Ecuador Off The Beaten Track
EcuadorEcuador's off the beaten path destinations are as authentic as it gets. If you don't go on holiday to spend your entire trip with other traveller's, then you'll be pleased to explore these lesser-known, and somewhat remote, parts of the country. Here, you'll have the opportunity to experience daily life in Ecuador, and practice your Spanish whilst you get acquainted with the locals.
Exploring Ecuador off the beaten track may have you staying in accommodations that are decidedly more basic than in other parts of the country. However, what is lacking in amenities will be more than made up for when you're in the midst of dense rainforests, desolate beaches, and vibrant communities. Tena is a great place to do some kayaking and learn about indigenous communities. Bahía de Caráquez is an excellent destination if you’re an eco-conscious traveller seeking a different experience from the Galápagos Islands.
To experience Ecuador's unique places, you can't go where everyone else goes, but you already know that — that's why your next vacation is taking you to Ecuador.
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.
Mindo
With more birds than residents, the sleepy town of Mindo beckons travelers to come enjoy its picturesque cloud forest. Zip-lines and gondolas float through quiet, misty canopies, while a network of hiking trails on the ground lead visitors to roaring waterfalls.
Explore DestinationCuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is an easily accessible part of the Amazon in eastern Ecuador. It is one of the few places in the world where you can find primary rainforest.
Explore DestinationTena
Nestled between lush hillsides and snaking rivers is the town of Tena, the whitewater capital of Ecuador. Many travelers come here just to raft or kayak on the many rivers that come raging down from the Sierras. For those looking for a drier experience, the surrounding wildlife and indigenous communities also offer a great way to spend your time.
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 DestinationAchuar Tribal Lands
The Achuar Tribal Lands allow visitors to meet an ancient people. In order to see their isolated homeland, you’ll take a long journey by plane or bus, then boat, and finally by foot. Along the way, you’ll see a diversity of plants and animals like nowhere else in the world.
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 DestinationPuyo
Carved into the lush Amazon, this small town is a great place to join a tour and dive into the dense surrounding rainforest. The town itself isn't especially memorable, but it offers some comfortable accommodations right outside the wild of the jungle.
Explore DestinationBahía de Caráquez
The tidy city of Bahía de Caráquez is alluring with its pleasant beaches, nearby nature reserves, and eco-friendly attitude.
Explore DestinationCotundo
Cotundo is a valley in Ecuador’s eastern Amazon region. This rural area is close to several attractions and is in the heart of the Ecuadorian jungle.
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 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.
