25 Places to Visit in Ecuador for Adventurous Families

The one thing most people know about Ecuador is that it straddles the equator, so naturally, you'll want to visit the Mitad del Mundo (middle of the earth) monument. Don't be fooled, though! The real equator is located in the Intiñan Museum a couple hundred yards away. Take a photo with a foot in each hemisphere at the Latitude 00 00' 00" sign. Then do some science experiments on the equator, like trying to balance an egg on a nail and learning about the Coriolis Effect as you watch the water drain on each side of the equator.

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Head to Old Town Quito to visit this majestic gothic cathedral. Adventurous families can climb to the top of the Basilica for a panoramic view of Quito. If you have young kids or have a fear of heights, you can use the elevator inside the main chapel and still enjoy the city's skyline. Don't miss the iguanas and tortoises carved into the side of the Basilica!

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If you're itching for stunning vistas, head to the Teleferico, a cable car that takes you to the top of Cruz Loma. At the top, you'll be able to see all of Quito if it's a clear day, as well as Pinchincha Volcano. Visitors can even grab a coffee or hot chocolate on top of the mountain. If you're really struggling with the altitude, oxygen and coca leaves are available. Dress in layers! It can get chilly pretty quickly up there.

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Outdoor enthusiasts won't want to miss the town of Baños just three hours south of Quito. This city is known for its hot springs, waterfalls and scenic hiking paths. This is a great spot for families with older kids. Go for a hike or bike ride in the mountains, go rappelling down waterfalls or soak in the mineral springs heated by the nearby volcano, Tungurahua.

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Need some souvenirs? Try the city of Otavalo, a 2-hour bus ride north of Quito. This area is best-known for the gigantic artisan marketplace located in the Plaza de Ponchos. You can stock up on woolen tapestries, hats and mittens, handmade jewelry, artwork and clothing. Help your kids practice their Spanish skills by bartering with the artisans for a good deal.

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Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanos in the world, and it's just a day trip from Quito. Families may want to stick to the hike from the base of Cotopaxi to the Refugio (refuge) partway up the volcano. Experienced hikers can spend the night there and reach the summit of the volcano the next day. My best advice is to dress warmly and take it slow, especially if you're with kids.

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After your epic hike on Cotopaxi, relax at a historic hacienda, or farmhouse, in the peaceful Andean countryside. Just outside of Cotopaxi National Park is Hacienda El Porvenir where you can cozy up with a book near the fireplace at night and go horseback riding or hiking during the day.

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Back in the capital city, take your kids for an exciting day at Quito Zoo, or the Zoologico Quito as it's known to locals. In such a biodiverse country as Ecuador, the zoo is dedicated to conserving the wildlife native to the area. Learn about the Galapagos Tortoise, jaguars, the Andean Bear and more.

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Northwest of Quito you can find cloud forests, a subtropical area where clouds hang low over the forest canopy. Stay in the city of Mindo, your jumping-off point for exploring the natural surroundings. Kids will love the array of brightly-colored flowers, butterflies and hummingbirds. Outdoor activities abound, such as hiking, biking, ziplining and more.

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You can't visit Ecuador without seeing the Amazon Rainforest! Yasuni National Park is a great place to immerse yourself in the biodiversity of the jungle. You can stay in a rainforest lodge and pay for guided tours of the park led by local naturalists. Kids will love spotting all the different forms of wildlife found in Yasuni!

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Ecuador is a small yet incredibly diverse country. You've seen mountains, cities and rainforests; now it's time to relax at the beach! My favorite hidden gem of a town is called Canoa, and it's the perfect spot to learn to surf, eat fresh seafood and take Spanish classes.

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The Galapagos Islands are a bucket list destination for so many people. You can choose either a multi-day cruise or a hotel-based trip depending on cost and what you want to see. Regardless of where you stay, you'll be accompanied by naturalist guides to the uninhabited islands where you'll see exotic birds, reptiles and fish. This will undoubtedly be one of the most unforgettable parts of your trip.

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Back in Quito, experience a mix of history and culture at El Panecillo, named for its resemblance to a loaf of bread. This hill is home to the iconic Virgin of Quito statue. Take a taxi to El Panecillo to enjoy stunning views of the city and surrounding volcanos.

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Known for its European architecture, beautiful parks and perfect weather, Cuenca is a can't-miss destination for families to visit in Ecuador. This would be a great spot to go with young kids with plenty of parks where they can run and play. Swing by the Casa de la Mujer market for some authentic Panama hats.

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Near Cotacachi Volcano is the Laguna de Cuicocha, a crater lake surrounded by an incredibly scenic hiking trail. The trail is about 6 miles long and offers stunning views of the lake and the 2 islands in the middle. This would be best for families with older children who can walk long distances on their own. It's a challenging hike, but well worth it!

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This World Heritage Site is located in the heart of Quito. The Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco was built in the 1500s by Franciscan missionaries and continues to function as a church and convent to this day. The Plaza de San Francisco just outside the church is a perfect spot to relax and let kids run around while you enjoy the beauty of the historic monument.

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Santa Cruz is the part of the Galapagos Islands, and home to the Charles Darwin Research Station where you can find educational exhibits and Lonesome George, the last surviving Pinta Island giant tortoise. The research station is in Puerto Aroyo, known for its souvenir shops and restaurants. Nearby Tortuga Bay is a great spot to relax and look for sea turtles, sharks and birds.

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Another rainforest hot spot to visit is Tena, a gateway city to the Amazon. For truly adventurous families, Tena is a mecca for whitewater rafting in the nearby rivers. If you're looking for a slightly less heart-stopping stay, head to La Isla de Los Monos, a rescue area for monkeys. Tena also offers jungle tours and excursions.

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Guayaquil is a large commercial port on the coast which also happens to be the largest city in Ecuador. If you're visiting Guayaquil, head straight to Parque Seminario, also known as Iguana Park, with your kids. Entrance is free, and it's a beautiful place to walk around while observing the green iguanas sunning themselves on every surface.

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Another spot to visit in Quito is Itchimbia, a hill in the eastern part of the city. Start with Itchimbia Park, a beautiful spot for a picnic overlooking the city. Kids can fly kites and families can walk along the paths for a quiet break from the bustling city. At dusk, get dinner at the Cafe Mosaico for unrivaled views of the city lights.

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Cotacachi is a small town north of Quito that is famous for its leather goods and slow living. Roam the markets and look for leather jackets, wallets and purses at bargain prices. Cotacachi also offers horseback riding, surrounding lakes and waterfalls as well as many parks and plazas to wander.

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Part of traveling is immersing yourself in the local culture, which includes learning about the area's revered artists. Oswaldo Guayasamin is one of Ecuador's most famous artists, and you can find his work at the beautiful Capilla del Hombre Museum. It feels more like you're wandering through a friend's house than a stuffy art museum. Be sure to take the tour to learn more about his artwork, and check out the garden in back.

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The Simon Bolivar Boardwalk and Pier are a must-see if you're visiting Guayaquil. This is a great spot to take kids for its picturesque parks and fountains, as well as numerous stores and food courts. You can shop for souvenirs at the Artisan Market located in the Plaza de la Intigracion.

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Many families cite Parque Carolina in Quito as one of their favorite family-friendly spots. All the exploring and adventure Ecuador has to offer can be tiring for young kids, so a stop at the gigantic park in the middle of the city will be more than welcome. Look for the paddle boats and botanical gardens to entertain the kids for hours!

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Ingapirca is the site of Incan ruins just outside of Cuenca. It's actually a mix of walls and ancient structures built by the Inca and Canari people, including a sun temple and a fortress. It's only $6 to enter the archaeological site which includes a museum and trails as well as the ruins. This would make a great day trip if your family decided to stay in Cuenca!

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