Ecuador is a phenomenal country located along in western coast of Latin America (think: near Peru and Colombia). While planning my first trip to South America, I knew I’d have the help of my friend, however before going much further into this article I’d like to make a recommendation (more tips to come in later articles). If you plan to travel to Latin America, I’d advise introductory – intermediate Spanish, knowing your surroundings, and being a moderately experienced traveler. OK, now that the advisory is out of the way…. onto the best places in beautiful Ecuador!
My personal number 3 locations in Ecuador were nearly impossible to rank order as these places were all special for different reasons.
First on the list is: El Pailon del diablo, a waterfall located near Banos, Ecuador. It is strongly recommended to have a car when traveling to this location as it is about 3 hours south of Quito, the country’s capital and road conditions can vary. After arriving to Banos, the waterfall is located approximately 15-20 minutes out of town via driving. However, this 1.3 mile long trail will lead to a wonderful cascading waterfall that will be 100% worth the effort to get there.
The next destination on the list is: the Historic Center of Quito, a stunning colonial area of the city known for cathedrals, empanadas and canelazo (a traditional Ecuadorian alcoholic drink). While Quito itself is a sprawling city that it lays in the valley between numerous volcanos, this section of the city is a cannot miss on any trip. The Basilica del Nacional is a stunning Roman Catholic cathedral in the neo-gothic style from the 1883-1885. Numerous hostels and hotels line this area, so finding an accommodation is easy, but I’d recommend being based in the North of Quito near La Carolina and traveling into the center of the city to reach the historic center as the area can be variable in terms of safety at night.
Ingapirca is the third recommended location to visit and is located in Cañar providence of Ecuador. It remains one of the best preserved archeological sites in Ecuador. The Canari and Incan ruins are usually visited by tourists on a day-trip from Cuenca, Ecuador (the third largest city in the country).
From waterfalls to ruins and cathedrals, Ecuador truly has it all. Despite its small size, the biodiversity of the country is immense and beautiful. During my time in the country (~2 weeks over the Christmas holiday season), I found the hospitality of the people, food, and culture to be one the warmest welcomes to Latin America imaginable. I plan to return next year, but this time, likely to Argentina! 🙂 Until next time, Ecuador!
Stampchaser Photography 