Get to Know the Historical and Natural Wonders of Ecuador -- Step into the Gateway of the Andean

Ecuador is the smallest country in the Andean but it has the richest historical heritage and some of the most fascinating natural wonders in the region.  It is the gateway to the Andean region where native and Spanish traditions offer a lovely mix.  

Ecuador offers ancient marketplaces, Incan ruins, majestic mountains, Amazon tributaries, and stunning colonial churches and museums.  A trip to Ecuador is travel back in time.  

Best Time to Visit Ecuador

Everyone will agree that any time is the best time to travel to Ecuador.  The country has a perfect year round climate.  The coastal areas are warm and humid with constant rejuvenating breeze coming from the sea.  It is cool from January to May when nature trekking is ideal.  You can bask in the Ecuadorian beaches during the months of March and April.  Whale watching is perfect in August while the rainy season starts around September.  

The summer months are the peak tourist seasons so you better prepare for larger crowds and a bit more expensive holiday accommodation.  The crowd will thin out during the rainy months of September but it does not mean that you can not enjoy the vast tropical paradise of Ecuador.  Generally, you can pack your bags anytime and head on to Ecuador for a vacation made in paradise.

The Top 3 Destination Places in Ecuador

1.  San Francisco De Quito

The center of cultural activities in Ecuador is San Francisco de Quito.  This is the capital city and located in the inter-Andean valley on the southern part of the country.  De Quito is the place to visit if you want to discover the rich cultural heritage of Ecuador.  

The Plaza Mayor is the most important place to look out for.  It is the main square and hosts colonial palaces, 17th century cathedrals, and the world renowned Cultural Center.  From De Quito, you will have easy access to the Equator Monument, El Ejido Park, and the lovely El Panecillo observatory.  

2.  The Rustic Imbabura Province

Imbabura is known for its grand mountains and serene landlocked lakes.  Its capital, Ibarra, is a great colonial city with a rich Hispanic heritage.  The city lies at the foot of the towering Imbabura Volcano which is a great destination area by itself.  The province celebrates the Fiesta De Los Lagos festival every last weekend of September.  

The largest lake in the country, San Pablo, can be found in Imbabura.  There are lots of water sports activities waiting for you in San Pablo Lake.  Its calm waters are perfect for canoeing and boating.  The lush green surroundings make the lake a perfect place for contemplation.  Luxurious restaurants, diners, and tropical holiday cottages and holiday villas surround the lake.  You can easily find the best holiday accommodation in Imbabura especially around Lake San Pablo.  

3.  The Cotopaxi National Park and Reservation

There are more than a dozen national parks and reserves in Ecuador.  All of them offer the best experience for travelers who want to see the grand Ecuadorian outdoors.  However, a trip to Cotopaxi National Park should be on top of your list.  

This national park is located south of the city of Quito, about 60 kilometers away.  It sits on 36,000 hectares of lush vegetation and surrounded by snow capped active volcanoes. The most important peak in the park is the Cotopaxi volcano which is considered as a national natural monument.  

Cotopaxi volcano is considered as the highest volcano in the world with majestic ice caps.  Large areas of the park feature vast moorlands and paramo.  The treeless vegetation is a sight to behold and will surely inspire every visitor.  

The Cotopaxi National Park boasts of a natural museum, the Llamas Station.  You can also find the grand Limpiopungo Lagoon in the reservation.  This lagoon is the home of thousands of exotic Curiquingues or the high plateau birds.  And if these are not enough, you can visit the pre-Spanish Inca fortresses and the palace of the Inca king, Tupac.  All these can be found in Cotopaxi National Park.  

Ecuador Holiday Accommodation

Although Ecuador boasts of many pre-Spanish and Spanish sites, the holiday rentals in the country are undoubtedly world class and modern.  There are numerous vacation rentals especially around the major destination areas.  Typical holiday villas in the provinces offer a grand view of the ravishing Ecuadorian landscape.  The hotels and holiday cottages along the coastline, lakes, and beaches offer modern facilities with complete amenities for the visitors.  

The best part is that it is easy to find affordable holiday accommodation in the countryside.  You can easily afford a luxury accommodation even if you are traveling on a budget.  Most importantly, the holiday rentals, hotels, and holiday apartments in all of Ecuador have the friendliest and competent staff.  The graciousness of the people of Ecuador is reflected in the quality of service provided by holiday rentals in the country.   

Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha

Galápagos National Park

Basílica del Voto Nacional

El Panecillo

Ingapirca

Church and Convent of St. Francis

Puñay

Biblioteca Municipal de Guayaquil

Carondelet Palace