Visiting Ecuador soon.?

Where to start and what places to see? Galapagos? I'll be there one week.

Definit places to go will be Quito (equator line, half of the world line) Guayaquil, Cuenca (dont miss Cuenca!), Ba帽os and Otavalo. I would save Galapagos for another time, you need like a whole week just to visit and enjoy Galapagos.

I wouldn't be so bothered about Guayaquil and Ba帽os is still recovering from the problems caused by the Tungurahua eruption but I'd agree that Quito and Cuenca are fantastic, and that you maybe need to forget about the Galapagos if you only have a week. Bearing in mind that you spend practically a whole day to get there and a whole day to get back... Boy is it good when you get there, though!

If you do decide to stay on the mainland then I'd recommend Atacames for some beach time, or the Cotopaxi National Park if you like scenery and maybe some walking.

Hope this helps,

Dan

IN only one week you can do so much. Quito is a nice place to be, a bit chilly and rainy at times, but can offer sunny days. You will want to go up the teleferico, make sure to take a jacket and a camera! About Atacames, I am not so sure of. I really don't like those beaches, they are not that white sand crystal clear type, go further south towards Manta and you can definitely find something better. There is the "Ruta del Sol" I have heard friends tell me is very nice along the beaches of Ecuador. Do be careful that people like to take advantage of tourists in trying to overcharge. Quito is also a bit dangerous, so you want to not go alone to tne Center or South part of the city. The best areas are around the Carolina Park where you will find most of the malls too. Down the Amazonas Av to find most of the typical stores. There is sooo much to see and do! Have fun and enjoy! Ecuador is an absolutely beautiful country! I am sure you will love the mountains. In this time of year, they will probably not be so snowy, but they are still very attractive.