Nature and wildlife span every inch of this mountain country, which is no surprise; Ecuador straddles the equator with four distinct regions spanning the Amazon rainforest, the highlands of the Andes, the Galápagos Islands and the Pacific coast. Whether you’ve come for adventure, nature or just to see something new, Ecuador’s the perfect place to visit all year round.
Our destinations: Ecuador
Visit Ecuador: get started
Wondering about the best places to visit in Ecuador? Look no further than this Ecuador travel guide. No visit is complete without time spent on a Galápagos Islands wildlife tour. See giant tortoises and other animals in one of the world’s most unique ecosystems and find out why Ecuador adventure travel is so popular. Afterwards, head to Quito Old Town for its UNESCO-listed churches, plazas and Andean views, before visiting Cotopaxi National Park & Volcano for hiking, horseback riding and other high-altitude fun. For more outdoor activities, stay in Amazon Rainforest lodges and spot monkeys, macaws and pink river dolphins, or visit the Equator Monument to tick off another bucket list moment. Finally, pick up souvenirs for home at the Otavalo Indigenous Market for artisan crafts and colourful textiles. Plan your own trip with a Flight & Hotel package or let us handle the planning with one of our comprehensive Ecuador tour packages.
Ecuador travel guide
Destination facts
Language
Spanish, Kichwa and Shuar
When to visit
For the Galápagos: between June and September. For the highlands: June through August. For the coast: December through May.
What to bring back
Panama hats (which are actually Ecuadorian!), alpaca wool products, embroidered linen shirts, local chocolates, handmade musical instruments, Tagua nut carvings, coffee and Indigenous handicrafts.
What to eat
Encebollado (hearty fish soup), llapingachos (seared potato patties), hornado (roast pork) as well as regional dishes like ceviche by the coast, or cuy (guinea pig) in the highlands.
Fun fact
Ecuador is a birdwatcher’s paradise; the country is home to more bird species per square kilometre than any other country in the world.
Important info
For more information on all necessary documents for travel to Ecuador from Canada including visa, taxes and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.
