As far as ocean getaways and beach vibes go, Ecuador goes largely under the radar. When you think of South American beaches, you might think of Colombia’s Caribbean coast and Brazil’s Bacchanalian beach bashes. Ecuador? Probably not so much. However, you would be surprised to discover that Ecuador’s Pacific coastline is as beautiful and tropical… Read More Why You Need To Visit Manta, Ecuador
“The iguanas.. They know me. They recognize my voice. There are thousands of them and they all know me.” An American appearing to be in his mid 30’s approached us as we were taking photos of the iguanas hanging around by the bridge. He opened with that line before proceeding to ask us for cocaine… Read More Memoirs of Montañita: Ecuador’s Raucous Surf Village
The small island of Isla de la Plata is about an hour by boat from mainland Ecuador. It is often known as the Poor Man’s Galapagos. Considering that I was indeed a poor man who could not afford to go to the Galapagos, that title is very fitting. However, for the price of around $40-50,… Read More What To Expect On A Tour To Isla de la Plata | Ecuador
The surf village of Montañita is a sleepy little town by day and then a raucous display of debauchery at night. For a town with a population of only 4,500, the booming nightclubs rival those of much larger party cities. The beach parties felt like a smaller-scale version of Thailand’s belligerent Full Moon Party. Life… Read More The Backpacker’s Complete Guide to Montañita, Ecuador
Montañita, I wasn’t ready. I thought I was ready. I was wrong. I underestimated just how wild this surf village is and how mercilessly it was going to treat me during my birthday festivities. Montañita is a partier’s paradise. There is very little that you actually have to do during the day, meaning that you… Read More The Best Places to Party in Montañita, Ecuador
After experiencing the hustle and bustle of Quito for almost a week, there was nothing more that I wanted to do than disconnect and isolate myself in the mountains for a while. The goal of my South American journey was to do as much hiking as I could, and although Quito is beautiful and has… Read More How To Hike the Laguna del Quilotoa to Chugchilan Loop | Ecuador
Quito is a city brimming with culture, vibrance, and excitement. This guide to Quito for backpackers should fill up your time in this vibrant South American hub quite nicely.… Read More The Backpacker’s Travel Guide to Quito, Ecuador | 2026