Often overlooked due to being sandwiched between two tourist giants, Colombia and Peru, Ecuador is an underrated travel destination in South America. Most travelers know it for Galapagos Islands They flock to spot giant tortoises, sea lions and blue-footed boobies. On my most recent trip, I looked inland instead to cities like Quito, Baños, Tena, and Papalacta to find a plethora of heart-pounding activities, exotic wildlife, lush mountain ranges, and rich indigenous culture.
I wasn't quite sure what to expect in Quito because, admittedly to myself, I didn't know much about Ecuadorian food, culture, or even what to do with my spare time. But boy, starting from day one Ecuador Quest I went from 0 to 100 in a matter of seconds and loved every minute. Here is a roundup of the best things to do in mainland Ecuador:
1: saddle in banyos
On the second day of our trip, we caught a bus from Quito and made our way to Baños, the adventure capital of Ecuador. We were spoiled for choice of optional outdoor activities including waterfall rafting, rock climbing, paragliding, and horseback riding (my choice!). Ye-how! This activity is for all levels of riding. We saddled and explored the hilly countryside on horseback while walking, trotting and galloping with our expert guide, Jose.
We stopped halfway through to learn more about the flora and fauna and were directed to a flowing river. Jose asked us to pass our water bottles and he filled them with delicious, refreshing natural carbonated water, or "gas water" as they say in Ecuador. Natural carbonated water means there is a volcano nearby and we were lucky enough to see the top of the Tungurahua volcano as we walked along the mountain.
2: Swing at the End of the World
While in Baños, our group made our way by bus to Casa del Arbol to take pictures of ourselves looking out over the Tungurahua volcano. This particular spot was made famous in 2014 by a traveler who won a National Geographic photo contest when he caught himself swinging as the volcano began to erupt (in case you were wondering, it's very unlikely that a volcano will erupt when you visit). It was such an amazing experience to swing around and feel like a kid again with the wind in my hair. And I got a winning shot myself!
Can't you go out to Banyos? The capital, Quito, also has a hammock that overlooks the entire city. For about US$9, take the TelefériQo cable car for a 10-minute ride up the slopes of Pichincha Volcano. Climb over 4,000 meters and follow the arrows as soon as you jump off the cable car. It leads you to the place where you can take pictures of yourself swinging high above the clouds.
3: Join a free walking tour of Quito
Speaking of Quito, the capital city is known for its rich history, music, and culture. If you're keen to see the old city's main squares, outdoor markets, colonial churches, and perhaps find live music and dancing in the streets, this free locally led tour is for you! Tours are led by English-speaking Ecuadorians and held Monday through Saturday, 10:30 am and 2:30 pm in the Old Town. I asked the front desk at my hotel exactly where this group meets and they handed me a map with detailed coordinates on how to find it. The tour comes rain or shine, so be prepared with the weather (layers are always best!) and comfortable shoes.
4: Journey to the Amazon Jungle
Disconnecting from the wifi and electricity seemed like a nightmare to my millennial self who scrolls through TikTok every night before bed, but putting my phone to live like a local in the lush Amazon rainforest was worth it. We met for two nights and lived with the Quichua family who warmly hosted us in their village. We stayed in rustic log cabins and participated in endless activities such as jungle walks, swimming in waterfalls, white water rafting, mud rafting, cycling, and so much more. I even forgot I had a phone!
I loved learning more about Quechua history and culture from our host family and witnessed a traditional mock wedding, danced with my group, and even tried chontakuro worms (if I can do that, you can too). Staying in the Amazon was a unique experience that I will not soon forget, and it should be noted that you can make a 7-day copy of it at Native live in Ecuador - Amazon Jungle a tour.
5: Relax in the thermal spa
After all the high impact activity and running around, I felt like the break was well worth it. In Papallacta, about a two-hour bus ride from Quito, our group relaxed in natural heated pools with grand volcanic views. We were spoiled and stayed at Termas Papallacta, a spa lover's dream. We enjoyed the private hot springs right outside our doorstep and soaked in the beauty of the nature around us.
At the resort, you can also go for a leisurely walk past rushing rivers, waterfalls, and a group of friendly llamas (if you're lucky). It was the perfect way to end an unforgettable, adrenaline pumping trip.
Heading over there
Are you looking for a perfect way to add to your Galapagos Islands Experience Or just go inland in Ecuador? our Ecuador Quest Tour is the way to go.
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