Have you chosen Ecuador to be your next vacation destination? Good choice. Without a doubt, the country is a beautiful one, and every time you turn, you'll see more and more of its paradisiacal nature. Even so, no matter what you're visiting the country for, be it its incredible attractions, heritage cities, influential culture or food, you shouldn't leave the essential details of your travel for the end. This article brings you details on every important aspect of your journey to make your adventure in Ecuador a pleasant one.
Ecuador Travel Guide: All You Need to Know, Hiking in Ecuador
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Places to Visit
The Amazon Rainforest
The Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest is the most wildlife-rich area on Earth. The Cuyabeno Reserve and Yasuni National Park are the main protected areas in Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest. These reserves contain a huge amount of wildlife including jaguar, monkeys, and tapir
Galapagos Islands
This beautiful island is where visitors go to enjoy the view of several wildlife, experience a luxurious cruise and relax on its spectacular beaches. Some luxury Galapagos cruise options include Ocean Spray and Cormorant Galapagos Cruise.
Montañita
Known for its tranquil beaches and perfect waves, Montañita is a proper backpacker's haven. It features many laid back beach parties and live bands. Accommodations here are inexpensive too.
Quilotoa Loop
The Quilotoa Loop is one of Ecuador’s scenic hikes. It offers striking scenery views and a beautiful lake. The trail is only three hours from Quito. Many visitors find the hike very exciting.
Where to Stay
Generally, accommodation in Ecuador is affordable. You could get a dorm for $8 per night or a private room for $12. Most of These accommodations come with free Wi-Fi and hot water. In larger cities like Quito, however, the price for accommodation tend to go higher, usually around $40 to $50 per night for two persons.
But if you're looking to be closer to nature Yamaha lodge is a great option. Here, you get the chance to swim with river dolphins and track hiking trails that lead to hidden waterfalls. Sani Lodge is another jungle lodge that brings you closer to Mother Nature and many wildlife, especially birds.
What to Pack
If you're planning on exploring Ecuador and spending a lot of time outside, then you need to pack for all four seasons. You're likely to experience most, if not all, of the season in a single day, especially if you'll be in the mountains, or be local hiking along a trail in the forest. Many areas of the country have beautiful hot springs so you may want to bring along your swimwear. You'll also be needing sunscreen as Ecuador is closer to the sun and thus quite hot. The country can also be very noisy. Bring a set of earplugs; they'll help.
What is Ecuador's Food Like?
Ecuador's food is typically bland and not so spicy. One of its famous dishes is rice with meat or fish. You'll also find a lot of Chinese dishes there since Ecuador has a large Chinese immigrant population. It's also prevalent to find cuy or guinea pig being served outside the big cities. This delicacy is very tasty. Meanwhile, popcorn and dried plantain are some of the favorite appetizers in the nation.
How to Get around Ecuador
The fastest and most popular way of getting around in Ecuador is through buses. The ticket of a local bust costs around $0.25. However, except in Quito where bus stops exist, you'll have to flag down a bus and request your stop whenever it comes along. Long-distance bus rides cost from $1-2 an hour and up to $10 for even longer trips.
Another way to transport yourself is through the train. This, however, is not the best option to move around in Ecuador. Nevertheless, there are day trips specifically designed for tourists along train routes.
A country like Ecuador should never be overlooked when searching for a good getaway destination. Now you have all the excuse you need to spend time discovering the country's great outdoors and finally get a taste of its exquisite cuisine. Why not start booking? We hope that you enjoy your stay.