National Parks of Ecuador

Ecuador

Ecuador's national parks and reserves cover approximately 11 percent of the country. The Galápagos National Park is the star attraction, known throughout the world for its volcanic islands and diverse wildlife. There are, however, several other national parks that deserve your attention. The Cotopaxi National Park is home to the country's most spectacular volcano, while the Podocarpus National Park protects huge tracts of virgin rainforests. Visits to national parks are often best when part of a guided tour, and may include activities like hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding.

National Parks of Ecuador
Destinations

Ecuador Highlights

A curated look at the best Ecuador has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.

Machalilla National Park

Machalilla National Park

As the only coastal national park in Ecuador, the Machalilla National Park sports protected beaches and tracts of dry forest. This makes it one of the best stops along the Ecuadorian coast.

Explore Destination
Cajas National Park

Cajas National Park

The countless lakes, alpine hillsides and curious herds of alpacas make the Cajas National Park an impressive wilderness destination.

Explore Destination
Cotopaxi National Park

Cotopaxi National Park

Home to one of the most iconic volcanoes in South America, this park also features a wide-open alpine landscape. At a staggering 19,347 feet (5,897 m), the Cotopaxi Volcano is the focal point of the park.

Explore Destination
Sumaco Napo National Park

Sumaco Napo National Park

This slice of subtropical jungle is one of the most biodiverse and ecologically pristine areas in Ecuador’s Northern Sierras. Crossing over the Sierras and towards the Amazon basin, visitors entering this remote park can discover stunning waterfalls and abundant wildlife hidden within its boundaries.

Explore Destination
Chimborazo Ecological Reserve

Chimborazo Ecological Reserve

Located in a remote area of the Central Sierra, the Chimborazo Ecological Reserve is home to the towering mass of the Chimborazo Volcano—this is the highest point in Ecuador and one of the highest places in the entire world. The barren landscape also hosts herds of alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas.

Explore Destination
Trips to inspire

Featured Ecuador Trips

Browse our handpicked selection of Ecuador itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.

7 days | $$$

Everything We Had Hoped For

I loved using Anywhere Ecuador for this trip! We had a fantastic time. I gave a four out of five because we had some logistical challenges with our day trips and getting back to the airport.

Everything We Had Hoped For
9 days | $$$

Touch the Clouds, Trek The Amazons

Need a family adventure that will have everyone discovering the beauty of the world instead of looking at screens? You'll love this expertly crafted Ecuadorian getaway!

Touch the Clouds, Trek The Amazons
9 days | $$$

Ecuador Unplugged: The Galapagos

Forget the digital world. This vacation is all about the natural world! Explore the Galapagos Islands; see countless plants and animals thriving as nature intended.

Ecuador Unplugged: The Galapagos
9 days | $$$

Nature Off the Screen

If your travel goal is to show your family the natural world, then this is the vacation you need. You’ll get outside, explore amazing destinations, and see animals in their natural habitat.

Nature Off the Screen
10 days | $$$

We Journeyed Together—Ecuador Bound

It's the first time in a while that our whole family got to experience new things and nature together. We’re blown away by what Ecuador has to offer.

We Journeyed Together—Ecuador Bound
12 days | $$$

Slow & Steady Highlights

It was a great family vacation with our teenage son –– exploring the beauty of Ecuador and spending New Year's there too! We planned last minute but Anywhere saved the day!

Slow & Steady Highlights
14 days | $$$

It Was Hard to Say Goodbye

Ecuador is a beautiful country from Quito all the way to the coast of Guayaquil. It is definitely a must. Percy was amazing in helping us plan our trip, as I must have changed my itinerary about a million times. Even when I had questions during our trip he was right there ready to help and took care of everything. Now, there are no words to describe our driver, (which we were lucky to have for 9 days) Ricardo. He was professional, friendly and went above and beyond to help make our Ecuador experience one to remember. It was sad to say good bye, but one thing is for sure when we plan our next trip to Ecuador we will be asking for Ricardo again.

It Was Hard to Say Goodbye
11 days | $$$

Andes Highlands to Galapagos

Have it all! Rest, relaxation, adventure, and nature are yours when you book this Signature Trip to Ecuador. From Quito to the Galapagos, Ecuador will enchant you…

Andes Highlands to Galapagos
16 days | $$$

Chasing Family Adventure in Ecuador

Go on an unforgettable journey as you traverse the landscapes of Ecuador. Volcano tours, the city in the ‘middle of the world’, and cloud forests are just a few of the wonders.

Chasing Family Adventure in Ecuador
9 days | $$$

Darwin’s Footsteps: A Solo Adventure

Take yourself through Ecuador’s islands, explore colonial cities, and enjoy delicious cuisine every step of the way. Check this 'Must See' destination off of your bucket.

Darwin’s Footsteps: A Solo Adventure
12 days | $$$

Romantic Escape to The Amazons

What a memorable trip to Ecuador! We really enjoyed the hikes in the jungle, and learning about the indigenous cultures and the Amazon Basin.

Romantic Escape to The Amazons
10 days | $$$

Treasures of The Galapagos

Words cannot express the wonderful experiences we had in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. We try to explain our enthusiasm for our trip to our friends, but words become inadequate and so we simply encourage them to arrange their own adventure to Ecuador/Galapagos through Anywhere! We are anxious to start planning a return trip to explore more of the mainland of Ecuador. We owe a great deal of our curiosity about Ecuador to our driver Ricardo, who was an enthusiastic cheerleader for the country.

 Treasures of The Galapagos
9 days | $$$

Hit Refresh—Unplug in Ecuador

Natural beauty, graceful architecture, rugged excursions, and a destination that’s on every “Must See in Your Lifetime” list… Yes, Ecuador has all of this and more.

Hit Refresh—Unplug in Ecuador
19 days | $$$

I Can Say We Did It All

We spent almost 20 days exploring all parts of the country — from the mainland, to the coast, to the Amazon. I can say we did it all!

I Can Say We Did It All
10 days | $$$

Besties Explore The Amazons Better

Go on a trip with your friends that isn’t the usual travel cliche. Enjoy adventure, nature, and the chance to get unplugged. Take pictures, but live in the moment!

Besties Explore The Amazons Better
Anywhere Ecuador

More National Parks of Ecuador

There's always more to discover in Ecuador. From off-the-beaten-path gems to well-loved classics, these destinations are worth adding to your itinerary.

Yasuni National Park

The untouched wilderness of the Yasuní National Park offers travelers a true rainforest experience. This park is one of the most biodiverse places in all of South America.

Yasuni National Park Image
Destination
View Details
Sangay National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sangay National Park is Ecuador’s largest protected highland area. This remote park is home to three volcanoes, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Sangay National Park Image
Destination
View Details
Cayambe Ecological Reserve

The Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve encompasses the highest point on the equator, the Cayambe Volcano, and is Ecuador’s second-largest reserve in the Sierras. It is also one of the most geographically diverse regions, offering visitors alpine tundras, rainforests and lakes.

Cayambe Ecological Reserve Image
Destination
View Details
Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is situated deep in Ecuador’s Amazon jungle. A canoe ride along the wide Cuyabeno River allows visitors to access the reserve’s abundant wildlife and unique indigenous communities, making for a quintessential jungle experience.

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve Image
Destination
View Details