Things to Do in Ecuador, from the Galápagos to the Amazon and the Andes
EcuadorYou won't be at a loss for things to do while traveling in Ecuador. If you're someone who loves nature and the outdoors, you'll have your plate full visiting the Galápagos Islands, the Amazon Jungle, and the Andes Mountains. Cultural buffs can explore places like Quito and Cuenca, while adventure travelers will enjoy mountain biking, scuba diving, and whitewater rafting. There's something for everyone in Ecuador. Find out a little more about the activities that are available below.
Ecuador tours by activity
Ecuador Bird Watching Tours
From the peaks of the Andes to the lush branches of the Amazon rainforest, Ecuador has a tremendous amount of avian biodiversity. Though cruise tours in the Galápagos Islands are an obvious must when seeking unique bird sightings, Ecuador has other exotic birding opportunities as well. Birding tours include treks to find tropical birds on the scenic slopes of the Pichincha Volcano outside Quito; an adventure up the mountains to spot the highest-dwelling birds of the Andes; and adventures deep into the Amazon to see colorful toucans and chatty parrots.
Ecuador Nature Walks
Whether strolling along beaches in the Galápagos or stepping through thick foliage in the Amazon, there will be many things to see in Ecuador that could use some explaining: are those sharks in the mangrove tree roots? What exactly is a cloud forest? How many different species of butterflies and hummingbirds are we looking at? Having a knowledgeable Ecuadorian naturalist on-hand turns a nature walk into a discovery adventure. These tours are led at a slower pace and are a good option for families with small children and travelers who would prefer to not walk long distances.
Boating Tours in Ecuador
Boating tours are an excellent way to experience some of Ecuador's most impressive aquatic environments. These tours visit islands in the Galápagos and rivers in the Amazon. You'll explore some of the coolest places in Ecuador, and may have the chance to go snorkeling, bird watching, or hiking on one of these tours. The tours use comfortable motor boats and are led by professional captains and knowledgeable guides.
Ecuador Sport Fishing Tours
Even the complete novice is certain to reel in a whopper during a sport fishing tour in Ecuador. One of the world’s most overlooked fishing destinations, Ecuador is not yet overfished, and the biodiversity of the marine life here can produce treasures at the end of a line. Some of the catchable fish here are shockingly massive, including the giant marlin. With the best-equipped fishing boats and most-seasoned guides, sport fishing tours can be as brief as half a day or as long as a week.
Ecuador Marine Mammal Observation Tours
Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands are among the best places in the world to see marine mammals. The protected islands host the adorable – and sometimes noisy – Galápagos sea lions and fur seals, and whales and dolphins are easy to spot most of the year. Whether taking a cruise through the islands for premium whale watching or a land tour of Isabela Island to swim with the playful sea lions, spending time with and learning about these special island inhabitants is a great choice for families.
Ecuador Snorkeling Tours
Whether wading off the shores of beautiful coastal towns like Puerto López or jumping right from a boat into the waters of the Galápagos Islands, snorkeling in Ecuador is first-class. Guides take you to the best coves, calmest waters, and most lively snorkeling spots. Swim right alongside sea lions or feast your eyes on colorful fish, plants, and animals. Guides will keep you safe and getting the most out of your underwater adventures. These tours are acceptable for both seasoned snorkelers and total beginners alike.
Ecuador Historic Tours
If you're interested in learning about Ecuador's storied past, which includes the Inca Empire and Spanish conquest, then you'll enjoy one of these tours. Historic tours explore historical attractions in cities like Quito and Cuenca, make visits to archeological sites, and tour cultural museums. Knowledgeable guides lead travelers and pepper the tour with informative history lessons.
Ecuador Hiking Tours
Hiking in Ecuador can be a crash course in nature and even culture — hiking through the villages and smaller cities of Ecuador’s countryside, the warmth of the indigenous, traditional people is as striking as the landscapes. Travelers can challenge themselves by hiking up the numerous volcanoes or take a more figuratively breathtaking route through the Amazon Basin. Knowledgeable guides accompany the tours and keep the hiking fun, safe, and educational.
Adventure Tours
If you enjoy fun, adrenalin-fueled activities, then you'll love these tours. Adventure tours include scuba diving, ocean kayaking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and mountain biking. These activities are safe and typically suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Professional guides lead the tours and work hard to provide travelers with a memorable experience.
Cultural Tours
Ecuador's culture mixes influences from indigenous groups, Spanish colonialism, and the Catholic Church. Today, the country's unique cultural makeup can be experienced in a variety of ways. Cultural tours visit historic architectural sites, important museums, coffee plantations, traditional markets, and more. They offer travelers a fantastic introduction to Ecuador's past and present cultural traditions.
Leisure Tours
Travel doesn't need to be exhausting. In fact, some of the best experiences abroad are often the most relaxing. These tours will allow you to unwind, relax, and enjoy Ecuador. You might indulge in a day at the spa or spend an afternoon boating up a river while searching for animals. Get ready to enjoy yourself on one of these tours.
Marine Tours
Ecuador is home to the famous Galápagos Islands, and not surprisingly, the marine tours here are some of the best in the world. These tours include sea kayaking, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and marine mammal observation. You'll explore beautiful marine environments and have the chance to spot rare creatures, including marine iguanas and the Galápagos penguin.
Nature Tours
In Ecuador, there are three distinct environments for travelers to explore — the Galápagos, the Amazon, and the Andes. Each of these regions is fascinating and hosts different plants and animals. Nature tours include guided hikes, bird watching, marine mammal observation, butterfly tours, and more. They are a wonderful way to become acquainted with the outdoor offerings of Ecuador.
Multi-day tours of Ecuador
Want more than a day tour? Our in-country insiders plan multi-day Ecuador tours around your pace and interests, book them and stay with you throughout the trip. Start from one of these itineraries.
Inland, Islands & Amazon
Ecuador is a wonderful country where we were able to travel by road for over 1200 KM during our two weeks trip and see the different parts of the country.
Ecuador
Two Weeks in Ecuador
Embark on a two‑week Ecuador adventure that juxtaposes bustling Andean capitals with remote volcanic islands, delivering a vivid contrast of urban energy and pristine nature. Traverse Quito’s historic streets, soar over the crater lake of Quilotoa, then island‑hop to the Galápagos for lava tunnels, Santa Cruz highlands, and sea‑lion encounters. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll taste traditional cuisine, hear indigenous stories, and return with a deep appreciation for Ecuador’s cultural richness and extraordinary biodiversity.
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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.
Ecuador
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.
Ecuador
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.
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Friends Ecuador Adventure
Joyce explored Ecuador’s diverse landscapes on an adventure that combined highland culture and coastal wonders. She trekked from Quito’s historic center to Baños’ volcanic landscape, then sailed to the Galápagos for island tours of Lobo, León Dormido, and San Cristóbal. Guides shared indigenous stories, local cuisine, and conservation insights, leaving Joyce with a lasting appreciation for Ecuador’s vibrant ecosystems and warm hospitality.
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Ecuador Thoroughly Explored
The people and the beauty of the country
Ecuador
From The Andes to The Amazons
If adventure, nature, and culture are at the top of your travel to-do list, then prepare for a trip that you won’t soon forget. Experience the rugged beauty of Ecuador.
Ecuador
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…
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