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Ecuador Independent Vacation 2024/2025

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Ecuador Travel Guide

Ecuador is a beautiful country filled with incredible landscapes, beautiful towns, and stunning beaches. The diverse culture and heritage should be explored by visitors. If you're going on an Ecuador tour, you're sure to have a fantastic time with your tour director, exploring the jungles, islands, and more in this country. With tour operator volume buys plus our low everyday prices you can save up to 40% versus assembling the same itinerary on your own! Book your Ecuador tour today with AffordableTours.com, your discounted tour headquarters. View Ecuador Tour Deals and Discounts

Ecuador Travel Guide
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Itinerary Map12 DaysGlobusFirst ClassIndependent8+ years oldQuitoGuayaquilEcuador, GalapagosView Tour
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Itinerary Map14 DaysGlobusFirst ClassIndependentQuitoLimaEcuador, Galapagos, PeruView Tour
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Itinerary Map18 DaysGlobusFirst ClassIndependentQuitoLimaEcuador, Galapagos, PeruView Tour
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08 DaysGlobusFirst ClassIndependent8+ years oldQuitoGuayaquilEcuador, GalapagosView Tour
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Itinerary Map18 DaysGlobusFirst ClassIndependent8+ years oldQuitoLimaBolivia, Ecuador, Peru
-6%
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08 DaysGlobusFirst ClassIndependent8+ years oldQuitoGuayaquilEcuadorView Tour
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Itinerary Map12 DaysGlobusFirst ClassIndependent8+ years oldQuitoGuayaquilBolivia, Ecuador
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Itinerary Map14 DaysGlobusFirst ClassIndependent8+ years oldQuitoLimaEcuadorView Tour
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07 DaysGate1First ClassIndependentQuitoGuayaquilEcuador
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Itinerary Map07 DaysGate1First ClassIndependentQuitoGuayaquilEcuador
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07 DaysGate1First ClassIndependentQuitoGuayaquilEcuador
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Itinerary Map07 DaysGate1First ClassIndependentQuitoGuayaquilEcuador, Galapagos
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Itinerary Map07 DaysGate1First ClassIndependentQuitoGuayaquilEcuador, Galapagos
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Itinerary Map07 DaysGate1First ClassIndependentQuitoGuayaquilEcuador
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Itinerary Map08 DaysGate1First ClassIndependentQuitoGuayaquilEcuador, Galapagos
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Itinerary Map08 DaysGate1First ClassIndependentQuitoGuayaquilEcuador, Galapagos
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Itinerary Map08 DaysGate1First ClassIndependentQuitoGuayaquilEcuador, GalapagosView Tour
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Itinerary Map07 DaysGate1First ClassIndependentQuitoGuayaquilEcuador
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Ecuador Travel Guide

Ecuador Tours Highlights

  • Hike the beautiful Quilotoa Loop.
  • Walk around Cuenca.
  • Ride a train through the Andes Mountains.
  • Get up close with animals at the Galapagos Islands.
  • Explore the Inca Trail.
  • See the iconic Pailon del Diablo Waterfall.
  • Go on a boat ride through the Amazon Jungle.
  • Relax and grab a drink in Canoa.
  • Explore Quito, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Climb to the top of the Basilica del Voto Nacional.
  • Visit the Papallacta thermal baths.
  • Zipline through the Cloud Forest.

Ecuador Tours Travel Tips

  • Most places in Ecuador completely close by 10 pm at the latest. If you need any water or groceries, then be sure to buy them earlier in the day, or you'll have to wait until the next day.
  • Keep in mind that much of Ecuador is at a high altitude. Many visitors to the country don't account for the altitude change, which can, unfortunately, lead to altitude change. Be sure to drink lots of water and take it easy your first few days to avoid altitude sickness.
  • It's customary in Ecuador to say buen provecho at the beginning of every meal, whether you're eating out or eating in. This means "good meal," and it should be said once the food arrives at the table.
  • Take the time to try chocolate while you're here because many locals even consider it its own food group! Make sure to try from one of the local brands, which you can easily purchase from convenience stores.
  • Ecuador uses American money as its currency, so you won't have to exchange your money when visiting if you're from the U.S.

Ecuador Tours Things To Do

  • Hike the Quilotoa Loop
    Hike the Quilotoa Loop

    The Quilotoa Loop is a gorgeous hike that is best done over a few days in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador. This is popularly done by many backpackers visiting the country because there are spots to sleep outside along the trail for those willing to. This hike starts at the gorgeous Quilotoa Lake, which is a crater lake with breathtaking views. If you don't want to do this hike alone, consider doing it with a local guide or a tour group.

    You Should Know

    If you plan on doing this hike, make sure that you've taken the time to get used to the high altitude here. Don't have time to do the whole hike? No need to worry; just hike a small portion of it.  

  • Walk around Cuenca
    Walk around Cuenca

    Cuenca is a must-visit city in the southern part of Ecuador in the Andes Mountains. This mountain city is most well-known for its craft scene, specifically with its Panama hats (which, yes, are created in Ecuador and not Panama). Some of the best spots to explore in Cuenca are the Parque Nacional Cajas, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, and the Museo Pumapungo. Take the time to explore and walk around this city, and don't be scared to adventure through it without a set plan. That's one of the best ways to explore this city!

    You Should Know

    If you plan on visiting some of the museums, book your tickets ahead of time to save time and money.  

  • Get up close with animals at the Galapagos Islands
    Get up close with animals at the Galapagos Islands

    The Galapagos Islands are one of the most popular destinations in all of Ecuador for a good reason. These islands are located on a volcanic archipelago and are home to many fantastic wildlife animals, including the iconic turtles. The islands are most famous for being the very spot that Charles Darwin visited way back in the 19th century. It's said to be the same spot that later inspired Darwin's theory of evolution, which is studied in science classes worldwide.

    You Should Know

    There are two ways to get to the Galapagos Islands. You can fly to Baltra Island and then take a ferry to Puerto Ayora as one option. If you don't want to do that, you can also fly right into San Cristobal Island's Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.  

  • Explore the Inca Trail
    Explore the Inca Trail

    The Inca Trail goes all the way up to the famous Machu Picchu. It takes about four to five days on average to hike along the Inca Trail, though you can also explore some of it in just one day if you want to experience it a little. Parts of the Inca Trail are dangerous, but the same can be said of any other hike in the world because there is always a risk. The Inca Trail is best explored with a tour guide, so you're already in luck if you're exploring the country on an Ecuador tour.

    You Should Know

    For the most part, a hike along the Inca Trail (if you plan on hiking the whole thing) costs typically around $500 per person. Of course, this can be done cheaper with specific guides and can also cost more.  

  • Ride a train through the Andes Mountains
    Ride a train through the Andes Mountains

    The Andes Mountains are an iconic mountain range on the western side of South America. It's notably one of the longest mountain ranges globally and is known for holding unique archaeological sites worth exploring. One of the best ways to explore some of the Andes Mountains is by hopping on a train ride. Many different companies offer train rides through the mountains, so make sure you do your research to find a train car that you'll be comfortable in.

    You Should Know

    Book your tickets through a train ride through the Andes Mountains well in advance because this is one of Ecuador's most popular excursions.  

  • Go on a boat ride through the Amazon Jungle
    Go on a boat ride through the Amazon Jungle

    The Amazon Jungle (also known as the Amazon Rainforest) is the most significant tropical rainforest in the entire country. It covers many countries in South America, including Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, and Peru, among others. The forest is most well-known for its unique biodiversity and wildlife that are worth exploring. The easiest way for a visitor to learn more about the jungle is to go on a boat ride along the many rivers with guides.

    You Should Know

    Make sure you dress appropriately to explore the Amazon Jungle and dress in layers. The bugs here can be particularly nasty as well, so pack your bug spray.  

  • See the Pailon del Diablo Waterfall
    See the Pailon del Diablo Waterfall

    The Pailon del Diablo Waterfall, also known in English as the Devil's Cauldron, is a gorgeous waterfall alongside a cliff in Ecuador's Rio Verde. There's a short hike to get up to the waterfall, but the views are ultimately rewarding. In total, the trail approximately takes 30 minutes, depending on how fast or slow you walk. This is an easy to moderate trail to walk, so even if you aren't a strong hiker, you'll be able to explore this trail and visit Devil's Cauldron.

    You Should Know

    This is not a waterfall to visit if you are scared of heights. The trek along the cliff is extremely high up.  

  • Explore Quito
    Explore Quito

    Quito is the capital of Ecuador and is right at the foothills of the Andes Mountains. It's filled with great things to see and explore and is even built right into an old Incan city, making it significantly historical. Some of the best spots to explore in Quito include the Basilica of the National Vow, Independence Square, and the Middle of the World. One of the best ways to explore Quito is with a tour guide, especially a local guide so that you can get immersed in the local culture.

    Best Time To Visit

    Because Quito is the capital, it's known for being busy at almost all times. Visit the sites you're most interested in seeing early in the morning to avoid the crowds that you'll see later in the day.  

  • Zipline through the Cloud Forest
    Zipline through the Cloud Forest

    The Cloud Forest in Ecuador is a gorgeous forest located not that far from Quito. It's filled with breathtaking views and scenery that can be seen through hikes, walks, and more. However, one of the best ways to adventure through the Cloud Forest is by zipline! Keep in mind that ziplining always has its risks, and you might have to meet prequalifications to go ziplining. However, there's truly no better way to see the forest than from above!

    You Should Know

    If you plan on ziplining, you'll want to book your adventure ahead of time and plan to rent a car or take a taxi to get to the Cloud Forest because it isn't easily accessible by public transportation.  

Ecuador Tour Packages

Quick Facts

Ecuador is a great place to visit no matter the time of year, but keep in mind that it does have its dry seasons. Be sure to plan your trip to Ecuador ahead of time and pick the time of year that you are most interested in visiting.

  • Spring and Fall - September to November and March to May - Shoulder Season

    The shoulder seasons in Ecuador are the fall and spring seasons. The average temperature in the spring is approximately 67°F, while the fall sees average temperatures of about the same. Crowds during this time won't be as bad as they are during the winter.

  • Summer - December to February - Low Season

    This is the wettest time of year, meaning that this time of year sees a lot of precipitation in Ecuador. The average temperature in the summer is around 69°F each day. Because not many people visit during this time, you'll be able to find accommodation prices pretty cheaply.

  • Winter - June to August - High Season

    The most popular time to visit Ecuador is during the winter because this is the driest time of year, making it arguably the best time to visit. During this time, the average temperature is 66°F, and accommodation prices might be at their highest during this time.

Ecuador Tours Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are Ecuador Tours?

      If you're the type of traveler who loves exploring places but hates taking the time to do the nit-picky parts of travel like making an itinerary, then Ecuador tours are perfect for you. You'll also have a guide with you at all times of your adventure and a tour group who will be with you experiencing Ecuador for the first time too. All you have to do is pack your bag and get ready to go on an adventure!

  • What’s included on an Ecuador Tour?

    Ecuador tours include access to a tour director who will be with you throughout your entire trip to the country. Your tour director may also enlist the help of other local tour guides throughout your trip so that you can have a more knowledgeable guide on less-visited areas of the country.    A majority of your meals, accommodations, and transportation from place to place will also be included on your Ecuador tour. There will be days where you'll mostly be with your group in the morning, and then you'll be set to free in the afternoon to explore on your own.

  • What’s the best Ecuador Tour?

    No Ecuador tour is better than another because they're all so fantastic. You'll genuinely have to do your research to find the one that fits your needs the best. Take the time to find the tour that is best for your budget, your vacation length, and consider the stops that you'd love for your tour to include. If you find that you're struggling to find the tour that's best for you, don't hesitate to give our tour experts a call.

  • How much do Ecuador Tours cost?

    Ecuador costs vary drastically in price because each one has different lengths and stops. Some cost as little as $80 a day while others cost upwards of $150 a day. Luckily, you can save up to 40% off Ecuador tours by booking through Affordable Tours versus booking the same tour through another website. We often have other fun promotions running with our tours, so keep an eye out to see what kind of deal you can get on your Ecuador tour!

Reviews for Ecuador Tours and Vacations

We are truly impressed with Affordable Tours and Gate1 Travel for a wonderful vacation we had with our vacation tour to Ecuador, and Peru. Our trip was a 10 on a score basis of 1-10, 10 being the best. Our Affordable Tour consultant was very patient and took care of all arrangements including planning for transfers, reservations with Gate1 and all the questions we asked her. We truly enjoyed the beautiful of both the countries. Our flights and hotels were excellent. This is our third trip and we feel great to work with Affordable Tours.

Varsha D

We are truly impressed with Affordable Tours and Gate1 Travel for a wonderful vacation we had with our vacation tour to Ecuador, and Peru. Our trip was a 10 on a score basis of 1-10, 10 being the best. Our Affordable Tour consultant was very patient and took care of all arrangements including planning for transfers, reservations with Gate1 and all the questions we asked her. We truly enjoyed the beautiful of both the countries. Our flights and hotels were excellent. This is our third trip and we feel great to work with Affordable Tours.

Varsha D

hotel in Amazon did not have A/c or TV and wiFi was poor. Room was hot when we entered and did not cool down for long time

Sukumar M

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