Ecuador is a small but very interesting country in South America. Traveling along which, you can see the variety of nature and the way of life of local residents. Despite its small size, even a month is not enough to see the most interesting places.
Capital Quito
As a rule, everyone arrives in Quito and begins their acquaintance with the country from this city. All tourists tend to visit the historical center, but there are safer and more respectable areas. And greener and more comfortable. The peculiarity of the city is its high altitude, so in the first days you may experience weakness, headache and other signs of altitude sickness.
It is better to leave in Quito for two or three days to visit the Equator Museum, the botanical garden and climb the funicular to an altitude of more than 4000 meters. Keep in mind that, as with most large cities in Latin America, some areas can be unsafe.
Thermal springs Papayakta
A whole spa complex in the mountains, built on the site of natural thermal springs. You can come one day from Quito.
Market City Otovalo
The most famous market in Ecuador is located in the town of Otovalo, north of the capital and on the way to the border with Colombia. The city is almost entirely inhabited by Indians, and the most authentic handicrafts can be bought here.
Lagoon Quilotoa
The lagoon, which is located in the crater of the volcano, at an altitude of 3900 meters above sea level. You need to arrive there as early as possible, because in the afternoon it can be cloudy and rainy. If you are lucky with the weather, then you will discover all the beauty of the langoon. There are trekking routes around, in 4-5 hours you can go around it along the perimeter. If you have already adapted to the altitude and do not suffer from altitude sickness, then you can stay overnight right upstairs, there are several cute mini-hotels with all the amenities.
Volcano Cotapaxi, Chimborazo, Pichincha, Imbabura
These are the most famous volcanoes, and there are many more. The highest of them is Chimborazo, climbing it is possible only with a guide, and requires special training. But you can admire the top by staying in the town of Riobamba.
Banos
Small, but at the same time one of the most touristic towns in Ecuador. From here you can take excursions to the jungle; not far from Banos there is the very famous swing over the abyss. It is also a paradise for bike lovers.
Cuenca
A small town in the mountains of Ecuador, with a European standard of living. An amazingly beautiful and calm small town with clean air, pleasant coolness all year round and many coffee houses, restaurants and hotels opened by Europeans. Americans and Canadians.
Las Cajas
National park in the mountains, near Cuenca. Mountain trekking routes and beautiful landscapes.
Vilcabamba
A small village in the south of the country, whose inhabitants can boast of longevity. Indeed, there you can meet people of a very old age, but active and smiling. There is also a wonderful mountain climate, a lot of fruits and very clear water.
Guayaquil
It is considered the most polluted and most dangerous city in Ecuador. Therefore, many tourists watch it in passing, on the way to the coast or the Galapagos Islands. Of course, there are some good areas here, but you need to be extra careful. Guayaquil is a large transport hub, from where you can go by bus to any part of the country, as well as to Peru.
Coastal beaches
There are beaches along the Pacific Ocean. Most of them are good for surfing, some for kitesurfing.
Galapagos
Islands with unique wildlife and beautiful beaches. It is also the most expensive place in Ecuador, plus a special fee is charged for visiting the islands. You can fly to the islands from Guayaquil or Quito.
