What Kinds of Gifts and Souvenirs Can I Find in Ecuador?
Travelers can find excellent souvenirs in Ecuador. Clothing made from alpaca is especially popular and includes sweaters and socks — the indigenous market in Otavalo is a great place to find these items. Ecuador has a long history of making chocolate, and you're sure to find some delicious varieties here, especially in Quito, Mindo, and Guayaquil. Ecuador also produces wonderful coffee, which can be found in places like Loja. And interestingly enough, Ecuador is a great place to buy a Panama hat - be on the lookout for them in Cuenca.
In most markets it's acceptable (and even encouraged) to bargain, so don't be afraid to ask for the vendor's best price.
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Cuenca
Cuenca is a colonial marvel and one of the most attractive cities in Ecuador. Nestled in the highlands, its charming streets, grand plazas and churches span multiple levels of the mountainside, making the city more than postcard-worthy.
Guayaquil
As the largest city in Ecuador, Guayaquil is the commercial heart of the country. Its crowded streets contain a vast number of impressive hotels, restaurants and plazas.
Loja
Loja’s bustling streets, filled with university students and business men and women, give it a youthful atmosphere. For visitors, Loja’s historic district – filled with scenic churches and plazas – make this a worthwhile place to visit.
Mindo
With more birds than residents, the sleepy town of Mindo beckons travelers to come enjoy its picturesque cloud forest. Zip-lines and gondolas float through quiet, misty canopies, while a network of hiking trails on the ground lead visitors to roaring waterfalls.
Otavalo
If you arrive on Saturday to Otavalo, you might not even see the town. What you will see however, is one of the biggest open-air markets in the Andes. Crowded streets, lined with vendors selling their brightly woven textiles and colorful crafts, will have you roaming for hours on end looking for the perfect Ecuadorian souvenir.
Quito
Set an elevation of 9,350 ft (2,850 m), Quito is the highest capital city in the world. The population of this bustling city is a contrasting mix of Ecuadorians sporting sleek business suits and colorful indigenous clothing. These contrasts exemplify the mix of politics, history and culture that define Quito. Founded in the 16th century atop the ruins of an Inca city, Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a premier destination for those visiting Ecuador.
It's more than just having a good time or visiting beautiful places (although that's absolutely a part of it!), it's about being part of a unique experience that stays with you.
