Smack in the northwest of South America, Ecuador lures the truly adventurous with its Andean splendor, brim-packed Amazonian rainforests, and downright alive cultural heritage-to the broke-and-on-the-loose backpacker, this nation is an undeniable caress, one that may prove too costly, but worth it?
From the snow-capped peaks of Cotopaxi to the sun-kissed beaches of the Pacific Coast, Ecuador’s diverse landscapes promise unforgettable adventures. Yet for the budget traveler, the challenge lies in balancing exploration with expense.
In this blog, we take on a challenge to unveil some of the secrets related to the process of being a ‘broke’ backpacker in Ecuador, touching on cheap accommodations, mouth-watering street food, and places that are off the beaten path, making it an accessible paradise for the budget-conscious traveler.
Come with us as we explore Quito’s hilly streets, trek the Cloud Forest, and island-hop around the Galapagos all without breaking a broke budget. Get ready to soak up Ecuador’s thrilling culture, incredible landscapes, and super warm hospitality-without blowing the bank.
And, thus, the adventure starts!
How to get there:
From Colombia
The most common border crossing from Colombia to Ecuador is at the Rumichaca Bridge, near the city of Tulcán.
- From Cali, Colombia : Take a bus from Cali’s Terminal de Transportes to Tulcán (approximately 6-7 hours, $20-$30 USD).
- From Bogotá, Colombia : Take a bus from Bogotá’s Terminal del Norte to Tulcán (approximately 12-14 hours, $40-$60 USD).
- Cross the border : Walk across the Rumichaca Bridge, where you’ll find immigration offices on both sides.
- Continue to Ecuador : Take a taxi or bus from the border to Otavalo (approximately 2-3 hours, $10-$20 USD) or Quito (approximately 4-5 hours, $20-$30 USD).
From Peru
The most popular border crossing from Peru to Ecuador is at the Macará-Huaquillas border.
- From Lima, Peru : Take a bus from Lima’s Terminal Norte to Piura (approximately 16-18 hours, $30-$50 USD), then transfer to another bus to Macará (approximately 4-5 hours, $10-$20 USD).
- From Cusco, Peru : Take a bus from Cusco’s Terminal Terrestre to Piura (approximately 20-22 hours, $40-$60 USD), then transfer to another bus to Macará.
- Cross the border : Take a taxi or walk across the border at Macará-Huaquillas.
- Continue to Ecuador : Take a bus from the border to Guayaquil (approximately 4-5 hours, $20-$30 USD) or Cuenca (approximately 6-7 hours, $30-$40 USD).
From Bolivia
The most common border crossing from Bolivia to Ecuador is at the Macará-Huaquillas border, although some travelers prefer the more scenic route via the Lago Agrio border.
Via Macará-Huaquillas
- From La Paz, Bolivia : Take a bus from La Paz’s Terminal de Buses to Cochabamba (approximately 8-10 hours, $20-$30 USD), then transfer to another bus to Macará (approximately 12-14 hours, $30-$40 USD).
- Cross the border : Take a taxi or walk across the border at Macará-Huaquillas.
- Continue to Ecuador : Take a bus from the border to Guayaquil (approximately 4-5 hours, $20-$30 USD) or Cuenca (approximately 6-7 hours, $30-$40 USD).
Via Lago Agrio
- From Quito’s Terminal Terrestre : Take a bus to Lago Agrio (approximately 6-7 hours, $20-$30 USD).
- Cross the border : Take a taxi or walk across the border.
- Continue to Ecuador : Take a bus from the border to Quito (approximately 6-7 hours, $20-$30 USD).
When to go:
Dry Season (June to September)
- Pros:
- Clear skies and comfortable temperatures
- Ideal for hiking and outdoor activities
- Festivals and events like the Ecuadorian Independence Day (May 24th)
- Cons:
- Peak tourist season, higher prices
- Popular destinations can get crowded
Shoulder Season (April to May and September to November)
- Pros:
- Mild weather, fewer crowds
- Lower prices for accommodations and tours
- Festivals like the Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) in June
- Cons:
- Occasional rain showers
Off-Season (December to March)
- Pros:
- Lowest prices for accommodations and tours
- Fewer tourists, more authentic experiences
- Christmas and New Year’s celebrations
- Cons:
- Rainy season, potential landslides
- Some attractions and roads may be closed
Best Itineraries:
3-Day Itinerary: Quito on a budget
- Day 1: Explore Quito’s Old Town (free), visit the Basilica del Voto Nacional ($2), and enjoy traditional Ecuadorian cuisine at a local market ($5-$10)
- Day 2: Visit the Mitad del Mundo ($5), take a hike in the nearby hills (free), and experience Quito’s nightlife in the Mariscal Sucre neighborhood ($10-$20)
- Day 3: Explore the El Ejido Park (free), visit the Museo Nacional de Antropología ($2), and take a local bus to the nearby town of Mindo ($3-$5)
1-Week Itinerary: Andean Highlands
- Day 1-2: Quito (explore Old Town, visit Mitad del Mundo)
- Day 3: Otavalo (visit market, $1-$2, and explore surrounding countryside)
- Day 4: Cotacachi (explore town, visit leather market)
- Day 5: Baños (hike, bike, or take a hot spring)
- Day 6-7: Return to Quito, explore nearby towns like Mindo or Papallacta
2-Week Itinerary: Coastal and Andean Adventure
- Day 1-3: Quito (explore Old Town, visit Mitad del Mundo)
- Day 4-6: Baños (hike, bike, or take a hot spring)
- Day 7-9: Cuenca (explore city, visit Inca ruins)
- Day 10-12: Guayaquil (explore city, visit Malecon 2000)
- Day 13-14: Return to Quito, explore nearby towns
1-Month Itinerary: Ecuadorian Odyssey
- Week 1: Quito and Andean Highlands (Otavalo, Cotacachi, Baños)
- Week 2: Cuenca and Southern Ecuador (Inca ruins, coastal towns)
- Week 3: Guayaquil and Coastal Ecuador (Malecon 2000, beach towns)
- Week 4: Amazon Rainforest (Tena or Coca) and return to Quito
Transportation:
Buses
- Interprovincial Buses: Connect major cities, with frequent departures.
- Urban Buses: Serve cities and towns, with designated routes.
- Cooperativa Buses: Private bus companies offering affordable fares.
Taxis
- Yellow Taxis: Official taxis, metered or negotiated fares.
- Ride-hailing Services: Uber, Cabify, and EasyTaxi operate in major cities.
Trains
- Tren Ecuador: Scenic routes, mostly tourist-oriented.
Boats and Ferries
- Amazon Riverboats: Connect river communities.
- Galapagos Islands Ferries: Inter-island transportation.
Other Options
- Motorcycle Taxis: Affordable, short-distance rides.
- Bicycle Rentals: Available in some cities.
Top things to do:
Quito and Surroundings
- Explore Quito’s Old Town (free)
- Visit Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) ($3-$5)
- Take a day trip to Mindo Cloud Forest ($10)
- Hike to Rucu Pichincha ($10)
- Visit the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús ($2-$5)
- Explore the Museo Nacional de Antropología ($2-$5)
- Take a stroll through Parque La Carolina (free)
- Visit the El Panecillo viewpoint (free)
- Explore the historic neighborhood of San Blas (free)
- Stay at: Hostal Revolution ($10) or La Casa de los Abuelos ($8-$12)
The Andes
- Visit the famous Otavalo Market (free)
- Hike the Cuicocha Crater Lake ($10)
- Explore the town of Baños
- Take a bus to the Swing at the End of the World in Baños ($1-$3)
- Visit the Tungurahua Volcano
- Explore the ancient ruins of Rumicucho ($5-$10)
- Take a bike tour through the Andean countryside
- Visit the Salinas de Ibarra hot springs
- Stay at: Hostal Clin Clin ($10) or La Casa del Abuelo ($8-$12)
Cuenca and Southern Ecuador
- Wander Cuenca’s historic center (free)
- Visit the Inca ruins of Ingapirca ($2-$5)
- Explore the Cajas National Park (free)
- Take a bus to the beach town of Ayampe ($5-$10)
- Visit the ancient city of Tomebamba ($5-$10)
- Explore the picturesque town of Vilcabamba ($5-$10)
- Take a hike in the Podocarpus National Park
- Visit the stunning waterfalls of Girón
- Stay at: Hostal Casa del Viento ($10) or Kuna Miguel ($8-$12)
Amazon Rainforest
- Stay in a budget-friendly eco-lodge like La Casa de los Gatos
- Explore the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
- Visit the indigenous community of Sarayaku
- Take a guided jungle trek
- Visit the Amazonian animal rescue center ($10)
- Explore the Siona Lodge
- Take a canoe trip through the Amazon River
- Visit the Kichwa community of Ahuano
The Coast
- Relax on the beach in Montañita ($5-$10)
- Visit the coastal town of Ayangue ($5-$10)
- Take a surf lesson in Ayampe ($20)
- Explore the Machalilla National Park
- Visit the Isla de la Plata
- Take a whale-watching tour (seasonal)
- Explore the coastal town of Manta
- Stay at: Hostal Los Orishas ($15) or La Casa del Sol ($10)
The Galapagos Islands
- Take a ferry to Isabela Island
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station (free)
- Explore the island of Santa Cruz
- Take a guided tour to the Sierra Negra Volcano
- Visit the iconic Tortuga Bay
- Explore the island of San Cristobal
- Take a snorkeling tour to see sea turtles and marine life
- Stay at: Hostal La Casa de Marita or La Casa de los Abuelos
Other Destinations
Explore the colonial town of Guaranda
Visit the volcanic lake of Quilotoa ($10)
Explore the ancient ruins of Cotopaxi
Take a bus to the town of Riobamba ($5-$10)
Visit the stunning waterfall of Pailón del Diablo ($10)
Explore the beautiful lake of Laguna Quero ($10)
Visit the thermal baths of Papallacta
Take a hike in the Sangay National Park
Food:
Ecuador is proud of its rich cultural heritage, and its influential and varied gastronomy. From the busy markets in Quito to the sun-kissed coastal towns that dot the Pacific, Ecuadorian cuisine represents a mix of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Italian influences. As one travels across this exquisite country, his taste buds are sure to experience a rollercoaster with bold new flavors, aromatic spices, and hearty dishes that beg for more.
Traditional Ecuadorian Dishes
One of the most typical and iconic dishes in Ecuador is the humble “locro de papas”, a creamy potato soup flavored with cilantro, garlic, and onions. Comfort food at its finest, this comforting soup is prepared everywhere in Ecuador, often served with crusty bread or crispy fried plantain chips on top. Other typical fare is “seco de gallina”, chicken stew in which pieces of chicken are slow-cooked after being marinated in a mixture of cilantro, garlic, and ají amarillo peppers; rice, beans, and boiled potatoes are generally served with the meal.
Street Food and Markets
Ecuador’s markets are sort of an obfuscated dream of smells, colors, and cacophony. From Quito’s Mercado Central to the one in Otavalo, try all sorts of delicacies as street food: empanadas or churros with sweet caramel on top. Canelazo is a spiced drink with cinnamon, fruit juice, and sugar cane-one must include it in one’s taste buds.
Regional Specialties
Different regions vary in specialties. In the Andean highlands, one should try “cuy,” or roasted guinea pig, a traditional dish served during special occasions. On the coast, one could enjoy fresh seafood: one piece raw, others cooked over an open fire, which is fish or lobster. In the Amazon rainforest, finding exotic fruits like “guanabana” and “pitahaya” in refreshing juices or sweets is possible. Influences and Fusion
Most of Ecuador’s cultural heritage in food is influenced by Spain, Africa, Italy, and also indigenous groups. This influence can be seen in dishes such as “arroz con mariscos,” which is a seafood rice dish, “chaulafan,” which is a type of Chinese-Ecuadorian dish, or “humitas,” which is a type of steamed corn pudding with cheese and spices.
Desserts and Sweets
Ecuadorian desserts can best be described as sweet, velvety symphonies. Try the “tres leches cake” for a moist sponge cake soaked in three types of milk: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. Or indulge in “helado de taxo,” a sweet potato ice cream, or try “pristiños”- small dough pastry fried to a crisp and coated in sugar.
Drinks
Quench your thirst for Ecuadorian refreshers. Try “jugo de tomate de árbol,” a sweet tree tomato juice, or “canelazo,” a warm cinnamon drink. Coffee drinkers will find the Ecuadorian coffee to be renowned for flavor and aroma.
Food Culture
Food in Ecuador is celebration-pure community and tradition. Food is sacred; this is the time when families and friends meet and share stories, laughs, and more. While traveling through this enchanting country, do not miss getting a taste of the friendliness of its people and the profound culinary history that makes this nation a real gastronomic paradise.
Culture:
Ecuador, boasts a vibrant and diverse cultural heritage shaped by its indigenous, Spanish, African, and Italian influences. This unique blend of traditions has created a distinct Ecuadorian identity, evident in its music, dance, art, literature, and daily life.
Indigenous Roots
Ecuador’s indigenous communities, comprising 25% of the population, have significantly contributed to the country’s cultural fabric. The Quechua and Shuar peoples, among others, have preserved their languages, customs, and traditions, passing them down through generations. Their vibrant textiles, intricate pottery, and beautiful handicrafts reflect their deep connection to the land and ancestors.
Spanish Colonial Legacy
The Spanish conquest in the 16th century introduced Catholicism, European customs, and architectural styles, forever changing Ecuador’s cultural landscape. The country’s historic centers, such as Quito’s Old Town, showcase stunning examples of Spanish colonial architecture, with grand churches, plazas, and monasteries.
African Influence
African slaves, brought to Ecuador by Spanish colonizers, have left an indelible mark on the country’s music, dance, and art. The Afro-Ecuadorian community’s rhythms, such as Bomba del Chota, and traditional dances, like Fandango, demonstrate the resilience and creativity of Ecuador’s African heritage.
Italian Immigration
Italian immigrants, arriving in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributed to Ecuador’s cultural diversity. Their influence is evident in the country’s cuisine, architecture, and festivals, such as the Festa dei Noantri in Quito.
Music and Dance
Ecuadorian music and dance reflect the country’s cultural melting pot. Traditional genres like Pasillo, Bomba, and Marimba fill the air, accompanied by lively dances like Marinera and Montubio. The iconic Andean instrument, the quena (flute), echoes through the highlands.
Art and Literature
Ecuadorian art is characterized by vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and powerful symbolism. The works of renowned artists like Oswaldo Guayasamín and Camilo Egas showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. Ecuadorian literature, led by writers like Jorge Enrique Adoum and César Dávila Andrade, explores themes of identity, social justice, and the human condition.
Festivals and Celebrations
Ecuador’s festive calendar is filled with colorful celebrations:
- Carnaval: A vibrant, pre-Lenten festival
- Fiestas de Quito: Honoring the founding of Quito
- Fiestas de la Mama Negra: Celebrating Afro-Ecuadorian heritage
- Inti Raymi: Honoring the summer solstice
Daily Life and Traditions
Ecuadorians place great importance on family, community, and tradition. Daily life is marked by warm hospitality, lively gatherings, and delicious meals shared with loved ones. Respect for elders, love for nature, and strong social bonds define Ecuadorian culture.
Education
Education is highly valued in Ecuadorian culture, with a strong emphasis on public education. The country is home to several prestigious universities, including the University of Quito and the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador.
Accommodations:
For the broke backpacker, the ultimate hostel can make or break an experience in a foreign country. In Ecuador, options go from budget friendly to five-star chic, with more opening every week. But nobody ever tells you that the best hostels are not always those priced higher. Actually, we think the cheapest ones provide the most genuine, memorable, and fun experiences.
Budget Rates, Hostel Charm
Budget hostels in Ecuador are so much more than simple inexpensive beds; they are bustling hotspots of activities, cultural interchange, and communal gathering where the most differing travelers can share their stories, advice, and laughter together. While they lack many of the frills and luxuries their pricier counterparts boast, they make up for it with warm hospitality, local flavor, and real charm.
Uncovering Ecuador’s Best Kept Hostel Secrets
Okay, but how do you find them? It is all about looking deeper than those flashy brochures or online reviews. Ask around, other travellers are your best source. Take a stroll around neighbourhoods, and stop in at any hostels that look appealing to you. You will often discover small, family-run operations that are far superior to larger, more commercial ones.
The Benefits of Budget-Friendly Hostel Accommodation
Along with saving money, budget-friendly accommodations in Ecuador offer an amazing bunch of pros: being plunged into the local culture, with a host interested in sharing knowledge and traditions; coming into contact with other travelers that equally want to explore and discover; eating homemade meals, traditional local specialties deliciously and at an economic price.
Join in on impromptu activities like salsa lessons or hiking trips arranged by the staff at your hostel. The Ecuadorian Hostel Spirit
They are towns, families, and homes away from home. In Ecuador, the hostels are managed with passion by an owner who is looking to offer space to travelers. The spirit is palpable through it all, from bustling Quito to laid-back beaches along Montañita.
Nightlife:
When the sun sets below the horizon, Ecuador turns into a lively and dynamic night-time hotbed of activities. From salsa clubs to laid-back bars, Ecuador’s evening scene has something to offer for every taste and style.
A Mix of Traditional and Modern
It is very different nightlife in Ecuador-the same place where traditional and modern meet. You can enjoy live music with beautiful dancers expressing the rich culture of this country, or you can indulge in more modern ways in a bar or club. It all results in an exciting combination that will see you well into the early hours.
Salsa and Music
Music plays a big role in the nightlife of Ecuador, and salsa is not far behind. One must make sure that the hips shake to the rhythm as the beats are tropical from classic salsa to more modern fusions. With live music venues showcasing local talent and DJs spinning tracks, the energy will run high.
Bars and Clubs
From quaint little bars serving a quiet drink to vibrant pulsating dance floors, Ecuador’s bars and clubs suit many tastes. With various theme nights, broadcasting of live sports, or karaoke sessions, there is always something to try.
Street Parties and Festivals
Ecuadorian cities often include street parties and festivals to celebrate holidays, cultural events, or simply the end of the week. Locals and travelers alike combine to create an electric atmosphere that is hard to avoid. Local Flavor To experience authentic nightlife in Ecuador, travelers must get away from tourist areas and venture into the neighborhoods where locals live. That’s where the hidden gems, mom-and-pop bars, and local eateries featuring a selection of traditional snacks and drinks are found. Safety and Precautions
As with any nightlife, take care to be safe. The Ecuadorian cities have a high police presence, but it’s best to take normal precautions: be aware of one’s surroundings, secure valuables, and drink responsibly.
Nightlife Outside the Cities
While Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca are nightlife hotbeds, the country’s smaller towns and coastal communities have their own special flavor in the evenings. Beach bars, oceanfront restaurants, and impromptu gatherings under the stars provide an alternative to city nightlife.
Ecuador’s Nightlife Spirit
Ecuadorians are indeed very hospitable and love celebration. Therefore, nightlife could be a very important part of this cultural spirit that brings together people sharing laughs, music, and good times.
Backpacking Ecuador costs:
Daily Expenses
- Accommodation: $5-10 (hostel dorm or basic room)
- Food: $3-5 (street food, markets, or cooking own meals)
- Transportation: $1-3 (local buses, walking, or hitchhiking)
- Attractions: $2-5 (entry fees, museums, or national parks)
- Miscellaneous: $2-5 (sundries, snacks, or unexpected expenses)
- Total: $13-28 per day
Weekly Expenses
- Accommodation: $35-70 (avg. $5-10 per night)
- Food: $21-35 (avg. $3-5 per meal)
- Transportation: $7-21 (avg. $1-3 per ride)
- Attractions: $14-35 (avg. $2-5 per attraction)
- Miscellaneous: $14-35 (avg. $2-5 per day)
- Total: $91-196 per week
Conclusion:
Budget travel in Ecuador means not only saving cents but also embracing the raw, unfiltered experience of exploration. Ecuador-its beautiful landscapes, colorful culture, and warm welcome-is the perfect destination for any broke backpacker.
Ecuador is a veritable treasure of inexpensive adventure: from volcanic peaks to late-night dancing in Quito, there’s little one can’t do with careful planning on an extremely broke Budget. It’s warm smiles and open arms at every turn; money saved means time extended, experiences deepened, or simply enjoyed.
The beauty of being a broke backpacker lies in its potential for flexibility, spontaneity, and open-mindedness. You will find secret spots and lifelong friends while working your way through Ecuador’s winding streets, chaotic markets, and breathtakingly beautiful landscapes.
Broken backpacking in Ecuador will be more than keeping costs down to a minimum; it’s being thrown into a new culture, out of your comfort zone, and finding the beauty in the unexpected. Life lessons and memories are always there to stay.
As you say adiós to Ecuador, take that broke backpacker spirit with you, and know that no matter where your travels take you next, the world will always be full of adventure, beauty, and possibility.
That could be the end of this journey, but in your memory, those experiences and lessons learned will linger on all your life. ¡Hasta luego, Ecuador!
