Highlights of Quito
Explore Quito, the capital of Ecuador, situated high in the Andean foothills, explore the old town, its beautiful churches monasteries and mansions.
From stunning landscapes and unique wildlife to delicious cuisine and vibrant traditions, Ecuador offers some of South America's most authentic experiences. Let Viva Expeditions be your guide to this extraordinary destination!
Ecuador is a small but remarkable South American country that offers the whole shebang: from the striking Andes Mountains to the lush Amazon Rainforest, spectacular colonial cities, and the wildlife sanctuary of the Galapagos Islands. Few countries offer such a diverse range of attractions within their borders.
Indeed, breathtaking diversity—and a distinct lack of mass tourism—best define Ecuador. Most travellers plan Ecuador tours solely to visit the Galapagos, unaware that the country is more than a mere springboard to one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife havens.
We’d love to change that!
Ecuador tours offer some of South America’s most authentic travel experiences, devoid of overwhelming tourist crowds. A thriving indigenous culture, colourful traditions, a fascinating history, warm and laid-back people and jaw-dropping landscapes. Ecuador is all that. And then some.
Let Viva’s Destination Specialists help you plan the ultimate Ecuador travel itinerary. We'll ensure your Ecuador tour is tailor-made to suit your desires. Contact Viva today!
Ecuador might be small and unassuming, yet what this pocket rocket of a country lacks in size and fame, it more than makes up for in extraordinary travel experiences. On Ecuador tours, you can get off the beaten path and savour a more authentic side of South American life.
Delight in fresh ceviche on a paradisiacal surfing beach, hunt for unique hand-painted pottery in remote mountain village markets, explore exquisitely preserved colonial cities or cast your eyes on one of the world's most active volcanoes. Yes, the Galapagos Islands and Amazon Rainforest bring prominence to Ecuador, but you would do yourself a great disservice if you were to discount the rest.
A well-planned Ecuador travel itinerary can see you land in the world’s highest (or second-highest) capital, Quito. The glorious colonial old town is filled with ornate churches and historic plazas, blending indigenous and Spanish influences. Dramatic mountain peaks surround the city and offer eye-popping vistas from various viewpoints.
Our Highlights of Quito Tour is a wonderful introduction to the kind of experiential travel you can enjoy in Ecuador.
Enjoy the traditions, culture, and mix of people on a day trip to Otavalo, which is revered for its famous Saturday market. Handmade clothes, blankets, jewellery, pottery and cuisine typical of Ecuadorian culture make up the colourful displays.
Both Quito and Cuenca, the southern splendour of Ecuador, are UNESCO-listed heritage treasures. The latter is a true contender for one of the most exquisite colonial-era cities in the Americas and can be easily included on all Ecuador tours.
Nature lovers will have their hands (and eyes) full in Ecuador. On your Ecuador travel itinerary, journey to the breathtaking Galapagos Islands to swim with sea lions, hike volcanic landscapes and meet unique wildlife found nowhere else on earth. Explore the Amazon Rainforest to discover indigenous cultures, spot vibrant bird species, and embark on thrilling jungle expeditions.
Don't miss the enchanting town of Baños, nestled amidst waterfalls and hot springs, offering opportunities for adrenaline-pumping activities like ziplining, canyoning, and biking along scenic routes.
With year-round idyllic temps and smaller tourist crowds, Ecuador is a pleasure to explore anytime. Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or natural wonders, Ecuador tours have something extraordinary to offer every traveller.
Choose from our range of unique trips, or contact us, and we'll be happy to tailor the perfect itinerary to suit your requirements.
Ecuador is generally a safe place for tourists. Still, it's essential to stay informed about current conditions, consult with our trusted Destination Specialists at Viva before travelling, and exercise caution, especially in urban areas. The latest wave of unrest is mainly centred on specific regions, which we don't recommend you visit. Due to the country's unique topography, natural hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic activity are potential risks in Ecuador. At Viva, your safety is always our top priority, and we recommend checking your country's official travel advisory website before departure.
The best time to travel to Ecuador depends on the places you wish to visit. The coast is best visited from December to April; The Galapagos from January to June; highlands between June and September and the Amazon throughout the whole year.
The wildlife you can spot depends on the place you go in Ecuador. The country is a home to huge variety of mammal, bird and reptile species. The best place to see wildlife is probably The Galapagos Islands, where you can spot animals that cannot be found anywhere else.
All of our tours include daily breakfast and some other meals throughout. Based on moderate-priced lunches and dinners we suggest a budget of 30 USD per day per person.
According to the Organic Law of Human Mobility updated in February 2017, anyone who enters the country of Ecuador as a tourist must have public or private health insurance for the duration of their stay in Ecuador. If the visitor cannot provide proof of such insurance, the immigration agent may deny the visitor entry into the country.
It is a must to have a health insurance.
Explore Quito, the capital of Ecuador, situated high in the Andean foothills, explore the old town, its beautiful churches monasteries and mansions.
Small Ship Cruising: Small ship expedition cruises are a wonderful way to explore. Choose from Antarctica cruises & Sub-Antarctic Island cruises, Arctic cruises or sail the Patagonian Fiords, Galapagos Islands Cruising or New Zealand’s wonderful Fiordland.
Signature Tours: Refined, Simplified, Perfected
Premium itineraries carefully crafted by destination experts. Take in the very best of South America and Central America, with highly-rated hotels and exclusive authentic experiences.
Explore the Galapagos Islands aboard a luxury catamaran, where lizards swim and tortoise roam. Includes a five-star stay in Quito's charming old town.
Luxury Tours: We design unique luxury holidays that allow you to experience the most spectacular and remote parts of the world. From the best hotels and lodges to luxury small ship cruises and exclusive heli-tours.
Unique Stays: Explore a world of extraordinary experiences with our Unique Stays, each tailored to enrich your journey with unforgettable adventures and authentic encounters.
Surrounded by rainforest and cloud forest, this is a nature lovers paradise. Escape to the luxury of the Mashpi Cloud Forest Lodge.
Small Ship Cruising: Small ship expedition cruises are a wonderful way to explore. Choose from Antarctica cruises & Sub-Antarctic Island cruises, Arctic cruises or sail the Patagonian Fiords, Galapagos Islands Cruising or New Zealand’s wonderful Fiordland.
Embark on the Infinity luxury yacht and sail through the Galapagos Islands. Walk, kayak and spot incredible wildlife in their nature environment.
Go in search of the world’s tiniest monkey and more at Sacha Lodge, deep in a pristine ecological reserve in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
Stay at the La Selva Eco Lodge & Retreat, a haven of luxury set amidst the pristine Amazonian rainforest in Ecuador.
Luxury Tours: We design unique luxury holidays that allow you to experience the most spectacular and remote parts of the world. From the best hotels and lodges to luxury small ship cruises and exclusive heli-tours.
Cruise the Galapagos Islands in style onboard the ultra-luxury Hermes catamaran. All suites feature a private balcony, a private jacuzzi and more.
Small Ship Cruising: Small ship expedition cruises are a wonderful way to explore. Choose from Antarctica cruises & Sub-Antarctic Island cruises, Arctic cruises or sail the Patagonian Fiords, Galapagos Islands Cruising or New Zealand’s wonderful Fiordland.
Explore seven different island during this seven day South-eastern Galapagos journey, witnessing an amazing array of wildlife along the way!
Napo Wildlife Center is a premium eco-hotel in the Yasuní National Park of Amazonian Ecuador. Enjoy amazing wildlife & time with the local community.
Explore the Galapagos on Ecuador tours. This UNESCO-listed archipelago of 19 islands is famed for unique wildlife and pristine landscapes. Dive into an unparalleled natural paradise and meet land iguanas, flightless cormorants, giant tortoises, and more!
See Galapagos Islands Tours HereSituated at 2,850masl and built atop the ruins of an ancient Inca city, Quito is an architectural marvel. Dive into the city’s rich culture, from colourful festivals to traditional cuisine. Explore hidden gems in its winding streets and lively plazas.
See Quito Tours HereDiscover the magic of Otavalo's market on Ecuador tours. Meet artisans showcasing their crafts against a backdrop of majestic mountains—a treasure trove of Andean culture, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and textiles.
Ask Us About Otavalo ToursExplore the Ecuadorian Amazon's wonders, including the mesmerizing parrot clay licks scattered across Yasuni National Park. Witness an abundance of wildlife gathering for this extraordinary spectacle, a highlight of any Ecuador travel itinerary.
See Ecuadorian Amazon Tours HereEcuador's cultural capital is the most beautiful colonial city after Quito. Sensational architecture, gorgeous plazas, flower-filled gardens, and authentic cuisine abound - chances for hikes and plenty of sightseeing in this immensely relaxing town.
Ask Us About Cuenca ToursExplore Cotopaxi National Park's rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems, from paramo grasslands to ancient Inca ruins. The park’s iconic active volcano of the same name is one of South America’s best adventure destinations. Climbing is on offer!
See Cotopaxi National Park Tours Here