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Ecuador is one of the somewhat underrated countries in South America. Its too peaceful to be notorious like Colombia and Venezuela and its not a tourist hotspot like Peru, Brazil, Argentina and Chile. The Galapagos Islands are famous of course – but they are so out-of-this-world that they feel like a country in their own right and therefore sometimes left out of references to Ecuador as a tourist spot. Also, the Galapagos aren’t huge on the backpacker trail which is often how South America is explored as they are just so damn expensive to visit.
I hope to show you in this post why you just have to get to Ecuador right now as it is such a chill place with a great vibe! Oh and make the Galapagos Islands a must do even if you have to sell a kidney (JJ but not really).
Otavalo
Otavalo is an easy breezy mountain town. There’s not a lot to do here but relax! You may just pass through on your way to/from Colombia but Otavalo also has an amazing indigenous market which is the largest in South America and a gorgeous and easy hike around Lake Cuicocha nearby. Definitely worth a stop. See my post here for more info about visiting Otavalo.
Quito
Quito seems like any other big South American city from the outset (although I feel they all have something special and unique about them) but its actually quite charming. Relatively safe, quaint and relaxed. There are also some cool spots to visit around Quito such as the Equator (cheesy I know!). See my post here for things to do in Quito.
Baños
Baños is unexpectedly cool – don’t come here and expect to chill out in the mountains. It’s Ecuador’s home of adventure! Also, you need to be fit to manage all the hiking and biking and holding onto swings as you fly out over the valleys. As I said…adventure. Who’s up for it? Find out what I’m doing in the picture below here.
The Galapagos Islands
The jewel in Ecuador’s crown is the Galapagos Islands. It’s one of those places you visit and can’t believe its real. I really don’t need to go into detail about why you need to visit the Galapagos – just look at any photo and you’ll see. You can see all the beautiful things I spotted in the Galapagos in my photo essay here – I hope it inspires you to visit!.
What are you waiting for? Find a place to stay in Ecuador and get going!
Erika xx
THE ONLY ERIKA IN THE VILLAGE 