Let me tell you – Ecuador’s best tours pack a serious travel punch. Having explored this remarkable country, I’m impressed by these standout experiences: The back-street walking tours of Loja get you into the authentic neighborhoods where buses can’t go. In Quito, private guided tours make perfect sense – you’ll understand centuries of colonial history in just a few hours. For nature lovers, that 3-day Amazon trip is worth every penny – you’ll see more wildlife than you can imagine. The coffee farm visit shows you sustainable agriculture in action, and yes, you’ll taste some amazing brew. If you enjoy wine, the vineyard tours are surprisingly good.
These tours are well-organized, informative, and give you real value for your money. Let’s explore the top picks.
Key Points
- Ecuador offers a diverse range of immersive cultural, adventure, and educational tours, including walking tours in historic cities, jungle expeditions, and specialty tours like organic coffee farm and vineyard visits.
- Many tours feature small group sizes, personalized experiences, and accessibility options, ensuring a tailored and memorable experience for travelers.
- Highly-rated tours include a cultural walking tour in Loja, a private tour of Quito, and a 3-day jungle expedition in the Amazonia region, all with overwhelmingly positive reviews.
- Educational tours, such as the organic coffee farm tour and the vineyard wine tour, provide in-depth insights into the region’s unique products and sustainable practices.
- Tour operators often offer comprehensive transportation, including hotel pickups and drop-offs, as well as flexible cancellation policies, making it easy for travelers to plan their ideal Ecuadorian experience.
Cultural Walking Tour in Loja
Although Loja may not be as well-known as other Ecuadorian cities, its cultural heritage is no less captivating. The Cultural Walking Tour in Loja offers travelers a chance to enjoy the town’s rich history and traditions.
With 41 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this private tour provides a tailored experience to explore Loja’s cultural highlights. Guests can access parts of the town unreachable by vehicles, allowing them to admire the finer details while wandering on foot.
They’ll benefit from the undivided attention of a private guide, who can share insights and facilitate opportunities for coffee tasting and trying local dishes like guinea pig. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and the meeting point is at the Plaza de Santo Domingo, where participants can look for the guide with the Life in Loja logo.
Accessibility is a priority, as the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Visitors can reserve the experience with a confirmation at booking and take advantage of the free cancellation policy and lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Cultural Walking Tour in Loja Review
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3 Day Jungle Tour Expedition Amazonia Ecuador All Included
For those seeking an immersive jungle adventure in Ecuador, the 3 Day Jungle Tour Expedition Amazonia Ecuador offers a comprehensive and all-inclusive experience. Priced from £19945 per person, this 3-day tour takes participants on a journey through the heart of the Amazon rainforest.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 participants and is available in both Spanish and English.
Highlights include a welcome drink at the Grand Selva Lodge, traditional chocolate-making, and a night walk to spot local wildlife.
Day 2 features a full-day exploration of the Napo River with activities like tubing, kayaking, and rafting, as well as a visit to the Amazoonico animal rescue center.
On the final day, guests embark on a rainforest hike in the Campococha reserve.
Included in the tour are air-conditioned accommodations with private bathrooms, meals, and all necessary equipment and transportation.
Travelers are advised to pack rain gear, insect repellent, and comfortable clothing.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable immersion in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
Read our full review: 3 Day Jungle Tour Expedition Amazonia Ecuador All Included Review
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Private Cultural Tour Historical Center of Quito With Transportation
This private cultural tour of Quito’s historical center provides an immersive experience for guests seeking to explore the city’s rich heritage.
With a 4.8/5 rating from 12 reviews and a 92% recommendation rate, the tour is a popular choice among travelers. Priced at $30 per person, the private tour includes air-conditioned transportation and is accessible to strollers, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers.
The tour doesn’t include meals or drinks, but the lowest price guarantee and the option to reserve and pay later make it a convenient choice.
While the tour has received generally positive feedback, some guests have reported issues with organization and the guide. The host acknowledges the feedback and emphasizes ongoing improvement efforts.
Read our full review: Private Cultural Tour Historical Center of Quito With Transportation Review
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Organic Coffee Farm Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive experience in Ecuador’s coffee culture will find the Organic Coffee Farm Tour a captivating option. This private tour takes visitors on a 40-minute journey from Loja to the picturesque town of San Pedro de Vilcabamba, where they’ll explore an organic coffee farm.
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and refreshments like coffee and tea. Guests will learn about the farm’s sustainable practices and the journey of coffee from bean to cup.
With a moderate fitness level required, the tour offers an engaging and educational experience for coffee enthusiasts. Priced at $65 per person, the Organic Coffee Farm Tour is available daily from 8 AM to 2 PM, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor are overwhelmingly positive, with all three tours receiving a 5-star rating. Secure your spot today for an immersive exploration of Ecuador’s vibrant coffee culture.
Read our full review: Organic Coffee Farm Tour Review
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Nestled in the lush cloud forests of southern Ecuador, the Buenaventura Biological Reserve (Jocotoco) offers a captivating opportunity for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
This small-group tour, limited to 15 participants, provides personalized attention as you explore the reserve’s rich bird biodiversity. At a relaxed pace, you’ll have the chance to spot an array of species, including hummingbirds, chachalacas, and tangaras, using provided telescopes for closer views of the rare birds.
The experience includes private transportation to the reserve and all necessary birdwatching equipment, plus bottled water. The tour starts at 4:00 am from the Piñas central park.
While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical fitness required makes it suitable for most travelers, excluding those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.
With a 5.0 rating and a lowest price guarantee of £20.91 per person, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the avian wonders of the Buenaventura Biological Reserve.
Read our full review: Tours Buenaventura Biological Reserve (Jocotoco) Review
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Cotopaxi Full Day Tour
Exploring the majestic Cotopaxi volcano, one of Ecuador’s most iconic natural wonders, is the focus of this full-day tour. Priced from $90 per person, the Cotopaxi Full Day Tour offers a comprehensive experience, including air-conditioned transportation and bottled water.
With a 5.0 rating across 3 reviews, this tour is a top choice for visitors seeking to discover the beauty and grandeur of this remarkable volcano.
The tour operates daily from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM, providing ample time to experience the volcano’s stunning landscapes. Pickup is available from select locations, and confirmation is received upon booking.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness levels. Groups are limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing for flexibility in planning. This Cotopaxi Full Day Tour is an excellent opportunity to learn about Ecuador’s natural splendor and create lasting memories.
Read our full review: Cotopaxi Full Day Tour Review
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Full-Day | Waterfalls and Caverns Tour
The Full-Day Waterfalls and Caverns Tour takes adventurous visitors on an immersive exploration of Ecuador’s natural wonders. Priced at $57 per person, this private group tour departs at 8:30 AM from the Hotel Palmar del Río Premium in Archidona.
Travelers will be picked up from any hotel in the area and transported to the meeting point.
The tour includes private transportation, helmets, flashlights, and boots, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience. Visitors will be treated to stunning views of waterfalls and have the opportunity to explore captivating caverns.
The moderate physical fitness level required makes this tour suitable for most travelers, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.
The tour ends back at the meeting point, and travelers can enjoy the convenience of a flexible cancellation policy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
With a perfect 5-star rating from one review, this tour promises an unforgettable day in Ecuador’s natural splendor.
Read our full review: Full-Day | Waterfalls and Caverns Tour Review
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3 Days Jungle Tour Expedition Amazonia in Ecuador Rainforest
Adventurous travelers can embark on a captivating 3-day Jungle Tour Expedition in the Amazonia region of Ecuador. This immersive experience includes meals, with 2 lunches, 2 breakfasts, and 2 dinners. The tour accommodates a maximum of 49 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized journey.
The meeting point is at the Jungle Expeditions – Lodge & Tours in Campococha Rio Cusano, Ahuano. Travelers can choose between a bus from Quito to the Grand Selva Lodge for $10 per person or a taxi for approximately $120. Pickup must be approved prior to booking confirmation.
The tour is available from October 6, 2023, to November 16, 2025, with operating hours from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Monday through Sunday. Guests should confirm the start time with the local provider in advance.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible, and allows service animals. It’s located near public transportation, and infants must sit on laps. Most travelers can participate in this exciting expedition.
Read our full review: 3 Days Jungle Tour Expedition Amazonia in Ecuador Rainforest Review
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3-Hour Vineyard Wine Tour With Tasting
This 3-hour Vineyard Wine Tour with Tasting takes travelers on an immersive journey through the renowned Bodega Dos Hemisferios winery.
Located in San Miguel del Morro, Ecuador, the tour begins at the winery’s meeting point and includes private transportation throughout the experience.
During the tour, guests will enjoy a wine tasting with an aperitif and complimentary snacks. The tasting showcases the winery’s finest offerings, providing an opportunity to learn about the region’s unique terroir and winemaking techniques.
With a maximum of 25 participants, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
Priced at £54.79 per person, the tour is accessible to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly, and infants must sit on laps.
Confirmed at the time of booking, the tour also allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
Based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, the tour has received an outstanding 5-star rating, ensuring a memorable wine experience in Ecuador.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Vineyard Wine Tour With Tasting Review
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The Sum Up
Ecuador’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage offer a myriad of engaging tour options. From captivating jungle expeditions and guided walks through historic cities to coffee farm visits and winery tours, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or natural wonders, Ecuador’s top-rated tours provide unforgettable experiences that showcase the country’s remarkable beauty and vibrant spirit.