Ecuador is an incredibly diverse destination, but one that is still left out of many itineraries.
And despite being a small country, it has a lot to offer. There are beaches, volcanoes, beautiful mountains, forests and historic cities that provide different experiences across the country.
It is also possible to plan the trip including Colombia and Peru, which border the country.
However, if you don't have that much time and want to dedicate yourself to just getting to know Ecuador, there are several cities where you can have a little experience of what Ecuador is like.
So here we have selected 5 cities that you need to know when you go to Ecuador.
#1 Quito, the capital of Ecuador
Capital of the country, Quito is a charming and super interesting city for those who enjoy historical tourism.
It is considered one of the most beautiful capitals in South America, receiving thousands of tourists from all over the world.
In the past, much of the Ecuadorian capital was a lake called Iñaquito that disappeared in an eruption of a volcano in the region. In Parque La Carolina it is possible to see what is left of this lake.
Be sure to take a walking tour of the historic center of Quito, which is one of the most special areas of the city.
Also climb to the top of Cerro El Panecillo to have one of the best views of Quito and meet the “Virgem de Quito”, a statue built from 7 pieces of aluminum.
Enjoy the night at the bars in Quito's most bohemian neighborhood, La Mariscal, on the outskirts of Plaza Foch.
Here in this article you can read more about what to do in Quito.
#2 Baños, home of ecotourism
Despite being a small town, with just over 13 inhabitants, Baños has a lot to offer.
Especially for those who love adventure, contact with nature and lots of greenery, this is a city that will surprise you. There are countless waterfalls, zip lines, rivers and a lot of adrenaline.
A classic tour to do in the city is to go to the swing at the end of the world. This swing is on the edge of an abyss with the Tungurahua volcano in the background.
This place became well known when, in 2014, a photo on this swing won the best photo award by National Geographic.
Another unmissable tour in the city is the bike ride to Pailón del Diablo, a place that is 15 km from Baños and has many waterfalls and zip lines along the way.
#3 Cuenca, a true colonial treasure
Cuenca is one of those super charming cities that impresses you in every corner.
Declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 1999, the city of Cuenca is located in the south of the country in the midst of beautiful Andean mountains.
Cuenca has an amazing historic center with its colorful colonial houses that are super well preserved.
Be sure to walk along Calle Larga, where there are several restaurants, hotels and museums that operate in old and super charming buildings.
Cuenca also has a lot to offer in terms of religious tourism. There are many churches and cathedrals that are worth visiting!
Discover the Iglesia del Sagrario and the Catedral de la Imaculada Concepción around Parque Calderón.
#4 A hectic Montañita
This city is ideal for those who want more busy days, with lots of sun, beach and good parties.
Montañita is known as the Ibiza of South America, and the days there are hectic.
The former fishing village has become a true point for those looking to cool off at sea, enjoy and meet people from all over the world.
If you are going to the city between July and September, be sure to take the boat tour to see the whales in the region.
#5 The stunning Galapagos archipelago
Despite being an archipelago, we included the Galápagos on this list because it is one of the most special places in Ecuador, and one that is of worldwide importance.
There are 58 volcanic islands that form an area with an impressive biodiversity with unique animal species, which inspired the scientist Charles Darwin to found the theory of evolution in the XNUMXth century.
Galápagos provides the experience of meeting animals that only exist there, such as the Nazca boobies and the giant tortoises that are an icon in the fight for conservation in the Galápagos.
Despite not being a cheap destination, precisely because the Ecuadorian government tries to prevent unbridled tourism, it is worth a little more planning and investment to have the experience of knowing the Galapagos.
