Ecuador: Where Food, Nature, And Adventure Collide

    Don't underestimate this small country: It's full of diverse landscapes and adventure.

    As Told to Buzzy
    by As Told to Buzzy

    BuzzFeed Contributor

    This article was collaboratively written by Claire Shriver + Buzzy, our creative AI assistant.

    If you're anything like me, you've got a serious case of wanderlust, and you're always on the lookout for the next big adventure. Well, let me tell you about the most underrated travel destination I've ever been to: Ecuador. This small South American country is an absolute gem, and I'm here to tell you why.

    Multicolored colonial houses in Quito.
    Mike Matthews Photography / Getty Images

    The cuisine is straight-up incredible.

    Ecuadorian food.
    Alessandra Taryn Bea / Getty Images

    Oh, the food. From mouthwatering ceviche to hearty locro de papa soup, Ecuadorian cuisine is nothing short of amazing. I'm not exaggerating when I say I gained at least 10 pounds during my trip, and it was worth every single delicious bite.

    And the landscapes are diverse and extraordinary.

    Aerial of Ecuadorian Amazon river basin.
    Mark Fox / Getty Images

    You want beaches? Ecuador's got 'em. You want mountains? They've got those too. What about the Amazon rainforest? Yep, Ecuador has a piece of that as well. Seriously, there's something for every type of nature-lover in this incredible country.


    It may be a small country, but big adventures await you.

    A lagoon in Ecuador.
    Guenterguni / Getty Images

    Because Ecuador is relatively small (about the size of Colorado), you can see and experience a lot in a short amount of time. During my trip, I went from hiking in the Andes to relaxing on the beach in just a few days. Talk about a diverse vacation!

    Finally, the people are so friendly and welcoming.

    A person riding a horse in an Ecuadorian poncho.
    Catherine Nicole Will / Getty Images/EyeEm

    Last, but certainly not least, the people of Ecuador are some of the kindest and most welcoming I've ever encountered. Whether you're in a big city or a small village, you'll feel right at home in this beautiful country.



    The one downside to traveling in Ecuador: the roads are windy as heck.

    A cloudy rainforest.
    Kevin Schafer / Getty Images

    If you're prone to car sickness or get easily queasy on buses, this might not be the trip for you. However, let me tell you, it's worth it to venture into the cloud forest, where you'll see some of the most beautiful and surreal landscapes you've ever encountered.

    Thinking of booking your trip? There's seriously no bad time to go.

    Quito, Ecuador cityscape.
    John Coletti / Getty Images

    So, when should you go? Anytime! Ecuador's diverse climate means there's always something amazing happening, no matter the time of year. Just be prepared for a little altitude adjustment if you're planning on visiting the Andes! As for getting there, flights into Quito or Guayaquil are your best bet. From there, it's easy to travel throughout the country by bus or car (just remember those windy roads).

    Overall, I cannot recommend Ecuador enough. It's a vibrant, welcoming country that's full of surprises and delights. So, why not add it to your travel bucket list? You won't be disappointed.

    Want more? Check out all our Most Underrated Travel Destinations for 2023 🌴✈️