Ecuador

A small Andean country straddling the equator with biodiverse Amazon rainforest, Galápagos Islands, and a heritage rich in Incan and colonial history.

Tips from the community

Ecuador may not be the top country for weed enthusiasts, but it offers a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful natural landscapes to enjoy outdoor activities, including hiking, surfing, and camping. Though marijuana is illegal in Ecuador, possession of small amounts may result in only a fine or warning, and locals may offer to sell you cannabis products on the street. Be sure to respect local customs and laws and avoid smoking in public as it can lead to legal repercussions.

seeker 1 year ago

Ecuador is famous for its large amount of biodiversity and beautiful natural scenery, including the famous Galapagos Islands whose natural inhabitants helped scientists understand evolution. The environment in Ecuador is treasured by the government and people, enjoy unique wildlife viewing and pristine landscapes.

seeker 3 years ago

Ecuador is a bit more stringent, decriminalizing personal possession of up to 10 and 8 grams respectively. However, it’s wise to be a bit more discreet and not smoke on the street as sale and cultivation still carry high sentences.

marisamegan 3 years ago

traveleaterjohanna 3 years ago

Ecuador Guides

  • Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos

    vagariouswanderer (Jennifer Zollo)
    <p>A somewhat comprehensive guide of can't-miss places on Santa Cruz Island by an expat who actually lives there.</p>
  • Breathtaking Rainforests To Discover Across The World

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    Sunlight leaks through leafy trees, a soft pitter-patter of rainfall in all directions- there is nothing quite like traversing the wet, mossy grounds of a rainforest. Across the planet, these lush expanses of emerald soaked in rain and sunlight are home to thousands of unique biodiversity and plant life. These are some of the world's most incredible rainforests for any adventurous seekers looking to explore new terrain. From Washington State to Ghana, take a step into some of the most breathtaking rainforests to discover.
  • Best National Parks For Snorkeling And Diving

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    Tour shipwrecks in freshwater ecosystems or witness turtles and schools of fish swarming in clear, tropical waters. For any snorkelers, divers, or just people who like to splash around- these are the next national parks you *need* to visit. Witness colorful fish and massive sharks, uncover hidden mysteries, and make the most of your diving license at these awe-inspiring, underwater destinations.
  • Islands to visit before I die

    gaia.cozzoli (Gaia Cozzoli)
    When I went to Hawaii I fell in love with the nature and the sensation of stillness. Before I die I really want to travel to other islands, expecially the most underrated ones! #SeekerChallenge
  • Post Covid Travel Destination Goals

    nicolejordan (Nicole Jordan)
  • World Heritage Sites in South America

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    South America is soaked in a rich history and influence that permeates throughout the entire continent. With a vast terrain and diverse culture, there is no end to awe-inspiring World Heritage Sites ready for exploration. Uncover the secrets of the universe while relaxing along picturesque coastlines, witness Macchu Picchu, and more across the continent of South America.
  • Do Before I Die Destinations

    chiefseeker (Jody Vandergriff)
    This is my big bucket list of places to see before I die. #seekerchallenge
  • Monkey sanctuaries that you can visit

    wildlifeconnect (Wildlife Connect )
    If you're a fan of our primate cousins and looking for an adventure that combines wildlife conservation with unforgettable experiences, then visiting a monkey sanctuary should definitely be on your travel list! Not only will you get the chance to see these playful and intelligent animals up close, but you'll also be supporting sanctuaries that work tirelessly to protect and rehabilitate monkeys from all walks of life. Whether it's the charming capuchins, majestic baboons, or the endlessly fascinating orangutans, each sanctuary offers a unique glimpse into the lives of these amazing creatures. So grab your eco-friendly gear, prepare for some heart-melting moments, and let's explore some of the best monkey sanctuaries that welcome visitors with open arms!
  • Places on My Bucket List

    finnwrites (Amanda Finn)
    I haven’t been there yet but I will.
  • Sanctuaries around the world for unique animal encounters

    wildlifeconnect (Wildlife Connect )
    Imagine a world where you can lock eyes with a sleepy sloth hanging from a tree, get splashed by a playful dolphin, or hear the distant roar of a lion while tucked away in a cozy safari lodge. This is the kind of magic that awaits in sanctuaries around the globe, where wildlife and humans can safely meet. These unique havens not only provide unforgettable animal encounters for us humans but are vital for the protection, rehabilitation, and sometimes the survival, of numerous species. Whether nestled in lush rainforests, perched on the edge of vast savannahs, or hidden in the warmth of tropical waters, these sanctuaries offer a chance to witness nature's marvels up close, in a way that respects the wild hearts of our planet's fascinating creatures. So, grab your adventure hat, and let's explore some of the most incredible sanctuaries around the world that foster these genuine connections with the animal kingdom.
  • List of National Parks in South America

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    Throughout the expansive and diverse continent of South America, there are endless amounts of national parks packed full of breathtaking views and gorgeous landscapes to experience. We have put together a list of *all* the national parks throughout South America, and if you are seeking sunny adventures this summer- take a look.
  • Islands on my hit list

    chiefseeker (Jody Vandergriff)
    It's no secret that I love islands. This is an ongoing bucket list of the islands I hope to visit one day - and a few I have actually made it to!
  • Popular Island Getaways

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
  • Island Getaways

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    Escape mundane daily life to these slices of actual paradise, everyone needs an island getaway at least once a year. The crystal clear turquoise waters, endlessly sunny climate, fresh local cuisine, islands are consistently the most popular tourist destinations on the planet. Whether you seek a tropical paradise in Tahiti or the vast mountainous landscapes of Kauai, we know that these gorgeous islands are calling your name.
  • Coolest Places to Go Camping

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    Sandy deserts, cool mountain air, rocky coastlines with picture-perfect views, no matter what you are seeking we have found the best campsite for you. Across the globe there are endless awe-inspiring destinations to immerse yourself in nature, we have selected some of our favorite locations for your next adventure. Let's explore what this amazing earth has to offer and live off the beaten path at these cool camping destinations.
  • Travel & Leisure's 50 Best Places to Travel

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    These breathtaking destinations selected by Travel & Leisure are on the top of bucket lists worldwide. From the gorgeous tropical landscape of Costa Rica to the modern metropolis of Beijing, this list encompasses the vast sceneries and experiences that our planet has to offer. Explore with us seekers, the 50 best places to travel as chosen by the experts at Travel & Leisure.
  • Wildlife sanctuaries that you can visit

    wildlifeconnect (Wildlife Connect )
    Ever dreamed of wandering amidst lush greenery and coming face-to-face with nature's most majestic creatures? Wildlife sanctuaries offer just that – a chance to step into the habitats of the animal kingdom and witness the wonders of the natural world up close. These havens of biodiversity not only provide crucial protection for wildlife but also invite us humans to immerse ourselves in an experience that's both enlightening and humbling. From the roaming giants of the savannahs to the elusive predators of the dense forests, each sanctuary is a world unto itself, waiting to be explored. So, grab your binoculars and let’s take a virtual trek through some of the most amazing wildlife sanctuaries that you can actually visit. Prepare to be awed!
  • Bucket List

    kelli.allred (Kelli Allred)
  • The Best Weed-Friendly Travel Destinations for 2021

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
  • Eco-Friendly Travel Destinations

    seeker (Seeker Editors)
    Geothermal hot springs, vast biodiversity, rocky coastlines, eco-friendly architecture, and more- these gorgeous destinations are dedicated to protecting their natural beauty. Explore our picks for the best green destinations around the world, from the jungles of Indonesia to the unique wildlife of Ecuador, and discover how people across the world are working together to create a sustainable future.

Ecuador Articles

  • 27 Heart-Shaped Natural Wonders Around The World

    Crystal clear heart-shaped lakes, tropical heart-shaped islands, sun-soaked heart-shaped mountains — Mother Nature sure hows to make us feel all kinds of warm and fuzzy with heart-shaped natural wonders found all around the world. Love love? Next year, jet off to Spain for a crazy-romantic getaway Valentine’s Day.

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