ecuador tourism department

Time to feel and renew you

Find it all, discover ecuador.

Adventure, nature, culture and gastronomy in a single destination. Explore the Amazon rainforest, climb volcanoes, meet indigenous communities, taste the delicious gastronomy and immerse yourself in the crystal clear waters of the Galapagos. An unforgettable experience that combines the best of adventure, nature, culture and rich culinary diversity!

Pure adrenaline

Adventure without limits! Explore the Amazon jungle by canoe, walk along trails in search of wildlife. Challenge volcanoes in the Andes, such as Cotopaxi, and discover amazing landscapes on the Quilotoa Loop. On the coast, enjoy surfing, diving and whale watching. Ecuador awaits you with exciting activities and adrenaline in every corner!

The Earth's natural refuge

Ecuador will surprise you with its infinite biodiversity. Its 74 protected areas, including Yasuní National Park and the Galapagos Islands, are home to endemic species and unique landscapes. Enjoy bird watching in the Mindo Cloud Forest and humpback whale watching off the coast of Puerto Lopez. Every corner will give you fascinating postcards, capture your best natural spot and take with you an unforgettable souvenir.

Cultural Wealth

Ecuadorian culture has indigenous, Spanish and Afro-descendant influences, making it rich and diverse. The country invites you to live a unique multicultural experience, where you can share the hospitality and warmth of our people, as well as delve into the worldview of dozens of indigenous peoples and nationalities. In heritage cities such as Quito or Cuenca, you will find beautiful architectural relics. In towns like Otavalo, the largest indigenous market in the region awaits you, and in places like Pile or the Amazon, you will discover beautiful handicrafts that reflect our identity.

Diablada of Píllaro

Feast for the senses.

We combine fresh ingredients and traditional culinary techniques to seduce you with an unforgettable gastronomic experience. You can’t miss the hornado, the fritada, the encoado, the maito and the delicious desserts made with the best cocoa of fine aroma in the world. Ecuadorian gastronomy will take you on a culinary journey that will leave you wanting more. From the fresh and tasty ceviche to the traditional potato locro, every bite will be an explosion of unique flavors.

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Update April 12, 2024

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Ecuador Travel Advisory

Travel advisory april 15, 2024, ecuador - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated with information about land border travel restrictions.

Exercise increased caution in Ecuador due to  civil unrest ,  crime , and  kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

Guayaquil,  south  of Portete de Tarqui Avenue, due to  crime .

• The cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas in the province of El Oro, due to  crime .
• The cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo in the province of Los Rios, due to  crime .
• The canton of Duran, in the province of Guayas, due to crime .

Esmeraldas city and all areas north of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to  crime .

Reconsider travel to:

• Guayaquil  north  of Portete de Tarqui Avenue due to  crime .

El Oro province outside the cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas, due to  crime .

• Los Rios province outside the cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo, due to  crime .
• All areas south of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to  crime .
• The provinces of Sucumbios, Manabi, Santa Elena, and Santo Domingo due to  crime .

Country Summary: Crime is a widespread problem in Ecuador. Violent crime, such as murder, assault, kidnapping, and armed robbery, is prevalent and widespread. The rate of violent crime is significantly higher in areas where transnational criminal organizations are concentrated.

Demonstrations occur frequently throughout the country, usually motivated by political and/or economic factors. Demonstrators routinely block local roads and major highways, often without prior notice which can lead to disruption in access to critical infrastructure.  

Outside of Ecuador’s major towns and cities, much of the country’s territory is sparsely populated and isolated. Government assistance may be very limited and can lead to significant delays for assistance to U.S. citizens in remote areas.

Land Border Restrictions : All foreign citizens entering the country via land border crossings from Colombia or Peru are required to present an apostilled certificate showing a lack of criminal record. Further information is available on the Ministry of Tourism’s webpage and at Ecuador.Travel . All U.S. citizens planning to enter Ecuador via a land border should comply with this requirement. See Travel.State.Gov ’s Office of Authentications webpage and Criminal Records Check webpage for information on how to obtain a criminal record check and apostille from the United States. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in Ecuador cannot assist citizens crossing a land border in obtaining the required documentation.    

Read the  country information page  for additional information on traveling to Ecuador.

If you decide to travel to Ecuador:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook ,  Twitter , and  Instagram
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Ecuador.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Level 4: Do Not Travel

The cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas in the Province of El Oro, due to  crime .

The cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo in the province of Los Rios, due to  crime.

The canton of Duran, in the province of Guayas, due to crime.

Transnational criminal groups and local gangs regularly engage in violent criminal acts in these areas, including indiscriminate attacks without warning in public spaces. Violent crimes have included murder, targeted assassinations, armed robberies, bombings, kidnappings, and assaults, among others. Violence in these areas has steadily increased in frequency and brutality in recent months, posing an increased security risk to U.S. citizens. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to these areas without prior authorization. As a result, the U.S. government is limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.

Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Guayaquil  north  of Portete de Tarqui Avenue, due to  crime .

Los Rios province outside the cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo, due to  crime .

All areas south of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to  crime.

The provinces of Sucumbios, Manabi, Santa Elena, and Santo Domingo, due to  crime.

Transnational criminal groups and local gangs have sporadically engaged in violent criminal activity in these areas, with violence increasing in recent months. U.S. government personnel are directed to exercise extreme caution and maintain increased vigilance when traveling in and around these areas. 

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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In Ecuador, plans for a tourism boom

By Mauricio González Lara

Augustine of Hippo, also known as Saint Augustine, once said: “The world is a book, and he who doesn’t travel reads only one page.” Augustine was born on November 13, 354, in the town of Thagaste, on the northern coast of Africa in what is now Algeria. Nonetheless, if the philosopher were alive today, he might include a chapter on Ecuador.

That’s the opinion of Claudia Muzzi Turullols, director of the Latin American editions of National Geographic and National Geographic Traveler . “It’s impossible to create environmental awareness in the abstract,” Muzzi Turullols said. “No one takes care of what they do not make their own, and the best way to do that with nature is through an intense sensorial experience. A trip to Ecuador is, among other things, an opportunity to connect with the planet in a huge epiphanic way.”

Many people already know this. Tourism is Ecuador’s fourth-largest nonpetroleum export and its largest service export, contributing more than 5 percent of the country’s GDP. Revenues are concentrated around the Galapagos Islands, though Ecuador possesses multiple dazzling ecosystems, ranging from coastal areas to high mountains to rainforests, 26 percent of which has protected area status. It is home to 2,477 species and five UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Despite these attractions, the average number of tourists visiting Ecuador has increased only slightly over the last decade. The potential for the tourism industry remains just that. The pandemic has made matters worse: as is the case with other nations in South America where tourism revenues have declined precipitously during the pandemic, tourism in Ecuador has come to a near-standstill in the last two years.

Tourism, a significant source of employment in Ecuador, is too important to neglect. In 2019, 408,800 Ecuadorians depended on tourism and its associated activities for employment — 5.2 percent of the total labor force — about half of whom are considered direct employees of tourism companies .

As government officials and experts ask what it will take for tourism to take off, new research from IFC and the World Bank examines how to support expansion while remaining sensitive to post-pandemic requirements and sustainability.

Nomads wanted

According to Creating Markets in Ecuador , a Country Private Sector Diagnostic (CPSD) published by IFC and the World Bank late last year, Ecuador’s tourism sector is affected by the same constraints that hold back the economic growth of the country: lack of regulatory stability, labor market rigidities, a difficult business environment, and costly financing -- a crucial challenge for the hotel industry, which requires intensive capital and long-term financing.

“The specific bottlenecks of the tourism industry include difficulties in accessing qualified labor, weak brand identity, inconsistency in marketing and promotional investments, and the relatively low connectivity of the country and the high cost of flights to it,” said Zeinab Partow, an economist at the World Bank who coauthored the CPSD.

The Ministry of Tourism’s goal is to reach 2 million visitors by 2025. At the end of January 2022, it presented a new strategy to attract travelers whose goal is to interact with nature. “Ecuador is an ideal place for the post-pandemic traveler who requires open places to enjoy safely, especially through ecotourism,” said Niels Olsen, Minister of Tourism of Ecuador.

The government strategy is ambitious in its intentions to adapt to the post-pandemic world. It includes, for instance, the design of a “nomad visa” to attract foreigners who are location-independent.  These “digital nomads” work remotely, telecommuting rather than being physically present at a company's headquarters or office. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the growth of this new kind of tourism and Ecuador is eager to attract it.

The tourism sector could also play a significant role in reducing inequality in Ecuador and throughout Latin America. A recent study conducted by Robertico Croes and Manuel Rivera, authors of Poverty Alleviation through Tourism Development: A Comprehensive and Integrated Approach (2016), found that tourism has large positive multiplier effects in Latin America. The increases in international tourism in Ecuador benefit the lowest income households the most: A 10 percent increase in international tourism , for example, accounts for growth of nearly 31 percent in the most vulnerable population.

Stable revenue streams

There are numerous advantages to tourism compared to the export of goods and services. Revenue from tourism may be more stable than revenue from the sale of goods, such as agricultural and mineral commodities. Researchers Croes and Rivera found that tourism products can demand premium prices due to their uniqueness and the inability to export the experience, as well as to low transportation and insurance costs.

Roque Sevilla, president of Metropolitan Touring , one of the most prominent tourism operators in Ecuador, shares that perspective. “The Ecuadorian economy is dollarized,” he said. “In comparison with other countries that can devaluate their currency, we are not a cheap destination. Therefore, we must concentrate on quality.”

Sevilla suggested that “Instead of focusing on segments more interested in just having a good time, the country needs to adopt a strategy based on attracting tourism that is willing to pay more for a unique experience, like a tailor-made tour to the Galapagos Islands or the Mashpi Reserve.”

A delicate balance

But there’s a potential downside, too. More tourists in Ecuador means more pressure on existing infrastructure, encroachment on animal habitats, and a heightened risk of introducing invasive plant and animal species. One recurring concern is how to maintain sustainability as post-pandemic tourism is revitalized, especially in a region like the Galapagos Islands, the paradise that amazed Charles Darwin in 1895 and inspired the theory of the evolution of the species.

“Iguanas that are like dragons, miniature prehistoric creatures, giant tortoises. Our researchers call them a world out of this world: a journey into the Earth's past, a living laboratory that cannot be replicated anywhere else,” said Muzzi Turullols, the National Geographic editor.

The number of tourists to the Galapagos Islands has declined from an average 22,000 per month prior to the pandemic, to 1,232 in October 2020. A number of working committees have been created to reinvigorate the sector, and in August, Ecuador received the Safe Travels Stamp, a recognition created by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) to acknowledge destinations and businesses around the world that have adopted standardized health and hygiene protocols.

There’s an upside to Galapagos tourism, some experts believe, noting that it has helped preserve the Galapagos’ ecosystem because the routes of the tourist attractions there are limited to very small areas.  Also, the continuous presence of ecotourists discourages tuna fishermen and generates a constant global awareness of preserving this natural sanctuary.

Last month, Ecuadorian president Guillermo Lasso signed a decree ordering the expansion of the Galapagos Marine Reserve. The newly created marine reserve area is called "Brotherhood" (“Hermandad” in Spanish) in recognition of joint efforts of diverse sectors of the society like environmentalists and artisanal and large-scale fishing operations.  It adds 60,000 square kilometers to the Galapagos Marine Reserve. The marine reserve is divided into two halves: the first 30,000 square kilometers prohibit any fishing activities; in the other 30,000, longline fishing only is forbidden.

In the Galapagos and elsewhere, Ecuador is recalibrating this delicate balance: Attract more tourists, while preserving what attracts them.

Published in February 2022

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Niels Olsen, Minister of Tourism of Ecuador

Visit latin america: can you explain the main lines and objectives of the ecuador tourism promotion plan that you launched in 2022.

Niels Olsen, Minister of Tourism of Ecuador (D.R.)

One of the main requirements of the tourism sector after the pandemic was to strengthen the promotion of Ecuador as a destination in order to recover and reactivate the activity. In February of this year, we presented the promotion plan which, thanks to the support and conviction of the national government, has a budget allocated for investment for the period from 2022 to 2025 of $47.5 million, spread over the four years, of which more than $41 million will be used for promoting the country, while the rest will be used to invest in innovation and new products.

We have decided to devote 70% of this budget to promoting the country abroad, focusing on markets such as the United States, the United Kingdom and Europe, with the aim of attracting more foreign currency and injecting it into the Ecuadorian economy. The investment in international promotion is segmented in such a way that we can achieve high environmental, economic and social return tourism.

To reach our target markets, we participate in a series of international events such as: Adventure Elevate, Virtuoso, Signature, Remote, USTOA, LATA Expo, IFTM Top Resa and WTM, among others.

The remaining 30% of the budget is targeted at the domestic market, in order to achieve circulation and redistribution of resources by focusing on rurality, encouraging domestic travel to new destinations, in addition to traditional destinations. Domestic tourism has focused on certain seasons and holidays. The latter has enabled us to achieve a significant result in terms of cumulative tourism expenditure during the domestic holiday periods, which to date amounts to over $389 million, a higher amount than the same period in 2018 (316 million) and 2019 (303 million), making it the highest figure recorded in the last 5 years.

VLA: You have highlighted the need to create a new country and tourism brand, what is the current status of the project and what is your ambition in this regard?

The Ministry of Tourism is in the process of making all the necessary administrative arrangements for the creation of a new country brand, with the commitment of the Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, Investment and Fisheries and the General Secretariat of Communication of the Presidency of the Republic.

The government is working in a professional and responsible manner throughout the process of building this brand, considering a process that involves research, strategy development and the design of the graphic identity. The aim is to generate a country brand that lasts over time, is non-politicised, represents national imports and allows us to attract visitors. We hope to have the new country brand ready by 2023.

VLA: How does your experience in the private sector help you today as a minister?

Nine years ago I started my tourism business with a lot of enthusiasm but also with a lot of fear, and along the way I have had many experiences that allow me to put myself in the shoes of my colleagues in the sector. I think that if there is one thing I can be proud of, it is that during these 18 months of work we have shown empathy and worked in a coordinated way with both the trade union leaders and the representatives of the sector, visiting the territory and, above all, listening. As a result, in the first few months of our administration, we have put in place financial relief measures.

Today, we offer three types of credits for the sector, we have returned to the most important tourism fairs for our destination in priority markets and we have implemented training programmes to strengthen the quality of tourism services in the country. Every time I visit a new company and hold meetings in the territory, I facilitate direct contact or contact with my team and we create a group, so that I can maintain a direct line of communication with them, so that I can feel their needs and solve them, and so that they can trust that I will do so.

VLA: Ecuador has been awarded for the eighth time in its history as the world’s top green destination in 2021, what are the keys to this success and how has Ecuador managed to link tourism development and environmental protection?

One of Ecuador’s main sources of economic income is undoubtedly tourism; our territory has a large amount of natural and cultural resources, which has made it essential to have a policy of protecting the areas where animal and plant species thrive; thus, 71 protected areas (PAs) have been declared in the national territory. These areas represent about 14% of the mainland and 97% of the Galapagos Islands.

The Galapagos Islands are a world reference, a natural laboratory of evolution, declared by UNESCO as World Heritage of Humanity, and for this reason in 2022 the “Fraternity Marine Reserve” was created, which is established as a tourist corridor between the Galapagos Islands and Cocos Island in Costa Rica, as a passageway for dozens of protected species, linking Ecuador (Galapagos), Colombia (Malpelo), Panama (Coiba) and Costa Rica (El Coco); In addition, the Galapagos Marine Reserve has been extended to 193,000 km2 , making Ecuador the first country in Latin America and the fourth in the world to adopt the ecological transition as a cross-cutting public policy. The reserve will also help limit indiscriminate fishing in this tropical Pacific area, which is home to 95% of unique species.

The key to success is undoubtedly national policy, as the Constitution of the Republic establishes the national system of protected areas to ensure the conservation of biodiversity and the maintenance of ecological functions. Added to this is the vision of this state portfolio to make Ecuador the pioneering tourist destination in Latin America in this new era of tourism.

In this context, we have implemented our Institutional Plan 2021 – 2025 whose objective is: “To increase and diversify the portfolio of sustainable products and destinations”¸ whose strategy is ecotourism. This plan aims to generate a portfolio of nature-related products that improve the quality of the visitor experience within the 35 tourism-oriented protected areas (PAs), increasing the level of protection, conserving ecosystems, reducing deforestation, improving infrastructure for visitor use, involving the surrounding populations in the provision of the service and generating economic income. Within this framework, coordination has been carried out with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Ecological Transition (MAATE), in order to make visible and market the productive initiatives of the tourism value chain, associated with each territory, initiatives that contribute to avoiding tourist pressure on fragile ecosystems; furthermore, the photo tourism strategy is being promoted with the collaboration of the Ecuadorian Photographers Association (AFE) for the identification of specialised sites for the practice of responsible photo tourism in protected areas.

Finally, we have proposed guidelines for sustainable destinations and beaches, which will strengthen the management of local strategies for the implementation of actions for the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, with the involvement of the actors of the territory, achieving a sustainable and environmentally friendly economic and social development.

VLA: What message would you like to send to tourism professionals?

I would like to ask my colleagues to remember that we are part of the most incredible and resilient industry. Globally, tourism generates 6 billion dollars of GDP, while in Ecuador it is the fourth largest source of non-oil income. Tourism, dear friends, is an engine of development, a generator of jobs and opportunities. Therefore, my message to the tourism professionals and those who study this beautiful profession is that we do not give up, that we continue to unite our efforts to take this sector to another level, because we have all the potential to be the first destination in the region with a new way of doing tourism, a sustainable and regenerative tourism, because where there is tourism, there must be a positive impact for the people, for the economy and for the environment.

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Understanding The Latest Ecuador Travel Advisory

Posted by Angie Drake | Jun 27, 2023 | Ecuador | 2 |

The most common question I get about traveling in Ecuador is “Is it safe?”  And the most common answer I have is, “It depends.”

Late last week, the US State Department came out with a revised travel advisory for Ecuador and, at first glance, it is very scary to read. The overall level for the nation is Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution.

There are several regions in the country that are experiencing extreme levels of crime, not just petty theft. Local gangs and transnational criminal groups are on the rise. For example, this past week, an Italian businessman and chef working in Guayaquil was kidnapped from his restaurant by four men , two of who were wearing police uniforms. For reasons like this one, four areas in Ecuador are listed as Do Not Travel To:

• Guayaquil , south of Portete de Tarquí Avenue, due to  crime .
• The cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas in the province of El Oro, due to crime .
• The cities of Quevedo , Quinsaloma , and Pueblo Viejo in the province of Los Rios, due to crime .
• Esmeraldas city and all areas north of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to crime .

And many more are Level 3, Reconsider Travel List:

• Guayaquil north of Portete de Tarquí Avenue, due to crime .
• El Oro province outside the cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas, due to crime .
• Los Rios province outside the cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo, due to crime .
• All areas south of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province, due to crime .
• The provinces of Sucumbíos , Manabí , Santa Elena , and Santo Domingo , due to crime .

An interesting item to note: the Sucumbios Province, the gateway to Ecuador’s northern Amazon, including the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve and the Yasuni National Park, dropped from a Level 4 to a Level 3. This is GREAT NEWS!

And a disturbing point – the overall update includes mentions of Cañar and Carchi Provinces with no direct mention of places to avoid nor with specific level advisories for either location. If in doubt, contact your local guide or tourism provider before visiting.

Translating This Ecuador Travel Advisory For Tourists

If you have found your way to our website, it’s likely you are an independent traveler looking to save money by planning your own trip. We get it. We tend to rent cars, hire local guides when needed, and manage on our own. But in situations where safety is a concern, believe me, we reach out to our partners on the ground first. This is especially true if we are taking or sending clients on a trip.

Unsure? Ask lots of questions before you go. This can be on an Expat Facebook page, to your friends who recently traveled to the same area, to guides and tourism providers on the ground, especially if their business is based in the location you would like to visit. Then listen to what they have to say.

I have two examples I want to share to help bring this home. We have traveled to a Level 4 destination as a couple and with a tour group. We have also had people reach out with questions who decided not to follow up with us, despite the free consult.

Traveling to a Level 4 Destination

Why on earth would anyone decide to travel to a destination with a US State Department Level 4 Advisory? Because the advisory was out-of-date.

While the US State Department issues travel advisories to keep its citizens safe, sometimes they let those advisories go on too long. In the case of the Sucumbios Province, especially the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, we were unable to visit when my husband worked at the US Embassy because of the Level 4 advisory. It was one of the first places we visited after he retired. We knew:

• the problems listed in the advisory had taken place years ago;
• tourists regularly visited these destinations with no problems;
• other countries did not have this destination on their do not travel lists.

When we planned a trip for a group to visit the world’s first International Quiet Park , we knew that the Level 4 advisory would cause concern. We allieved those worries by having honest and transparent conversations about the history of the area. We would be visiting the Cofán community of Zabalo River. Ironically, some of the very people we would be visiting were involved in some of the activities in prior decades that caused the US State Department to declare this area a Level 4 in the first place. If you would like to learn more, we suggest reading A Future for Amazonia: Randy Borman and Cofán Environmental Politics by Micahel L. Cepek (affiliate link) .

This trip took place earlier this year, before the US State Department changed the advisory for the Sucumbios Province to Level 3. Bureaucracies often take too much time to come to the right decision. We are hoping that the advisory will come down to a Level 2 for the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve sometime soon. In the meantime, we encourage visitors to the area to be smart – plan with local people who understand the conditions on the ground and can avoid problem areas.

Choosing to Ignore Expert Advice

Right now, we are recommending that clients avoid the entire Ecuadorian coast. It’s sad. We love the beaches of Ecuador and want to support tourism in the region. But we do not recommend tourists arrive without a local guide. There have been too many close calls in recent months that include armed robberies in restaurants, kidnappings, and extortion. Granted, tourists have not been the main target.

What concerns us most is that tourists may end up being caught up in gang activity without meaning too. We believe that the Ecuadorian coast is very similar to the US-Mexican border right now. In Mexico, it is possible to cross but some US Americans have been caught up in gang activity – kidnapped and murdered .

Therefore, when a reader reached out to ask about hiring local guides for a trip he was planning with his friends, the hair on the back of our necks stood up. He had filled out our trip questions form , so we knew his basic plans included renting a van, driving all over coastal Ecuador and into the Amazon.

First, they did not plan enough time for this extensive trip. Travel in Ecuador is complicated by windy roads that Google fails to give solid travel times for. Furthermore, driving in Ecuador is not for the faint of heart. Always plan on extra time if driving yourself.

Second, appearances are everything. A group of men traveling in a van together can look like a threat. A rental van full of men may not scream tourist, it may scream rival gang.

Our recommendation would not have been to cancel this trip. It would have been to edit the itinerary. For example, still want to go to the coast? Hire a guide and driver who use a clearly marked tourism vehicle. It may cost slightly more, but it is shockingly more affordable than many people might think. You will likely have a far superior and safer experience to traveling on your own.

The Hair on the Back of Our Necks

You will notice that I used a very idiomatic expression to describe our concern about trips. Some people are very aware of how their bodies respond to stress, to anxiety, to danger. Some people are not. You should know which type of person you are before you start traveling.

A good place to start is with Scott’s article on South American safety: The Three B’s of Safe Travel . The next article I like to recommend is my own about being safe in Quito. The lessons in it are applicable to travel to any city.

Know where you are going. The vast majority of Ecuador is safe for tourism. The few places where it isn’t can likely be visited with the proper preparation.

About The Author

Angie Drake

Angie consults with small tourism businesses in the Americas on best practices for attracting aligned clients. She loves to travel to lesser-known the destinations. She currently lives in Portland, Oregon and dreams of her next trip to Ecuador.

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Very good article. However there are 2 errors on the Map, not sure if it is yours or the State Dept.’s as Arenillas and Huaquillas are in El Oro Province (in Orange) they are wrongly shown in Loja Province in green.

Thanks for your observation, Mark. The error is all mine. I should have placed those to black dots slightly higher in the correct province. I will be sure to make a better map the next time!

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Travel with us on this once in a lifetime trip to see historical cities, magnificent landscapes and unique wildlife. Our adventure will begin in Ecuador's capital of Quito, set against the Andes Mountains, this city is surrounded by incredible scenery and is full of gems like the historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising of remarkable colonial architecture. Close by is the landmark of Mitad del Mundo, or the 'Middle of the World', marking the exact location of the equator, offering us a unique opportunity to stand in the northern and southern hemisphere simultaneously! O ther highlights we'll uncover on the mainland of Ecuador include learning more about the indigenous people of Otavalo, trying Ecuadorian traditional dishes and exploring Cotopaxi National Park. Then we'll fly to the Galapagos, where we'll walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and see the iconic Galapagos giant tortoises. On our Galapagos cruise we'll sail around Bartholomew and South Plaza Island, spot marine life whilst snorkelling and take in the beautiful natural surroundings. Journey with us to this extraordinary part of South America,  this holiday is guaranteed to create everlasting travel memories.

Trip Itinerary

Activity Level: Busy

Travel to quito ecuador, let's begin.

Let’s begin our Ecuador and Galapagos journey!

Arrive in Quito

Following our arrival in Quito, we will be transferred approximately one hour (35km) with guide assistance to our hotel, our tour base for the next two nights.

Unpack, settle in, and relax more after our journey.

Breakfast is included for each day of your stay in Ecuador and Galapagos Islands.

Discover Quito and “Middle of the World”

Full day guided excursion of quito.

Welcome to the enchanting city of Quito, a jewel of Latin America and a UNESCO World Heritage site that has retained its historical charm. Get ready to discover this fascinating city!

We depart from our hotel by coach and begin our walking tour meandering through the narrow cobblestone streets, reminiscent of the sixteenth century, allowing you to soak up the historical charm of Quito. We uncover Quito’s highlights including Independence Plaza square, La Compania Church, with its ornate gold leaf interior and elaborately carved altars. Experience more as we visit the wide-open plaza, and church of San Francisco, built in the sixteenth century by the Indians of St. Andrews School.

Next, we take in the beauty of the Andean landscape (weather permitting) with a visit to El Panecillo Hill.

Enjoy some time at leisure for lunch (not included) before we see more of this fascinating city.

Experience both Hemispheres – Middle of the World!

Let’s discover the “Middle of the World” monument and see the Sun Dial monument! Just north of Quito is a large park built for the exact location of the equatorial line a latitude of 0°0’0”. Let’s experience stepping onto the Northern and Southern hemisphere at the same time, what a great Instagram shot moment!

After our journey to both hemispheres we return to our hotel late in the late afternoon from our full day excursion and enjoy the evening at leisure to soak in the local ambiance and relax after a memorable day in Quito.

Transfer by Coach to Otavalo

Experience otavalo and the otavalo indian market.

Today we embark on a scenic coach journey to Otavalo, an enchanting destination known for its vibrant indigenous culture and bustling markets. Our adventure begins with an early start, ensuring we make the most of the day’s exploration.

As we depart, we travel along the breathtaking Pan American Highway offering a chance to relax and take in the stunning scenery of the Imbabura province and its captivating lake district. The approximate 95-kilometer journey, roughly two hours, will leave you captivated.

Along the way we make time for some comfort stops before we reach Otavalo.

Lago San Pablo and Indian Markets

Indulge your senses as you step back and take in the majestic beauty of Lago San Pablo, a pristine, icy gem among the Andean lakes. Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Otavalo, where a world-famous open-air market awaits you. Delve into a treasure trove of unique goods, from timeless pottery, cozy woollen sweaters and tapestries. Shop till you drop for souvenirs or revel in the kaleidoscope of colours and creativity that fills this marketplace.

We have some free time for lunch (not included) and further time to explore the marketplace.

After our adventure into the market, we make our way to our accommodation for the night in Otavalo.

Tonight, dinner is included (simple set menu)

Visit Cotacachi, Cuicocha and Peguche

Transfer to quito by coach.

We experience more of this beautiful country as we depart from Otavalo and venture into the breathtaking highlands on our way back to Quito by coach.  Our scenic coach journey will lead us to captivating destinations including Cotacachi, Cuicocha and Peguche.

Let’s see more as we take in the raw beauty of Lake Cuicocha, a 3km wide caldera and crater lake at the foot of the Cotacachi Volcano in the Coirdillera Occidental of the Ecuadorian Andes. Our exploration continues in the artisan haven of Cotacachi, renowned for its exquisite leather goods and handicrafts. Here savour the flavours of Ecuador with traditional dishes like carne colorada (filet of pork cooked in red achiote sauce) and queso de hoja (soft cheese wrapped in plant leaf).

Before we make our way back to Quito, we pause to bask in the allure of Peguche and its picturesque waterfall, one of the main attractions in the Otavalo region. This cascading wonder stands 18 meters tall and stretches 6 meters wide, a perfect opportunity to capture unforgettable moments through your camera lens or phone!

There will be free time for leisure at lunch (not included)

We have arrived back in Quito! Let’s unpack and relax after our adventure through the highlands.

Join us tonight and savour a tasty cocktail while we take in the night lights over Quito, on a roof top bar. The rest of our evening is at leisure to further relax and unwind before tomorrow’s adventure.

Excursion to Saquisili Market and Quilotoa Lagoon

Transfer from quito to cotopaxi by coach.

Let’s get ready for another full day of exploration in this captivating country! Our journey begins early in the morning from Quito, ensuring we make the most of every moment. We set our course for the vibrant Saquisili market, renowned as one of the most colourful and comprehensive Indian markets in Ecuador, the transfer takes approximately 2 hours (97.5km)

After, we continue our full day excursion to Quilotoa Lagoon (86km), nestled amidst towering mountains. Pause and take in the panoramic vista from the observatory and admire views of the highland life, with all its unique endemic flora. The majestic lagoon below is approximately 3km, with an emerald green to blue colour, soak up the beauty and capture yet another postcard worthy moment.

Throughout today’s journey, we will make convenient comfort stops and enjoy a well-deserved break for lunch (not included).

We depart Quilotoa lagoon and make our way to Cotopaxi and spend the night here.

Tonight, dinner is included at our accommodation (simple and rustic set menu)

Cotopaxi National Park Walking Tour

This morning we depart our hotel and make our way to Quito, but not before we experience more of this fascinating countryside. Our journey leads us to the lush paramo of Chasqui, where we approach the base of Cotopaxi, the world’s highest active volcano. Witness stunning peaks rising almost 6000 meters and experience the invigorating mountain air as we prepare for our 45-minute, moderate walking tour in Cotopaxi National Park.

Our path takes us to Limpiopungo, where you’ll relish scenic views of highland vegetation and the picturesque Limpiopungo Lagoon, often reflecting the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano on clear days. The terrain is flat with some unevenness, and not steep, we recommend comfortable shoes, and warm, dry clothing to enhance your experience. The natural beauty is beyond compare in this unique landscape.

Please note this day’s excursion can change if Cotopaxi National Park is closed and an alternative activity will be offered.

After we make a stop for lunch (not included) before continuing our drive to Quito for our overnight stay.

We have arrived! Check in to our hotel in Quito, and re charge our batteries for tomorrows big adventure to the Galapagos Islands!

Flight from Quito to Galapagos

Galapagos – santa cruz island.

Today we say farewell to Quito, and we transfer by coach to the airport for our flight to Baltra Galapagos.

We have arrived in Galapagos! We meet our transfer and make our way to our hotel. Enroute to our hotel we visit the Twin Craters and admire these two large sink holes in an area of farmland and native forest, territory for the iconic Galapagos giant tortoise. These two craters are located on the opposite sides of the main Santa Cruz Road.

Let’s check in to our hotel and enjoy some lunch (included).

Please note your flight tickets and timings are given locally for your internal Galapagos flights. 

Also included in the cost of your holiday are the Galapagos National Park Tax and Galapagos Transit card.

Visit Charles Darwin Research Station - Puerto Ayora

After our light lunch (included) we venture to Puerto Ayora, the largest town in the archipelago. Here we explore the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station, and the captivating Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre.

After our afternoon of discovering the headquarters for scientific research and conservation we make our way back to our hotel.

Enjoy the evening at leisure to further explore our surroundings.

Please note for your stay on Santa Cruz Island, the transfers and excursions will be shared, and not a private Travel Department tour for the duration of your stay here. All excursions will be organised by your hotel locally. The excursions are subject to change due to local weather conditions.

Galapagos – Bartholomew Island

Cruise galapagos.

This morning we have a very early start to uncover some of the treasures of these unique islands in the Galapagos! We transfer to Itabaca Canal for our cruise. All aboard! We embark on our cruise and set sail approximately two hours Northwest of Santa Cruz Island to Bartholomew Island. Bartholomew has one of the most beautiful and photographed landscapes of the archipelago with the iconic pinnacle rock. Lace up your sturdy shoes as we take a walk up the wooden staircase trail (360 steps, 795 meters), to the summit of the extinct volcano, there are a lot of steps to climb, but well worth the view! For those who don’t want to exert themselves, you can stay on board the boat, and soak up the relaxing atmosphere.

Please note to keep the pristine beauty and ecological balance on these fascinating islands you will always be accompanied by a guide, when disembarking on the islands.

After our walk we take well-deserved snorkel keeping an eye out for some marine life like the Galapagos penguins, sea turtles, rays and much more swimming in the shallow waters in Sullivans Bay located in Santiago Island, just five minutes from Bartholomew Island.

A light lunch is included today on board before returning to Santa Cruz, Itabaca Canal.

We arrive back in the evening after a day out sailing, snorkelling and discovery! Let’s transfer back to our hotel by shuttle.

Enjoy the evening at leisure relax and unwind after your adventurous day discovering the beauty of Galapagos.

Galapagos – South Plaza Island

Cruise galapagos punta carrion & south plaza island.

Let’s get set for another day of sailing and exploring! We transfer fifty minutes’ drive to Itabaca Canal and set sail east of Santa Cruz Island to visit Punta Carrion for some snorkelling. We discover an array of marine life which may include a variety of fishes, sea turtles, rays, Galapagos sharks and much more. Next, we set sail to South Plaza Island and partner of North Plaza Island, with its natural red carpet (sesuvium) and cactus creating a unique landscape. Here we stop and to discover the natural wonders of the Galapagos from sealions, land iguanas, and the iconic marine iguanas, Galapagos lizards, finches, and a variety of seabirds.

Lunch is included on board today (usually a simple light lunch of fresh fish, salads, and rice).

After, we set sail back to Santa Cruz and Itabaca Canal.

Arrive late in the afternoon and transfer by shuttle back to our hotel in the evening.

Last Night on Santa Cruz

Enjoy your last night on the Santa Cruz to soak up the island atmosphere.

Fly from Galapagos to Guayaquil

At leisure guayaquil.

Today we say farewell to our Galapagos Island wonders, and transfer to Baltra airport for our flight to Guayaquil.

On arrival we meet our guide and transfer to our hotel for the night in Guayaquil (approximately 20 minutes, 7km). Our guide will tell us of places to visit to make the most of our free time in this captivating city.

We spend the rest of the day at leisure to relax and further explore our surroundings.

Guided City tour of Guayaquil

Flights home – depart ecuador.

It’s our final day and we still have more to discover. We uncover the highlights of Guayaquil city on a half day excursion taking in Centennial Park, first firemen station, the Masonic temple, 9 de Octubre Avenue, Seminario Park (known as Iguanas Park) and much more. There will also be a stop at the South Market in Malecon 2000, to visit Integration Plaza and artisan’s market. We continue the excursion through the Malecon Simon Bolivar and discover more before transferring to the airport for our flight home.

We say a fond fare well to Ecuador and all its memorable moments in this unique and picturesque country.

Customer Reviews

Hotels available.

Quito   Ecuador

Hotel Quito

Hotel Quito boasts a wonderful setting, in an elevated setting north of the city, with views of the Andean Valley and Quito city; surrounded by gardens and wide-open space. Located within walking dis…

Otavalo   Ecuador

Hacienda Pinsaqui

Nestled amidst the heart of Ecuador's highland region, beneath the majestic Imbabura Volcano and to the north of the renowned Otavalo market, lies Hacienda Pinsaqui. This enchanting house, steeped in…

Lasso   Ecuador

Hacienda La Cienega

Nestled in the skirts of the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, Hacienda La Cienega is a timeless gem steeped in history, exuding character, and rustic charm. Proudly boasting its heritage as one of Ecuador’…

Hotel Wyndham Quito Airport

The Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel is the optimal place for guests seeking a simple and comfortable stay, and yet conveniently located 1.4 km away from Quito’s international airport. The hotel provides …

Peurto Ayora, Santa Cruz   Galapagos, Ecuador

Hotel Silberstein

Hotel Silberstein is your gateway to the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands. Set in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, the hotel offers a simple and yet comfortable stay, allowing you to fully …

Guayaquil   Ecuador

Grand Hotel Guayaquil

Positioned in the heart of Guayaquil, the Grand Hotel Guayaquil offers an understated blend of simplicity and comfort, infused with authentic Ecuadorian charm. Resting along the vibrant Malecon 2000,…

Know before you go

Will i be met at the airport.

You will be met on arrival at your destination airport and transferred to your accommodation. You will be accompanied on all included excursions by your Travel Department guide. Your expert local guide is also available to give you tips and advice on any aspect of your holiday.

Do I need a Visa?

Please visit our visa page for information on requirements for each country's entry requirements

What if there is an emergency?

We have local representatives in all of our destinations who are available 24/7 as well as an emergency contact number for our offices in Ireland should you ever need it.

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