Quito is Ecuador's capital and it boasts the best-preserved, least altered historic city centre in Latin America. It was declared the world's first Cultural Heritage of Humanity site by UNESCO in 1978.

Quito historic city centre has several squares and churches that are worth a visit. Plaza de la Independencia is the city's main square and is surrounded by the Presidential Palace, Archbishop's Palace, and the Cathedral of Quito. Plaza de San Francisco is just 2 blocks away and it's home to a church and convent of the same name, full of history and myths. Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús is nestled between these two landmarks and is probably the most beautiful church in town, a stunning baroque masterpiece adorned with ornate carvings covered in gold. Iglesia de La Basilica is few blocks away and is a neo-Gothic marvel, featuring soaring towers, unique gargoyles, and breathtaking city views. Finally, 40 minutes from the city lies the Middle of the World Monument which marks the point where the Equator line divides the world in two hemispheres.

Ecuador is renowned for being a megadiverse country, with extraordinary biodiversity packed into a small area. The country is divided into five distinct regions, each offering unique landscapes, and unparalleled natural and cultural wealth.

The Andes highlands feature majestic mountains, colonial cities, and indigenous traditions.

Towards the south of Quito we recommend you visit the Cotopaxi Volcano, hike to its refuge or grasp its stunning views while visiting the traditional Hacienda El Porvenir or Hacienda San Agustin del Callo.

Towards the north of Quito we recommend you visit Lake San Pablo and the Otavalo Market, while enjoying the views of Cayambe Volcano on the way, or stay at traditional Hacienda Zuleta and Hacienda Cusín.

The Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a sanctuary of endemic wildlife that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution. It's is known for being home to the giant Galápagos turtles, blue footed boobies, iguanas, sea lions, penguins and many more beautiful and endemic species!

The Amazon Rainforest is a lush haven of biodiversity, where it's trees and rivers are home to an immense variety of species.

The Amazon Rainforest boasts unique wildlife including a diverse variety of monkeys, birds, and even pink dolphins. The best way to explore it is to join organised trips that will sail through its rivers and guide you through the thick forest. From Quito, you can reach the Amazon by car (5h drive) or plane (30min flight). There are several exclusive lodges that will organise this trip for you, we recommend Sacha Lodge and Napo Wildlife Ecolodge Center.

The Andean Chocó Cloud Forest is a special region nestled between the highlands and the Pacific coast, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

The Andean Chocó Cloud Forest encompasses both rainforest and cloud forest ecosystems, supporting a vast array of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic; including orchids, 600 species of birds, and 270 mammal species such as the spectacled bears, anteaters, and pumas. It's located just 45 minutes from Quito, and we highly recommend a visit to the renowned Mashpi Lodge, a luxury adventure hotel that will ensure a memorable stay.

Lastly, the Pacific Coast boasts golden beaches and rich culinary traditions.

To start planning your trip, please contact our recommended

travel agency:

Gentian Trails

Gabriela Figueroa (+593 99 922 7250)

gabriela@gentiantrails.com