For many travelers, a trip to the Galápagos Islands is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. But what if we told you that your Ecuadorian adventure doesn’t have to end when your Galápagos cruise does? In fact, extending your trip by just a few days will open the door to encounters that are every bit as unforgettable as the islands themselves.

Ecuador’s mainland is rich with history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From colonial cities to vibrant markets to lush rainforests, this small but diverse country offers travelers an incredible depth of experiences. 

“Life is short,” says INCA CEO Bill Roberson. “For lots of people, this might be their one chance to explore this part of the world, so why not take full advantage?” But you can’t be so sure—after getting a taste of Ecuador’s mainland, you might just find it impossible not to return.

Wander through the streets of Quito

Your gateway to mainland Ecuador is Quito, the nation’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At over 9,000 feet above sea level, Quito sits high in the Andes and is renowned for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and ornate churches. A stroll through the Old Town feels like stepping back in time. You might spend a day admiring the golden Church of La Compañía de Jesús, taking in sweeping views from the hilltop statue of El Panecillo, or exploring lively plazas where local life unfolds against a backdrop of centuries-old buildings.

Quito is more than a city to pass through on the way to the Galápagos; it’s a destination worth savoring (and we’re not just talking about the world-class chocolate and coffee).

Discover the colors of Otavalo

A two-hour drive north of Quito brings you to Otavalo, a town famous for its indigenous Quechua culture and one of the most vibrant markets in Latin America. The Otavalo Market is legendary for a reason. There, stall after stall bursts with handwoven textiles, leather goods, jewelry, and traditional crafts. It’s a wonderful place to bring home souvenirs that are not only beautiful but also deeply connected to Ecuador’s cultural heritage.

But Otavalo is more than just its market. The surrounding region offers scenic hikes, tranquil lakes, and opportunities to connect with indigenous traditions that have been passed down for generations. For travelers looking to immerse themselves in authentic Ecuadorian culture, this is an essential stop.

Experience Hacienda life in the Highlands

For those seeking luxury with a sense of place, Ecuador’s highland haciendas offer unforgettable stays. Two standouts are Hacienda Zuleta and Hacienda El Porvenir, both located just a few hours’ drive from Quito.

Zuleta is a food-lover’s paradise, where the journey from farm to plate takes only a few short steps. Visitors will be treated like family as they savor freshly-caught trout, melt-in-your-mouth cheese, and organic produce straight from the Hacienda’s own gardens. During the day, guests can wander through flower-filled gardens and even learn about the hacienda’s condor conservation project.

Meanwhile, El Porvenir sits in the foothills of the Rumiñahui volcano, offering the perfect place to explore the Andean highlands. Here, you can take in the breathtaking views through long, winding trails, or simply from the comfort of your own room. Both properties combine rustic charm with modern comforts, creating the perfect environment to unwind after your Galápagos adventure.

Step into the wild with Ecuador’s rainforests

If wildlife encounters were a highlight of your Galápagos trip, Ecuador’s rainforests will feel like a natural extension of your journey. 

For a short yet rewarding addition, high in the misty Andean slopes, the Ecuadorian cloud forest is just a short drive from Quito. Tucked into the landscape of a 1,200-hectre private reserve, Mashpi Lodge gives visitors a chance to explore both cloud and rainforest, teeming with hundreds of bird species, unique orchids, and wildlife. This luxurious hotel features floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the wonder of the jungle. For an even better view, you can climb to the top of the lodge’s sky-high observation tower to peer across the breath-taking canopy.

Alternatively, a flight away from Quito, the Amazon basin is also home to extraordinary flora and fauna. Monkeys swing through the trees, while pink river dolphins surface in the rivers and unique bird species fill the canopy with song.

Napo Wildlife Center, a beautiful eco-lodge tucked in the Ecuadorian Amazon, offers travelers the chance to experience the rainforest in style. Guided hikes, canopy towers, and canoe excursions reveal a side of Ecuador that feels truly wild and untouched.

For another unique adventure, consider an Anakonda Amazon Cruise. Gliding along the Napo River aboard a comfortable vessel, you’ll access remote corners of the Amazon river while enjoying fine dining and expert-led excursions. It’s a journey that pairs comfort with discovery in one of the world’s most remarkable ecosystems.

Importantly, by choosing eco-tourism in this region, you are helping protect it. Here, the two main industries are palm oil extraction and tourism—one depletes the land, while the other preserves it. By traveling with INCA and our carefully chosen partners, you can rest assured that your visit supports conservation and helps local communities, maintaining this irreplaceable landscape for generations to come.

A destination with depth

The Galápagos may be Ecuador’s most famous destination, but it’s only one piece of a country brimming with wonder. Quito’s historic streets, Otavalo’s colorful markets, highland haciendas, and the vast Amazon rainforest all offer perspectives on Ecuador that you simply can’t find by sticking to the islands.

You won’t regret taking the time to truly explore this diverse and beautiful country. And if you’re like many of our guests, you may find yourself already planning your return before you’ve even left.

Article written by Emily Topping

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