Ecuador is great for seeing wildlife because of its incredible biodiversity and unique ecosystems. The country is home to the Amazon Rainforest, the Galapagos Islands, and the Andes Mountains, all of which offer diverse habitats for a wide variety …
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Ecuador
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Backpacking Ecuador in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Ecuador with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Welcome to Ecuador, a backpacker's paradise offering a symphony of diverse landscapes, from the Amazon rainforest to the Galápagos Islands. Pros? Immerse in rich indigenous cultures, hike active volcanoes, and enjoy budget-friendly living. Ecuador's compact size facilitates easy exploration, but occasional transportation challenges exist. For backpackers seeking biodiversity, cultural richness, and affordability, Ecuador stands out as a dynamic and accessible destination, where every step unfolds a new adventure in this South American gem.
Best known for:Known for: wildlife | backpackers | scenery
Best time to visit: June-September
Best known for:Known for: wildlife | backpackers | scenery
Best time to visit: June-September
Why to go?
Why backpacking in Ecuador
Wildlife
Backpackers
The backpacker scene in Ecuador is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of experiences for travelers on a budget. The country's stunning landscapes, rich culture, and affordable prices make it a popular destination for backpackers from around the …
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Scenery
Ecuador offers a diverse range of stunning sceneries that are worth exploring. One of the top attractions is the Galapagos Islands, known for their unique wildlife and pristine landscapes. Visitors can snorkel with sea lions, spot giant tortoises, …
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Mountains
Ecuador is home to some of the most stunning and diverse mountains in the world, making it a paradise for mountain enthusiasts. One of the most popular mountain ranges to explore in Ecuador is the Andes, which offers a wide range of hiking and …
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Cheap
The average cost for backpacking in Ecuador is around $25 to $35 per day. This budget typically includes accommodation in hostels or budget guesthouses, meals at local eateries, public transportation, and entrance fees to attractions. However, costs …
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People
Ecuadorians are incredibly warm and welcoming people, known for their genuine hospitality and generosity. They have a strong sense of community and are always eager to share their culture, traditions, and food with visitors. Whether it’s inviting …
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Food
The food in Ecuador is so good because of the country’s diverse and rich culinary traditions. Ecuadorian cuisine is a reflection of the country’s varied ecosystems, from the Andes mountains to the Amazon rainforest and the Pacific coast. This …
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💡 Highlights
Top-5 things to do in Ecuador
- Galapagos Islands: Discover the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Snorkel with sea turtles, swim with sea lions, and observe the famous Galapagos tortoises.
- Amazon Rainforest: Immerse yourself in the world’s most biodiverse ecosystem. Explore the dense jungle, spot exotic wildlife like monkeys and colorful birds, and learn about indigenous cultures.
- Cotopaxi National Park: Hike to the summit of Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean landscape and explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
- Quito’s Historic Center: Wander through the charming streets of Quito, the capital city, and explore its well-preserved colonial center. Visit historic churches, museums, and enjoy panoramic views from the top of El Panecillo hill.
- Banos: Experience adventure and relaxation in this picturesque town nestled in the Andes. Enjoy activities like hiking, mountain biking, and white-water rafting, or unwind in the natural hot springs.
But Ecuador offers more...
🎎 Festivals: Carnaval, Dia de los Muertos, Festival de la Diablada, Festival de la Fruta y de las Flores, Fiesta de la Mama Negra, Inti Raymi
🏝️ Regions: Amazon Rainforest, Andean Highlands
× Galapagos Islands
Traveled route: Quito, Baños, Puyo, Rio Negro, Alausi, Simbambe, Devil's Train Ride, Cuenca, Guayaquil, Galapagos Islands, Isla de San Cristóbal, Isla Lobos, Isla Santa Cruz, Isla Baltra, Isla Batolome, Isla Rabida, Isla Santiago, Isla Fernandina, Isla Isabela, Isla Española
🌤️ When to go?
Best time to go backpacking Ecuador
The best time to visit Ecuador for backpacking is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During this time, you can expect clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country's diverse landscapes. Additionally, the Galapagos Islands are also best visited during this period as the seas are calmer for snorkeling and diving. However, it's worth noting that Ecuador's climate can vary greatly depending on the region, so it's recommended to research specific areas you plan to visit to ensure the best weather conditions.
Risk level: medium (50%)
Safety advice for Ecuador
- Bushfires are affecting several parts of Ecuador, including Quito. Monitor local media and follow the advice from the local authorities.
- Power outages and water shortages are occurring at various locations. Check for updates from the local providers and local media.
- A state of emergency was declared in May 2024, applying to the provinces of El Oro, Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí, Orellana, Santa Elena, and the Ponce Enríquez County in Azuay. The military and police can seize assets, conduct inspections and enter private properties without permission during this time.
- There's curfews in place in some districts (‘cantons’) of the above provinces. The situation may change at short notice. Monitor local media and check for updates from the local authorities.
- There's a high risk of kidnapping and violent crime in the northern regions and Guayaquil City. Areas bordering Colombia and Peru are particularly dangerous. Do not travel within 20km of the border with Colombia, except the official border crossing at Tulcan. If, despite our advice, you're travelling to these areas, seek professional security advice. Be alert to possible threats.
- Ecuador has declared a nation-wide state of "internal armed conflict" due to crime and military efforts to combat it.
- Demonstrations occur frequently. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Political activity by foreigners is illegal, including joining protests. If you take part, officials may detain or deport you. Avoid large public gatherings.
- Violent crime and theft are common. The risk of violent crime increases when you travel alone or after dark. Criminals target taxis, buses, transport hubs and crowded areas. Thieves target travellers, and distraction is a common tactic. Female travellers are encouraged to take particular caution. Be careful when using ATMs and credit cards. Avoid going out at night. Keep vehicle doors and windows locked and valuables out of sight, even when moving.
- There are several active volcanos in Ecuador. Seek updates and follow the advice of the local government.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
source: www.gov.uk
Ecuador
My tips to get you on the way!
Does Ecuador sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.
Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Ecuador. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Ecuador may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Ecuador. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Ecuador may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Ecuador, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Ecuador, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
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Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”
last page update: 23 September 2024