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Ecuador - Destination Guide

Quito:

Situated in the Andes Mountains in the northern region of Ecuador, Quito is a culturally rich location and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site further proves this. The city´s historical center or ´old town´ is filled to the brim with colonial buildings, churches and theaters, and after a massive restoration project, the old town is now considered the most vibrant and character filled place to stay in Quito. For a completely different experience, one can head to Quito´s ´new town´ where modernity, technology and infrastructure mix with trendy cafes, international restaurants and bars to create a city capital that is loved by both quiteños (people from Quito) and tourists alike.

Galapagos Islands:

The Galapagos Islands, which are situated 960 kilometers off the west coast of Ecuador, were created as a result of volcanic activity still present on the islands today. What makes the Galapagos truly astounding are the variety of animals present who act as though humans are nothing more than a mild irritation and seem more than happy to live in mutual cooperation with the more than 30 000 people who call the islands home. The islands, nicknamed ¨Enchanted Islands¨, are any nature lover´s dream as the natural surroundings and local animals have managed to live and develop for centuries, relatively untouched and surrounded by some of the world´s most magnificent scenery. Luckily for visitors of the islands not much has changed since the infamous Charles Darwin landed on the shores in 1845 and today, many species on the island have not been found anywhere else on earth.

Guayaquil:

Guayaquil is Ecuador´s most populated city, as well as its largest. Known as the ¨Pacific Pearl¨, the city´s tropical climate and status as the main port of Ecuador has transformed it into a tourist destination like no other. Guayaquil´s bustling nightlife, monuments, museums, parks, the River Guayas and the infamous Malecon (the city´s waterfront park) mean that you will never run out of things to do when you visit this fabulous port city. Malecón 2000, Parque Histórico, Cerro Santa Ana and “Las Peñas”, Bosque Cerro Blanco, Puerto Hondo Mangroves and the Botanical Gardens are just a few of the highlights here and many excursions to the Galapagos and Ecuadorian jungle leave from Guayaquil, making it the perfect place to begin and end your vacation in Ecuador.

Banos:

Banos is simply one of Ecuador’s top tourist destinations. Surrounded by lush, green mountains, thermal baths and countless waterfalls – some of which you can see from your hotel window, the town has become increasingly popular among foreigners and Ecuadorians alike. Vacationers flock to this idyllic town to bike, hike, relax in the thermal baths or nip around on quad bikes. The town is famous for its jaw breaking milcocha, a type of thick taffy that gives your mouth a serious workout, as well as excellent dining out options. Rent a bike and take in the breath taking views of the upper Amazon basin or make your way into the jungle via Puyo and Misahualli as Banos is the gateway town into the Amazon. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure in a stunning setting, then Banos is definitely Ecuador’s finest.

Cuenca:

Locals have been comparing Quito and Cuenca for decades but when it comes to natural beauty and old, colonial charm, Cuenca takes the cake. Nestled above the lush banks of Rio Tomebamba, its cobblestone streets, plazas, and white-washed buildings all come together to create a striking city. While its colonial heritage is still very obvious, Cuenca also has a modern edge which is created by excellent restaurants, cafes, art galleries and a myriad of bars to choose from. This popular destination has a large student population and in 1999 was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Coca:

Coca, also known as Puerto Francisco de Orellana, has been the capital of the Orellana province in Ecuador for 10 years. Situated in eastern Ecuador, the city is located in the Amazon Forest where the Coca River and Napo River meet and is a popular departure point for tours heading into the forest. As a result of its ideal location near the dense jungle, it’s much easier to reach surrounding natural reserves and jungle lodges from Coca and despite its tumultuous past with oil companies and resulting collapse in their economy, Coca is definitely on the rise again as a result of an emerging tourism industry.

Manta:

Manta is all about fishing. By the time the sun has risen over this port city, Manteno fishing crews are bringing in the day’s catch. Housewives and restaurant owners alike gather on the beach to haggle over the price and weight of each fisherman’s best catch. The city’s breathtaking beaches and well developed hotel infrastructure have made it a popular choice for vacationers. While in Manta, one can visit the Banco Central Museum which holds fascinating native Central American artifacts, or take a stroll to along the beach as you take in the perfect climate, coastal mountain and marine ambience. In addition to being famous for diving and sport fishing, Manta also hosts the International Theater Festival in September and numerous sporting events from January through to April. Seafood, marine activities and beaches second to none, Manta is the perfect summer holiday location.

Puerto Lopez:

If you’re on the Ecuadorian coast, then Puerto Lopez is an absolute must-see. Whether it’s whale-watching, sun bathing or exploring the Parque Nacional Machalilla, this gorgeous seaside village has a lot to offer. It’s the perfect place to buy cheap tours to Isla de la Plata and is the ideal departure point for vacationers heading to the southern region of Mahabi. The best times to visit Puerto Lopez and observe the humpback whales are from June to September, and while you’re there why not try one of the snorkeling courses? With its safe streets, cheap hotels and wonderful cafes, one simply has to make time for this quaint seaside haven.

Otovalo:

Since pre-Inca times, traders and merchants alike would trek to Otavalo to sample the local artisan’s handiworks: rugs, sweaters and hand made crafts have been sold here for centuries. When one visits Otavalo, you will find Otavalenos a friendly and prosperous people who have always taken pride in their heritage. It’s remarkably refreshing to find locals dressed primarily in traditional garments which includes women with beautifully embroidered blouses, head cloths and bright necklaces, while the men can be seen wearing felt hats, ponchos and long ponytails. Otavalenos are also famous for their weaving and craftmanship and as a result, are the most commercially successful and prosperous of the indigenas in Ecuador. When visiting the area, take time to chat with local vendors, partake in community tourism and visit the surrounding areas which are the creative life and soul behind the merchant’s markets.

Papallacta:

The lake area of Papallacta is a beautifully scenic region situated at the foot of the Antisana volcano just an hour north east of Quito. The area is blessed with natural diversity and is a must see destination for bird watchers where you may just be lucky enough to view the mighty Andean condor in full flight. The area is filled with many rare species of birds which includes some varieties of hummingbirds – only ever seen at very high altitudes. The area is also famous for the picturesque Lake of Papallacta and the thermal baths which are heated by the Antisana volcano. Trout fishing, hikes, horseback riding and a variety medicinal and beauty treatments are on offer in Papallacta and if the sophisticated spa facilities aren’t enough to convince you to stay, then the area’s unmatched local cuisine and excellent trout certainly will.