This woman's incredible photos show why Ecuador is becoming the world's most popular backpacking spot
The travel blogger began her trip in Vilcabamba, a picturesque village in the south of the country that's known as the "Valley of Longevity." It is home to "one of the longest living populations in the world," Festa said, thanks to its "natural mineral water and fresh mountain air." There are also plenty of "budget-friendly spas, meditation and yoga centres, and healthy eateries in town."
An active traveller, Festa did plenty of hiking and cycling on her trip. On a hiking trip in Cajas National Park, near the city of Cuenca, she learned about Quinoa Forest, which is the world's tallest forest, perched at 13,124 feet. As well as beautiful scenery, the park is rife with myths. "Because many [people] have died here from getting lost or altitude sickness the woodland is also believed to be haunted," Festa said.
The nearby city of Cuenca, in the Andes Mountains, is known for its culture. "It's an extremely walkable city and is full of musicians playing in ambient squares, interesting museums and restaurants."
"Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its rich history and unchanged urban plan." The city's public squares, like Cuenca Market (below), are perfect for people-watching.
Another vibrant market can be found in the town of Otavalo about two hours outside Ecuador's capital, Quito. "The colourful Otavalo Crafts Market features local goods mainly crafted from llama and alpaca wool."
Festa also travelled to Baños, the second most populous city in the country, where she said there are "colourful, creative and often eerie murals at every corner."
Located in central Ecuador, the city is surrounded by nature. "One hike I did from Baños was to Bellavista, an almost completely uphill trek. There are great views of Baños from above along the way."
Of course, a visit to the Amazon Jungle, which is easy to get to on a tour from Baños, is "a must" when in Ecuador. "This photo was taken in the Amazon Jungle, with my guide showing me how local indigenous peoples painted their faces to keep away 'bad air.'"
Festa also went on a cycling tour of some beautiful waterfalls around Baños, including the Pailon del Diablo, Ecuador's second-largest waterfall (below). "I did it unguided so I could go at my own pace." The views were incredible.
As for the food, it's arguably worth visiting Ecuador for the cuisine alone.
Festa recommends trying Choclo con Queso, grilled corn on the cob with sprinkled cheese — it is a popular street food that's easy to eat on the go.
She also tried guinea pig for the first time. "It's one of the more expensive dishes, so while it was delicious I only ate it once."
As well as great food, Ecuador is home to the "Middle of the World," or Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, located an hour outside of Quito. "Here you can straddle a line marking the equator. Though it's disputed even still if this is really the exact equator (many say it's actually 250 yards away)." There's even a museum and shop selling souvenirs on the site.
A souvenir worth picking up in the city of Calderón, about a 30-minute drive from Quito, is one of these marzipan dolls, which were previously used in burial rituals. "The handmade dolls are not edible as they're colourfully coated in glue and varnish."
Nearer to Quinto, Mindo, a town that "sits in the cloud forest" in the Andes, is a fun place for a weekend trip with activities like "zip-lining, bridge walks, and hiking."
While she was there, Festa went to the Hostería Mariposas de Mindo, a hotel and restaurant that has a butterfly garden, which has more than 1,200 kinds of butterflies. Some are huge!
She also spent some time in Quinto, visiting historic attractions like the Church and Convent of St. Francis, an impressive Roman Catholic landmark from the 16th century.
From Quito, Festa flew to the Galapagos Islands. "I got to swim with hammerhead sharks and seals, hike volcano rims, climb the Galapagos' tallest tree ... It's also pretty cool to see Galapagos fur seals wandering down the street when you're going to grab food."
The islands are home to giant tortoise as well.
Popular Right Now
Advertisement