Underrated Locations in Ecuador You Should Visit
Ecuador is one of the smallest South American countries in terms of land area, but there’s no shortage of things to see and places to go. The most famous destinations, like the Galapagos Islands, Quito and Cuenca, are fairly well established hotspots for travelers – but there are plenty of lesser-known natural and cultural attractions well worth visiting. Here, we select the best under-explored places in Ecuador.
1. Loja
Park, Architectural Landmark
2. Tena
Architectural Landmark
3. Cayambe Coca National Park, Papallacta Entrance
Park
5. Cochasquí
Natural Feature, Archaeological site
6. Agua Blanca
Natural Feature
7. Sumaco
Lodge
The land between the eastern slope of the Andes and the Amazon Basin is rarely visited by tourists. In fact, there are very few places to stay in the Sumaco region. The rich rain forest of these Andean foothills is endangered by illegal logging and increased farming. Enter the Wild Sumaco Lodge, a non-profit that partners with the local community to rent primary forest to add to their own reserve. While bird watchers already visit in high numbers, nature lovers of all kinds should consider a stay. The back porch looks out into the tree canopy where wild monkeys come to eat fruit placed on many of the limbs. Hummingbirds flock to the feeders. Trails lead to hidden forest glens and expansive panoramas. Insect life is rich, especially at night, when headlamps and flashlights spotlight crickets, resting butterflies, and the occasional colorful frog.
WildSumaco Lodge, Pacto-Sumaco, Ecuador
http://instagram.com/p/BUkaJtDjkL9/?tagged=wildsumaco
8. Macas
Bridge, Church, Park
9. Zamora
Architectural Landmark
10. Manta
Architectural Landmark
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