The most beautiful places in Ecuador

Ecuador. A country often overlooked due to its more prominent neighbors. When people think of visiting South America its often Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina or Chile. Often Ecuador is left behind. That’s a big mistake though. Ecuador is one of my favorite countries in the world. It is packed with beauty, amazing people and stunning scenery. In many ways it is like its neighboring countries, but in many ways also unlike them. in this post I will talk about the most beautiful places in Ecuador. I hope I manage to convince at least one person to go.

I visited Ecuador before getting into photography, so all photos are from unsplash.

Quito

Often the first place in Ecuador that people visit. Quito is a beautiful city. One of the most beautiful big cities I have experienced in South America. On clear days, you will have a view of Cotopaxi, creating a stunning backdrop to the city. Quito is home to some very cozy streets, making it a great place for street photography. When you are there, make sure to get to one of the viewpoints above the city on a clear day, in order to experience sunset. It is magical.
As with most other big cities, make sure you dont walk around alone in the evening.

Quilotoa

For me, Quilotoa was a pleasent surprise during my trip to Ecuador. Back then, as I didn’t yet have an interest in photography, I also wasn’t too interested in planning. Therefor I hadn’t seen that this beauty was part of our program.
As I left the car, I stood in awe for a few seconds. Coming from Denmark, I had never seen anything like it in my life. At this moment in time, it was probably one of the most beautiful things I had ever seen, and I honestly think that this was the moment I really started appreciating nature, and began finding an interest in photography. I remember taking out my parents’ point and shoot camera and just clicked away, so I would be able to show them when I got back home.
Quilotoa is a huge volcanic crater filled with some of the bluest water you will ever have seen.

Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi is one of the most prominent sights in Ecuador. Standing tall above the city of Quito, it seems like a giant among men. Cotopaxi is absolutely beautiful from all angles. You can stay below and look for different compositions to photograph the volcano in the best way possible. However you can also choose to hike to the top, and get a view of the landscapes surrounding it. It is an amazing experience, just make sure that you are well prepared if you choose to hike it. I wasn’t and I paid for it.

The Galapagos

The Galapagos islands need no introduction whatsoever. These set of islands are some of the most biodiverse places in the entire world. And they are without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Ecuador. In the Galapagos islands you will experience sea turtles, curious sealions seemingly, beautiful birds and amazing undersea life. The sealions seem unaware to what’s happening around them, and lay basically everywhere. On the pavement, on benches, stairs. It is a really interesting thing to experience.

Mindo

Mindo is located on the slopes of the Andes where the lowlands and the tropical Andes meet. Often described as being located in a cloud forest, Mindo is a beautiful place, where you can experience lots of different activities. Among the more popular options are the hikes along the waterfalls, a chocolate tour, ziplining and bird watching. You will not be bored when visiting Mindo.

Chimborazo

Chimborazo is the highest point in Ecuador, and a must visit for tourists. Many try to climb to the top, however it is quite a strenuous hike due to the altitude. In fact, Chimborazo is the point on the earths surface which is the farthest point from the earths center, due to the fact that it is located on the equatorial bulge. That said, Chimborazo is extremely picturesque and from the ground you can capture some truly stunning photos.

Guamote

For some reason, I really loved Guamote. It reminded me of something from an old western movie. There is not much to do here, but the city still captivated me. It is one of the best places in the country to people watch. Many locals in Guamote wear colorful clothes, giving them a very pretty appearance. There is a huge indigenous market in Guamote, which is worth experiencing. From Guamote it is possible to visit some of the communities in the mountains, which is a truly amazing experience! It is definitely one of the best places to visit in Ecuador.

Otavalo

Otavalo is probably best known for its market, which is worth exploring. Fruit, vegetables, colorful clothing and necklaces are all sold here. Located just 40 km from Quito, this is a great place to get an introduction to Ecuador. The city is really cozy, and the surrounding nature is beautiful. Close by is Laguna de Cuicocha which is breathtaking, and a place that has to be visited.

The Amazon

I hope that everybody gets to experience the Amazon at least once. It is a remarkable place, truly beautiful. When you are deep inside the rainforest all you hear is the surrounding animals. It is a special experience, something that you will end up cherishing forever. Getting to see local communities, learn about their life and how it has changed over time is really interesting.
You can get to do boat tours down the river, night and day hikes and wildlife spotting. It is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Ecuador.

Banos

Known as the adventure capital of Ecuador, Banos is not only an adventurists dream, it is also beautiful. Natural pools, the waterfall route and the swing at the end of the world. Banos has to be visited, if not for its beauty, then for all the adventures you can have. From Banos you can also visit the incredible Tungurahua volcano, which is till erupting from time to time, though it’s been a few years since the last eruption.

Sangay national park

Certainly one of the most beautiful places in Ecuador. Sangay national park is really diverse when it comes to its landscapes. You have lakes, mountains and beautiful volcano. Sangay volcano, Laguna Amarilla and the Altar volcano are probably some of the most beautiful spots in the park. All places that have to be visited. It is a truly stunning area, and you can easily spend a few days hiking around.

Illiniza

Illiniza or the Illinizas are a set of volcanos located in the north of Latacunga. There are quite a few different treks that take you to the top, where you will have amazing views. However if you are not into hiking, the volcanoes are just as impressive from the ground. Hiking around you will be able to find some truly stunning viewpoints from which to photograph the volcanoes.

Volcano Carihuairazo

Volcano Carihuairazo is another beautiful volcano in Ecuador. Getting to the to requires about a 4 day hike, and there are many local agencies doing the hike. However as with Illiniza, the volcano is just as beautiful from the ground, and has to be experienced. You can get som truly stunning photos of the volcanoes in Ecuador, this one included.

Here you have it! My list of the best places to visit in Ecuador. Do you have any additions? If so, I would love to hear.