Top Parks in Ecuador

My advice is to visit on weekdays if you can. The weekends are packed, and I found myself dodging crowds rather than enjoying the park's vibes.

If you want to save some cash, grab a sandwich or snacks from a nearby local shop before entering. I spent a bit too much on overpriced food in the park.

i suggest bringing a light jacket, even in sunny weather, 'cause it can get a bit chilly in the evening. i underestimated this and ended up shivering in my t-shirt!

Don’t skip the botanical gardens. They're super pretty! But I think I could’ve enjoyed them more if I’d planned a proper route first. I wandered around and missed some cool spots.

Take some time to just sit and enjoy the atmosphere. The park has charming benches; I found it a nice spot to relax and people-watch!

Bring some snacks and water; there aren’t many places right nearby to grab a bite. I was glad I had a granola bar with me!

Wear comfy shoes and be ready for some uneven terrain. I wasn't prepared for the rocky trails, and it made hiking a bit of a struggle. Don't make the same mistake I did!

If you're tight on cash, bring your own lunch instead of eating at the park's cafes—it can save you a lot! Plus, picnicking amidst the stunning scenery is just amazing!

Consider layering your clothing. The weather can change quickly, and being prepared will keep you comfortable. I wish I had a warmer jacket for those chilly moments!

Start your hike early, around 7 AM, to catch the breathtaking sunrise and beat the crowds. Trust me, the views are worth the early wake-up!

I think it’s worth exploring the paths near the mirador; you might find some stunning views and hidden spots that aren’t mentioned in the guidebooks.

If you're up for a challenge, take the long route for a bonus workout! Just be ready for some steep parts; I took it and felt amazing after but yeah, it was tough!

I recommend visiting in the early morning around 8 AM when it's less crowded and the weather is still cool. You’ll get some great pics without too many people in the way!

If you're hiking to Los Frailes beach, leave by 7:00 AM to beat the heat and get the best spots on the sand. Trust me, it gets packed quick.

Don't miss out on the whale watching! I suggest booking a tour through a local agency instead of your hotel. It'll save you some $$ and give you a more authentic experience.

I think you should pack snacks and water; there aren't many places to grab food inside the park. I regretted not bringing more because I got super hungry during the hikes!

I recommend bringing a waterproof bag if you want to take photos near the waterfall. You'll definitely get splashed and protecting your phone or camera is a must for capturing the moment!

Don't skip the hike down to the waterfall—it's totally worth it. The views are amazing and you get to experience the lush scenery up close. Just be prepared for some steep stairs on the way back up.

Consider visiting during the weekdays if you can. I went on a Saturday, and it was pretty crowded. The quieter atmosphere makes a big difference when you want to enjoy nature!

Pack a good lunch and plenty of water. Food options in the park can be limited and pricey so I suggest bringing a picnic to enjoy the views.

If you're planning to hike to the refuge, wear layers! The weather can change quickly. I froze halfway up because I didn't prepare for the chill.

For the best views, start your trek around 9 AM. It gets cloudy later in the day, and you might miss the stunning scenery.

Check the weather a few days ahead. I was caught in unexpected rain and it made some trails super slippery. A good waterproof jacket is a lifesaver!

I recommend downloading offline maps before you go. The signal can be spotty and getting lost can cost you precious time especially on longer hikes.

Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. The trails can be rough and there aren't many places to refill or buy food. I ended up running low and regretted not packing more!

I think it's worth downloading a hiking app before you go. Some trails aren't super well-marked, and having a map on hand helped me avoid going in circles a few times!

Bring your own water! It’s easy to underestimate how much you’ll need, and buying it inside can be pricey. Trust me, you don’t wanna risk dehydration while exploring all day.