Best of the Best: Ecuador

Best of the Best: Ecuador

Ecuador is so much more than just the Galapagos. This guide includes all the must-see spots in Ecuador on the mainland...no Galapagos needed. Ecuador is a country filled with stunning mountains, impressive volcanos, giant waterfalls, picturesque beaches, and vibrant cities. I include all of my personal recommendations for the best hikes, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, tours, viewpoints, and museums so you can get the most out of this vastly underrated country. At the end of the guide I also include my list of tips n tricks so you are informed of important things like: common scams, the tipping culture, and national dishes to try.
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~Quito~

Quito cable car
@tamaraknell
Take the cable car up to enjoy stunning views overlooking all of Cusco. It costs roughly $11 for a roundtrip ticket. There is a cafe, swing, and optional walking trails on the mountain. Don't forget a jacket because it gets very chilly up there.
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Free Walking Tour Quito
@tamaraknell
Quito has several free walking tours to choose from and they are all roughly the same. I would definitely recommend a walking tour because it takes you to parts of the city you wouldn't have explored otherwise. The guide also explains some of the interesting history of the city and economic policies (like why they use the US dollar). My tour even included a free chocolate tasting :)
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Intiñan Equator Museum
@tamaraknell
Welcome to the middle of the world!! This "museum" is located at exactly 00'00'00" latitude. You can stand on the equator and have each one of your feet in both hemispheres. Pretty neat. There are also demonstrations on how gravity and balance are effected due to the magnetic pull.
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Middle of the World City
@tamaraknell
This monument was first to claim the "middle of the world" status. Then scientist came through and announced it was not actually on the equator, thus the Intanan museum was built just down the road. But the monument is more picturesque for photos so it still stands. But if you want to be exact, then go to the Intanan musuem instead.
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La Floresta
@tamaraknell
La Floresta is a trendy and chic neighbourhood thats great to explore. Tons of cute restaurants, coffee shops, stores, museums, and street art. If you are staying a while in Quito, I would recommend this area.
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Independence Square
@tamaraknell
This is the main plaza of Quito. Lots of beautiful architecture everywhere you look. Many locals hang out here and enjoy the hustle of onlookers. Beware of pickpockets as this area is known to be a hotspot for them.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Originally from LA, I've solo traveled to 58 countries at 27 years old. Most of my travels have revolved around South East Asia, Central America, Europe, Australia, and South America. I specialize in budget backpacking and slow travel. I focus my recommendations on adventure activities, nature, cultural experiences, local food, and nightlife. I've had tons of crazy experiences along my journey that has shaped me into the confident backpacker I am today. I want every person (but women especially!) to feel the joy and freedom that comes from solo traveling. I'll tell you the good, the bad, and the ugly. I've made tons of mistakes traveling; I've lost my debit card, had medical emergencies, stolen iPhones, and the occasional mental breakdown...or two. Traveling is not always picture perfect so I want to show you all the nitty gritty details to make sure you are THE most prepared for your backpacking adventure.
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Digital Map
Fully interactive, digital map for finding places nearby
61 places
61 hand-picked places with notes from the creator
DESTINATION(S) COVERED
Ecuador
Quito, Ecuador
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Female Solo
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Digital Nomads
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Slow Travel
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Maps are simple lists of places often grouped by themes, categories or geos.
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