Ecuador is a unique place, which has something for all tastes, its different regions: mountains, coast, east and island make it called the country of the four worlds. In this note we are going to explore five destinations that will take you on an unforgettable trip through this beautiful country.
1. El Cajas National Park
El Cajas National Park is a wasteland that has several lagoons, streams and waterfalls. It is located in the province of Azuay in the south of Ecuador. Additionally, it is home to the polylepis forest. According to the Ministry of the Environment, this place was incorporated into the National System of Protected Areas of Ecuador on November 5, 1996, due to its archaeological characteristics. Since the Cajas was a natural passage between the Sierra and the Coast, used by the Cañaris who inhabited the area before the Inca and Spanish invasion. Likewise, the Ministry of the Environment indicates that since 2013, it has been recognized and protected by UNESCO for its natural value.
How is your weather?
It is variable because being from 3,160 to 4,450 meters high it is a cold and rainy place, it is recommended to be warm and wear a raincoat. The temperature can vary between 4°C to 12°C if it is the rainy season it can decrease to -2°C.
What activities can be done in the El Cajas National Park
You can go hiking, camping, climbing, visiting ecological interpretation centers, and bird watching. In fact, the Ministry of the Environment indicates that there are 157 types of birds in this place.
Traveler tips:
- It is essential to bring enough water and food, as facilities in the park are limited.
- It is advisable to hire a local guide if you are not familiar with the area to learn in detail about its history.
- Respect the natural environment and follow park rules to preserve its beauty for future generations.
- Bring sunscreen and a cap to take care of your skin, because the place is 3,160 to 4,450 meters above sea level.
- Near the city of Cuenca, 45 minutes away, there are several inns and restaurants to visit.
2. The Friars
El Telégrafo indicates that this paradisiacal beach is located 12 kilometers from the cantonal capital of Puerto López and is part of the Machalilla National Park. Its charm is in its transparent waters, the softness of its white sand, its cliffs, variety of fauna, and impressive landscapes.
How is your weather?
Throughout the year, the climate is mild and pleasant. You can enjoy a cool breeze and the warmth of the coastal sun.
What activities can be done in Los Frailes?
At Los Frailes beach you can water ski, surf, windsurf, volleyball, beach soccer, swim, walk and stroll along the trails.
Traveler tips:
- As Los Frailes beach is located within the Machalilla National Park, which is a protected area, there is no lodging or restaurants in this location, so tourists must stay in nearby cities such as: Puerto López, Machalilla and Puerto Cayo.
- Schedules: Visits to this beach have schedules, so it is recommended to check them before going.
- Regulation: In this place, there are rules that must be followed, it is prohibited to smoke, camp, consume alcohol, light a fire, enter with pets, extract flora and fauna.
3. Quito Center
Known as the Face of God, it is the capital of Ecuador, a city full of history and charm, it has been declared Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 1978 by UNESCO. In addition, it is recognized by National Geographic as the oldest city in South America. A metropolitan city, surrounded by mountains and built on ravines, a space that will amaze anyone with its colonial and Andean history.
How is your weather?
It is varied, can be described as temperate and relatively stable throughout the year. It has two seasons, the dry season and the rainy season, during which time you can experience occasional rains. It is suggested to wear light clothing during the day and have a sweater for the afternoons and evenings in case it rains.
What activities can be done in the center of Quito?
The architecture of Quito will impress anyone, here you can visit: the Plaza Grande, which is the main square of Quito, its churches such as: The Cathedral, the Company of Jesus, the Basilica of the National Vow, which has a Gothic touch in its architecture and its museums. On the other hand, you can taste the local cuisine and take the opportunity to try their sweets such as quesadillas or snacks, a delicious cevichocho, a delicious dry goat, empanadas and more.
Traveler tips:
Quito is located at a high altitude. Therefore, certain people who visit it from other cities, mainly those who are at not so high levels, may experience the well-known "soroche" or "altitude sickness", to avoid this it is recommended to drink plenty of water, avoid excess alcohol and heavy meals during the day. If it happens to you, you can eat something sweet.
Security: As in any large city, it is important to be aware of your belongings and avoid displaying valuables in public. Keep your documents and money in a safe place.
Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes because in the historic center several things are close and you can walk.
Opening times: Some attractions, especially churches and museums, may have specific opening and closing times. It is best to check them before visiting.
4. Yasuni National Park
Located in the Amazon of Ecuador, this place is a treasure of biodiversity, which has been designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1989, thanks to its unique flora and fauna. Here you can find endangered species such as the jaguar and the tapir. Likewise, according to the Ministry of Environment, several indigenous communities live here such as: Tagaeri, Taromenane and Waorani.
How is your weather?
Its climate is tropical and humid, you can feel a warm temperature upon arrival and there are two main seasons: rainy and dry season.
What activities can be done in the Yasuní National Park?
You can take guided walks through the Amazon jungle, canoe rides, participate in night excursions, learn about sustainable practices, share with indigenous communities, enjoy their cuisine, observe the fauna and flora; that according to the organization Wildlife Conservation Society (WSC). In this place there are 1,300 species of trees, 610 species of birds and more than 268 species of fish.
Traveler tips
Clothes: It is best to wear light, comfortable clothing, repellent and sunscreen.
Guides: For this experience it is recommended to hire certified guides.
I respect: This is a space to coexist with nature, so we must respect wildlife and local communities.
5. Turtle Bay
Tortuga Bay is a beautiful beach located in Puerto Ayora in the Galapagos Islands. It gets its name from being a nesting place for turtles. Here you can see a crystal clear sea, white sand and species such as sea lions, marine iguanas, pelicans, flamingos, seagulls and more.
How is your weather?
This beach has two seasons of dry season and drizzle, its temperature is hot.
What activities can you do in Tortuga Bay?
You can watch sea turtles, snorkel, kayak, watch sea birds, swim, surf and relax on the sand.
Traveler tips
- Bring a swimsuit, hat and sunscreen.
- Bring your own snorkeling equipment to explore the reefs.
- Bring water and food, because there are no shops on the beach. Remember to carry a garbage bag to collect waste.
- Mobilization around the islands is by boat.
Ecuador is a diverse country, with four regions that can captivate anyone. This holiday, travel around and discover your Ecuador, visit your favorite destination. Travel with peace of mind, learn about our BMI and Medical Equality plans: https://bit.ly/3F7L2ls – Unique BMI: https://bit.ly/3Q7hBXh
REFERENCES:
Cajas National Park | National System of Protected Areas of Ecuador. (sf). http://areasprotegidas.ambiente.gob.ec/es/areas-protegidas/parque-nacional-cajas#:~:text=En%202013%20la%20UNESCO%20estableci%C3%B3,una%20de%20sus%20%C3%A1reas%20n%C3%BAcleo.&text=La%20mayor%20parte%20de%20El,llamados%20localmente%20qu%C3%ADnoas)%20y%20lagunas.
Galapagos National Park | National System of Protected Areas of Ecuador. (sf). http://areasprotegidas.ambiente.gob.ec/es/areas-protegidas/parque-nacional-gal%C3%A1pagos
Yasuni National Park | National System of Protected Areas of Ecuador. (sf). http://areasprotegidas.ambiente.gob.ec/es/areas-protegidas/parque-nacional-yasun%C3%AD
Quito Travel Guide. (sf). National Geographic. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/destination/quito
Telégrafo, E. (2015, December 17). Los Frailes, the cleanest beach in Ecuador. The Telegraph. https://www.eltelegrafo.com.ec/noticias/regional/1/los-frailes-la-playa-mas-limpia-de-ecuador
UNESCO World Heritage Centre. (sf). World Heritage Center –. https://whc.unesco.org/es/list/2
Yasuni. (sf). https://ecuador.wcs.org/Paisajes/Yasun%C3%AD.aspx
