6 Places You Must Visit in Ecuador
If you've already checked off all the major touristy attractions in Latin America from your list, Ecuador should be your next destination — both The New York Times and Travel + Leisure included the country in their lists of places to visit in 2017.
Whether you're looking for a culturally rich trip or an adventure that finds you zip-lining one morning and scuba diving at sunset, there's a city in Ecuador for you — take it from me, an Ecuadorean-American.
Here are six places to add to your travel itinerary.
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Manta
What to do: You can't make your way to Manta and not spend some time daydreaming on the sand at Playa El Murcielago. The warm-water beach is a relaxing destination.
Where to eat: The seafood at Restaurante Martinica is deemed heavenly. The restaurant caters to traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, so expect ceviche and tostones for days.
Where to stay: The Balandra Hotel lets you look out any window and be reminded that you're steps away from white sand and blue waters. The boutique hotel is guaranteed to feel like your home away from home.
Guayaquil
What to do: You'll want to bring walking shoes! Guayaquil is steeped in history, and it's best seen by exploring. Start by walking through the small towns, walking into churches and prayer rooms, like Capilla Hospicio del Corazón de Jesús, and finish off a day of adventure by exploring the Malecón 2000.
Where to eat: Marrecife Marisquería is where the locals eat, which means the food is probably otherworldly. This marisquería is all that is good about Ecuador's seafood-based cooking.
Where to stay: The Wyndham Hotel has the best of both worlds — all of the modern perks of a comfortable hotel stay and all that Guayaquil has to offer right outside its door.
Quito
What to do: Ecuador, of course, rests on the equator. The point of pride for the country is celebrated in Ciudad Mitad del Mundo. The monument and plaza may be a huge tourist attraction, but it doesn't make it any less cool.
Where to eat: Regardless of who you ask, Zazu, top chef Rafael Perez's home base, is exquisite. The fusion restaurant elevates some of Latin America's most traditional recipes and gives them a new twist.
Where to stay: Casa Gangotena — there's nothing about this majestic hotel that isn't Instagram worthy. Located in old Quito, it feels grandiose.
Cuenca
What to do: The entire city is an ode to history, from the Panama hats sold by street vendors to the churches. Stop by the Old Cathedral of Cuenca and then take on a hiking trail at Cajas National Park.
Where to eat: Enjoy a traditional almuerzo at El Bogavante. For under $5, you'll get a main course, soup, juice, and dessert.
Where to stay: With an old-school facade, the Mansión Alcázar Boutique Hotel may seem like a small, outdated hotel, but once you step inside, you'll see how mistaken you were.
Mindo
What to do: If you're interested in the more adventurous side of Ecuador, Mindo is for you. This is where you'll be able to enjoy the country's forests and rivers and all the outdoor activities those ecosystems can offer. Nambilla Cascadas should be at the top of your list.
Where to eat: El Quetzal de Mindo has a menu that will please anyone's palate, but the real draw is its chocolate offerings. There's even a chocolate tour for the real connoisseurs.
Where to stay: The views alone at San Jorge de Milpe Eco-Lodge Orchid & Bird Reserve are breathtaking.
Galápagos Islands
What to do: You can't make your way to Ecuador and not stop by the Galápagos Islands. These islands are home to animals that cannot be seen anywhere else. Stop by Galápagos Beach at Tortuga Bay, where you're bound to spot more than one iguana while lying on the white sand. After hitting the beach, head to Reserva El Chato to hang with the tortoises!
Where to eat: You can't go wrong stopping at La Garrapata. You can enjoy the fresh air and traditional Ecuadorian cuisine while surrounded by so much natural beauty.
Where to stay: Iguana Crossing is right on the beach.