Why choose Ecuador for a family trip?

If you’re looking for a destination for a family trip in Latin America, Ecuador would seem to be the ideal destination for organizing your stay. Whether you have young children or teenagers, Ecuador offers a wide range of holiday options for all ages. 

Ecuador is known for its rich and varied biodiversity, which will delight young and old alike. Whether in the Amazon, the Andes or the Galapagos, the country offers a wealth of flora and fauna.

In the Andes :

• Come and see the vicuñas at the Chimborazo volcano on horseback.
• Discover thousands of birds in the Mindo region. Ecuador’s cloud forest is home to hundreds of species, including the hummingbird, which you’ll be sure to spot as you make your way along the trail.
• On the hiking trails of Papallacta, you’re likely to spot a spectacled bear or a puma.
• The condor, the emblematic bird of the Cordillera, will undoubtedly cross your path during your stay in the Andes.

In the Amazon :

• In Misahualli in the nearby Amazon, it’s not uncommon to see monkeys wandering around the corner.
• In the Cuyabeno or Yasuní national parks, you’ll be overwhelmed by the diversity of species you’ll encounter in no time at all. On your way to your lodge, you’ll come across different species of monkeys, birds and reptiles.
• On a walk through the Amazon rainforest, it’s not uncommon to come across the tracks of many different animals. If you’re lucky, you may spot the animal to which they belong, such as a tapir or jaguar.
• From your boat, it’s possible to spot species endemic to the area, such as the pink dolphin.

On the Pacific Coast:

• From June onwards, you can watch the whales at Puerto Lopez, which come to breed along the Ecuadorian coast.
• You can snorkel or dive at Isla de la Plata to discover endemic species such as blue-footed boobies, magnificent frigate birds and Galapagos albatrosses.

Galapagos:

• A protected area and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galapagos Islands are Ecuador’s emblematic place to come and discover numerous endemic species, which are very easy to observe throughout your stay.
• Whether island-hopping or cruising, you’ll undoubtedly see dozens of sea lions in the streets of Puerto Ayora or Villamil.
• If you go snorkeling, you may come across dozens of species of fish, as well as sea turtles, manta rays, hammerhead sharks and whale sharks.
• You’ll also come across the Galapagos tortoises, impressively large and old specimens, much to the delight of young and old alike.

The advantages of Ecuador for biodiversity observation:

There are two advantages to traveling to Ecuador as a family to observe biodiversity:

• accessibility: regardless of age or region, the whole family will be able to come and observe and discover the country’s treasures.
• seasonality: the advantage is that there is none. Species in Ecuador can be seen all year round. Thanks to the hundreds of migratory species in the Galapagos, for example, you can see different but equally impressive animals every month of the year.

As well as the varied biodiversity you’ll be able to observe throughout your family holiday, the country offers a host of indoor and outdoor activities that are accessible to all.

• To discover the rich and varied landscapes, you don’t need to climb high mountains and treacherous paths. There are many hikes that are accessible to everyone and that allow you to discover Ecuador’s scenery.
• You can go hiking or horse-riding, a great way to discover the volcanoes in a different way.
• As a family, you can explore the colonial cities of Quito and Cuenca, which are brimming with history and spectacular architecture.
• For lovers of the sea, snorkeling activities are available from an early age on the Galapagos Islands and on the Pacific coast to discover Ecuador’s marine biodiversity.
• For those with a sweet tooth, Ecuador is the ideal place to discover chocolate-making and experience chocolate tasting, from the cocoa bean to the freshly-prepared bar.
• Sporty families will be won over by the Andean country, which offers a panorama of sporting activities. From volcano climbing for hiking enthusiasts, rafting or canyoning in the Amazon, to canopy or mountain biking, you’ll be seduced by the variety of activities on offer.

Ecuador is a land where travelers meet the local population. Appreciated by both, sharing with the locals is an essential stage in a family trip to the Andean country, to get to know Ecuadorian culture as closely as possible.

• The main stop is a visit to a craft market, such as the one in Otavalo or Guamote. Between colorful fabrics and animals of all kinds, children will be amazed by the different smells and colors that surround them. This will be an opportunity to taste culinary specialities and meet the local vendors.
• You can also discover the culture of indigenous families by visiting a community such as San Clemente or Inti Sisa. As the family is an important anchor for Ecuadorians, they will be delighted to welcome you into their own family for a night or two.

Lastly, although Ecuador is positioning itself as an ideal destination for family trips, for young and old alike.

Offering spectacular views of preserved biodiversity, a wide choice of activities and close encounters with local people, the country lends itself perfectly to a stay at the pace of nature and local people.

• With sunrise and sunset at 6.30 am and 6.30 pm all year round, you’ll quickly get used to the local way of life and live like Ecuadorians.

By offering tailor-made trips, we give you the opportunity to adapt the pace of your journey to suit you. No format is predefined in advance; we advise you according to your family profile to offer you the holiday that suits you best.

Terra Ecuador promotes slow travel in Ecuador. The notion of slowness will be at the heart of your trip to Ecuador. We are convinced that it is essential to take your time during your trip for a more authentic experience in discovering Ecuadorian culture.

If you would like to take a family trip to Ecuador, don’t hesitate to contact us.