Our travel guides to Ecuador
Ecuador is the smallest country in South America, but quite possibly the most packed with diversity. In just a few hours by bus, you can go from the depth of the Amazon rainforest to the snow-capped peaks of the Andes, and then on to the beaches of the Pacific. Add the legendary Galápagos Islands to the mix, and you get a perfect snapshot of the best the continent has to offer, in a compact and accessible size.
Backpacking through Ecuador is easy and incredibly rewarding. The country is small (just about the size of the UK), which means bus trips rarely exceed 6-8 hours. The network is extensive, buses run frequently, and fares are among the lowest on the continent. Quito, the capital, is the perfect base for exploring the indigenous markets of Otavalo, the stunning Laguna de Quilotoa, or the relaxing thermal baths of Baños.
Here are all our travel guides for Ecuador:
Explore other destinations:
South America
Central America
Europe
Asia
About our Travel Guides
As for your budget, Ecuador uses the US dollar, which makes keeping track of spending a breeze. Plan on spending between 25 and 40 euros per day for two, excluding the Galu00e1pagos. On the mainland, almuerzos (menus of the day) cost about 2-3 dollars, and basic double rooms run between 15 and 25 dollars. The Galu00e1pagos are in a league of their own budget-wise: you can absolutely visit independently (without a cruise) to keep costs down, but do factor in a significant extra expense.
The best time to visit mainland Ecuador is the dry season from June to September in the Sierra (Andes), and from December to May along the Pacific coast. For the Galu00e1pagos, the warm season (January to May) offers warmer waters and much better visibility for snorkeling.
Check out our guides to find all our itineraries, practical tips, and budget-friendly advice to explore Ecuador on your own and at your own pace.
