The following image is AI generated. I decided to use it here because it is a beautiful representation of how beautiful the first UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE in the world really is.
In this article, I will share my top 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador that showcase the beauty and diversity of this remarkable country.
All the other photos in this article are my own, including my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador. I will also share my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador that depict the incredible beauty of these locations.
In this article, I will share my top 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador that showcase the beauty and diversity of this remarkable country.
These 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador truly reflect my journey through this fascinating country.
Ecuador is one of South America’s most captivating travel destinations. It is known for its incredible biodiversity, rich culture, and diverse landscapes.
The stories behind each of my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador are as diverse as the landscapes themselves.
Travelers can explore the Andes Mountains, the Amazon rainforest, and the Pacific coastline all within a single trip.
Travelers can explore the Andes Mountains, the Amazon rainforest, and the Pacific coastline all within a single trip. This makes Ecuador a top choice for adventure travel and eco-tourism.
In my collection of 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador, you’ll find something for every kind of traveler.
As we delve into my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador, you will discover what makes these spots so special to me.
The historic city of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (the first in the world), offers stunning colonial architecture. Meanwhile, the Galápagos Islands provide unique wildlife encounters found nowhere else on Earth. Each of my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador captures a location and my personal connection to this vibrant culture.
Whether you are searching for nature, culture, or unique travel experiences, Ecuador delivers unforgettable opportunities for every type of traveler.
Each of my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador captures not just a location but my personal connection to this vibrant culture.
These 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador highlight the cultural richness and stunning landscapes that make Ecuador a unique destination. With every image, my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador tell a story of connection and discovery.
With every image, my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador tell a story of connection and discovery.
If you enjoy exploring cities that blend old-world charm with breathtaking scenery, I invite you to check out Quito, Ecuador, and its surrounding gems.
My Android Phone and MAC-Book (which are the only cameras I use) are packed with memories from colonial plazas, ancient churches, and panoramic spots that give you a true taste of the Andes.
Through these personal experiences, I’ve put together a photo guide that highlights my favorite places in and around this vibrant capital.
As I recount my experiences, my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador will serve as a visual reminder of the beauty of this land.
Each location is filled with colorful history, unique culture, and plenty of photogenic corners you might want to see for yourself.
Each location is filled with colorful history, unique culture, and plenty of photogenic corners you might want to see for yourself.
With my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador, I hope to inspire you to see the beauty that lies within Ecuador.
As we journey together, my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador reveal the heart of this nation.
Join me as I explore my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador, each with its own story to tell.
Join me as I explore my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador, each with its own story to tell.
Beyond these highlights, you’ll also stumble upon cafés buzzing with locals, markets draped in bright textiles, and alleyways alive with street art at every turn.
Seeing these 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador will inspire you to visit and experience this amazing country firsthand.
Let’s continue exploring through my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador and see what awaits!
I will present these 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador, along with insights about each location.
Discover the allure of my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador that exemplify my experiences here.
1. Quito’s Plaza Grande – The Heartbeat of the City
Each of my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador captures a moment that reflects the soul of this vibrant nation.
Let’s take a closer look at my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador and the stories behind them.
From the lively streets to tranquil landscapes, my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador showcase the heart of the culture.
10 Personal Photos of Favorite Places in Ecuador
From the lively streets to tranquil landscapes, my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador showcase the heart of the culture.
Each building tells its own story of Ecuador’s colonial past and political present.
Standing in the center of Quito at Plaza Grande, sometimes called Plaza de la Independencia, I always feel the city’s energy in full force.
The square is surrounded by key landmarks like the Presidential Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace. This is where Quito’s soul comes alive, right in the open air.
The square is surrounded by key landmarks like the Presidential Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace. This is where Quito’s soul comes alive, right in the open air.
These 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador highlight the joy and adventure that await you in each corner of the country.
The architecture displays a fusion of Spanish baroque and Andean influences, making every facade a canvas of cultural exchange.
This is where Quito’s soul comes alive, right in the open air.
The architecture displays a fusion of Spanish baroque and Andean influences, making every facade a canvas of cultural exchange.
As you stroll past fountains and sculpted gardens, you can almost hear the echoes of historic proclamations and modern debates, all layered within this living urban square.
Each location is filled with colorful history, unique culture, and plenty of photogenic corners you might want to see for yourself.
Photo Tips:
- Capture the changing light on the facades as morning turns to evening.
- Street vendors with baskets of fruit or colorful balloons add real local character.
- Try a wide shot to frame the gardens and people mingling.
- Experiment with reflections in puddles after rain for unique perspectives.
In summary, these 10 personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador are just a glimpse into the adventures you can have.
2. La Ronda – Quito’s Bohemian Lane
To see my 10 personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador is to witness the colors and spirit of this incredible country. Through these 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador, I hope to share the essence of what makes this country unique.
Through these 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador, I hope to share the essence of what makes this country unique.
La Ronda is one of those places where every stone seems to echo with history, just like the public squares of Quito. This narrow, cobbled street snakes through Old Town and is known for its lively atmosphere and artisan shops.
At night, lanterns glow above balconies, and there’s a warm hum of conversation from open doors spilling music and laughter.
We ate in a couple of restaurants here. We tried Cuy for the first time at one of the restaurants (La Casona de la Ronda Hotel) and we tried canelazo along with the fruit it is made with at the other restaurant (Casa los Geranios).
We also found a great shop where we bought some unique chocolate bars. There are a large number of chocolate shops in Quito.
The restaurant where we ate the Cuy is Restorant Balcón Rodeño. It is run by a husband and wife teem. They are quite informal but very friendly. The restaurant where we drank the canelazo with fruit is Restorant Los Geranios. It is a lovely restaurant with very professional service.
The restaurant where we ate the Cuy is Restorant Balcón Rodeño. It is run by a husband and wife team. They are quite informal but very friendly.
Photo Tips:
- Focus on the intricate ironwork and window boxes filled with flowers.
- Capture musicians or dancers when festivals are underway.
- Details like handpainted tiles or carved wood signs show La Ronda’s charm.
- Low light creates a cozy mood for evening shots—try longer exposures for glowing effects.
3. Basilica del Voto Nacional – Gothic Marvel with an Andean Twist
Few sights in Quito are as striking as the Basilica del Voto Nacional. Its Gothic design rises over the city, but what catches my eye are the native Andean animals carved into its stonework, replacing traditional gargoyles. When I climb the towers, I get a sweeping view over tiled rooftops leading to green volcanoes in the distance. Inside, stained glass windows cast colorful light across the pews, making it quiet and reflective even when the city hums outside. It’s my favorite spot to get a perspective on both the city’s architecture and its spiritual side. The basilica’s construction is an ongoing story, with local folklore stating that the world will end once its final stone is laid—a legend that adds to the mystique and allure of this iconic landmark.
We spent time in a cafe that is up near the belfry of one of the towers. We ate some traditional ecuadorian snacks, some ice cream and a few traditional drinks. Ecuadorian coffee, hot chocolate, and beer are also available at this cafe. It is called the Tower Cafe. I have a photo of Farida and Reno in the cafe with a great view of Panecillo Hill through the window. It is in one of my other articles here. Click on this link to see it.
The elevator in the Basilica will take you as far as this floor where the cafe is located. Beyond the cafe, we had to climb a steep, narrow ladder up into the belfry and clock tower. After this, there are a couple of even steeper metal ladders that we climbed to reach the summit of spires. These metal ladders are completely exposed to the sky so you will feel more like an eagle nesting at the highest reaches of a forest tree canopy.
Photo Tips:
- The climb to the clock towers is worth it for panoramic shots.
- Zoom in on the stone iguanas, armadillos, and turtles for something unusual.
- Dusk shots capture the cathedral illuminated against a twilight sky.
- Use a telephoto lens to isolate ornate details and patterns in the facade.
4. Plaza San Francisco – Layers of History
Looking down into the inner courtyard of Iglesia Católico de San Francisco.
Plaza San Francisco feels like stepping back in time. The grand San Francisco Church anchors the plaza, and its white facade faces the rising slopes of Pichincha Volcano.
Make sure to explore more than just the 10 personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador; there is so much more to discover!
Fanesca is a thick soup or stew. It is served ONLY during the week before Easter. It has lentils, peas, corn, and 12 grains. Dried cod is also added. There may be hard boiled eggs, squash, and peanuts added. The 12 grains represent the 12 disciples. The main reason we wanted to try Fanesca from several vendors was because condiments varied from vendor to vendor. We had lots of fun here. Gregorian music was playing the whole time we were there.
Cobblestones worn smooth by centuries of footsteps lead to cafes and small handicraft shops along the edge.
Photo Tips:
- Frame the church with mountains in the background during golden hour.
- Photograph street life—vendors, kids with kites, and couples enjoying helado (ice cream).
- Look for hidden details in church carvings or ancient doors nearby.
- Sunset creates dramatic shadows on the cobblestones—perfect for atmospheric photos.
Make sure to explore more than just the 10 personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador; there is so much more to discover!
5. El Panecillo – Quito’s Best Viewpoint
No visit to Quito feels complete without climbing El Panecillo, the rounded hill crowned by the statue of the Virgin of Quito. The panoramic view from the summit puts the entire historic center in perspective, wrapped by rolling Andean hills on all sides. The statue itself is unique—a winged Madonna standing atop a globe, visible from almost anywhere in the city. Sitting up here, I often spot families flying kites, teens taking selfies, and artists sketching the city’s jagged skyline. This is where I pause to appreciate how the city has adapted to its geography and where I always snap some nice skyline photos. A morning hike up the hill, whether on foot or by taxi, rewards visitors with fresh air and a real sense of Quito’s mountainous embrace.
Definitely go up there in the morning or early afternoon because you will want to be back down into the city before night fall. The neighborhoods on the hill, near the monitored monument are dangerous. Drive up, do not walk. Violent robberies are common on the hill, even before sundown so: drive up, use a taxi, or use tour operators to arrive at the monument (Quito City Tour is one option), stay within the monitored monument, then get back down into the city with the same transport you used to get up
We were visiting Ecuador the week before Holy Week so, all around the inner courtyard, there were food vendors giving out small clay bowls of a traditional food called Fanesca.
We spent several hours exploring the inner courtyard, the rooftop views, and a small museum of this church.
The monument itself is free but there is a cost to enter the small museum there.
There are great food stalls within the monument and they are not to be missed because the food there is made by the families that run the food stalls, so yes, it is homemade and it is traditional.
Photo Tips:
- Shoot wide landscapes that include the Basilica’s spires and the old city below.
- Clouds moving across the hills add drama to your images.
- Pick midmorning or late afternoon for the best light and fewest crowds.
- Try panoramic shots to capture the sweep of the city curving along the valley.
6. Plaza Santo Domingo – Evening Magic and Colorful Markets
Plaza Santo Domingo is another square steeped in both everyday life and centuries of tradition. I’m drawn to this plaza at dusk, when vendors light small lamps and music begins to drift from nearby cafes. The Santo Domingo Church’s Baroque facade is impressive, especially against a deep blue sky. On weekends, craft markets pop up in the plaza, and I find everything from woven scarves to handcarved toys and Andean sweets. It’s a perfect space to sit on a bench, take in the scene, and watch the city wind down for the night. Children run along the fountain’s edge, elders chat about daily news, and street performers sometimes entertain into the evening, making the atmosphere inclusive and festive.
Iglesia de Santo Domingo was built around 1650. Its interior includes wonderful wood carvings and a Moorish style ceiling. There is an amazing silver throne on the main altar. The statue in the center of this plaza is a monument to Antonio Jose de Sucre who was a marshal of the Ecuadorian army. He helped win the Battle of Pichincha which secured the freedom of Quito from Spanish rule.
Museo Fray Pedro Bedrón is inside the cloister of the church. Make sure to visit it. There is a spectacular garden courtyard with a huge collection of historic religious art which was created at the prestigious Quito School of Art. This school was focused on religious art during the Spanish colonial period from around 1540 until around 1825. Artworks of this school were so acclaimed that King Carlos III of Spain (1716-1788) said of one of its artists; “I am not concerned that Italy has Michelangelo; in my colonies of America I have the master Caspicara”. Several of his sculptures can be seen in the Cathedral of Quito and in the Iglesia de San Fransisco. They are really nice.
These 10 intense personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador will guide you to the heart of this stunning destination.
- Evenings bring out the warm glow of streetlights, so play with night photography settings.
- Market stalls in the square are colorful and make for eye-catching images.
- Behind the plaza, narrow streets lead to murals and hidden patios worth photographing.
- If you visit in the morning, catch the market vendors arranging their displays for a behind-the-scenes look at daily commerce.
7. Mitad del Mundo – Crossing Hemispheres
A short drive from Quito takes me to Mitad del Mundo, the famed monument marking the equator’s line. It is considered common to find it symbolic standing with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern. The complex includes a museum, artisan shops, and panoramic terraces. While the monument itself draws most visitors, I always wander to nearby Intiñan Museum for hands-on science displays and traditional Andean sun dials. There’s science, folklore, and lots of room for playful photos documenting the “middle of the world.” A mix of quirky experiments—like balancing eggs and water demonstrations—keep the experience fun for all ages, and the market offers unexpected treasures from Ecuador’s many regions.
I hear tell that the equatorial line painted on the ground is not really exact. The actual equator is really about 800 feet ( 240 meters) north of the famous yellow equator line. You can take photos of your selves straddling the more famous yellow line but just remember that those photos are mostly for capturing the Mitad del Mundo monument there. To really straddle both equators at the same time, go to the Intiñan Solar Museum and straddle the red line they painted there. That is the real deal.
Inside the monument you will find the Ethnographic Museum. This museum is actually multi story because you are following the displays up several flights of stairs. There is an elevator for those whole just want to go to the rooftop observation level. I say, do not do that. I took many photos of displays while climbing the steps. It s a really colorful museum. The monument is about 90 feet or 30 meters tall. But you do not have to climb quite that high to reach the observation floor. There is a globe on top of the monument. Many people pose on a platform in front of the monument making it look like they are holding up the globe.
There is a village here. It is quite lovely. There are quaint tourist shops and some delicious restaurants. We ate in the restaurant right next to the lovely chapel. There is a traditional artisan shop between the restaurant and the chapel. This village is a very colorful colonial style town that is worth visiting irregardless as to how touristy the monument is.
Photo Tips:
- Climb the monument for a wide shot of the valley and distant volcanoes.
- Capture friends or family posing with feet straddling the painted equator line.
- Look for murals and indigenous art throughout the park.
- Bright daylight can make for sharp, high-contrast images, but softer light just before sunset adds a golden touch to the monument.
8. Plaza del Teatro – Artistic Pulse of Quito
Plaza del Teatro may not be as famous as others, but it always brings out ones creative side. The neoclassical Teatro Sucre dominates the plaza and is the main stage for music, dance, and cultural events in Quito. There’s an electric buzz here during festivals, with performers, food carts, and audiences flowing between the square and the theater’s grand steps. I come here when I want to feel the city’s contemporary culture and to photograph vibrant murals and live street performances. The plaza changes character throughout the day, making every visit a little bit different. In quieter moments, the elegant facades and tree-lined walkways invite a slower pace, perfect for people watching or capturing candid moments of daily life.
There used to be a bullring here. There had also been a marketplace and slaughterhouse here. The Sucre National Theater is now the centerpiece building of this square. It is a prestigious, neoclassical theater that was opened in 1822. This square is also part of Quitos’ UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are great cafes, shops, and restaurants here too.
The Hotel Plaza del Teatro is here. It is a beautiful hotel that has been painted bright red on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floor of its facade. The interior of the hotel is just as striking in appearance. It is at Calle Guayaquil. There is a pharmacy across the street and a Laundromat in the building. It is known for its excellent price value. There is breakfast at this hotel and it reflects the regional food culture of Ecuador. The cost to stay at this hotel will be around US $25. Of course, there are several other hotels around Plaza del Teatro to choose from.
Photo Tips:
- Photograph performers in action or the theater’s ornate balconies.
- Wide shots show both the busy street life and the elegance of old architecture.
- Themed festivals bring extra color and life for photos.
- Shadow patterns on the theater steps at sunrise or sunset create striking compositions.
9. Plaza San Blas – Local Flavor and Artistry
Plaza San Blas sits slightly outside the busiest tourist routes, which is why I find it refreshing and genuine. The modest San Blas Church is the heart of the plaza, with a peaceful park and benches filled with locals chatting or students sketching. Murals decorate nearby walls, celebrating Quito’s indigenous and mestizo roots. Some of my favorite evenings finish in San Blas, when the light softens and the plaza hosts dance classes, art workshops, or small fairs. It’s a space to connect with everyday life in Quito and to enjoy the city’s grassroots energy away from crowds. Friendly vendors sell homemade snacks, musicians gather for open-air jam sessions, and the neighborhood’s mix of tradition and youthful spirit is obvious everywhere you look.
With my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador, I invite you to explore the hidden gems this country has to offer.
When we walked back to our hotel from the UNESCO World Heritage site area, we would relax here for a while. The Madonna with Wings on Panecillo Hill can be seen lit up brightly from this plaza with no obstruction at all. In the past, this area was at the northern limit of Quito and there was an indigenous community here. These days, there is a vibrant culture engaged here with colonial houses all around the neighborhood. The Civil Registration office for residents is located here. The Iglesia de San Blas is a really lovely church. The Santa Clara Monastery is also here (Monasterio de Santa Clara de Asís.)
There are several hotels around this plaza. Casa Bella Quito, Casa Gangotena Boutique Hotel, and La Ronda 431 are good hotels to stay at. I love the Hotel Boutique Portal de Cantuña with prices around US $44. Oh, and the US $ is the main currency that is used in Ecuador. There are actually several top rated hotels around Plaza San Blas so there is nothing to worry about if you want to stay in this area.
Café Zular, Roasters Coffee Shop, Jumandy Organic Garden, La Exquisita, and Atávico Arte Cafe-Desayuno, Café San Blas are all good places to relax with food and drink. Oh, and there is a brewery called La Oficina Brew Pub that is also located here. This was my favorite square to relax at, especially because it is half way between the UNESCO World Heritage site area and the hotel we stayed at in the La Floresta neighborhood. I will probably start staying around Plaza San Blas for future visits to Quito.
Photo Tips:
These 10 personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador will guide you to the heart of this stunning destination. Ultimately, my 10 personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador are a celebration of this remarkable country.
- Focus on community moments—artists, families, and coffee shops.
- Capture afternoon shadows and mural details.
- Try shooting during local events for energetic, candid photos.
- Early morning shots catch the plaza waking up as the streets fill with morning chatter.
10. Keep Exploring – Beyond Quito and Into Ecuador
Join me in celebrating my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador as we capture unforgettable moments.
These 10 intense personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador will guide you to the heart of this stunning destination.
While these ten places are some of my favorites for photos in and around Quito, there’s so much more to experience across Ecuador.
Explore the city’s culinary scene by sampling locro de papa (potato soup), Cuy, or street-side empanadas.
Locro de papa is a traditional comfort food that is cooked thick and creamy. It is loaded with cheese, onions, garlic, and achiote chili. It is garnished with avocado, extra cheese, and toasted corn. Empanadas de Viento are the Ecuadorian version of this traditional food that has thin-rolled flour dough filled with cheese and one or two other ingredients like onions and then deep-fried.
As you look through my 10 personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador, I hope you feel inspired to create your own memories here.
Ultimately, my 10 personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador are a celebration of this remarkable country.
Ultimately, my 10 personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador are a celebration of this remarkable country.
For more inspiration and practical tips for making the most of any trip to Ecuador, you can check out my stories and guides on roamreverie.com.
Ultimately, my 10 personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador are a celebration of this remarkable country.
Amazon River guided tours are multifarious. hey can be large group luxury tours or they can be small group adventures and anything in between. There are many reputable tour companies to choose from. You have to compare them to find what fits your preferred type od excursion. A few good examples are, Anakonda Amazon River Cruise, Napo Wildlife Center guides, and Adventure Life tours. I have found prices from US $1,200 to $8,400 which sounds expensive but remember, these excursions last from 5 days to 14 days. Small group tours of only 1-2 days can be found at only US $200. Oh, and the more expensive excursions can include the Galapagos Islands.
Take note though, you will have to be prepared for insects. Such insects can include dangerous mosquitos (not the tiny little things you see at your local KOA campground), Sandflies, and Assassin Bugs. The mosqitos here carry malaria, yellow fever, and dengue. Sandflies give very itchy bites that will last almost forever, and the Assassin (or Kissing) bugs carry Chagas disease. Permethrin on your cloths, strong repellant with DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus are good ways to protect yourself. Wearing long pants tucked into your socks and long sleeved shirts will also help. Good mosquito nets that have a fine screen for sleeping are essential. Anyway way, with that said, get out there and have some fun!!
In these narratives, my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador, embody the spirit of my travels. You can go to my articles about Ecuadorian chocolate or multigenerational family travel in Latin America to see more.
As you look through my 10 personal photos of favorite places in Ecuador, I hope you feel inspired to create your own memories here.
For more inspiration and practical tips for making the most of any trip to Ecuador, you can check out my stories and guides with other articles on roamreverie.com. At the end of this journey, my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador will remain etched in my memories forever.
Remember, there are countless stories within my 10 intense personal photos: favorite places in Ecuador waiting to be uncovered! We shall return to this country several more times in the future.