Nestled on the coast between Peru and Colombia, Ecuadoe is a country of contrasts - in its landscapes, its people, and its food.
It might be the Galapagos Islands, or the Amazon rainforest, the Andes, volcanic Cotopaxi, or the incredible Ecuadorian Sierra that inspires you to start considering an adventure to Ecuador, but as soon as you start your research, you’ll realise how much this small country has to offer. If you didn’t already know about them, you’ll discover how many of Ecuador’s cities have historic, Unesco-listed centres lined with photogenic plazas and elegant colonial mansions. You might also be tempted by Ecuador's beautiful coastline, with its exotic marine life; or by the Amazon with its remote settlements. Lastly, there are the mighty Andes to consider, of rolling fields and hills and craggy peaks. Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Ecuador are spread across the country, and hopefully we’ve found something to suit everyone.
If there was ever a country ripe for adventurers, and those with an adventurous spirit, Ecuador is it. There are excellent opportunities for walking, hiking, biking or horse riding, as well as witnessing the glories of the natural world. The birdlife is very varied, and off the coast you can see whales and dolphins. Towering above it all are the splendours of the Galapagos, a collection of volcanic islands stradding the equator 500 miles out into the Pacific Ocean. For many, that is a trip of a lifetime on its own, and if you feel tempted (and have the budget), we have listed a collection of amazing places to stay in the Galapagos Islands.
Famously ‘in the clouds’ 3,000 metres above sea level, Quito is built on the foundations of an ancient Incan city, and the top layers today include a well preserved colonial centre and ancient churches in both the European and Moorish styles. One of the highlights of Quito, and a fantastic way to start any visit to Ecuador, is the Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Ortega Maila, a spectacular museum which explores Ecuador’s fascinating past.
The isolated Galapagos Islands are an incredible haven for unusual endemic wildlife, from the giant tortoises to the land iguana, to the flightless cormorants. So incredible that it can be said to be behind the change in our entire idea of nature and our place in it. There are 19 islands, all different sizes and all worth visiting. For example, Espanola Island boasts a huge colony of waved albatross; Floreana Island teems with pink flamingos and green sea turtles; and Isabella, the main island, is inhabited by the famous giant tortoises. One of the unique things about these islands is that there are no natural predators, meaning that the animals there have no fear of humans, allowing visitors to get up close. Surrounding the islands is the Galapagos Marine Reserve, awash with corals, sharks, penguins, sea-lions and whales. So snorkelling is incredibly popular here too, along with whale watching.
Before you set out for the Galapagos Islands you might stay in Guayaquil, a really charming port city with colourfully painted houses, numerous art galleries and a lively waterfront promenade. Guayaquil has been invaded by the Spanish, the Peruvians and pirates from both France and Britain, so it has some wonderful colonial monuments.
The Parque Nacional Cotopaxi is another centrepiece of Ecuador’s natural beauty, with its snowcapped namesake the Cotopaxi Volcano and its paramo grasslands. The Parque Nacional Yasuní is the country’s largest national park, covering marshland, tropical rainforest and more grasslands and forest. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to jaguars, tapirs and pumas, as well as over 600 different species of bird.
When it comes to smaller centres, Otavalo, with its markets, Vilcabamba with its mountainous backdrop, and Papallacta, with its therapeutic hot springs all deserve a mention.
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Quito (La Floresta)
A charming property dating back to 1936 with an elegant lounge area and a luscious garden for guests to relax in. Rooms have gorgeous parquet flooring and the best rooms come with a sit-out-terrace. The restaurant offers a delightfully varied menu of local and international dishes.
Pichincha Province (Mindo)
An eco-lodge surrounded by forest where guests can lounge in hammocks from the comfort of their room. The whole resort is built from locally-sourced wood seamlessly blending into its surrounds. The Balsa restaurant invites guests to dine al-fresco overlooking the stunning Pilchicocha Lake.
Quito (La Floresta)
A charming property dating back to 1936 with an elegant lounge area and a luscious garden for guests to relax in. Rooms have gorgeous parquet flooring and the best rooms come with a sit-out-terrace. The restaurant offers a delightfully varied menu of local and international dishes.
Quito (Oriente Centro Historico de Quito)
A chic boutique hotel in the heart of the historic city. Slick contemporary rooms are minimalist in design with exposed brick, polished parquet floors and plenty of light. A cafeteria provides a quiet spot for a quick bite. Ideally situated for city exploring. Fabulous.
Galapagos Islands (Puerto Villamil - Isabela)
A boutique property overlooking the sea and surrounded by the Galapagos' wild landscape. Smart rooms feature floor to ceiling windows, most have terraces and luxurious bathrooms. A tranquil pool provides a relaxing spot to unwind after a days exploring. The ideal spot for nature lovers.
Galapagos Islands (Isla Santa Cruz)
A small boutique hotel set in an outstanding remote location in the centre of the Galapagos. A collection of casitas and villas are charmingly decorated with white washed walls, beamed ceilings and antique furniture. Spend days exploring land and sea before returning for indulgent dinners. Fabulous.
Cuenca
This stylish heritage hotel is located on Cuenca's riverside. The refined guestrooms feature 380-thread count sheets, charming local textiles and original wooden accents; book the family suite for split-level living space. Unwind with a cocktail at the cosy hotel bar; an elegant stay.
Cuenca
A wonderfully traditional hotel in the historic centre of Cuenca. Elegant rooms feature antique furniture, high ceilings, patterned wallpaper and sash windows. A large central open-air courtyard makes for romantic evening meals. Well positioned to access the best of the cities attractions. Fabulous.
Riobamba
This elegant hacienda offers accommodation in the Riobamba, a canton in Ecuador's Chimborazo Province. Guestrooms feature whitewashed walls, exposed beams and dark wood furnishings; book a suite for a separate living area. Sample novoandina cuisine at the hotel restaurant; a stylish country escape.
Chimborazo Province
This hotel is located on a national heritage hacienda outside of Quito, Ecuador. Rooms are traditionally dressed and feature comfortable beds, plush linens and wooden accents; book a suite for extra living space. Dine in the rustic restaurant before drinks at the bar; a charming country getaway.
Banos (Baños)
This traditional hacienda is located in Patate, part of Ecuador's Tungurahua province. The inviting guestrooms are traditionally dressed, featuring wooden floors, comfortable beds and local artwork; book a suite for a cosy private fireplace. Unwind by the pool before dinner; a charming country stay.
Banos
This hotel offers accommodation on a charming hacienda in the Llanganates National Park in Ecuador. Rooms are spacious and bright with heritage furniture and cosy soft furnishings; book a suite for floor-to-ceiling windows with mountain views. Dine at the chic restaurant; a stylish country escape.
Otavalo (Otavalo)
A lovingly converted estate boasting an enviable location amongst the Ecuadorian Sierra. Charming rooms are traditional in style with antique furniture, warm hues, local textiles and fireplaces. Feast on regional cuisine and spend days in the great outdoors. A truly authentic experience.
Otavalo
This traditional hacienda is located in the heart of the Imbabura Province of Ecuador. The hotel's classically dressed rooms feature wooden floors, antique furniture and local textiles; book a honeymoon suite for beautiful heritage features. Enjoy fine dining at the hotel restaurant; a chic getaway.
