Among the most popular places to visit in Ecuador are the Galapagos Islands, located about 600 miles off its mainland. Travelers typically depart from Quito and spend several days exploring the rare fauna and flora of the islands. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito contains old baroque churches, monasteries and convents.
Other highlights of Ecuador include Otavalo, where you can shop for handicrafts; Cuenca, known for its quaint, cobblestone streets and famed ceramics center; or Banos, a small town in the hills of the Andes that is popular for outdoor activities such as horseback riding and mountain biking.