{"id":7768,"date":"2018-06-19T10:36:54","date_gmt":"2018-06-19T08:36:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/?p=7768"},"modified":"2026-10-28T08:13:09","modified_gmt":"2026-10-28T08:13:09","slug":"backpacking-ecuador","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/","title":{"rendered":"Ecuador Travel Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many people associate Ecuador with the Galapagos Islands, but the truth is that this small country between Colombia and Peru has much more to offer, from the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the Amazon rainforest, with a few colonial towns along the way. You&#8217;re spoiled for choice!<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I spent about a month backpacking around Ecuador, and this guide is full of tips for those who, like me, travel on a budget and independently, but I&#8217;m sure it will also come in handy for those who travel differently.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"quick-menu\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Quick menu<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\r\n  <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#when\">When to visit Ecuador<\/a><\/li>\r\n  <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#doc\">Documents and vaccinations to enter Ecuador<\/a><\/li>\r\n  <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#what\">What to do and see in Ecuador<\/a>\r\n    <details>\r\n      <summary>Destinations<\/summary>\r\n      <ul>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#quito\">Quito<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#otavalo\">Otavalo<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#mindo\">Mindo<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#amazon-rainforest\">The Amazon rainforest<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#latacunga\">Latacunga<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#cotopaxi\">Cotopaxi<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#laguna-quilotoa\">Laguna Quilotoa<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#banos\">Banos<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#guayaquil\">Guayaquil<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#galapagos\">Galapagos<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#montanita\">Montanita<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#puerto-lopez\">Puerto Lopez<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#cuenca\">Cuenca<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#vilcabamba\">Vilcabamba<\/a><\/li>\r\n      <\/ul>\r\n    <\/details>\r\n  <\/li>\r\n  <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#iti\">Suggested itineraries<\/a><\/li>\r\n  <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#how\">How to get around Ecuador<\/a><\/li>\r\n  <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#cost\">Backpacking Ecuador: costs<\/a><\/li>\r\n  <li><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#safe\">Backpacking Ecuador: safety<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/#quick-menu\" style=\"position: fixed; right: 18px; bottom: 18px; z-index: 9999; padding: 8px 12px; border: 1px solid #999; border-radius: 6px; background: #fff; text-decoration: none; font-size: 14px;\">\u2191 Menu<\/a>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/vulcano_cotopaxi-1.jpg\" alt=\"View of the valley at the foot of Cotopaxi Volcano.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Climbing Cotopaxi Volcano. <\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"when\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>When to visit Ecuador<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Since Ecuador is crossed by the Equator, its temperatures are stable and vary mainly with altitude. What varies a lot over the course of the year is the rainfall.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">On the coast, the dry season, which runs from May-June to November, isn&#8217;t particularly pleasant, as it&#8217;s often cloudy and temperatures aren&#8217;t very high. The rainy season, which runs from December-January to May, is surprisingly the best time to visit the coast. Mornings tend to be sunny, and the short showers are concentrated in the afternoon.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">In the <strong>Amazon rainforest<\/strong> it rains all year round, but the months from December to May are particularly rainy, though cooler.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>The highlands<\/strong> of Ecuador have an almost constant temperature throughout the year. The rainy season runs from December to March.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">In the <strong>Galapagos<\/strong>, December to May are the warmest months, with weaker winds and therefore warmer water. Although rain is more frequent during this period, these are the best months to visit the archipelago. The months from June to November are drier but also colder, with poor visibility for diving.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">If you&#8217;re traveling on a budget, it&#8217;s good to know that the best time to go coincides with the low season: from February to April (Easter excluded) and from September to November.<\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/laguna_quilotoa_trekking-1.jpg\" alt=\"Trekking to Laguna Quilotoa.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Laguna Quilotoa.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"doc\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Documents and vaccinations to enter Ecuador<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Italian passport holders (make sure your passport doesn&#8217;t expire within the next six months) receive a free 90-day tourist visa, which starts the moment they enter the country. The rules change depending on your nationality, so check yours.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can&#8217;t do the classic &#8220;visa run&#8221; (leaving and re-entering the country to renew your visa), as you can only get 90 days every 365. However, it&#8217;s possible to extend your tourist visa for another 90 days under certain conditions. If you&#8217;re interested in the topic, check out <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeyjournalists.com\/en\/guides\/ecuador-tourist-visa-extension\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this post<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which is comprehensive and up to date.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ecuador doesn&#8217;t require any mandatory vaccinations, but Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and yellow fever are recommended, the latter especially if you decide to visit the Amazon rainforest.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">For up-to-date information on visas and everything else, I recommend checking your own government&#8217;s official travel advice (for example, the UK&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/foreign-travel-advice\/ecuador\">Foreign travel advice<\/a>).<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"what\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Ecuador<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Given its small size, Ecuador is a fairly easy country to get around. Most tourist attractions can be reached within a day from Quito, and the next destination is never too far away. Below, you&#8217;ll often find prices in US Dollars ($), which is the official currency of Ecuador. The exchange rate is about 1\u20ac = 1.12$. For the current exchange rate, I suggest you look at<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.xe.com\/currencyconverter\/convert\/?Amount=1&amp;From=EUR&amp;To=USD\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> this page<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/cosa_vedere_ecuador-2.jpg\" alt=\"Map of things to do and see in Ecuador\" width=\"783\" height=\"800\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>N.b. Throughout the guide you&#8217;ll often find links to <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/\"><em>https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/<\/em><\/a><em>. If you want to use offline navigation directly from the AllTrails app, you need to upgrade to the pro version. However, you can get around the problem by downloading the coordinates from the desktop version of the site in &#8220;Google Earth KML&#8221; format and then uploading them to <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/organicmaps.app\/\"><em>Organic Maps<\/em><\/a><em>, which is by far one of my <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/app-travelling\/\"><em>favorite travel apps<\/em><\/a><em>.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"quito\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Quito<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At 2,850 meters above sea level, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, so <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">as soon as you arrive, even climbing the stairs might leave you short of breath! <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/altitude-sickess-prevention\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are some tips<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for overcoming the so-called &#8220;mountain sickness&#8221;. In general, try not to overdo it and drink plenty of water<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Quito<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>The old city<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can easily spend a day visiting Quito&#8217;s historic center perhaps by joining a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.guruwalk.com\/quito\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">free walking tour.<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Plaza Grande (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/mwd4EJLG9MbkADwVA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), where the main government buildings are located, is really beautiful. The Basilica del Voto Nacional (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/SLuTqYJjyZURvwhL9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is also definitely worth a visit.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> In the evening I recommend walking along Calle La Ronda (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/23WS8N4GeGaZk5qj9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), an alley full of bars and restaurants.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/palazzo_governo_Quito-1.jpg\" alt=\"Presidential palace in Quito.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Government Palace in Quito.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Pichincha Volcano<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take the cable car (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/uKQsUFz5uj3zn5MN7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) up to Pichincha volcano, which towers over the city. It&#8217;s the second highest cable car in the world, and on a clear day once you get to the top (it&#8217;s actually the summit of Cruz Loma at 4100m) you can see half a dozen volcanoes.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also continue on foot to the actual summit of Pichincha volcano at 4680m. It&#8217;s about a 10 km round trip but given the altitude it could take 4-5 hours (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/trail\/ecuador\/pichincha\/rucu-pichincha--2?u=m&amp;sh=mxqbmj\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All Trails<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). If you&#8217;re not yet acclimatized, you should have no problem taking the cable car, but I wouldn&#8217;t recommend continuing on foot; <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">altitude sickness can lead to serious problems.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If for whatever reason you don&#8217;t want to or can&#8217;t continue on foot you can still enjoy the view of the city from the station, probably in the company of some llamas! The cable car ticket costs 9$ (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/teleferico.com.ec\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">official website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Depending on where you&#8217;re staying, you can take public transport <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/teleferico.com.ec\/como-llegar\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">as described here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while a taxi from the historic center should cost about 5-6 dollars.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Vulcano_Pichincha_Quito.jpg\" alt=\"Trekking toward the summit of Pichincha Volcano in Quito, Ecuador.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Pichincha Volcano.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Ciudad mitad del mundo<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">26km from Quito you&#8217;ll find the town that, as you can imagine, is literally called &#8220;The City of the Middle of the World&#8221;, and which, geographically speaking, is a town cut in half by the Equator.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The town is definitely touristy and doesn&#8217;t have much to offer beyond the monument (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/HmFACXU6GRPVtGYG6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) marking the Equator (its position is actually off by about 240m), but it&#8217;s certainly a good way to spend half a day. The entrance fee to the site is 5$. To get to Mitad del Mundo from Quito, you can take a direct bus from the center, 0.40$.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Quito?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em>From the airport you can take a taxi (45 minutes and about 25$), or the cheaper alternative is to take a bus (they run roughly from 6:00 to 22:00) to the Rio Coca bus terminal (<a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/16N2UT5wsXXwAZXV9\">Google Maps<\/a>) for 2$, and then a city bus to the center for 0.25$. If, on the other hand, you want to continue to other destinations in the country, take a bus to the Terminal Carcelen, also known as &#8220;Quito Norte&#8221; (<a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/hYxApfCmWR9Qa1us7\">Google Maps<\/a>), from where there are connections to all destinations north of Quito such as Otavalo, Mindo and Mitad del Mundo; for destinations south of the capital, take a bus straight to the Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe, also known as &#8220;Quito Sur&#8221; (<a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/pfaFNoaUM7cNd2BE9\">Google Maps<\/a>). By land, there are direct connections to Quito from all the main cities in the country; depending on your starting point, the arrival terminal varies as just described.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Quito?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/the-secret-garden.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The secret garden Quito<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> won the award for best hostel in Ecuador in 2014 for so many good reasons, the rooftop terrace is fantastic. <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/community-hostel-quito-quito.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Community Hostel Quito<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is another great option.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/parco_Quito-1.jpg\" alt=\"Volleyball game in a park in Quito.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>A volleyball game in one of Quito&#8217;s parks.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"otavalo\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Otavalo<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Otavalo is situated approximately 2 hours north of Quito and is renowned for hosting the largest handicraft market in Latin America. While the main market day is Saturday, many vendors set up daily.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For travelers arriving overland from Colombia or heading there, I recommend stopping and spending a night in Otavalo to break up the journey. For those coming from Quito and intending to return without exploring the area around Otavalo, it&#8217;s probably more practical to visit the town as a day trip, trying to leave early, because vendors begin to leave around 4 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Otavalo<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to the artisanal market located in Plaza de Ponchos (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/nkre6kimG4fDmxJHA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) mentioned earlier, which is undoubtedly the main attraction, you can also explore the nearby Peguche Falls (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/441Gju2J6mRQ5QEL6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), just a few kilometers away. A taxi ride to the falls costs only a few dollars.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I haven&#8217;t been there, but if you want, you could also visit Laguna Cuicocha (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/jmq1v1Sautr1kYpk9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). It&#8217;s a now-inactive volcano whose crater has filled with water, with two volcanic islets in the middle. You can walk a trail of about 12 km (approximately 5 hours) around the lagoon (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/trail\/ecuador\/imbabura\/laguna-cuicocha?u=m&amp;sh=mxqbmj\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All Trails<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To reach Laguna Cuicocha, you can take a bus from Otavalo to Cotacachi, 0.35$, and then a taxi to the lagoon, 5-6$.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Otavalo?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re coming from <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/backpacking-colombia\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">backpacking Colombia<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, once you&#8217;ve crossed the border and arrived in Tulcan, it&#8217;s possible to take a direct bus to Otavalo (4 hours, 3-4$); in all likelihood the bus in question will be headed to Quito and you&#8217;ll be dropped off along the Panamericana (about 2 km from downtown Otavalo) and not at the bus terminal.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Quito, buses leave regularly from &#8220;<\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Terminal Carcelen&#8221; (<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/pHeN8yqLKwRTs6g28\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). About 2 hours and 2.50$.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Otavalo?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/the-traveler-hostel.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Traveler Hostel<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, good hostel just outside the center, breakfast included. <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/hostal-la-rosa.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">La Rosa Otavalo<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/santa-fe-otavalo1.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Santa Fe<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offer cheap private rooms right in the center.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/mercato_otavalo-1.jpg\" alt=\"Handicrafts at the Otavalo market in Ecuador\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>The Otavalo market.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"mindo\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Mindo<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mindo is located just two hours from Quito and is described by many as a beautiful mountain village nestled in the rainforest and surrounded by waterfalls. If you&#8217;re a nature lover, there&#8217;s no shortage of outdoor activities here: simple walks in the forest, horseback riding, zip-lining, chocolate tours, etc. etc.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I haven&#8217;t personally visited Mindo, so I can&#8217;t give an opinion on it, but I&#8217;ve been told that it can get really crowded, especially on weekends when locals also escape from nearby Quito in search of some relaxation.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shallwegohometravel.com\/best-things-to-do-mindo-ecuador-itinerary\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can find a very detailed guide about Mindo on this page.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Mindo?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buses to Mindo depart from Terminal Terrestre Norte (<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/fzgbUukPrNLbdRip6\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) <\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">with the <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/cooperativaflordelvalle.com\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flor de Valle company.<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Mindo?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/cinnamon-house.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cinnamon House<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/la-casa-de-cecilia-mindo.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">La Casa de Cecilia<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are the two hostels usually recommended.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"amazon-rainforest\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>The Amazon rainforest<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A trip to South America can&#8217;t be considered complete without visiting the Amazon rainforest. While it can be reached from Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, and Ecuador, the fact that it can be easily accessed by land in Ecuador makes it a great choice for your budget.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Cuyabeno Reserve is one of the most accessible parks in the region and also one of the least expensive to reach and visit. Admission to the reserve is free.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best way to explore the reserve is by staying in one of the many lodges that typically provide food, lodging, and 2-3 activities per day. There are options for all budgets, but expect to pay around 250$ for a 3-night stay. You can book directly on the lodges&#8217; websites or through one of the many agencies in Quito and Banos.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I visited the Amazon rainforest in Peru, so I can&#8217;t speak from personal experience. That being said, here are a few options within the Cuyabeno Reserve: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.waitalodge.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Waitalodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/cuyabeno-caiman-ecolodge.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Caiman Eco Lodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/jamulodge.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jamu Lodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/cuyabenodolphinlodge.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dolphin Lodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.greenforestecolodge.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Green Forest eco Lodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If money isn&#8217;t an issue, take a look at the nearby Yasun\u00ed National Park (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/napowildlifecenter.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Napo Wildlife Center<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sachalodge.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sacha Lodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.laselvajunglelodge.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">La Selva Eco Lodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another option for visiting the Amazon rainforest in Ecuador could be the area around the Jatun Sacha Reserve near Banos: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/gaialodge.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gaia Lodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/misalodge.com\/en\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Misa Lodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.casadelsuizo.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> La Casa del Suizo<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ceibolodge.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ceibo Lodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach the Cuyabeno Reserve?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Night buses depart daily from Quito and Banos to Lago Agrio (7-8 hours), from where transportation to the lodge is then arranged; in any case, you&#8217;ll receive instructions once you&#8217;ve booked the tour.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/caimano_foresta_amazzonica.jpg\" alt=\"Wild caiman in the Amazon rainforest.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Caiman in the Amazon rainforest.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"latacunga\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Latacunga<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The town itself doesn&#8217;t have much to offer but is a great base for exploring nearby Cotopaxi volcano and Quilotoa lagoon.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Latacunga?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Quito&#8217;s Quitumbe Terminal (<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/jdLMtP2zWq642Ucf6\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), buses leave every half hour or so and take about an hour to reach their destination at a cost of $1.50.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Latacunga?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/hostal-cafe-tiana.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hostal Caf\u00e9 Tiana<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is centrally located and good value for money. They allow you to leave your luggage in storage if you decide to do the trek to the Quilotoa Lagoon. <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/latacunga-hostel.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Latacunga Hostel<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is another good option that also offers lots of private rooms.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"cotopaxi\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cotopaxi<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cotopaxi, reaching an altitude of 5,897 meters, is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. It&#8217;s located about 100 km south of Quito and 60 km north of Latacunga. You can either climb the volcano all the way to the summit or, as many do, simply reach the refuge located at 4,864 meters, just below the glacier that covers the summit.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The park is easily visited on a day trip from either Latacunga or Quito. In any case, whatever your starting point, there are two options for reaching the volcano:<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Organized tour.<\/strong> I usually tend to advise against tours, but this is one of the few exceptions. It costs 45-50$ and includes breakfast, lunch, transportation, a guide, and above all the rental of a bike to ride down from the parking lot, where the climb to the refuge begins, to the base of the volcano, which in my opinion is really worth it.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>DIY tour.<\/strong> If you&#8217;re in Latacunga, take a bus heading to Quito, and vice versa; once on board, ask to be dropped off at the &#8220;entrada de parque nacional cotopaxi&#8221;. The cost is about a dollar. At this point, it should be easy to spot 4&#215;4 vehicles ready to offer you a tour for about 20 dollars per person; as always, the price is negotiable. I recommend this option for those who aren&#8217;t interested in the bike descent or simply want to spend as little as possible. However, remember to leave early in the morning or arrive in a group, because this kind of solution only works if the vehicle fills up; otherwise, you risk paying more than the tour.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/rifugio_cotopaxi-1.jpg\" alt=\"The Cotopaxi refuge with the volcano's summit in the background.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>The summit of Cotopaxi Volcano.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"laguna-quilotoa\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Laguna Quilotoa<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Quilotoa Lagoon is a huge lagoon of volcanic origin that can be visited on a day trip or at the end of a 3-day hike (which I highly recommend) through valleys, rivers, small Quechua communities and incredible landscapes.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>How to visit Laguna Quilotoa on a day trip?<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are direct buses to the lagoon that leave about every hour from the Latacunga bus terminal (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/FKtLFRrP9Z27dJ6s5\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2.5 hours, $2.50. The bus will take you directly to the crater where you can go down to the lagoon, walk around it or just enjoy the view. The village is full of restaurants and accommodations in case you want to spend the night here. Entrance to the lagoon costs 2$.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>How to do the Laguna Quilotoa trek (Quilotoa loop)?<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let&#8217;s start by saying that this is a relatively easy trek, provided you&#8217;re acclimatized, as the finish is at almost 4000 meters. The trek can be done starting at the lagoon (3914 meters) and ending at Sigchos (2800 meters), so mostly downhill, or vice versa; I recommend starting in Sigchos so you have the lagoon as your reward at the end of the trek.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The route is relatively easy to follow, and many hostels along the way and in Latacunga provide fairly detailed maps with directions. Additionally, the local people are extremely friendly and helpful if you need directions. In any case, to be on the safe side, I recommend downloading the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/organicmaps.app\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Organic Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> app on your phone.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note: Bus schedules may not always be up-to-date or correct. I strongly recommend asking your hostel for confirmation to avoid any surprises.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/quilotoa_loop-1.jpg\" alt=\"Landscapes along the Laguna Quilotoa trek.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Trekking to Laguna Quilotoa.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 1. Latacunga -&gt; Sigchos -&gt; Isinlivi (<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/trail\/ecuador\/cotopaxi\/circuito-quilotoa-sigchos-isinlivi?u=m&amp;sh=mxqbmj\"><b>All Trails<\/b><\/a><b>)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From the Latacunga bus terminal, the first bus to Sigchos leaves at 6:30, the next at 9:30, then every half hour until 12:00, and finally every hour until 18:00. 2$ and about 2 hours. Check the schedules anyway in case there are any changes.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Sigchos to Isinlivi it&#8217;s about a 3-4 hour walk. Once in Isinlivi, you absolutely have to sleep at the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/hostal-llullu-llama.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Llullu Llama Mountain Lodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/llullullama.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Official website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), a dorm bed costs 21$ per night with dinner and breakfast included (delicious food). There&#8217;s also a spa on the property to which you can have access by paying extra. It&#8217;s undoubtedly one of the best hostels I&#8217;ve ever stayed in and I can&#8217;t recommend it enough. Be sure to book in advance because the hostel is very popular. If you haven&#8217;t picked up a map yet, the hostel will give you an extremely detailed one.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For the lazy, it&#8217;s possible to take a bus directly to Isinlivi from Latacunga without then walking the Sigchos -&gt; Isinlivi section.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From the Latacunga bus terminal:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Daily at 13:00, except Sundays at 11:00, with the &#8220;Vivero&#8221; company (on Thursdays departing from Saquisili Market).<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At 12:15, passing through Sigchos, with the &#8220;14 de Octubre&#8221; company (on Thursdays departing from Saquisili Market at 12:00).<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 2. Isinlivi -&gt; Chugchilan (<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/trail\/ecuador\/cotopaxi\/circuito-quilotoa-isinlivi-chugchilan?u=m&amp;sh=mxqbmj\"><b>All Trails<\/b><\/a><b>)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It&#8217;s about 4-5 hours of fairly easy hiking, with a few steep bits here and there, through beautiful scenery. Once you get to Chugchilan I recommend staying at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/hostal-cloud-forest.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cloud forest hostel<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cloudforesthostal.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Official website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). The place is really nice, although not as nice as Llullu Llama; the food, on the other hand, is nothing special. Another great option is <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/hostal-el-vaquero.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hostal el Vaquero.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 3. Chugchilan -&gt; Laguna Quilotoa (<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/trail\/ecuador\/cotopaxi\/circuito-quilotoa-laguna-quilotoa-desde-chugchilan?u=m&amp;sh=mxqbmj\"><b>All Trails<\/b><\/a><b>)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite the directions, this is the only section that&#8217;s &#8220;difficult&#8221; to follow. It takes 5-6 hours to reach the lagoon, with the last stretch, climbing back up the crater, entirely uphill. By walking slowly, you should have no problems, and the view is definitely worth it! After walking a section along the ridge of the crater, you&#8217;ll arrive at the village of Quilotoa, where you can take a bus back to Latacunga. Ask at the information office about the first bus departure time or alternatively take a colectivo to Zumbahua, where buses back to Latacunga are more frequent.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note: There are no ATMs along the way, so try to bring enough cash with you. Dinner and breakfast are provided by the hostels (for a fee, they&#8217;ll also give you a packed lunch). In the various villages along the route, you can find food, but I still recommend bringing snacks.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/laguna_quilotoa-1.jpg\" alt=\"Laguna Quilotoa in Ecuador.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Laguna Quilotoa.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>Planning your trip? If you still need travel insurance, you can find my <a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/safety\/travel-insurance\/\">guide to the best travel insurance<\/a> here. Purchasing through the links in the guide supports this site at no additional cost to you.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\r\n<div id=\"banos\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Banos<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Banos is a small mountain town in a valley at the foot of Ecuador&#8217;s most active volcano, Tungurahua. It&#8217;s an extremely touristy destination, even for locals, so don&#8217;t expect a quiet little town.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Banos<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are many possible activities to do in Banos: rafting, canyoning, horseback riding, trekking, zip lining, jungle tours, etc. etc. Below I list some budget activities:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>La casa del Arbol<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may have seen a picture of a swing suspended in midair with a volcano in the background. Well, this is the place in question. Besides the famous swing, for which you should be prepared to wait in line, there are other rides, mainly for kids (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/LRragNTazQs4mdVA6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and admission costs 1$. You can take a bus at the intersection of Calle Pastaza and Luis A. Martinez (<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/d5JCd6rzKRfvnUx58\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), departing at 5:15, 11:00, 14:00 and 16:00 and returning at 8:00 (weekends), 13:00, 16:00 and 18:00. The bus costs 1$. If you feel like it, you could hike up from Banos (<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/trail\/ecuador\/tungurahua\/torre-al-cielo-y-casa-del-arbol?u=m&amp;sh=mxqbmj\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All Trails<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>La ruta de las cascadas<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rent a bike (7-10 dollars a day depending on the model) and ride La ruta de las cascadas to Puyo (60km). <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.geotoursbanios.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Geotours<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has some good bikes and also offers all sorts of tours in the area (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/XWdmcNGMjcwR8fzH6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). The road is mostly downhill; even if you take it easy, you should reach Puyo in 5-6 hours.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you may have guessed, along the way there are numerous waterfalls, many of them visible from the road. The most impressive ones are: Cascada Manto de la Novia (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/J6cVUr8Ei4aZFXWP6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), where for 2 dollars you can take a cable car across the gorge; Pail\u00f3n del Diablo (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/bYcs9e8E4ZP2svFP6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), the most impressive of all, where you have to pay an entrance fee of 3 dollars; and finally Cascada El Roc\u00edo Machay (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/Gs4cHrd9NBrywLdCA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), where, following a short trail, you can go down to the base of the waterfall and have a swim; the entrance fee is 1.5 dollars. There&#8217;s only one road, so there&#8217;s no danger of getting lost, and the waterfalls are well marked.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re feeling tired or simply don&#8217;t feel like riding all the way to Puyo, you can stop one of the many buses heading to Ba\u00f1os and load your bike on board. The ticket from Puyo costs about 3-4 dollars.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/strada_cascate_banos-1.jpg\" alt=\"Cycling the waterfall road in Banos.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>La ruta de las cascadas.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>The thermal baths<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are several hot springs to choose from, the most famous being <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Termas de la Virgen (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/QpRSwZN4VXswSLEq5\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) located near the center of town but being so famous they&#8217;re also the most crowded. For those who want something quieter I suggest visiting the Balneario El Salado (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/GPk9WdXaUfSDsb8u7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) about 2 km outside of town. The cost is 4$, plus a dollar for swim cap rental.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Trekking<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are quite a few trails in and around Ba\u00f1os, such as the Los Sauces Trail (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/trail\/ecuador\/tungurahua\/sendero-de-los-sauces?u=m&amp;sh=mxqbmj\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All Trails<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). If you&#8217;re up for a challenge, you could also attempt to summit Chimborazo, which is the highest mountain in Ecuador at 6,263 meters. A guide is mandatory for any mountain above 5,000 meters. For a two-day tour, expect to pay around 300-400 dollars.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Banos?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Quito (3.5 hours, 4$), Riobamba (2 hours, 2$), Guayaquil (6.5 hours, $10). From Latacunga take a bus to Ambato; from there, buses leave frequently for Banos (1 hour, 1$).<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Banos?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For those looking for really cheap accommodation, I recommend wandering around the city a bit asking at the many hotels and Hospedaje. My German friend and I found a double room right in the center for 6$ each. A nice, cheap hostel right in the center is <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/hostal-d-mathias.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hostal D\u00b4Mathias<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If you&#8217;re looking for something more luxurious a little outside the center check out <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/mama-tungu-hostel.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mama Tungu hostel<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"guayaquil\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Guayaquil<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guayaquil is Ecuador&#8217;s largest city and among the largest ports in all of Latin America. The city has been described to me by many as uninteresting and most travelers pass through without even visiting. Something to keep in mind is that flights to the Galapagos tend to be cheaper than from Quito.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Since I haven&#8217;t been there personally, check out <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.latinamericabackpacking.com\/guayaquil-ecuador\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this article<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in case you want to spend time exploring the city.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"galapagos\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Galapagos<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unfortunately, I didn&#8217;t have the pleasure of visiting this fantastic archipelago for budget reasons, so I&#8217;ll point you straight to this extremely detailed guide. That being said, if I were to visit the islands, I&#8217;d personally try to get a last-minute deal on a cruise.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thiswildlifeofmine.com\/guide-solo-backpacking-galapagos\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Guide to the Galapagos Islands.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The only thing I&#8217;d say, especially to those traveling on a budget, is that the islands are really expensive: everything costs double, if not triple, compared to the rest of Ecuador, and the national park entrance fee alone costs 200$, plus the plane ticket. In any case, read the guide to get a clear idea!<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Igune_marine_galapagos.jpg\" alt=\"Marine iguanas on the beach in the Galapagos.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Marine iguanas in the Galapagos.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"montanita\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Montanita<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every self-respecting backpacking destination has its &#8220;party town,&#8221; and Ecuador is certainly no exception. Here, in addition to the many venues and clubs, you can surf or simply relax on the beach while waiting for the evening to arrive before heading out.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I spent New Year&#8217;s Eve in Montanita, and it was really fun. However, if you&#8217;re not interested in nightlife, I&#8217;d recommend skipping it.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Montanita?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One good budget option close to the center is <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/esperanto-hostel.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esperanto Bed &amp; Breakfast Surf Hostel<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If you&#8217;re looking for something nicer, check out <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/casa-del-sol.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Casa del Sol<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Montanita?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re not already somewhere along the Ecuador coast then you&#8217;ll likely have to reach Guayaquil first and take a direct bus that leaves at the following times <\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">05:00, 6:00, 7:00, 9:00, 11:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:30, 18:30 (USD$6), about 3 hours. Alternatively take a bus to Santa Elena or Libertad from where buses to Montanita are more frequent.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/montanita_ecuador-1.jpg\" alt=\"New Year's Eve on the beach in Montanita.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>New Year&#8217;s Eve in Montanita.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"puerto-lopez\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Puerto Lopez<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The small town itself doesn&#8217;t have much to offer but is an excellent base for visiting nearby Isla la Plata and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Playa Los Frailes.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>What to do and see in Puerto Lopez<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Isla la Plata<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Isla la Plata, also known as the Poor Man&#8217;s Galapagos, is an island located about an hour and a half by boat from Puerto Lopez. Among the many animal species\u2014mostly birds\u2014you can see a colony of blue-footed boobies.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The tour should cost no more than 30-35$ (haggle!) and includes transportation, lunch, snorkeling (where it&#8217;s common to see turtles), and a walk along one of the island&#8217;s trails accompanied by a guide. All in all, a tour I&#8217;d recommend to anyone who can&#8217;t afford the Galapagos!<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You only need to walk a few minutes along the waterfront before someone stops you in the street to offer you the tour. From May through October, you can also join a whale-watching tour.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/isla_plata_puerto_lopez-1.jpg\" alt=\"Blue-footed boobies on Isla de la Plata, Puerto Lopez.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Blue-footed boobies on Isla de la Plata.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Los Frailes<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The beach is considered the most beautiful in Ecuador and is located about 10 to 15 minutes north of Puerto Lopez by bus (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/khJBS5piMqWFuE2p9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). It&#8217;s part of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Machalilla <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Park <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">like Isla la Plata<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. To get to the beach take a tuk-tuk to the bus terminal (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/fhpzZGSSGt9diYS46\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and from there take any bus bound for Manta asking to get off at the entrance to Los Frailes beach, 10-15 minutes $0.50.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you arrive at your destination, entry is free but you must register. You can follow a 2.5km trail that passes two more beaches and finally arrive at Los Frailes, or go there directly on foot or by taking a tuk tuk (2-3$).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>How to reach Puerto Lopez?<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buses along the coastal road run frequently. <\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Montanita it takes about an hour and costs 2.5$. To return to Guayaquil there are daily direct buses at 4:00, 4:50, 6:55, 7:50, 9:00, 10:05, 12:00, 13:00, 14:35, 16:00, 17:00, 17:35. Approx. 4 hours ($5.50).<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Puerto Lopez?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/hostel-dannita.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hospedaje Dannita B&amp;B<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is the cheapest option I found. The hostel is nothing much but it&#8217;s clean and the dorm has air conditioning. If you want something nicer, check out <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/viejamar-surt-hostel.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Viejamar B&amp;B<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/ec\/azuluna-eco-lodge.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Azuluna Ecolodge<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note: I haven&#8217;t visited any other destinations along the coast, but if you&#8217;re looking to spend more days at the beach, there are quite a few options like the popular Mompiche. <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/talesfromthelens.com\/ecuador-beaches-town-pacific-coast\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can find an overview of all the destinations here.<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"cuenca\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cuenca<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cuenca is definitely my favorite city in Ecuador. It has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its streets are filled with colonial buildings, churches, and cathedrals, making it a truly pretty and photogenic place.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Cuenca_Ecuador-1.jpg\" alt=\"Colonial buildings in Cuenca, Ecuador.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>View from the terrace of my hostel in Cuenca.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Cuenca<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Explore the historic center<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As mentioned above, the historic center is really nice. The main square called Parque Calderon (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/Y15Aa4VoZfhpUnmCA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) houses the Cuenca Cathedral which recently opened its roof to the public (1$), offering a great view of the city (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/RnHrBNsqqJjk4pYt8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Mirador de Turi<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located south of the city (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/B9Z6jqiNmowGCUhK7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), it&#8217;s probably the best place to enjoy a bird&#8217;s-eye view of Cuenca. I walked there (it&#8217;s about 4 km from the center).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>El Cajas National Park<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">About an hour from Cuenca is the beautiful El Cajas National Park, which is free of charge and features more than 250 lagoons.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The visitor center (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/4LvqTdxyJggitfYf7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is a short walk from the road. After registering, you can follow one of the many trails through the park. The trails are well-marked, and if you have camping equipment, it&#8217;s possible to camp inside the park. However, it&#8217;s easily visited in a day. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/trail\/ecuador\/azuay\/laguna-toreadora-laguna-patoquinoas?u=m&amp;sh=mxqbmj\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I recommend this trail<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but there are many <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/parks\/ecuador\/azuay\/cajas-national-park?ref=result-card\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">other options to explore as well<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rainfall is frequent, and it can get really cold, so come prepared. Bring water and food from Cuenca. To reach El Cajas National Park from Cuenca, simply board any Guayaquil-bound bus and ask the driver to drop you off at the park entrance.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Parco_nazionale_cajas-1.jpg\" alt=\"Trekking in El Cajas National Park near Cuenca.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>El Cajas National Park.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Cuenca?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1100l3LP6\/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hostelworld.com%2Fhosteldetails.php%2FCheck-Inn-B-and-B-Cuenca%2FCuenca%2F80881%3FdateFrom%3D2018-06-27%26dateTo%3D2018-06-28%26number_of_guests%3D1%26sc_pos%3D5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hostel Check-In<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is super cheap, well located, breakfast is included and the rooftop terrace is amazing. I honestly don&#8217;t understand why the review score is so low; I highly recommend it.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Cuenca?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cuenca is located along the Panamericana and is easily accessible by bus from all major cities in Ecuador. If you plan to <\/span><\/i><a title=\"Backpacking Peru on your own\" href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/peru-en\/backapacking-peru\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">continue to Peru<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, there are direct buses that go all the way to Chiclayo, with stops in Mancora and Piura.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<div id=\"vilcabamba\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Vilcabamba<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once I arrived in Cuenca, I decided to continue to <\/span><a title=\"Backpacking Peru on your own\" href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/peru-en\/backapacking-peru\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Peru<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> without stopping in Vilcabamba, which, however, seems to be an extremely popular destination among backpackers. The area is known as the Valley of Longevity, and the main activity here, besides relaxing, is trekking. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dailymaverick.co.za\/article\/2021-06-09-digital-nomad-ecuador-edition-chilling-out-in-the-valley-of-longevity\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you&#8217;ll find an interesting article. As for accommodation, <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.izhcayluma.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hosteria Izhcayluma<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> seems to be extremely popular for many good reasons. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.voyagers.travel\/blog\/travel-guide-to-vilcabamba-the-hidden-gem-of-ecuador\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On this page you can find a great guide.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Well, now that we&#8217;ve looked at the main tourist destinations, I&#8217;d like to make a quick aside about the Andes train (Nariz del Diablo train), which seems to be something many people are interested in. Personally, it had been described to me as a tourist trap, but since I haven&#8217;t been on it, I won&#8217;t give an opinion. I do recommend, though, that you read <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/paradiseforpennies.com\/nariz-del-diablo-ecuador\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this article<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n<div id=\"iti\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Suggested itineraries<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Below I list possible 2, 3 and 4 week itineraries. Obviously there&#8217;s no perfect itinerary given a time frame, so take what follows as inspiration and modify the itinerary according to your interests\/budget!<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>2-week itinerary in Ecuador<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/itinerario_due_settimane-1.jpg\" alt=\"Map of a two-week travel itinerary in Ecuador\" width=\"783\" height=\"800\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Quito (3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spend the first few days acclimating and recovering from jet lag. Visit the historic center, Mitad del Mundo, and the Otavalo market. Leave the Pichincha volcano for last, so that you&#8217;re already physically ready and can prevent altitude sickness.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cotopaxi (1 night)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To save time, I highly recommend visiting Cotopaxi from Quito and then transferring to Latacunga in the afternoon once the tour is over, without returning to Quito. Just inform the tour guide, and they&#8217;ll drop you off along the Panamericana, where it will be easy to board a bus bound for Latacunga. Obviously, take all your luggage with you when you leave Quito in the morning.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Quilotoa loop (3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spend two nights doing the Quilotoa loop, and spend the third night in Latacunga. The next morning, head to Banos. Although you could theoretically skip the night in Latacunga and go directly to Banos, you&#8217;ll likely be tired after the three days of trekking!<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Banos (3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spend the first day exploring the town, and in the evening, visit one of the hot springs. On the second day, you could go to the Casa del Arbol or do any activity you like. I&#8217;d dedicate the third day to the Ruta de las Cascadas.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>The final 3-4 nights<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With the last 3-4 nights available you could:<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Join an Amazon rainforest tour (leaving from Banos and returning to Quito).<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit Cuenca.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the coast.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cut a few destinations from the above and spend a week in the Galapagos.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>3- or 4-week itinerary in Ecuador<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For itineraries of 3 weeks or more, my advice is to follow the two-week itinerary and add more destinations from those just listed or from what you find in the &#8220;what to do and see in Ecuador&#8221; section. There should be no shortage of ideas.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"how\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>How to get around Ecuador<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Buses in Ecuador<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like much of South America, the network of buses and colectivos in Ecuador is extremely efficient and allows you to get almost anywhere without too much difficulty.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can often board a bus anywhere along the route without needing to be at an official bus stop. Almost all cities have a single bus terminal (terminal terrestre) from which all companies depart (unlike in Peru, for example). As a general rule, buses should cost between 1 and 2 dollars per hour of travel, except along the coast where they tend to be more expensive.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buses, especially those connecting large cities, leave very frequently. There&#8217;s no need to buy tickets in advance, and the price is often negotiable, especially if you&#8217;re in a group.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some companies allow you to buy tickets online at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/andestransit.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andestransit<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. However, I honestly don&#8217;t recommend it: ticket prices are lower when bought directly at the terminal, and if you&#8217;re one of those people who wants everything planned down to the last detail, or are simply afraid of not getting a seat, then buy your ticket for the next leg at the terminal every time you arrive at a destination.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/collectivo_Ecuador.jpg\" alt=\"Colectivo in Ecuador along the Quilotoa loop.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Unconventional transport on the back of a pickup truck.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Taxis in Ecuador<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In Quito taxis use the meter (minimum fare 1$). Always ask for it to be turned on or set a price before you leave. A short route should never cost more than a couple of dollars. Avoid unofficial cabs. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uber.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Uber<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> works in Quito and Guayaquil. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/cabify.com\/en\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cabify<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.easytaxi.app\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Easy Taxi<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are also popular options.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Domestic flights in Ecuador<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Domestic flights aren&#8217;t extremely expensive and are definitely an option for those who don&#8217;t have much time, although buses remain far cheaper. A one-way domestic flight can cost between 40 and 100 dollars. Companies that operate domestic flights are <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avianca.com\/en\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avianca<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.latamairlines.com\/us\/en\/destinations\/ecuador\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Latam<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Hitchhiking in Ecuador<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To conclude, hitchhiking is a relatively common practice, especially in rural areas; you may be asked for a small &#8220;expense reimbursement&#8221;.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"cost\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Backpacking Ecuador: costs<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, how much does a trip to Ecuador cost?<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Flights to Quito or Guayaquil from Europe aren&#8217;t exactly cheap, but if booked a few months in advance they shouldn&#8217;t cost more than 700\/800\u20ac, except for periods like August and New Year&#8217;s. In any case, I recommend reading my guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/transport\/find-cheap-flights\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">how to find cheap flights.<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cost of transport in Ecuador<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting around Ecuador is fairly inexpensive as long as you use public transportation. For many destinations, you&#8217;ll find the cost of the bus tickets (prices are approximate and in some cases may be out of date).<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cost of accommodation<\/b><b> in Ecuador<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A bed in a good hostel costs on average between 6 and 10 dollars; a lot depends on the city and the time of year.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cheap hotels start at 15$, while for something more luxurious, expect to pay at least 25$.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For those looking to travel on a budget but not willing to sleep in dorms, I still recommend staying in hostels and getting a private room. Airbnb is another option to consider.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cost of food in Ecuador<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A men\u00fa del <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">d\u00eda<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">almuerzo<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, literally &#8220;menu of the day&#8221;, easy to find at lunchtime, costs on average between 2 and 3 dollars, drink included; in the evening, street food is a great cheap option.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For a meal in a mid-to-upper-range restaurant, prices start at about 15 dollars.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plenty of hostels provide a kitchen, and many places include breakfast.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A local beer in a bar costs about a dollar.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/mercato_Quito.jpg\" alt=\"The Quito market, where you can find fresh juices for a dollar.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Fresh juices for 1$.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cost of activities<\/b><b> in Ecuador<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many of the tours on offer can be done independently with proper planning and use of public transportation. The two big exceptions are the Galapagos and the Amazon rainforest, where participation in a tour is almost mandatory.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In any case, a day tour, whether it involves trekking, rafting, or any other activity, should never cost more than 50 dollars.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">In conclusion, I think that if you travel cheaply, sleep in hostels and use public transport, a budget of 30-35\u20ac a day should be more than enough.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">To reduce exchange and withdrawal fees, see my <a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/gear\/best-travel-cards\/\">guide to the best travel cards<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<div id=\"safe\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Backpacking Ecuador: safety<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is it dangerous to travel to Ecuador?<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As in other parts of the world, tourists should above all use common sense. Certain neighborhoods in large cities should definitely be avoided, especially at night, as should the area near the Colombian border, which for some reason isn&#8217;t considered safe.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In any case, the biggest danger is getting pickpocketed. Be particularly careful on buses, and if you take night buses, keep your valuables very close to you. Violence toward tourists is rare, unless you resist. Keep an eye on your belongings and you shouldn&#8217;t have any problems. In <\/span><a title=\"How to travel safely \u2013 tips and tricks\" href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/safety\/backpacking-safety\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this article<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you&#8217;ll find lots of tips on how to travel safely.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Are you planning a trip to Ecuador? Check out these posts:<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a title=\"Travel backpack: which one to choose?\" href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/gear\/travel-backpack\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Which travel backpack to choose<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/gear\/packing-list\/\">What to bring on your trip<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Do you have any questions? Updated information? Feel free to leave a comment or message me on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ilbackpacker\/\">Instagram<\/a>!<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>Since I no longer run ads, if you found this article helpful, please consider purchasing your <a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/safety\/travel-insurance\/\">travel insurance<\/a> through one of the links on this site. Doing so supports my work at no additional cost to you. For EU and UK residents, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.truetraveller.com\/?tag=4486\">True Traveller<\/a> (if you add the \u201cExtreme Pack\u201d, it covers trekking above 4,600 m). For everyone else, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/heymondo.com\/?utm_medium=Afiliado&amp;utm_source=ILBACKPACKER&amp;utm_campaign=PRINCIPAL&amp;cod_descuento=ILBACKPACKER&amp;ag_campaign=INPUT&amp;agencia=3e3e0e90cc3ad100e738962ea2e0b0be8d69\">HeyMondo<\/a>, which offers a 5% discount. Thank you for your support!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.paypal.com\/donate\/?hosted_button_id=QTBBEQQCE37GA\">For donations\/pizzas and virtual beers<\/a> \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">Did you like the post? Pin it!<\/h5>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7571\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/backpacking_ecuador.png\" alt=\"Guide to planning a budget trip to Ecuador\" width=\"330\" height=\"495\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/backpacking_ecuador.png 330w, https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/backpacking_ecuador-200x300.png 200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 330px) 100vw, 330px\" \/>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"From the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the Amazon rainforest, with a few colonial towns along the way. In Ecuador, you&#8217;re spoiled for choice!","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":5569,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[52],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7768","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ecuador-en"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t<!-- All in One SEO 5.0.4 - aioseo.com -->\n\t<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Where to go, what to see, itineraries, costs, useful tips and more to plan your trip to Ecuador.\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"max-image-preview:large\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Tr1nCa92\"\/>\n\t<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/ecuador-en\/backpacking-ecuador\/\" \/>\n\t\t<meta name=\"generator\" content=\"All in One SEO (AIOSEO) 5.0.4\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" 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costs, useful tips and more to plan your trip to Ecuador.\" \/>\n\t\t<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"aioseo-schema\">\n\t\t\t{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/ilbackpacker.it\\\/en\\\/destinations-en\\\/ecuador-en\\\/backpacking-ecuador\\\/#blogposting\",\"name\":\"Backpacking Ecuador: Itinerary, Costs & Budget Tips\",\"headline\":\"Ecuador Travel 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