The future of travel is wild, active, and authentic.
I’m writing this blog on a Friday, working remotely from the rooftop restaurant of a hotel in Baños, ready to explore Ecuador’s adventure capital. This morning, I came across a Forbes article spotlighting a growing trend toward nature-based adventures and less-traveled environments. Ecuador is proudly on the list of FORBES must-visit destinations for 2026, with special recognition of the Galápagos Islands as a truly unforgettable experience.
So what better topic for this blog than my personal selection of Ecuador’s TOP adventure destinations?
1. Galápagos Islands: Where the earth still feels wild
There is no greater adventure than coming face to face with one of the last untouched corners of planet Earth itself. Visiting the Galápagos Islands, located 1.000 km off the coast of Ecuador, feels like immersing yourself completely into nature, spending your days among species so unique that they inspired Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. Galápagos Adventures include snorkeling, diving, hiking, biking and kayaking, always face to face with wildlife (sea lions, penguins, iguanas, blue-footed boobies…).
👉Explore our blog entry from 24 December 2025 to learn about our TOP 10 Galápagos Experiences you can’t miss.
2. Mindo & Pedro Vicente Maldonado: Birdwatching & Cloud Forest Adventures
Welcome to the colorful cloud forest, a magical world of fog drifting through lush green forests covering the surrounding mountains. Be enchanted by the colorful hummingbirds or by hundreds of butterfly species flying from flower to flower. Mindo’s outstanding biodiversity is due to its location between a high-altitude zone and the rainforest.
Bird sanctuaries and butterfly gardens
Mindo’s butterfly gardens are home to over 1.200 of these graceful creatures and offer wonderful photo opportunities as you watch the butterflies in their various stages of development. For bird lovers, Mindo is the ultimate paradise. Among the approximately 550 different species of birds are numerous delicate hummingbirds that flap their wings so many times per second that their flight can be heard as a humming sound. Just enjoy and listen—a magical experience you will never forget.
Canopy Adventure, Ziplining and Tarzan swing
A 3.500-meter zip line and a leap into the void will make your heart race. Glide through the treetops of the cloud forest and enjoy spectacular views of the forest while feeling the thrill of flying above the ground, all with trained guides and safety equipment provided. For the extra adrenaline rush, at the end of the canopy course, adventurers can try the Tarzan swing. Leap from a high platform and swing like Tarzan through the air, suspended on a long rope far above the forest floor (approximately 40-meter free fall!).
Roaring waterfalls
A hiking trail along the Nambillo River takes you to the Nambillo Waterfall in about 15 minutes. The waterfall is located in the midst of the dense forest and impresses with its mysterious beauty. If you continue along the trail, you will reach the Sanctuary of the Cascades (a 1.5-hour hike through forest and swamps).
Pedro Vicente Maldonado – gateway to the coast
Halfway between the mountainous Andes and the coast lies a magnificent, less-touristic destination for ecotourism, bird-spotting and water sports such as rafting and kayaking. The area lends itself to scientific research, especially by national and foreign biologists. With its rich biodiversity it is easy to understand why Pedro Vicente Maldonado, a scientist from Riobamba, explored these blessed lands during his famous journey to Esmeraldas. The village is also known for its diversity of waterfalls, such as Salto del Tigre, Achotillo, Helechos and Tatalá waterfall.
3. Baños de Agua Santa – Adrenalin rush at the gates of the Amazon
Welcome to an adventure-seeker’s paradise nestled in the heart of the Andes amidst stunning natural scenery – Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador. There’s activities for every type of traveler—from thrill seekers to families, from luxury explorers to nature enthusiasts.
Pailón del diablo waterfall
If you only see one waterfall in Baños, it should be Pailón del Diablo. The name translates to “Devil’s Cauldron” in English which is quite fitting for this powerful cascade of approximately 80 meters (260 ft) height. There is an entrance fee of $ 3 which goes towards the upkeep of preserving this ecosystem. There are two trails to choose from at Pailón del Diablo. The entrance to the right-hand side of Rio Verde is shorter and has an impressive viewing suspension bridge. The entrance to the left of the river will take you underneath the cascade.
Explore the Rutas De Cascadas (Waterfall route)
This route leads you past a network of 12 waterfalls which includes Cascada Ulba & Silencio, Cascada Agoyan, the iconic Cascada Pailón del Diablo, and Manto de la Novia. The most sustainable way to explore the route is by bike (18 km one way).
White Water Rafting
The Pastaza River provides a white-water rafting adventure amidst stunning natural scenery with its Class III and IV rapids, attracting both beginners and experienced rafters. Guides lead through lush canyons, ensuring an exhilarating experience while showcasing the region’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora.
Canyoning in Chamana
Chamana canyons are located a short ride away from Baños and are a prime destination for canyoning enthusiasts (and beginners). Exploring the intricate network of water-carved boulders, you’ll navigate waterfalls and rocky terrain under the guidance of experienced instructors. The final drop of 50 meters adds to the excitement.
Ziplining at Puntzan Canopy
Puntzan Canopy offers a heart-pounding ziplining experience amidst lush landscapes, including one of the longest ziplines in South America, as well as panoramic views of the Tungurahua volcano and the Pastaza River.
Puenting (bridge swinging)
Puenting or bridge swinging, provides an exhilarating free fall experience. Daredevils leap from bridges over scenic gorges, attached to a bungee cord, for a heart-pounding adventure, while the rushing Pastaza River and stunning Andean landscapes create a thrilling backdrop.
Casa del árbol –Ecuador’s most famous swing at the tree house
A detour to the Casa del Arbol (“tree house”) takes you to what is probably Ecuador’s most famous swing, the swing at the end of the world. There are currently three swings and a zip line. The entire park is managed by the family of Carlos Sanchez, who volunteered to monitor the Tungurahua volcano and operated the former seismic monitoring station in the tree house. Today, the tree house serves as a viewpoint at 2,600 meters above sea level.
Enjoy The Local Springs at Balneario Al Salado
A 40-minute walk up the valley, Balneario El Salado, is a renowned hot springs complex, fed by thermal springs. The pools provide a soothing experience with mineral-rich waters. Switch from hot to cold and tepid pools for the full experience.
One country, numerous adventures
These and many more adventures are waiting for you in Ecuador!
🌋Trek volcanoes and high-altitude trails in the Andes
🌄 Immerse yourself into the Amazon rainforest
🚵 Discover culture, history, and vibrant local life
At Gulliver Expeditions, we would be delighted to help you plan your trip to Ecuador and South America — and make you experience why Forbes is shining a spotlight on this extraordinary destination.
Well, for me, it’s time to explore Baños now! Let the adventure begin!
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