Andes
Discover the treasures of the Andes
Surrounded by majestic mountains, this region is home to a wide variety of ecosystems, from moorlands to cloud forests. Its blue lagoons, such as Laguna Quilotoa and Laguna Cuicocha, offer spectacular scenery and are a refuge for diverse species of flora and fauna. Here you can explore nature trails, spot endemic birds and visit indigenous markets full of colors and flavors, such as the one in Otavalo, which will immerse you in the authenticity of the Andean culture.
Quito
Mindo
Agua Santa Baths
CotacachiQuito, the capital of the center of the world
Quito awaits you in the heart of the Andes. It is the capital of Ecuador and the oldest and highest capital of Latin America. Today it is the political, economic, administrative, artistic, sports and cultural epicenter. It was declared a World Heritage Site for having the best preserved Historic Center in the region…
Cuenca, Ecuador’s cultural destination
Cuenca rises on a spring valley and is crossed by 4 beautiful rivers. Because of its architectural and cultural richness, it is a World Heritage Site and its Historic Center is the oldest residential area of colonial and republican style. It has points of archaeological interest in and around the city. It is one of the most famous places for the commercialization of toquilla straw hats.
Otavalo: culture, weavings, expression and color
Known for its indigenous culture and the famous largest indigenous market in Latin America: the Plaza de los Ponchos. Otavalo is surrounded by impressive nature. Visit San Pablo Lake, admire the Peguche waterfall, explore the Condor Park and climb the imposing Taita Imbabura. Connect with the indigenous culture at the Otavalango Museum and try their exquisite fritada and empanadas.
Choco Andino, a treasure in the middle of the cloud forest
This region is known for its unique biological diversity. It is home to bird species such as the olinguito, ocelots, deer and emblematic species such as the spectacled bear. Mindo is an ideal destination for bird watching, orchid and butterfly watching. You can also practice rafting and tubing in crystal clear rivers, admire waterfalls, cycling and learn about the production process of cocoa and chocolate. Visit the archaeological site of Tulipe and the culture of the Yumbos.
Baños de Agua Santa, an adventure in every location
This tourist gem is surrounded by exuberant nature, ideal for outdoor adventure. It has natural hot springs of volcanic origin and impressive waterfalls such as the Pailón del Diablo. Here you will find the famous End of the World Swing and options for rafting and canopy. It also has exciting theme parks, one of which is Runtum, where you will find zip lines, suspension bridges and mountain bike rides.
Ibarra, a peaceful city of flavors and lakes
Ibarra is in the north of Ecuador. Its main attractions are the Imbabura and Cotacachi volcanoes, whose summits offer unsurpassed panoramic views. Nearby is the Yahuarcocha lagoon, a popular place for sport fishing and water skiing. There are also the towns of Cotacachi, known for its leather crafts, and San Antonio de Ibarra, known for its traditional wood craftsmanship.
Who doesn’t know Loja, doesn’t know Ecuador
For its architecture, multiculturalism and contribution to the arts, Loja is known as the “Cultural and Musical Capital of Ecuador”. Its most outstanding festivities are: the pilgrimage to the Virgen del Cisne and the annual Festival of Living Arts You have to experience them! One hour away is Vilcabamba, known as the “Valley of Longevity” due to the miraculous properties of its waters. There is also the Podocarpus National Park, the town of Saraguro and the most delicious coffee agro-tourism routes.
Riobamba, closer to the sun
Riobamba is surrounded by landscapes, lagoons and imposing snow-capped mountains, one of which is Chimborazo, the highest peak in Ecuador and the farthest point from the center of the Earth. Here you can discover the Andean folklore, discover the national heritage and taste the exquisite hornado and juices prepared with ice from Chimborazo.
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