Ecuador probably isn’t the first destination that you think of when decided where you want to go on vacation, but we want to change that. We love Ecuador for how unique and environmentally diverse it is, while still offering incredibly luxurious accommodations. Imagine warm sunny beaches, impressive mountain ranges and the Amazon Rainforest, all rolled into one amazing destination. If you are a history or science fan, journey to the Equator and straddle the line that separates the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Keep reading to learn more about Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, and maybe you will find a little inspiration along the way to go see it for yourself. When that happens… you know where to find us!
Best Time to Visit Ecuador
In the Sierra, the dry and warm months are between June and September. Keep in mind of the various microclimates throughout some area that may still bring rain showers in the afternoons. In Oriente, it is warm, humid, and rainy year-round. In the lowlands, you can find hot temperatures on clear days. The coast has defined wet and dry seasons and the best time to visit is from December to April. If you are visiting Ecuador from May to November, you can expect cool and overcast days with minimal rainfall.
Things to Do:
Hike a Volcano in Ecuador. There are many different volcanos to select, ranging from accessible day hikes to hikes that require technical climbing skills. A few to note are Volcan Chimborazo, Volcan Sierra Negra, and the Cotopaxi Volcano.
Visit the UNESCO Heritage Centers. Located in Quito and Cuenca, Ecuador houses two UNESCO World Heritage sites, recognized for their long standing cultural value. Roam around the streets and you will feel like you have gone back in time. In Quito, visit Plaza Grande, La Compania, Plaza San Francisco, La Merced, San Agustin, and the City Museum. In Cuenca, come see the culture, artisanry, art, and see for yourself why it is called the “Athens of Ecuador”.
Explore the Amazon Jungle. Here you have the chance to fish for piranhas, see pink river dolphins, search for anacondas, and meet a local shaman. In addition to many reptiles, you can also see monkeys, jaguars, tapirs, and many other exotic animals that you won’t find on just any vacation.
Take a Scenic Train Ride through the Andes. Through the country of Ecuador, there are six scenic routes that you can embark on. These rides are not used for transportation, but rather used as an excursion to see some incredible sights on your own. On every ride you will go on a beautifully scenic journey and then return to the spot you started. We recommend riding the “Devil’s Nose”, which is coined the most difficult railway ever built, and spans from Quito to the coast.
Visit Nambillo Waterfall Sanctuary. Located in the Mindo Cloud Forest, lies this beautiful waterfall sanctuary. There are dozens of different waterfalls that reside here, but their largest waterfall is a whopping 50 meters (or 164 feet). Come cool off after a long hike, and bring a bathing suit to utilize the natural falls as your swimming pool. The entrance fee is cheap and you get an exciting cable car ride to get there.
Relax on the Amazing Beaches. Home to many world-class beaches, Ecuador is sure to impress any beach lovers that step foot in the sand. These beaches are perfect for sunbathers, snorkelers, and surfers. There is also a beach for everyone, ranging from natural beaches to party beaches, you are sure to find a spot that makes you happy.
See the incredible wildlife in the Galapagos Islands. Here you can find flamingos, sea lions, penguins, iguanas, hammerheads, sea turtles, tortoises, manta rays, blue-footed boobies, whale sharks, and many exotic bird species.
Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are home to natural predators, friendly wildlife, several islands, and plenty of water and lad activities to satisfy any taste. While you are here, make sure to visit the Charles Darwin’s Research Lab, which is where Charles himself was inspired to create the Charles Darwin Theory of Evolution. Each island in the Galapagos boasts its own unique flair and landscape, and usually include white sand beaches with black volcanic and rock structures. It is absolutely stunning and if you haven’t seen the Galapagos for yourself, it should most definitely be on your bucket list.
The best time to visit the Galapagos Islands depends on the experience that you are looking for while you are there. If you are looking for hot and sunny days, with the occasional visit of heavy rainfall, then January to June are the best months for you. If you are looking for a drier climate, we recommend visiting from July through December. Be mindful of El Nino years, as those years do bring large fluctuations in weather patters along the islands.
