Usually overshadowed by its extra visited neighbours, Colombia and Peru, Ecuador is without doubt one of the best-kept secrets and techniques in South America journey. Whereas the Galápagos Islands are well-known for wildlife like large tortoises and blue-footed boobies, there’s an entire different facet to find. For those who’re in search of Ecuador journey journey or the perfect issues to do in mainland Ecuador, don’t miss cities like Quito, Baños, Tena, and Papallacta. From white-water rafting and scorching springs to lush Andean landscapes and vibrant indigenous tradition, the Ecuadorian mainland is filled with outside thrills and genuine native experiences. Right here, our International Social Media Supervisor Jessica Filice offers her account of the highest 5 experiences to get pleasure from when you’re on this South American gem:
I wasn’t fairly certain what to anticipate touchdown in Quito as I, self-admittedly, didn’t know a lot about Ecuadorian meals, tradition, and even what to do in my free time. However boy-oh-boy, beginning on day one among Ecuador Quest I went from 0 to 100 in a matter of seconds and cherished each minute of it. Right here’s my round-up of the perfect issues to do in mainland Ecuador:
1: Saddle up in Baños
On the second day of our journey, we hopped on a bus from Quito and made our technique to Baños, the journey capital of Ecuador. We have been spoiled for selection of non-obligatory outside actions together with waterfall canyoning, mountaineering, paragliding, and (my selection!) horseback using. Yee-haw! This exercise is made for all using ranges. We saddled up and explored the mountainous countryside on horseback whereas strolling, trotting, and galloping with our skilled information, José.
We stopped midway to study extra concerning the wildlife and have been led to a flowing river. José requested us to cross our water bottles and he stuffed it up with refreshingly scrumptious pure carbonated water, or “fuel water” as they are saying in Ecuador. Pure carbonated water means there’s a volcano close by and we have been fortunate sufficient to see the tippity-top of Tungurahua volcano as we trotted alongside down the mountain.
2: Swing on the finish of the world
Whereas in Baños, our group made our means by bus to Casa del Arbol for photographs of ourselves overlooking Tungurahua volcano. This actual spot was made well-known in 2014 by a traveller who received a Nationwide Geographic picture contest after they snapped themselves swinging whereas the volcano started to erupt (in case you’re questioning, it’s unlikely the volcano will erupt whenever you go to). It was such a heart-thumping expertise to swing and really feel like a child once more with the wind in my hair. And I acquired to snap a profitable shot of my very own!
Can’t make it out to Baños? The capital metropolis of Quito additionally has a swing that overlooks the whole metropolis. For round $9 USD, hop on the TelefériQo Cable Automotive for a ten minute trip up the foothills of Pichincha Volcano. Stand up 4,000+ metres and comply with the arrows when you hop off the cable automotive. It leads you to the spot the place you possibly can take pics of your self swinging excessive above the clouds.
3: Be part of a free strolling tour in Quito
Talking of Quito, the capital metropolis is understood for its wealthy historical past, music, and tradition. For those who’re eager to see the principle plazas in Previous City, outside markets, colonial church buildings, and possibly even discover stay music and dancing on the streets, this free regionally led tour is for you! The excursions are led by English-speaking Ecuadorians and held Monday by Saturday, 10:30am and a pair of:30pm in Previous City. I requested the entrance desk of my lodge precisely the place this group meets they usually handed me a map with detailed coordinates on learn how to discover them. The tour occurs rain or shine so put together for the climate (layers are at all times higher!) and comfy sneakers.
4: Journey into the Amazon Jungle
Disconnecting from wifi and electrical energy gave the impression of a nightmare to my millennial self who browses TikTok each evening earlier than mattress, however placing my cellphone all the way down to stay just like the native folks in a lush Amazonian rainforest was price it. For 2 nights we met and lived with a Quichua household who warmly hosted us of their village. We stayed in rustic picket huts and took part in limitless actions like jungle walks, waterfall swims, whitewater rafting, mud masks, bike using, and a lot extra. I forgot I even owned a cellphone!
I cherished studying extra about Quichua historical past and tradition from our host household and watched a conventional ceremonial mock marriage ceremony, danced with my group, and even tried chontacuro worms (if I can do it, so are you able to). Staying within the Amazon was a novel expertise I received’t quickly neglect and it’s price noting that you may additionally do a 7-day model of it on the Native Dwelling Ecuador – Amazon Jungle tour.
5: Unwind in a thermal spa
After all the excessive impression exercise and working round, a break felt effectively deserved. In Papallacta, a few two hour bus trip from Quito, our group relaxed in pure mineral scorching swimming pools with grand volcanic views. We have been spoiled and stayed at Termas Papallacta, a spa lover’s dream. We loved the non-public scorching springs proper exterior our doorstep and soaked in the fantastic thing about nature round us.
On the resort it’s also possible to go on a leisurely hike passing by flowing rivers, waterfalls, and (if you happen to’re fortunate) a bunch of pleasant llamas. It was the right technique to finish a memorable, adrenaline-pumping journey.
Getting There
Searching for an ideal means so as to add on to a Galápagos Islands expertise or simply go all inland in Ecuador? Our Ecuador Quest tour is the best way to go.
