Ecuador City Life
EcuadorThere are so many cities in Ecuador to visit. However will you choose? It starts with understanding the finer points of Ecuador's cities. Ecuador is a small country, but its cities seem worlds apart. You will quickly find that each city has a distinct character — a personality larger than the sum of its attractions, and these attractions are ample and diverse!
If you dream of dancing 'til dawn, then you'll want to visit Guayaquil for the discos and nightlife. Fancy yourself a design or history buff? You'll appreciate Quito for its colonial history and architecture. Speaking of architecture, you simply must leave time on your itinerary for Cuenca, because this is where you will see Ecuador’s most impressive cathedrals.
Wherever you visit, there will be plenty to see and do; most importantly, Ecuador's cities are full of locals waiting to teach you about their unique and beautiful country, and that's one experience you definitely don't want to miss.
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.
Quito
Set an elevation of 9,350 ft (2,850 m), Quito is the highest capital city in the world. The population of this bustling city is a contrasting mix of Ecuadorians sporting sleek business suits and colorful indigenous clothing. These contrasts exemplify the mix of politics, history and culture that define Quito. Founded in the 16th century atop the ruins of an Inca city, Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a premier destination for those visiting Ecuador.
Explore DestinationGuayaquil
As the largest city in Ecuador, Guayaquil is the commercial heart of the country. Its crowded streets contain a vast number of impressive hotels, restaurants and plazas.
Explore DestinationSanta Cruz
The island of Santa Cruz is the visitor hub of the Galápagos. As the second-largest island in the Galápagos, Santa Cruz is characterized by its moist highlands region, the bustling town of Puerto Ayora, and several pristine beaches.
Explore DestinationCuenca
Cuenca is a colonial marvel and one of the most attractive cities in Ecuador. Nestled in the highlands, its charming streets, grand plazas and churches span multiple levels of the mountainside, making the city more than postcard-worthy.
Explore DestinationLatacunga
Latacunga’s location makes it a great home base while seeking out adventure in the Cotopaxi National Park. Within the city, the charming historic center and hearty local cuisine are not to be missed.
Explore DestinationRiobamba
Located in the heart of the Central Sierra, Riobambo is a city with vibrant commercial and historic districts and close proximity to the Chimborazo Ecological Reserve.
Explore DestinationMontañita
As a rowdy backpacker hub, Montañita offers travelers a lively scene alongside white sand beaches and world-renowned surfing.
Explore DestinationLoja
Loja’s bustling streets, filled with university students and business men and women, give it a youthful atmosphere. For visitors, Loja’s historic district – filled with scenic churches and plazas – make this a worthwhile place to visit.
Explore DestinationSalinas
The bustling beach and high-rise condos of Salinas are a sign of its reputation as an exciting seaside destination. Despite the crowds, the many luxury hotels and fine restaurants that line Salinas’ dazzling beach make this a worthy stop.
Explore DestinationAlausí
After countless miles of turns and switchbacks through the dramatic Southern Sierra, the town of Alausí appears. Often overlooked, this quiet village is a welcome rest stop while exploring this region.
Explore DestinationVilcabamba
Time seems to move slowly in Vilcabamba. Perhaps that’s why its residents are said to be the oldest in the country. With a handful of relaxing spas and a hippy vibe, Vilcabamba is as close as you can get to the fountain of youth while traveling in Ecuador.
Explore DestinationOtavalo
If you arrive on Saturday to Otavalo, you might not even see the town. What you will see however, is one of the biggest open-air markets in the Andes. Crowded streets, lined with vendors selling their brightly woven textiles and colorful crafts, will have you roaming for hours on end looking for the perfect Ecuadorian souvenir.
Explore DestinationMompiche
A whispered destination among surfers, Mompiche’s long stretch of sandy beach and remote location makes for a peaceful getaway along Ecuador’s coast. Besides the waves, it offers visitors the chance to experience a quiet seaside town.
Explore DestinationIbarra
Tucked in the shadow of the Imbabura Volcano, Ibarra is a peaceful and low-key destination. Colonial buildings give Ibarra the name La Ciudad Blanca, or “White City.” Ibarra is primarily a commercial center, and the locals are not as preoccupied with tourists as they are in more popular towns. Friendly locals are happy to share their quaint cobbled streets, palm-lined plazas, and colorful markets with visitors.
Explore DestinationFeatured 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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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…
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.
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.
Insider-led Ecuador Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Ecuador Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
