Ecuador is simultaneously the center of the earth, and the place furthest from earth’s center (Mount Chimborazo). It’s one of the most biodiverse countries on earth, and it became the first country to enshrine rights for nature in its constitution. The Galápagos Islands biodiversity led them to become the 1st UNESCO world heritage site, while Quito, the planet’s 2nd highest national capital, was the 2nd.
I went for only 5 quick days to Ecuador earlier this month. I was able to hit Quito, Cotopaxi, Baños, and end up back in Quito for my flight. Ecuador is pretty cheap by western standards and they use the USD. You cannot use cash over $50 bills so be aware of that. The highlight for the trip for me was riding bikes in Baños along the Ruta de las cascadas. The waterfalls are amazing. I only recommend this if you are in very good shape. The route is long and the elevation is high, and the bikes we were given were of very poor quality. However it was incredible. I think Quito is a very nice city in the historic center and very well preserved and the metro, which is an exact replica of Madrid, was very nice and easy to use. Driving was a bit of a challenge due to fog and storms as well as the winding mountain roads, but I was fine overall. I managed to try Cuy for the first time and it was delicious.
There’s perhaps not greater privilege than showing up in a new country, having no plans, and having the time of your life. It was easy to do that in Ecuador. It’s an unforgettable landscape with some of the most incredible, hardworking, and kind people I’ve ever met. I know there’s a lot I didn’t get to see in Ecuador but I only had 5 days. I’ll likely be back.