What Should I Bring To Ecuador?
What you pack will depend somewhat on what you want to do. The following suggestions are just that - suggestions. If you have specific questions about what to bring, just ask one of our travel experts. We'll be happy to provide you with a concrete answer.
If you plan on hiking or exploring national parks, you'll need adequate gear. Bring hiking shoes and breathable clothing, including long-sleeve shirts, long pants, shorts, good socks, a hat, and sunglasses. In the Sierra, daytime temperatures can be warm but the nights can be chilly. Be sure to bring layers and a rain jacket.
Also bring a small daypack that you can toss insect repellent, sunscreen, a water bottle, flashlight, camera, and binoculars into. Having a small first aid kit is also a good idea.
If your trip includes a visit to the Galápagos, make sure you pack a swimsuit and sandals (or flip flops), and maybe even goggles. Bring very comfortable shoes if you'll be doing any walking tours in cities like Quito or Cuenca.
Most hotels in Ecuador have laundry service, so don't pack more than you really need. Having a huge bag will only slow you down.
Related Questions
See all questionsEcuador Hotels
Where will you stay between your Ecuador adventures? When you book your hotel in Ecuador, there's so much to consider: do you simply need a place to rest your head? Do you need accommodations that offer extra privacy? Is where you choose to stay part of a larger, indulgent getaway? Whether you need 800 thread count sheets in the heart of the city, or need an eco-friendly lodge in the heart of the jungle, there is an Ecuador hotel perfect for the adventures you're planning. Cute colonial hotels in Quito, Ecuador will allow you to soak up the nation's history in a variety of ways. You're literal steps away from a historical walking tour, but you can also slowly appreciate the marriage of colonial architecture with modern design and amenities as you stroll through the town to enjoy cafés and restaurants. City hotels in Ecuador are a great option if you want to go on a few outdoor adventures, but would prefer to focus your vacation on cultural tours. You'll always have a convenient and comfortable place to head back to, and will never be bored when you can explore a new city just by stepping outside of your door! Heading to Ecuador to visit the Galápagos Islands? Then you'll enjoy staying in a beachside bungalow. Speaking of beaches, surfers and families will also have plenty of beach fun ahead of them. You can choose to enjoy ocean views, or have the water right outside of your door. Looking to get back to nature? How about staying in the Achuar Tribal Lands, or exploring the jungles of Tena and Yasuni? Set yourself up for the vacation of your dreams when you begin and end your day at the perfect Ecuador hotel for you!
Ecuador Hiking Tours
Hiking in Ecuador can be a crash course in nature and even culture — hiking through the villages and smaller cities of Ecuador’s countryside, the warmth of the indigenous, traditional people is as striking as the landscapes. Travelers can challenge themselves by hiking up the numerous volcanoes or take a more figuratively breathtaking route through the Amazon Basin. Knowledgeable guides accompany the tours and keep the hiking fun, safe, and educational.
Galápagos
The Galápagos Islands straddle the equator roughly 600 miles (965 km) off the coast of Ecuador and are home to one of the world’s most unique and pristine ecosystems. This remote, volcanic archipelago is a hallmark of biodiversity—they support a wide variety of endemic marine and terrestrial species seen nowhere else on Earth. And without any natural predators, the wildlife here is not only unintimidated by humans, but it’s usually quite curious about them. While roaming these islands, a wide variety of bird, tortoise and iguana species can be seen. Jump into the crystal blue waters and watch sea lions, turtles, penguins and sharks glide right in front of you. In other words, there’s a reason why the famous naturalist Charles Darwin was so inspired by the Galapagos, and it’s likely that you will be too.
Northern Sierra
Atop these high northern Andean plains is the cultural heart of Ecuador. The Northern Sierra’s landscape, people and food truly embody Ecuador. Situated at nearly 0 degrees latitude, the Northern Sierra is located on the namesake of Ecuador, the equator. Connecting the northern cities is the Pan-American Highway, which winds through the high plains and valleys for roughly 150 miles (241 km) from Quito to the Ecuador-Colombia border. Flying into the capital city of Quito is the entry point for most visitors to Ecuador—and a great one at that, being a primary center for Ecuadorian history, industry and government.
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.
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.
