Okay, so Ecuador may not be the top country on your list of places to visit, but it should be! It's amazing sights, tastes, and culture seem to be a well kept secret, but this article will spill the beans and show you just the tip of the iceberg. Keep in mind that there are many other things and I encourage you to go try new things yourself when you go! Each country is special in its own way, so go explore the wonderful country of Ecuador and see God's amazing creations there: the people, the nature, and food!
1. Zipline in Mindo, the Cloud Forest
Don't occupy yourself with the intense study of the back of your eyelids on the way to ziplining, the Cloud Forest is amazing and majestic! See the rainforest from an entirely new and unique perspective as you fly over treetops and ravine. You can have an especially unique perspective if you try the alternative poses (mariposa or superman) on one of the lines!
2. Try cuye, the local delicacy
Pets in some countries are delicacies in others. Make sure you try it in a group, because though many think it delicious, it is a little expensive for the amount of meat you get.
3. Stand on the equator, Mitad del Mundo
Learn some interesting facts about the equator as you try to balance an egg on a nail, walk in a straight line, and wrap your head around the idea of whirlpool directions changing based on the hemispheres.
4. Tour colonial Quito
For a moment you'll wonder if you got sucked into an Italian postcard photo. It is truly amazing, both during the day and at night! Look up to find Panicello, Quito's guardian angel.
5. Climb at least one volcano
With many active volcanoes in the country, there couldn't be a better time to hike a volcano! Some even have gorgeous lakes or craters if you survive the altitude.
6. Eat empanadas
Yes, it sounds like another tourist ad, but you can't eat better empandas anywhere else. Don't be skeptical about some of the combinations that seem strange to Western minds, like cheese and blackberry—it's awesome!
7. Ride the trole during rush hour
If you come to Quito especially, you would be foolish not to take advantage of 25cent bus or trole rides to anywhere in the city. Yes, it is still worth it, even if you are stuck with your feet squashed beneath a man's feet, your head by someone's armpit, and your bag clutched in front of you, making you feel like a pregnant woman. Personal space? Forget about it temporarily!
8. Go to the swing at the end of the world
Photos from this stunning place are some of the top social media photos for good reason. It isn't as dangerous as it looks, but definitely breathtaking and worth the ride up in the back of a pickup! If the weather is cooperative, you might get to see Tungurahua, the nearest volcano!
9. Pailon del Diabolo, largest waterfall in Ecuador
Don't cross this off your list, thinking “nah, I've seen lots of waterfalls”, because you are certainly missing out if you have not seen this one! Named “the Devil's Caldron” for good reason, the trek down to see this thundering beauty, across swinging bridges and wet spots, is an adventure in itself and definitely worth it!
10. Try crazy fruit from a market
God has created so many varieties of fruit, and markets are the best place to try all kinds of strange fruits that you never see in an American supermarket, especially not at this price! Check out the variety especially if you are having issues with bowel movements, there are lots of helpful fruits!
11. Shop at Otavalo, the artisan market
Bursting with color and variety, this is an amazing place to pick up souvenirs and gifts without paying too much. Don't be afraid to ask how much things are and try to sort out a price, it's all part of the experience!
12. Climb to the top of the Basilica
One of the beautiful churches in colonial Quito, you can actually climb to the top of the tower of the Basilica if you aren't too afraid of heights! Get an awesome view of Quito from the top.
13. Make friends with the monkeys in the jungle
Hold onto all your belongings as you embark on this friendship though, because to them, what's mine is mine, what's yours is mine and already half way up the tree before you realize!
14. Go white water rafting down a river joining the Amazon
Banos is a great place to go for rafting, but just be aware that you are risking your life for the best adventure and stories ever! What better way to understand how Jesus' disciples felt in the storm, and to appreciate the beauty of God's amazing creation as you put yourself at the mercy of Nature.
