Every year thousands of people wander to Ecuador in the hopes of experiencing the real South America. Ecuador is the perfect place for this adventure as this tiny country boasts more biodiversity than any other on the planet. Known as the perfect pit-stop on the way to the Galapagos Islands, but with so much more to offer. Take your time, get on the bus, and wander Ecuador.
There are two cities that travelers usually arrive in. Either Guayaquil, or the capital city of Quito, which is proudly a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the best preserved examples of colonial architecture in South America. This gorgeous colonial city sits high in a mountain valley, next to the Pichincha Volcano. This volcano can easily be climbed by travelers of the city after taking the teleferico up most of the way. The other main arrival point is Guayaquil. Guayaquil is the largest city in Ecuador, and is a thriving metropolis of people, sun, history, and culture, that is certainly not to be missed as you wander Ecuador by bus. The best part? Our buses will take you to every single one of the incredible places listed below, and even more.
Quito is nothing but opportunity for travelers. From the Ecuadorian answer to Christ the Redeemer: a Madonna statue atop a hill in the center (the religious figure, not the 80’s pop sensation), the Basilica del Voto Nacional, an unbelievably impressive neo-gothic church, the largest of its kind in all South America. Once you have had your fill of the beautiful colonial streets, wander up to the cable cars that take you high up the valley of the city, and up to Pichincha Volcano. Pichincha Volcano is not only a nice hike for travelers, but also hugely historically important to the city, as it was the site where the Spanish were finally defeated in the rebellion of the South American people.
Guayaquil is a one of a kind city. Whether you get the bus, or wander by yourself, you will find endlessly incredible things. From islands within the rivers which are home to wildlife sanctuaries for crocodiles and birds, to city parks that to the untrained eye, look completely normal, but once you enter you will realise that it is completely full of iguanas. All of this is merely a tiny taste of what there is to experience in Guayaquil. From art galleries to walks along the river, fill your days up here, or just relax and ready yourself for the rest of Ecuador. Whichever you prefer, this city is perfect for you.
And then there’s Baños, the mutually agreed adventure capital of South America. From the outside you would be forgiven for thinking that it looks just like any other sleepy town. From the inside, however, you will find the swing at the end of the world, the famous swing that hangs off the edge of a cliff. You can take a tour up here with one of our trained guides and try out the ropes for yourself.
If highs aren’t your thing, then perhaps the Pailon del Diablo will be. The Pailon del Diablo, also known as the Devil’s Cauldron, is a hugely impressive waterfall that roars down into an enormous cavern, made from the pressure of the falls. You can walk down alongside the flow (careful, as the steps get slippery), and really get up close and personal with the falls.
Many travelers like to spend a few days here, looking to explore the 70+ different waterfalls by bike, or on a hike, trying out the many different adrenaline pumping swings, or just taking the time to relax in the square and soak themselves in the natural hot springs that give the town it’s namesake. Whatever your speed is, Baños has it.
You’ve probably already heard about Quito and Guayaquil, but there are plenty of other, lesser known places for you to visit. Spend a few days relaxing by the sea in the sea-side town of Montañita. If you like to party then rest assured, you will definitely find a place to let your hair down until the sun comes up here. If partying isn’t your scene but you still want to spend a little time with like-minded travelers and make the most of this gorgeous beach town, then there’s plenty of other things to do in Montañita. Head for a hike up the hill that sits next to the town, or try your hand at surfing. There’s waves fit for surfers of all skill set, and enough things going on to keep you busy for months.
Undoubtedly one of the most popular attractions in Ecuador, Cotopaxi is an enormous volcano situated a few hours outside of Quito. At almost 6,000 meters above sea level at its peak, it is a challenge fit for any explorers spirit. With Ecuador Hop you can be taken right to the foot of the volcano, and whether you just want to take a look, or if you want to hop off, and head up you can as well. We even have tours available for travelers who wish to brave the hike to the base camp. Any higher requires special equipment, such as ice climbing gear. If you wish to reach the summit then you can simply hop off, and organise yourself once their. Our bilingual guides will help you out with everything that you need.
Quilotoa Lagoon is a must hop stop. The enchanting green lagoon is incredible not just for its colors, but also for its location: deep inside the crater of an extinct volcano high in the mountains. It is also the start, or the end, of the multi-day hike named The Quilotoa Loop. Ecuador Hop offers you the chance to just take a look with a 30 minute stop and walk to a viewpoint, the opportunity to take a guided hike down to the water edge, where you can rent a canoe, skip stones across the surface or even, if you’re brave enough, take a swim in the icy waters. Or, if this isn’t enough for you, then you can Hop off for a day, two, or as long as you like to get to know this little village.
Because we are the original, and the best Hop on Hop off bus in the whole of South America. We have an unparalleled safety record and we know how to keep you comfortable on long journeys. Each and every one of our beautiful buses come with 140° reclining luxury seats complete with USB ports to charge your electronics, blankets, movies, and of course, bilingual guides for every step of the way. With extra stops for free, such as the Toachi Canyon, exclusive hostel and hotel discounts, you can rest easy knowing that, not only is your travel stress free, it is also saving you money along the way.
