Let me guide you through some of the many Ecuador tourist attractions close to Quito, especially when it comes to outdoor activities. If your starting base to explore Ecuador’s mainland is Quito, you’re in the perfect spot to begin your adventure.

Although Quito has activities for several days, there are also places worth visiting just outside Quito at a relatively short distance, in different directions towards the countryside and surroundings of the capital city. Quito is an excellent starting point for day tours or overnight tours close to the city of Quito.

Ecuador’s mainland is more than just another place to visit besides the Galápagos Islands—it goes far beyond, as Ecuador’s mainland has it all. Few countries on earth are as diverse and unique as Ecuador. If this is your first time in Ecuador, you might be wondering where to visit besides the world-famous Galápagos Islands. Here are some must-see destinations day trips and Ecuador private tours

Let’s start with a wonder town that is part of the unique cloud forest. Mindo attracts birders, scientists, nature enthusiasts, expats, artists, locals, and travelers from all over. This lush green cloud forest is teeming with biodiversity, making it one of the world’s top bird-watching destinations. In fact, Mindo has been the global winner in bird count for four consecutive years!

The relaxed atmosphere of Mindo makes it an enchanting place, full of cafés, restaurants, street vendors, and lively local culture. Despite being a small town, it’s always alive with activity. The town of Mindo is also a model for sustainable tourism, and many visitors find themselves returning time and time again.

With an excellent Mindo’s mild climate and elevation make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities year-round. The cloud forest is home to more than 500 bird species, including toucans, quetzals, and hummingbirds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The town also features a strong commitment to eco-tourism, with many locally run lodges and guided tours promoting conservation efforts.

Things to Do in Mindo:

• Hike to waterfalls and ride the Tarabita cable car

• Ziplining (2 to 10 lines available)

• Butterfly farm & hummingbird garden

• Chocolate tour & tasting

• Frog concert or insect night tour (overnight visitors only)

Elevation: 1,250 meters (4,101 feet)

✅ Explore Mindo with a Guided Tour! Book our Mindo Cloud Forest Tour for a hassle-free adventure with expert guides. Learn more Mindo full Day or Two Days Mindo Tour from Quito

One of the top Ecuador tourist attractions, Otavalo Market is one of South America’s largest indigenous markets. The Otavaleños have preserved their Inca roots, making this market a cultural and historical gem.

This town, Otavalo is not just about shopping; it is a vibrant cultural hub where indigenous traditions and modern life blend seamlessly. The market is held in the central plaza and spills into the surrounding streets, featuring hundreds of stalls selling handwoven textiles, traditional Andean clothing, jewelry, musical instruments, and more.

Beyond the market, Otavalo is surrounded by scenic landscapes, including lakes, waterfalls, and volcanic peaks, making it an excellent destination for those looking to explore Ecuador’s Andean culture and natural beauty.

Things to Do in Otavalo:

• Shop for colorful textiles, alpaca sweaters, ponchos, and crafts

• Visit Peguche Waterfall, just a 10-minute walk from the road

• Explore the animal market (only on early morning tours)

Elevation: 2,532 meters (8,307 feet)

✅ Experience Otavalo Market with a Guided Tour! Discover Otavalo’s culture and crafts with our expert-led Otavalo tour.

Cotopaxi is one of the world’s highest active volcanoes, standing at 5,897 meters (19,347 feet). The Cotopaxi National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

The park features stunning landscapes of paramo grasslands, rugged mountains, and pristine lagoons. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild horses, Andean foxes, spectacled bears, and the majestic Andean condor.

Volcano Cotopaxi has been an iconic symbol of Ecuador for centuries, and its nearly perfect conical shape is often compared to Japan’s Mount Fuji. Whether you’re hiking up to the glacier line or just enjoying the views from the base, a visit to Cotopaxi is an unforgettable experience.

Things to Do in Cotopaxi:

• Hike around Limpiopungo Lagoon

• Spot wildlife like Andean wolves, deer, and condors

• Trek to the José Rivas Refuge at 4,864 meters (15,958 feet)

Elevation: 4,500 meters (14,763 feet) (drive-up point)

✅ Visit Cotopaxi with a Guided Tour! Experience Cotopaxi’s stunning landscapes with our Cotopaxi Day Tour.

Quilotoa is a breathtaking crater lake with turquoise waters, located in the Ecuadorian Andes. It is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

The crater lake was formed by a volcanic eruption approximately 800 years ago. The dissolved minerals in the water give it its striking blue-green hue. The surrounding cliffs and rolling hills create a dramatic backdrop, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers.

The Quilotoa Loop, a scenic route through indigenous villages and stunning landscapes, offers an immersive experience into traditional Andean life. Visitors can explore local artisan workshops, learn about traditional farming methods, and enjoy breathtaking views of the highlands.

Things to Do in Quilotoa:

• Hike around the crater rim
• Hike inside the Lake/Crater and take a mule back up

• Rent a Kayak in the crater lake

• Visit the Saquisilí market (Thursdays only)
• Do some longer hikes since this is a fascinating area for day long hikes: Sigchos, Chucchilan, Quilotoa. or Chucchilan Insilivi, Quilotoa. Sky walk, hike from chucchilan to the cheese factory and cloud forest, among others.

Elevation: 3,914 meters on the highest part of the rim (12,841 feet)

✅ Explore Quilotoa with a Guided Tour! Book our Quilotoa Day Tour for an unforgettable adventure.

Baños de Agua Santa, often called simply Baños, is a charming town in the Ecuadorian Andes, nestled at the foot of the active Tungurahua volcano. Famous for its natural hot springs, the town takes its name from the “Baths of Holy Water,” believed to have healing properties. Surrounded by lush mountains, rivers, and waterfalls—like the spectacular Pailón del Diablo—Baños is known as Ecuador’s adventure capital. Visitors can enjoy activities such as rafting, canyoning, biking, hiking, and ziplining, or simply relax in the thermal baths and explore the vibrant town.

What to Do in Baños:

• Explore the Waterfalls: Visit the famous Pailón del Diablo (Devil’s Cauldron) and take a tarabita ride over the Pastaza River.
• Swing at the “End of the World”: Capture the iconic photo at La Casa del Árbol, a treehouse with a swing overlooking the valley.
• Try Adventure Sports: Go white-water rafting, canyoning, or mountain biking along the Ruta de las Cascadas (Waterfall Route).
• Relax in Hot Springs: Unwind in the town’s thermal baths, fed by mineral-rich volcanic waters.

Get your adrenaline fix in Baños! Book your trip now and experience one of the most exciting Ecuador tourist attractions

Elevation: 1,820 meters (5,971 feet)

✅ Visit Baños with a Guided Tour! Let us take you on an adventure with our Baños Tour from Quito.

Located just 1.5 hours from Quito, Papallacta is the perfect place to unwind. The hot springs are surrounded by stunning mountain views and offer a range of pools with varying temperatures.

What to Do in Papallacta:

• Soak in the Thermal Pools: Enjoy the healing properties of the mineral-rich waters, which are said to relieve stress and muscle pain.
• Indulge in Spa Treatments: Treat yourself to a hot stone massage, bamboo stick massage, or chocolate wrap.
• Take a Short Hike: Explore the surrounding páramo landscape and spot native flora and fauna.
• Recharge at Papallacta Hot Springs! Plan your visit to this relaxing Ecuador tourist attraction today.

Elevation: 3,300 meters (10,827 feet)

✅ Relax at Papallacta with a Guided Tour! Unwind in these natural hot springs on our Papallacta Tour.

Quito’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, historic churches, and vibrant plazas. The area is a living museum, with narrow cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved buildings.

What to Do in Quito Old Town:

• Visit La Compañía de Jesús: Known as the “Golden Church,” this baroque masterpiece is adorned with gold leaf and intricate carvings.
• Explore San Francisco Church and Monastery: One of the oldest religious sites in Quito, it houses a stunning collection of religious art.
• Stroll Through La Ronda Street: This bohemian street is lined with traditional shops, cafes, and artisan workshops.

Discover the charm of Quito’s Old Town! Start planning your visit to this historic Ecuador tourist attraction.

Elevation: 2,850 meters (9,350 feet)

✅ Discover Quito’s History with a Guided Tour! Take our Quito City Tour to explore its colonial charm. Click here to learn more.

Just 45 minutes from Quito, the Middle of the World monument marks the equator line. The interactive museum offers fun experiments, such as balancing an egg on a nail and witnessing the Coriolis effect.

Elevation: 2,483 meters (8,146 feet)

✅ Stand on the Equator with a Guided Tour! Visit the Middle of the World Tour with us. Click here to learn more.

Elevation: 2,850 meters (9,350 feet)

✅ Discover Quito’s History with a Guided Tour! Take our Quito City Tour to explore its colonial charm. Click here to learn more.