Top Tourist Attractions in Ecuador

Ecuador is one of the most enthralling nations in South America. The nation is home to some stunning Pacific coastline, lush jungle and volcanic mountains. This small country lures nature romantics, adventurers, trekkers and rock-climbers to its beautiful tropical rainforests, scenic landscapes and pristine beaches. Here is a travel-guide for tourists traveling to Ecuador on some of the most famous points of interest in the country. Find yourself the best last minute travel deals and check out these wonderful attractions.

San Francisco Church: Book cheap flights to Quito and head to one of the most important cultural centers in Latin America. Nestled in the old town district of the capital, the Iglesia y Monesterio de San Francisco is home to some exquisite masterwork. One particular highlight is the sculpture of the winged Holy Virgin. The church is built on the land that once was the site of the Incan ruler Atahualpa. The church complex also features a museum.

Galapagos Islands: It is a cluster of volcanic islands that are known for their unique ecosystem based on which Charles Darwin derived his famous Theory of Natural Selection. These remote, isolated islands feature a variety of wildlife such as marine iguanas, penguins, sea lions, giant tortoises and several bird species.

Otavalo Market: If you want to engage in some authentic Ecuadorian shopping, then head straight to Otavalo Market in the small town of Otavalo. The market offers some exquisite pieces of handicrafts by local artisans along with local ethnic clothing pieces. Each Saturday in Plaza de Ponchos, the city hosts a market featuring a wide assortment of stone and wood carvings, woven clothing and jewelry for sale.

Catedral Nueva: Score a few low cost airline tickets to Cuenca and visit one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the country. “Catedral Nueva” — meaning the New Cathedral of Cuenca — is the most famous landmark in the city. Establishment of this church started in 1800s and took nearly a century to complete. The façade of the church is crafted with marble and alabaster. The highlights of the cathedral are its three domes, each of which are ado ed in blue glazed tiles.

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve: Opened in 1979, Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is the second-largest wildlife facility in the country. Visitors can enjoy spotting wildlife against a scenic tropical backdrop. The center houses over 500 bird species, 15 monkey species, anacondas, butterflies, caimans, tapirs and a variety of other faunas and insects. Nestled in the Andean Foothills, Cuyabeno consists of a total of eight ecosystems.

La Compania de Jesus: Grab some Quito Airline Tickets and make your way to one of the most famed cathedrals in the city. Located in the heart of the capital, the intricate design of la Compañía de Jesús is regarded among the finest examples of Baroque architecture. The extensive use of gold leaf in the entire central nave is nothing but sheer magnificence.