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Ecuador has gained a reputation as an adventurer’s haven. Mountaineers, surfers, rock climbers, bikers, and white water rafters all have Ecuador circled on their maps of bucket list destinations. And while there is a huge element of getting outside and getting dirty, that doesn’t mean Ecuador doesn’t have its share of luxurious accommodations and cool hotels to stay in. Below we explore the country’s diverse line up of cities and regions to find the best hotels in Ecuador.
Quito
Ecuador’s capital and perennial best-known city, Quito’s Andean setting, colonial old town, and status as the cultural hub of the country make it an obvious starting point for any adventure. Hotel Patio Andaluz is one of Ecuador’s original boutique hotels and is located in the heart of the city’s gorgeous old town. Situated elegantly in a colonial building echoing the 16th century, each room has a unique design.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Cuenca
Home to what some believe is the most beautiful city façade in Ecuador; Cuenca brings in tourists from around the world with its mellower vibe (when compared to Quito) and with its colonial history and architecture. Consistently acknowledged as a top luxury hotel in South America, the Mansion Alcazar’s gardens and lavish charm easily make it one of the best places to stay in Cuenca.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Guayaquil
Because of its location on the mouth of Rio Guayas, which empties into the Pacific Ocean, Guayaquil is arguably the country’s economic lifeblood for commercial trade and business. However, with a beautiful riverside promenade and colorful homes, the city is quickly gaining ground on places like Quito and Cuenca as a top city to visit. Boasting panoramic views and a sleek modern design, Wyndham’s Guayaquil location gets our top pick.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Loja
Loja may be most often used as a base to visit Parque Nacional Podocarpus, but the small town is well worth a visit also. Known as the “Musical and Cultural Capital of Ecuador” the richness of the city’s culture is palpable from every corner of the center’s pedestrian streets. Tasteful, while also maintaining some affordability, the Sonesta Hotel Loja is an ideal place to stay. Plus the rooftop pool doesn’t hurt.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Baños
Jam-packed with tour companies and trinket shops, Baños’s popularity with the backpacking community is pretty understandable. Amongst green mountains draped by waterfalls, Baños has endless activities for those eager to commune with nature. White water rafting, thermal baths, challenging hikes, and even cliff side swings all attract their share of visitors. Because of the natural hot springs that gave the town its name, Baños has a few high-end spa resorts. The Luna Volcán Adventure Spa and Samari Spa Resort both take advantage of their location and give guests a relaxing experience that includes amazing views and revitalizing wellness treatments.
Montañita
West of Guayaquil, Montañita has become a stereotypical beach town. Dudes with long hair, hippies of every variety, and curious backpackers seemingly outnumber locals and flock here with no real plan other than to embrace “the good vibes”. Don’t come here expecting extravagant resorts though as guesthouses are engrained in Montañita’s culture. Alternatively, The Heights in Montañita offer a special sort of thatched-roof luxury.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Puerto Ayora
The largest town in the Galapagos Islands, Puerto Ayora serves as the gateway to the many adventures to be had in the archipelago made famous by Charles Darwin. Most people arrive to the Galapagos expecting only plants and animals, but the little city itself is well maintained and has the look of a place worth visiting even without the appeal of the national park. But don’t worry, tortoises and iguanas still outnumber people on the rest of the island. Our favorite hotel here is the Blue Heron Galapagos Villa. On Puerto Ayora’s outskirts, the hotel feels like a proper vacation hotel with views of the turquoise sea, but it is close enough to the town’s main drag to easily hop on a boat for an early morning tour.
