Top Things to Do in Ecuador | Best Places to Visit for Tourists

Ecuador's small size hides huge variety - think wild animals on islands, tall mountains, or thick jungle deep inside. Every year, more than a million people come just to see it all. You'll find old-school market stalls, heart-pumping activities, and historic spots recognized worldwide, perfect for travelers chasing scenery, traditions, and stories from the past. This go-to handbook breaks down the top 12 destinations across the country, going further than others by mixing detailed routes, local knowledge, plus handy advice on staying online using eSIMs

People love cruising around Galápagos, wandering old-town Quito, or trekking near Quilotoa - these keep coming up in visitor feedback. You'll find things like snorkeling cenotes, shopping handwoven fabrics at Otavalo, trying the famous swing above abyssal drops in Baños, watching monkeys move through Yasuní's treetops, checking out Cuenca's straw hats, biking rugged volcano trails, plus picking a local eSIM - all slipped in without forcing it. Unlike basic roundups on Tripadvisor averaging one paragraph per pick, this guide dives deeper, along with tips by season, access notes, and how to stay connected using mobile data. Expect real sights worth seeing, offbeat adventures, moments tied to culture, close-ups with wildlife, unusual stuff you won't see elsewhere, and route-planning hints ready for exploring

Why Ecuador Captivates Travelers

Ecuador's variety draws visitors from around the world: Galápagos cruises, Quito's historic center, Andean treks, and jungle expeditions in Yasuní. Charles Darwin's observations highlight the islands' significance:

"The natural history of this archipelago is very remarkable: it seems to be a little world within itself."
— Charles Darwin, The Voyage of the Beagle, 1839

Darwin's reflections show why the Galápagos remain a top attraction, both for nature lovers and those intrigued by scientific history. Quito's UNESCO Old Town adds another layer of significance, as institutional experts note:

Paraphrase: Quito and the Galápagos were among the first World Heritage Sites recognized for their outstanding cultural and natural values.

Dry months (June–November) are ideal for outdoor exploration, and eSIMs ensure travelers stay connected from Galápagos islands to Amazon lodges.

1. Cruise Galápagos Islands Wildlife

Darwin's idea lives across 13 islands - home to huge tortoises, birds with bright blue feet, wild sea lions. Trips by boat last 4 to 8 days, cost over $2,000, start from Baltra, hop spots like Española where water shoots through rocks, or Genovesa packed with frigatebirds.

UNESCO's been guarding 97% of unique creatures since '78 - spot hammerheads while snorkeling near Wolf Island. In Ecuador, wild sights feel unmatched when you explore nature up close. Check out our eSIM tip list for staying online during ocean dives.

Santa Cruz lava tunnels are exciting - many visitors check them out using glass-bottom boats instead. The dry season runs from June to November, which means smoother waves because of less rain. Plan ahead by reserving your spot 6 to 12 months early through gougalapagos.com.

2. Wander Quito UNESCO Old Town

La Paz sits higher than any other capital - up at 9,350 feet. It's got a historic heart labeled by UNESCO back in '87. Check out the Plaza Grande where leaders once declared freedom from that balcony. Nearby stands La Compañía church, its altar packed with seven tons of golden decor. Then there's San Francisco Monastery holding centuries-old stories. For killer sights, hop on the TelefériQo - a $8.50 ride gliding up Pichincha with raw volcano scenery below

In Quito, INPC guards around 130 city blocks - close to the famous Mitad del Mundo marker, costs five bucks to enter. This equatorial site pulls about half a million visitors each year from all over. Snap wide-angle pics using an eSIM that keeps you online while exploring.

La Ronda's crafty lane glows at night - try the handy cable car up. Weather stays comfy nonstop, while Saturdays bring lively vibes across town

3. Hike Quilotoa Lagoon Crater

Around 11,600 feet up, a vivid blue lake fills the Andes' old volcanic crater - hiking its edge takes between three and five hours, with lookouts along the way. Instead of walking, you could rent a kayak for ten bucks or ride a mule down to the shore. Close by, a small lodge serves meals and runs daily trips that cost thirty dollars. This spot's in South America, not Australia

Kichwa folks welcome you; bird calls from the misty woods charm your ears. Kick off adventures in Ecuador with wide-open views all around. Lights at night shimmer in three shades? Nah - just that dreamy sunset glow painting everything gold

Try the Chugchilán swing - kids love gentle parts. From June to December, it's dry + best views down under

4. Shop Otavalo Indigenous Market

Every Saturday, the biggest native marketplace bursts into life at Plaza de Ponchos - filled with bright fabrics, handwoven ponchos, soft alpaca items spilling out everywhere. Watch locals weave by hand or catch a traditional spiritual cleanse, no cost involved. You'll find deals on leather stuff, cool handmade necklaces, rings, prices from just $2 up to around 50 bucks. Travelers often rate it high online

Check out UNESCO's living traditions near San Pablo Lake - boat trips cost $15. Skip the tourist traps, go real with 30 grand from Otavalo folks. Use an eSIM to chat locally while haggling. Translation?

Peguche waterfall trails near handy market stands. Go on Saturday for action; earlier in the week it's calm instead.

5. Bike Cotopaxi Volcano Slopes

At 16,200 feet, a snowy live volcano lets you ride bikes down from the shelter - tours cost $60. Nearby, hike around Laguna Limpiopungo where alpacas wander. The base camp sits at 15,900 feet, pushing your breathing to the limit. National Park shelters condors along with wild horses; climbers need passes to reach the top. Best spots in Ecuador for thrill-seekers craving action. Quick tips on Ecuador SIMs plus how to get around with 4WD. Stay overnight at Refugio; no stroller needed. Ride bikes when dry - Jul to Sep, no snow.

6. Swing at Baños World's End

Adventure base: Casa del Árbol's swing gives views of Tungurahua volcano (5 bucks). Hot spring baths ease muscles after canyon hikes (3 dollars). Waterfall trail called Ruta de Cascadas, reachable by chiva bus rides (2 USD).

Pailón del Diablo canyon drops give big excitement. Cool activities in Ecuador you've seen on Insta stories. Get an eSIM there to skip swinging rope lines

Pachayachachik's zipline fun meets splash zones for kids. Warm springs every season - then from January to May, downpours turn everything green and wild

7. Trek Cuenca Colonial Streets

South of the Andes lies a UNESCO site from '99 with a sky-blue church dome, lively bloom stalls, alongside workshops making Panama hats using Montecristi weaving. A short hop away - Ingapirca's ancient Incan remains - for about twenty bucks US. Down under ties back to this region through travel links

Spanish meets Kichwa - riverside paths feel cozy. Explore Ecuador's culture through craft routes. Connect using eSIM options.

Tomebamba's archaeology spot - less busy seasons? Near the equator, the weather stays mild.

8. Jungle Lodge Yasuní Amazon

UNESCO spot cabins, say Napo Wildlife Lodge, give treetop trails along with sightings of pink river dolphins plus after-dark anaconda spotting (costs over $1k for four days). Trips may include Kichwa-led ayahuasca sessions if you're up for it.

Over six hundred kinds of birds, alongside a hundred types of mammals - plenty to spot. Feel the rush when you go after piranhas with a rod. Exploring nature in Ecuador? It drags you right in. Need maps without a signal? Grab an eSIM for the deep jungle

Cuyabeno is a different spot - more rain there. In summer, less water means better paths to walk on. Bring bug nets, though - they're a must. That's what works down under

9. Whale Watch Pacific Montañita

Ruta del Spondylus, a surf spot where humpbacks jump outta water between July and October - boats cost $50 from Puerto López. Olón's shores stay more peaceful; Isla de la Plata? Think of it as Galápagos on a budget, runs about $60

Machalilla Park keeps wildlife safe - locals help baby turtles reach the ocean. Exploring Ecuador's coast brings wild hikes, surf trips, or quiet coves. Check waves using an eSIM hotspot.

Montañita's nights are lively, while Olón stays quiet for families. See whales best from August to September if you're coming from Australia.

10. Chocolate Tour Puerto López

Mindo's cloud forest hides cacao farms where you taste chocolate straight from beans - $25 gets you in. Zip lines whoosh above the trees for $20 if heights don't scare you. A butterfly spot nearby shows off 2,000 kinds that'll catch your eye. Review sites like Tripadvisor say it's worth the trip

UNESCO zone nearby; try coffee combos that boost flavor. In Ecuador, meals bring deep tastes. An eSIM helps set up farm visits.

Nayon's salt pits are close by - paths lead right up to them. Chocolate grows here no matter the season, down under

Connect Seamlessly for Ecuador Adventures

From the fins near Galápagos to deep blue lakes like Quilotoa, snowy peaks on Cotopaxi or dark jungle skies in the Amazon - SimCorner's eSIM for Ecuador fires up at Quito or Guayaquil airport, giving solid 4G across the country. No extra charges. Built for hikers, parents traveling with kids, nature stays. Use it for offline maps on Maps.me, post frigatebird moves on Instagram, sort out INGALA entry passes, keep in touch via WhatsApp from remote spots. Want a taste of Ecuador's best spots? Get a digital eSIM today or explore our physical SIM Card options too. Chase active volcanoes. Spot rare animals. Explore craft markets. Hit coastal breaks. Stream real moments under the equator sun.

FAQs: Top Things in Ecuador

What's worth checking out in Ecuador if you've never been before?

Galápagos boat trips mix with Quito's old center, then hit Otavalo trading spot instead - Quilotoa trail follows, after that check out Cuenca's historic houses. Toss in Baños rope swings too. Get an eSIM for smooth bus routes across Ecuador. traveler reviews back this up

Top moment for activities in Ecuador?

Dry from June to November works well for Galápagos ocean conditions, also good for trekking the Andes or walking paths in the Amazon; weather near the equator stays steady all year. Whales show up along the Pacific between July and October. An Ecuador eSIM helps monitor shifting local climates. Australia time plus one

How long will it take to see Ecuador's top spots?

10-14 days: Quito 2, Otavalo/Baños 3, Cuenca 2, Galápagos 4-7. Flights connect. eSIM keeps itineraries flexible.

Family things to do in Ecuador?

Quilotoa trails are a breeze, while Mindo's full of fluttering wings or zipline fun. Check out Cuenca's lively market scenes, then Galápagos trips that keep kids buzzing. Unwind in Baños' hot springs instead. Use an Ecuador eSIM to swap photos fast.

eSIM dependable during trips to Ecuador?

Yep, SimCorner's eSIM covers Ecuador's mountains + rainforest using 4G - perfect for GPS maps. Skip sketchy hotel internet. Scan a code instead of paying roaming fees.