Visiting Ecuador will leave you with many unforgettable experiences!
Sometimes the best family trip is that which provides children the ability to step outside their comfort zone, confront the culturally unfamiliar, and learn to embrace differences. Ecuador maybe isn’t the most talked about vacation destination but it is a beautiful and welcoming country that is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of an extraordinary family vacation. This small country in South America is known for the spectacular Galapagos Islands, but mainland Ecuador has a lot to offer too.
If you are a wildlife lover, I’m sure the Galapagos Islands have been on your bucket list forever, as its famous for being one of the best wildlife viewing destinations in the world. Quito, the country’s capital, is a bustling city full of beautiful colonial buildings, and surrounded by the breathtaking Andes Mountains. If the idea of the Andes Mountains captivates you, but you’re not looking for an intense adventure vacation, scheduling a trip to the Andean Highlands is a must. It provides the perfect mix of comfort, culture, and nature. For the more curious and adventurous, Baños, is a gateway to the Amazon, and a great spot to consider visiting.
Logistics and Timing
When should I go?
The best time to visit, is….any time, really. People sometimes refer to Ecuador as having and “eternal spring,” because of the spring-like weather conditions they experience year-round. Ecuador averages a temperature of 65 degrees throughout the entire year. For the best wildlife viewing, January to May is deemed as the best time to visit. Keep in mind though that this will also be the more crowded time to visit.
How do get there and get around while I’m there? And how long should I visit?
Flights to Ecuador tend to be affordable and not a long haul when travelling from the East Coast of the U.S. The roads aren’t the best in the world, to say the least, so many people opt to not rent a car. Don’t fret, you can get around by taxi and bus in the cities, and trains between cities. A fairly short flight gets you from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos. Another selling point? No need for any currency exchanges! Ecuador uses the United States Dollar.
Your trip length really depends on the wants and needs of your specific family or group of travelers. People say that about 12 days is provides enough time for a comprehensive trip. They suggest 3 days in Quito and the highlands, 3 days in the rainforest, and 5 days in the Galapagos. These are all mere suggestions though, Ecuador is an amazing destination for any length of time.
Itinerary Recommendations
Quito and the Highlands:
The highlands are roughly a two-hour drive north of Quito. Otavalo is a small but popular town to visit located in the Andean Highlands. The population of Otavalo is primarily made up of peoples indigenous to the land, the Otavalo indigenous group. This charming town presents you with a unique and authentic opportunity to experience indigenous culture that is the backbone and history of this town. Here you’ll find yourself strolling through a sea of colors as you shop for the perfect handmade textile or craft in a large outdoor market (South America’s most famous indigenous market!). Two days a week the town cemetery comes to life with a celebration that involves lots of vibrant flowers and enjoying customary food. The highlands provides an abundance of nature-centered activities, such as exploring volcanoes, horseback riding, and kayaking on the beautiful lakes.
Galapagos:
The Galapagos Islands is an archipelago of islands off the coast of Ecuador. I’m sure you’ve heard of it, as it’s extremely well known throughout the world. It’s a remarkable destination for anyone to visit, but especially those interested in wildlife. Due to its isolation, climate, and landscape, the Galapagos ecological system is one-of-a-kind. It’s famous for being incredibly biodiverse and being home to many species of animals that can’t be found anywhere else (for instance…97% of the reptiles and land mammals found, can’t be found anywhere else!). The other peculiar thing about the islands, is that the animals are seemingly unbothered by visitors, this presents the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the animals whom call the islands home. Here you’ll be island hopping, enjoying the beaches, snorkeling, and interacting with wildlife in a way you won’t be able to do anywhere else.
Banos:
Banos is a town located south of Quito, it’s about a 3 hour drive away. This town is in a valley at the base of an active volcano. It’s known as being a gateway town to the Amazon and it attracts tourists of all kinds, but especially those who enjoy adventure sports, hiking, and exploring. In Banos, you can enjoy a day of rafting, zip-lining, or any one of the many adventures they offer, and then you can kick back in their hot springs in the afternoon. Their mineral-rich hot baths and incredible waterfalls are another feature of the town that draws people in. There’s a plethora of thrilling activities to engage in, catered to all ages.