7 Must Visit Places In Ecuador

By: Pinki Mon, 08 Mar 2021 2:58:34

7 Must Visit Places in Ecuador

Ecuador is by far the smallest country in its region, but the diversity of this nation in South American is on par with neighbours like Peru and Brazil – if not better. With a land area of approx 283,560 square kilometres, you’ll find quaint colonial towns, beaches, a wide variety of landscapes, and one-of-a-kind flora and fauna species that only thrive in the ecosystems of Ecuador.

It might be hard to create a travel itinerary and see all the highlights, but we can help you on your way with this article. Here are 7 of the best and most stunning places to visit in Ecuador. (Image Source: POPSUGAR)

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# Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are approximately 1000 kilometres away from mainland South America. It provides a unique natural habitat with a wide range of flora and fauna having been established.

This large archipelago primarily draws nature lovers looking for animals like the Galapagos penguin, giant turtle, blue-footed booby, and the marine iguana, a lizard adapted to stay under the sea surface for up to an hour.

The Galapagos Islands are also a dream destination for divers, as the ocean here is teeming with sea lions, hammerhead sharks, dolphins, manta rays, and many more large species. Other than unusual animals, the Galapagos Islands are home to stunning mountains, crater lakes, dense jungles, and breathtaking beaches.

You can reach this group of islands through a plane ride or cruise from the mainland, the latter generally lasting anywhere between one and two weeks. (Image Source: Travel Channel)

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# Quito

Ecuador’s colourful capital is located in the north of the country and at an altitude of 2800 metres. After catching your breath and adjusting to the height, you can explore gems like El Centro Historico with its striking palaces and churches, or the massive Metropolitano Park.

Plaza Grande is the heart of Quito, with its 17th-century pastel-coloured facades, picturesque catholic churches, and the Palacio Arzobispal.

Climbing to the top of the Basílica del Voto Nacional is a spectacular way to see the city, but taking the TelefériQo cable car to Pichincha volcano from the city centre is truly captivating. Twenty minutes and a stunning ride later, you’re at the height of 3945 metres surrounded by the barren landscapes around the Pichincha volcano. (Image Source: Globe Guide)

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# Chimborazo

The Chimborazo volcano is part of the legendary Andes mountain ridge and rises up 6268 metres above sea level. Chimborazo is not the highest mountain in the Andes, but its peak has the honourable status of being the farthest point from the centre of the earth.

The snowy peak of this inactive stratovolcano is a famous destination amongst climbers, but keep in mind that both ascending in harsh alpine environments and wearing special mountaineering gear are part of the experience to conquer this giant.

This summit in central Ecuador is topped with eternal snow and glaciers, making for a challenging scramble for adventurous climbers as well as fantastic photo opportunities for those who keep their distance from the summit. If you don’t want to go all the way up, there are several scenic walking routes around the mountain’s base.(Image Source: LiveAbout)

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# Yasuní Biosphere Reserve

From the Andes’ towering peaks to the lush Amazon rain forest and remote volcanic islands, Ecuador’s ecosystems are genuinely astounding. In the jungle, in Ecuador’s eastern part, the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve stands out for its incredible biodiversity.

Within an area of nearly 10,000 square kilometres, the number of plant, tree, and animal species is hard to fathom in words or stats. Around 140 species of amphibians, 120 species of reptiles, and over 600 bird species have been recorded in Yasuní, which is considered one of the most diverse nature reserves on the planet. Some of the spectacular birds to look out for include the majestic and rare harpy eagle, trumpeter, and the odd-looking hoatzin.

The jump-off point for this area is Coca, a town where you can arrange your rainforest tours. In this virgin forest reserve, you’ll find several camping grounds and simple lodging to use as a base for exploration. (Image Source: Fair Planet)

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# Banos

Banos is a modestly-sized city, settled in a green valley 200 kilometres south of the capital Quito. Most travellers venturing for Baños are thrillseekers attracted by the outdoor activities and the brilliant environment. The streets of Banos are dotted with vivid houses and souvenir stalls, but the real adventure lies within the town’s waterfalls, lookout points, and dense woodlands.

Some of the cool endeavours here are ziplining, white water rafting, and canyoneering with some serious cliff jumping. Do you like your activities more laidback? Opt for a dip in the thermal baths Banos derived its name from. Alternatively, walk the Ruta de las Cascadas, a sensational walking trail which takes you to multiple magnificent waterfalls. (Image Source: Wikipedia)

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# Sangay National Park

Unsurprising, Sangay National Park is famed for its diversity in landscapes: volcanic cones, wetlands with lakes, tropical rainforests, and grassy plains together make up for one large, unique reserve.

The park got its name from the dominating Sangay volcano (5140m), but the altitude in this reserve drops to 900 metres in the lowlands. With over 3000 species of plants, rare mammals such as the spectacled bear, and 430 kinds of birds, Sangay National Park can even rival the flora and fauna range of Yasuní Biosphere Reserve.

The tourist industry around Sangay National Park is not highly developed – fortunately for conservation – but there are some hiking routes and camping spots in the Volcán El Altar range and around Lagunas de Ozogoche. Altar’s turquoise glacier lake is one of the most stunning locations within Sangay National Park. (Image Source: Pinterest)

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# Cotopaxi

From a distance, the Cotopaxi volcano has a nearly perfect conical shape. This peak is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world at 5897 metres above sea level, but generally, it’s safe to hike and bike around its summit.

The city of Machachi is the most convenient place to start exploring Cotopaxi and the trails around it. If you want to challenge yourself, take on the guided hike from a refuge at 4800 metres, traversing over glacial fields until you have reached the iconic top. You’ll have to arrange your trekking beforehand, as you need a guide and proper ice-climbing gear. Apart from spectacular views, you’ll have a chance of spotting the elusive fox and Andes condor. (Image Source: Al Jazeera)

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