Unconventional Destinations Across Ecuador’s Four Worlds

This 27 September, we celebrate World Tourism Day with a renewed purpose: to spotlight the transformative power of travel—and the value of discovering Ecuador beyond its most photographed landmarks.

While destinations like Galápagos, Quito or Baños continue to shine, Ecuador’s four natural regions also hide lesser-known gems that speak to the heart of slow, intentional, and meaningful travel.

Here are four unconventional yet unforgettable destinations—one from each region—to inspire your next itinerary and help your clients explore Ecuador from a different angle.

Parque Nacional Podocarpus (Zamora / Loja)

Nicknamed the “Botanical Garden of the Andes,” this protected area spans both Amazonian and Andean zones, creating a unique overlap of ecosystems. Home to over 4,000 plant species and nearly 600 species of birds, it offers a biodiverse paradise with relatively little tourist traffic.

Visitors can hike through cloud forest, highland páramo and subtropical jungle in a single day, encountering waterfalls, orchids, monkeys, and possibly even the elusive spectacled bear.

Ideal for: Birders, naturalists, adventure travellers seeking low-density alternatives to Yasuní or Cuyabeno.

Ayampe Beach (Manabí)

Just an hour north of Montañita lies Ayampe, a peaceful surf village with eco-lodges, yoga retreats, and a laid-back rhythm. Unlike Ecuador’s more developed coastal hubs, Ayampe remains blissfully unspoiled, embraced by tropical forest and kissed by consistent waves.

It’s a perfect destination for travellers seeking connection with nature, digital detox, or wellness-inspired coastal stays.

Ideal for: Couples, wellness travellers, solo digital nomads and creatives.

Petrificado de Puyango Forrest & Cerro Mandango (Loja)

In Loja Province, two sites challenge our concept of time and space.

• The Puyango Petrified Forest is one of the largest of its kind in the world, with 100-million-year-old fossilised trees and ancient marine fossils embedded in stone.
• Meanwhile, the Cerro Mandango in Vilcabamba offers panoramic views, spiritual legends, and hiking trails across a landscape locals call “the sleeping Inca.”

Both sites evoke introspection and wonder — perfect for travellers drawn to natural mysticism and slow travel.

Ideal for: Mindful explorers, geology enthusiasts, and off-grid trekkers.

Genovesa Island (Bird Island)

Far from the more visited central islands, Genovesa is a birder’s dream, hosting thousands of Nazca boobies, red-footed boobies, storm petrels and owls. Its remote northern location and crescent-shaped Darwin Bay make it feel otherworldly.

Genovesa’s visitor sites like Prince Philip’s Steps and Darwin Bay are accessible only by cruise, and its isolated geography preserves both wildlife and silence.

Ideal for: Wildlife photographers, birdwatchers, cruise clients seeking true remoteness and natural spectacle.

 Why Recommend These Destinations?

• Differentiate your offering with authentic, low-impact alternatives
• Expand your Ecuador product beyond classic routes
• Align with sustainability trends and experiential travel
• Target niche travellers (birders, wellness, geology, slow travel)
• Reduce seasonality and overcrowding
  

Let’s Rethink Tourism Together

World Tourism Day is not just about promoting destinations—it’s about transforming the way we travel. At Andean Travel Company, we invite you to explore Ecuador from new angles and co-create journeys that go deeper.

Let’s lead the way in conscious exploration.