Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime

Ecuador has something for everyone. Whether you like swimming or hiking, this country has what you are looking for. The great thing about Ecuador is that it’s affordable and the different regions can easily be reached.

Quito: Quito is the capital of Ecuador; it sits high on the Andes mountains. Getting to and from the airport is easy due to the fact that cabs are cheap. The city has 16th and 17th century churches that perfectly blend in with indigenous and European styles. 

You must visit the Old Town where you can find museums, churches, restaurants, and shops. 

The “Middle of the World Monument”, or as it is known in Spanish “La Mitad Del Mundo”, is a great place to have your picture taken on the Equator: they will show you interesting facts about the latitudinal line while taking part in fun activities. The monument can easily be reached from Quito by public transportation. 

There’s also the Ethnographic Museum and Planetarium that has a scale model of Quito.

Manta: Manta is Ecuador’s second largest port and popular beach destination making it the perfect place to see Humpback whales during the months of June to October. There’s many affordable hostels and hotels that offer breakfast filled with local foods. Also, there are many shops and tours that are offered that include snorkeling and lunch.

Tena: Tena is the gateway to Ecuador’s rainforests and perfect for anyone looking for adventure. It’s a gorgeous setting surrounded by jungle covered hills and rivers. People visit in order to go kayaking and water rafting.

Galapagos Islands: The Galapagos Islands are like no other place. Keep in mind that there’s a $100USD national park fee when you arrive at the airport. If you love swimming, animals, and the environment, this is definitely the place for you. The different islands can be reached by boats. 

The Charles Darwin Research Station is in Puerto Ayora in the Santa Cruz Island. Here you can see what scientists and volunteers are currently researching in their conservation efforts of various species; they have a breeding program for giant tortoises. 

If you are up for an adventure, head over to Wolf Island to swim with hammerhead sharks. There are different tours that take you there and inform you of everything you need to know about swimming with these great creatures. 

Ecuador is an incredible country that has something for everyone; it will not disappoint.  

 Latin American Post | Ana Lu Campos

Copy edited by Susana Cicchetto