🗺️ Explore Ecuador
Galápagos Islands
Unique wildlife and pristine nature. UNESCO World Heritage site with incredible biodiversity.
Amazon Rainforest
The lungs of the Earth. Experience incredible biodiversity with exotic wildlife.
Banos de agua santa
A place where you can find lots of aventure, the 'gates of the Amazon'
Riobamba & Chimborazo
One of the highest active volcanoes in the world. Stunning mountain views.
Puerto Lopez
Close you have other really nice touristic locations and from Puerto Lopez you can visit Isla De La Plata
Cuenca
Beautiful colonial city nestled in the Andes. UNESCO World Heritage site.
📅 My 21-Day Ecuador Journey
Jun 21
Departure
My adventure began at 10:30 AM from Brussels with a long journey to Guayaquil, including stops in Amsterdam and Panama. After landing at 20:30 local time, exhaustion mixed with excitement took over. I spent the night in Guayaquil resting, though jet lag had other plans sleeping only until 5-6 AM after drifting off at 2 AM.
Jun 22-24
Puerto López
Welcome to the whale watching capital of Ecuador! This charming coastal town is the gateway to unforgettable marine experiences. I booked a tour to Isla de la Plata where I witnessed humpback whales, sea turtles, and colorful seabirds in their natural habitat. The local seafood is incredible, and the relaxed atmosphere is perfect for unwinding. The nearby touristy hotspot of Montañita offers an alternative vibe if you want more action.
Jun 25
Drive to Cuenca
An 8+ hour scenic drive took me from the coast to the mountains. The landscape transformation was dramatic starting at sea level and climbing through misty highlands to over 3,800 meters elevation at Cajas National Park. The changing terrain and altitude made for an intense but rewarding journey.
Jun 26 - Jul 4
Cuenca
I spent over a week in this UNESCO World Heritage site, collaborating on a university project while exploring one of South America's most beautiful cities. The colorful colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and welcoming locals created a perfect balance of work and adventure. Day trips to Cajas National Park offered stunning highland scenery and photography opportunities.
Jul 5
Drive to Baños
The journey toward the Amazon brought me through misty mountains and increasingly lush landscapes. After 8-10 hours of driving through tropical terrain, I finally arrived at Baños a gateway to adventure that exceeded all expectations.
Jul 6-7
Baños de Agua Santa
This adventure town lives up to its reputation. Surrounded by rainforest and countless waterfalls, Baños offers non-stop outdoor activities. I hiked to massive cascades, explored pristine jungle scenery, and participated in thrilling canyoning and ziplining experiences that got my adrenaline pumping.
Jul 8-10
Amazon Rainforest
Nothing quite prepares you for the Amazon. A guided tour introduced me to incredible wildlife vibrant birds, curious animals, and indigenous communities. Sunrise and sunset river tours were magical moments of silence and wonder. Swimming in the Amazon River was surreal, and even encountering tarantulas in the lodge made for unforgettable stories. The jungle reminded me of how vast and precious nature truly is.
Jul 10-11
Chimborazo & Riobamba
The journey to Ecuador's highest mountain region was intense and rewarding. Hiking above 5,000 meters left me breathless, both from the altitude and the stunning panoramic views. Riobamba's mountain charm provided a perfect complement to the dramatic natural landscape. Standing beneath Chimborazo, I felt humbled by nature's grandeur.
Jul 12-13
Return Journey
A final 5-hour drive brought me back to Guayaquil. My KLM flight departed at 18:15, arriving in Amsterdam at 12:45 the next day. After 21 unforgettable days, I returned home with countless memories, incredible photos, and a heart full of gratitude for this amazing country.
✨ Ecuador in Pictures
Mountain Views
A breathtaking walk above 5,000 meters elevation in the heart of Ecuador. The crisp mountain air and panoramic vistas make this one of the most memorable experiences. - Riobamba & Chimborazo
Waterfalls
Stunning cascades surrounded by lush rainforest - a true natural wonder. - Baños de Agua Santa
Cuenca
A charming colonial city that feels like stepping into Europe. The well-preserved architecture and vibrant cultural scene make Cuenca a must-visit destination. - Cuenca
Good Morning
Every corner offers a spectacular view. This was the perfect start to my day at sunrise. - Chimborazo
Ecuador Highlights
VIDEOA refreshing swim in the Amazon River surrounded by pristine jungle landscapes. Pure magic. - Amazon Rainforest
Adventure in Motion
VIDEOExplore the incredible biodiversity and wildlife of Ecuador's marine ecosystem. - Isla de la Plata, Puerto López
Manta Ray Encounter
VIDEOAn unforgettable moment swimming alongside a majestic manta ray. - Isla de la Plata
Ziplining Adventure
VIDEOAdrenaline rush through the lush jungle canopy at high speed. - Baños de Agua Santa
🎯 Things I Missed & Want to Do
My Ecuador bucket list for next time I return
Galápagos Islands
The world-famous islands are a bucket-list destination with unique wildlife like giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies. Budget and time constraints kept this off my itinerary, but it's definitely my #1 priority for the next visit.
Quito's Historic Center
Ecuador's capital features a stunning UNESCO World Heritage old town with colonial charm and vibrant culture. I was so focused on nature that I missed this cultural gem.
Cloud Forest Bike Trail
The famous downhill biking route through misty cloud forest near Baños offers an epic adventure for those with proper equipment.
Extended Amazon Stay
While 3 days was amazing, a 5-7 day immersion would have allowed more wildlife spotting and a deeper connection with jungle life.
Cotopaxi National Park
An active volcano with breathtaking crater lake scenery. Perfect for hiking and camping, but fitting it between other stops proved challenging.
Snorkeling & Diving
Ecuador's underwater world is incredible. A focus on land adventures meant missing out on more water-based exploration opportunities.
📝 My Notes
Ecuador is truly exceptional, a country that packs incredible diversity into a remarkably compact area. From pristine rainforests to towering Andean peaks, from vibrant coastal towns to charming colonial cities, Ecuador offers everything a traveler could want. The warmth and friendliness of the Ecuadorian people made every interaction memorable.
One important note: English is not widely spoken, especially in remote areas. Learning some Spanish phrases is invaluable and demonstrates respect for the local culture. The country's incredible biodiversity and varied landscapes exceeded all my expectations. It truly offers something for every type of adventurer.
Traveling with a larger group provided both safety and companionship, though Ecuador didn't feel particularly dangerous during my visit. The compact geography means you can experience diverse ecosystems within relatively short distances, making it ideal for a meaningful South American adventure without extensive travel.
✈️ Travel Tips
Don't miss the Galápagos Islands if your budget allows incredible wildlife and unique species that exist nowhere else on Earth
The Amazon rainforest is accessible from the eastern region, book guided tours for safety and maximum wildlife encounters
Speaking Spanish is incredibly helpful, and locals genuinely appreciate the effort. The Ecuadorian people are exceptionally friendly and welcoming
Pack layers for Ecuador's varying climates. Temperatures range from 25°C at the coast to near freezing in the mountains, plus afternoon rain is common
Visit Quito's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage
Ecuador's compact size is a major advantage. You can experience coast, mountains, and Amazon within a single trip without exhausting travel days
If Galápagos feels too expensive or touristy, Isla de la Plata near Puerto López offers amazing whale watching and adventures at a fraction of the cost
📋 Trip Planning Guide
Duration
Minimum
2 weeks
Ideal
3 weeks
Maximum
5 weeks
Budget
Daily
€€€
Galápagos
€€€€
Flight Time
Direct
10-14h
With stops
15-20h
My Journey
Route
BRU → AMS → PTY → GYE
Airline
KLM
Ticket Price
Paid
€1,017
Booked
4 months ahead
💡 Pro Tip
Ecuador offers exceptional value compared to other South American destinations. The mainland provides excellent opportunities for budget travelers. Visit during April-May or September-October for better prices and fewer tourists.