Ecuador, in South America, has been described as an adventurer's dream with endless opportunities for trekking, wildlife viewing, and exploration.

       With the country being comprised of the Andes mountains, Galapagos Islands and an array of active volcanoes, there’s no shortage of natural wonders to admire.

       Its dramatic landscapes are also compliments by peaceful, breathtaking beaches with stunning blue water.

       Once the northern outpost of the Inca empire, history is also steeped in every corner of this land.

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       Despite all of this, Ecuador is not seen as an obvious tourism spot. In fact, just 1.26 million tourists travelled to the country in 2024 - down 12% from the year prior.

       While Ecuador is not a hotspot for tourists, it is a far more affordable option when compared to other alternatives in South America.

       According to Budget Your Trip, budget travelers spend around ￡23 per person per day.

       Mid range tourists spend about ￡60 a day, while luxury visitors will part ways with an average of ￡159 a day.

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       Tonsupa, Súa beach, Mompiche beach and Playa Escondida are rated among the country's best beaches.

       Must-visit spots here include the Avenue of the Volcanoes, which consists of a road through two rows of snow-capped peaks.

       The must-see volcanoes include Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, Los Illinizas, Sangay and Tungurahua.

       The area also boasts a picturesque valley near the Toachi canyon. Pristine lakes are also a treat for visitors, with the turquoise lagoon of Quilotoa a favourite.

       Further along in this Amazon jungle region you’ll be met with the cloud forest reserve of Mindo for wildlife offering beautiful sights of orchids and other rare flora.

       Best explored by a small ship, the Galápagos Islands is truly a unique experience and is world-renowned thanks to its array of wildlife found here including Ecuador’s world-famous boobies, tortoises, sea turtles and marine iguanas.

       Other must-visit spots here include Bartolomé Island, Quilotoa Lake, Mindo Valley, Middle of the World City and Parque Nacional Yasuní national park.

       One review on TripAdvisor wrote of Ecuador saying: “Clean and vast, it's so refreshing to be somewhere that hasn’t been spoiled by commercial spaces or resorts.

       “Iguanas spotted on the beach, birds in the air and baby sharks in the water. Most beautiful beaches we visited.”