise dividing line between the hemispheres was defined by a French expeditionary team.

Quito-Cotopaxi-Quilotoa: Full-Day Adventure 3 Places

7. Quito-Cotopaxi-Quilotoa: Full-Day Adventure 3 Places

Cotopaxi and Quilotoa are two of Ecuador's most famous and stunning natural attractions, both located in the Andes Mountains. They offer visitors unique experiences and breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes. Here's a comparison of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa: Cotopaxi: Volcano: Cotopaxi is an active stratovolcano and one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. It reaches an elevation of 5,897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level. National Park: Cotopaxi is part of the Cotopaxi National Park, which covers a vast area surrounding the volcano. The park is a protected area known for its diverse ecosystems and outdoor activities. Outdoor Activities: Cotopaxi National Park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking, mountain climbing, horseback riding, and birdwatching. Climbing to the summit of Cotopaxi is a popular challenge for experienced mountaineers. Scenery: The landscape around Cotopaxi is characterized by highland grasslands, paramo ecosystems, and glaciers. The volcano's iconic snow-capped peak is a symbol of Ecuador's natural beauty. Access: Cotopaxi is located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) south of Quito, making it relatively accessible from the capital city. Quilotoa: Lake and Caldera: Quilotoa is a water-filled caldera formed by the collapse of a volcano. The Quilotoa Crater Lake is a stunning emerald green color, attracting visitors from all over the world. Location: Quilotoa is located in the Cotopaxi Province, around 200 kilometers (125 miles) south of Quito. It is part of the Quilotoa Loop, a popular trekking route through the Andean highlands. Hiking and Trekking: The Quilotoa Loop offers trekkers a chance to explore rural Andean villages and experience the local culture. Hiking down to the Quilotoa Lake and back up is a challenging but rewarding experience. Scenery: Quilotoa's surroundings are characterized by rugged landscapes, traditional villages, and the striking emerald-colored lake within the caldera. Cultural Experience: The Quilotoa region is home to indigenous communities, offering visitors opportunities for cultural immersion and interaction with locals. Both Cotopaxi and Quilotoa offer travelers unique experiences and stunning vistas of Ecuador's volcanic landscapes. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone interested in local culture, visiting both attractions will provide an unforgettable journey through the Andean highlands.

From Quito: Otavalo, Cotacachi & Cuicocha Full-Day Tour

8. From Quito: Otavalo, Cotacachi & Cuicocha Full-Day Tour

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life in Quito and discover the ease and beauty of the Ecuadorian countryside. Depart from Quito through the Pan-American North Highway via Cayambe. Passengers will have the opportunity to taste the delicious Bizcochos de Cayambe, a type of cracker or bread baked in a clay oven, greatly paired with local cheese or caramel sauce. Afterwards, make a brief stop at Miralago to admire a wonderful view of Lago San Pablo. The tour then continues to Otavalo where Otavaleños (natives) set up a market in which a bartering manner of shopping is taken place. The market hosts a variety of different handcrafted items. You may choose between staying in this area and enjoying more time at the market (a bus will pick you up at the end of the tour*), or you can continue the tour to visit Cotacachi and Cuicocha. If you continue the tour, journey to the town of Cotacachi, recognized for its leather clothing and crafts. On the way to Cotacachi, visit an Andean instrument workshop, "Ñanda Mañachi", located in the area of Peguche, to spend some special moments with the local people and understand the Andean culture. In Cotacachi you have enough time to visit the village and leather goods shops, as well as free time for lunch (not included). Later, visit the Ecological Reserve where the Cuicocha lagoon is located, inside the crater of the Cotacachi Volcano. This originated after a volcanic explosion thousands of years ago. And if the weather permits, it will be possible to make a walk by the lagoon with the chance to sail in the crater of the volcano in small boats (at an additional cost). *Bus will wait for 10 minutes in Otavalo to pick you up if you have chosen to stay there, and after that will return to Quito and your respective hotel or starting point.

From Quito: Cotopaxi National Park Full-Day Tour with Hike

9. From Quito: Cotopaxi National Park Full-Day Tour with Hike

Visit Cotopaxi National Park in Ecuador’s Andes Mountains. The park is home to the active Cotopaxi volcano that towers 19,642 feet above sea level. When you reach the park your naturalist guide will show you the exceptional variety of flora and fauna. Hike to the Limpiopungo lagoon, located on the slopes of the volcano. Stop at the lagoon for a short rest to take in the landscapes and the spectacular views of the volcano. Continue the hike to the Jose Ribas shelter and experience the environment at almost 16,000 feet above sea level.

Quilotoa Lagoon: Full-Day Tour from Quito

10. Quilotoa Lagoon: Full-Day Tour from Quito

Drive south from Quito to the Quilotoa area and visit its famous lagoon. Along the way, you'll admire the beautiful Andean landscape and stop at the Shalala viewpoint. Next, you'll visit the community viewpoint and descend to the lagoon. Once there, you'll have free time to hike and explore the area. You'll return on a path that connects the lagoon to the community viewpoint. It's an intense walk, so if you're not in good shape, simply climb on a mule that will pack you back to the viewpoint. After a lunch break, you'll also stop at a Tigua craft workshop, famous for its colorful products, and visit the Toachi's Canon.

Add dates

Things to do in
Ecuador

All activities

165 activities found
Sort by:
Page 1 of 11

Cities in Ecuador

Other Sightseeing Options in Ecuador

Want to discover all there is to do in Ecuador? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Ecuador

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 1,020 reviews

Our guide met us promptly & immediately started letting us know about the history of the streets we passed through. His English was excellent and his connection to all the vendors in the markets we visited was lovely to see and gave us inside access to the food & beliefs of local people. The history of colonial buildings and their stories was very interesting and we were fascinated by the information provided. Excellent value and a really fun and interesting few hours.

Diego is a fabulous guide; a friendly and knowledgeable ambassador for Ecuador. He brought us to great places, had good advice about walking through the markets and helped us find what we were looking for. Diego is generous, interesting and a delightful conversationalist and he gave us a wonderful day in Otavalo.

Wilson was a fantastic guide - incredibly knowledgeable, willing to answer all the questions I peppered him with and spoke fluent English and Spanish. Took this tour with my two older kids and it was a highlight of our trip.

Fransisco: a Really good guide, very knowledgeable and patient. The best part was the lunch offered at a local family location, very unique experience! The activity was very well organized!

We had wonderful time with Enrique. He was very informative and friendly. Would highly recommend this tour and especially Enrique.