Best Landmarks in Southern Sierra
Planning a trip to Southern Sierra? Discover the best landmarks in Southern Sierra with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best landmarks in Southern Sierra
- Top rated
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52 landmarks
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Monument4.7★30,095 reviews
Middle of the World City
Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, just north of Quito, marks the spot where the equator divides the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The site features a monument, museum, planetarium, and cultural exhibits, offering visitors a chance to stand with a foot in each hemisphere.
Mon–Fri 9:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 9:00–18:00
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Historical landmark4.6★18,196 reviews
Independence Square
Independence Square, also known as Plaza Grande, is the main square of Quito, Ecuador, steeped in history and surrounded by significant colonial buildings. It's a vibrant gathering place for locals and tourists, featuring the Independence Monument and beautifully maintained gardens.
Open 24 hours
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Tourist attraction4.7★11,221 reviews
La Casa del Arbol
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Baños de Agua Santa, La Casa del Arbol offers tourists an unforgettable adventure. Famous for its breathtaking views and thrilling swings, this iconic tree house is a must-visit for anyone seeking a mix of adrenaline and natural beauty. Experience the enchanting atmosphere of this unique attraction that draws visitors from around the globe.
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Tourist attraction4.6★10,671 reviews
Guayaquil Historical Park
The Guayaquil Historical Park offers a blend of natural and cultural attractions, providing a glimpse into the city's history, architecture, and biodiversity. Explore wildlife, historical buildings, and local traditions in this expansive park located in Samborondón.
Wed–Sun 9:00–17:00
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Hotel4.7★8,235 reviews
JW Marriott Quito
The JW Marriott Quito offers a luxurious stay in the heart of Quito's modern district, blending contemporary elegance with Ecuadorian charm. With its pyramid-shaped building and convenient location, it provides easy access to the city's historical center and cultural attractions.
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Swimming pool4.7★6,794 reviews
Papallacta Hot Springs
Nestled high in the Ecuadorian Andes, Termas de Papallacta offers a rejuvenating escape with its naturally heated mineral pools. Fed by the volcanic activity of Antisana and Cayambe, these springs have been prized for their therapeutic properties since Incan times, providing a serene retreat amidst stunning mountain scenery.
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Market4.2★8,672 reviews
Mercado 10 de Agosto
Mercado 10 de Agosto is a bustling market in Cuenca, Ecuador, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with local culture, traditional foods, and unique handicrafts. Perfect for tourists wanting to immerse themselves in the local life.
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Resort hotel4.7★6,306 reviews
Hillary Nature Resort & Spa
Nestled near Arenillas, Ecuador, Hillary Nature Resort & Spa offers an all-inclusive experience immersed in nature. With diverse activities, from water parks and private zoos to serene spa treatments, it's a destination for families and adventurers alike.
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Hotel4.4★5,854 reviews
Royal Decameron Punta Centinela
The Royal Decameron Punta Centinela, located in the Santa Elena province of Ecuador, is an all-inclusive beachfront resort offering a relaxing getaway with ocean views, multiple dining options, swimming pools, and various activities. It's a popular destination for families and those seeking an effortless vacation experience.
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Tourist attraction4.7★4,623 reviews
Cotopaxi- Administration National Park
Cotopaxi National Park, surrounding the iconic Cotopaxi Volcano, offers stunning views and diverse Andean landscapes. Explore glacial lakes, hike to mountain refuges, and witness unique flora and fauna in this protected natural area, a testament to Ecuador's rich biodiversity and geological wonders.
Mon–Fri 8:00–15:00 · Sat–Sun 8:00–3:00
Playa Santa Marianita
Playa Santa Marianita, a tranquil fishing village near Manta, Ecuador, is known for its expansive beach, consistent winds, and status as a premier kitesurfing destination. Visitors can enjoy water sports, local cuisine, and the relaxed atmosphere of this coastal gem.
Parque Nacional Cajas
Parque Nacional Cajas, a short trip from Cuenca, Ecuador, is a stunning landscape of rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and unique high-altitude flora and fauna. Its history as a passage between the coast and highlands dates back to pre-Inca times, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Parque Nacional Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi National Park, surrounding the iconic Cotopaxi Volcano, offers stunning views and diverse landscapes in the Ecuadorian Andes. Explore glacial lakes, hike to mountain refuges, and witness unique high-altitude flora and fauna in this natural wonderland.
Iglesia de Santo Domingo
The Iglesia de Santo Domingo, a Catholic church in Quito, Ecuador, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural beauty. Constructed from 1540 to 1650, the church features a stunning Baroque facade and a richly decorated interior, reflecting a blend of indigenous and Spanish influences.
Daily 7:00–13:00, 17:00–19:00
El Pailón del Diablo
Discover the breathtaking El Pailón del Diablo, a stunning waterfall near Puyo, Ecuador. Immerse yourself in the lush rainforest, experience the thundering waters, and enjoy close encounters with nature, making it an unforgettable adventure for every traveler.
Daily 8:00–23:00
Quilotoa Lake
Quilotoa Lake, a stunning caldera lake in the Ecuadorian Andes, is the result of a volcanic eruption centuries ago. Its mesmerizing turquoise waters and surrounding rugged landscape offer breathtaking views and hiking opportunities, making it a must-see destination.
Amaru Zoológico Bioparque
Amaru Zoológico Bioparque, located near Cuenca, Ecuador, is more than just a zoo; it's a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to rescuing and protecting wildlife. Showcasing Ecuador's rich biodiversity, the bioparque offers an immersive experience where visitors can observe native and exotic animals in naturalistic habitats.
Daily 9:00–16:00
Los Frailes Beach
Los Frailes Beach, located within Machalilla National Park, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Ecuador, offering visitors a pristine and tranquil escape with its clear turquoise waters and crescent-shaped shore. This protected area boasts a unique landscape, free from urban development, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers.
Tortuga Bay Beach
Tortuga Bay, located on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos, is a stunning white-sand beach renowned for its turquoise waters and abundant wildlife. It's a must-see destination offering a unique blend of relaxation and nature observation.
Daily 6:00–17:00
Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi, a towering, active volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes, is renowned for its perfectly symmetrical cone and glacial peak. A challenging climb, it's also a stunning sight from the surrounding national park, offering hiking, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking views.
Toachi River Canyon
The Toachi River Canyon, near Zumbahua, Ecuador, offers breathtaking views of a landscape sculpted by the eruptions of the Quilotoa volcano. This dramatic canyon features steep cliffs, unique volcanic formations, and the winding Toachi River, making it a must-see natural wonder.
Open 24 hours
Hotel Hacienda Abraspungo
Hacienda Abraspungo, a 4-star hotel near Riobamba, Ecuador, offers a blend of colonial charm and modern comfort. Nestled in the Andes, this serene retreat features lush gardens, comfortable rooms named after local mountains, and a restaurant serving creative cuisine made with local ingredients.
Samari Spa Resort
Nestled in the Ecuadorian Andes, Samari Spa Resort offers a luxurious escape in a restored 300-year-old Jesuit monastery. With stunning gardens, a full-service spa, and gourmet dining, it's a haven of relaxation and wellness just minutes from the adventure capital of Baños de Agua Santa.
Pearl Shell
Concha de la Perla (Pearl Shell) is a stunning, sheltered cove near Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island, Galapagos, offering calm, clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Accessible via a short boardwalk through mangroves, it's a prime spot to encounter diverse marine life without a guide.
Daily 6:00–18:00
Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado
The Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado is a nature preserve, breeding center, and sanctuary for the endangered Galapagos giant tortoise (Chelonoidis chathamensis) on San Cristobal Island. Established in 2002 by the Galapagos National Park Service, the Galapaguera allows visitors to observe tortoises of all ages in a semi-natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts.
Daily 6:00–18:00
Parque Nacional Podocarpus
Podocarpus National Park, nestled in southern Ecuador's Loja and Zamora Chinchipe provinces, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Established in 1982, the park boasts exceptional biodiversity, ranging from montane forests to high-altitude grasslands, and is home to a vast array of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic.
Open 24 hours
Condor Machay Cascadas
Escape the urban bustle of Quito and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Condor Machay Cascadas. This nature preserve boasts stunning waterfalls, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife, offering a refreshing escape into Ecuador's natural wonders.
Quitsato Solar Clock
The Quitsato Solar Clock, located precisely on the Equator, offers a unique blend of ancient astronomical knowledge and stunning Andean landscapes. This meticulously constructed sundial and calendar showcases the ingenuity of pre-Hispanic cultures and their deep connection to the cosmos.
Daily 8:30–17:30
Hacienda La Ciénega
Hacienda La Ciénega, dating back to 1695, is a beautifully preserved colonial hacienda near Latacunga, Ecuador, offering a tranquil immersion into the past with its stunning architecture, gardens, and historical significance. Once home to notable figures and descendants of Marquises, it now welcomes visitors as a charming hotel and restaurant.
Hacienda Cusín
Hacienda Cusín, nestled in the Ecuadorian Andes near San Pablo del Lago, is a beautifully restored 17th-century Spanish colonial estate. Once a vast sheep farm, it now offers a tranquil escape with stunning gardens, antique-filled rooms, and a glimpse into Ecuador's rich history and culture.
Mansión Alcázar
The Mansión Alcázar, originally built in the late 19th century, stands as a beautifully restored boutique hotel in the heart of Cuenca, Ecuador. Once the residence of Enrique Cordero, son of former Ecuadorian President Luis Cordero, this iconic mansion showcases the architecture of the Republic of Ecuador and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern luxury.
Wall of Tears
The Wall of Tears (El Muro de las Lágrimas) is a historical site on Isabela Island in the Galápagos, a stark monument to a dark chapter in the island's history. Built by prisoners between 1946 and 1959, the wall stands as a reminder of the harsh conditions and suffering endured by those incarcerated in the former Isabela Penitentiary Colony.
Hacienda Zuleta
Hacienda Zuleta, a stunning 17th-century working farm and hotel, lies nestled in the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes. Belonging to the family of former Ecuadorian President Galo Plaza Lasso, this historic estate offers a unique glimpse into colonial history, sustainable practices, and the breathtaking beauty of the Andean countryside. With its charming architecture, delicious farm-to-table cuisine, and a wealth of activities, Hacienda Zuleta promises an unforgettable experience.
Hacienda Pinsaqui
Experience history and tranquility at Hacienda Pinsaqui, a restored colonial hacienda dating back to 1790. Once a textile workshop, this elegant property offers a glimpse into Ecuador's rich past, with beautiful gardens, comfortable suites, and easy access to the Otavalo market and surrounding natural attractions.
Hacienda Los Mortiños
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Cotopaxi volcano, Hacienda Los Mortiños offers a tranquil escape into the Ecuadorian Andes. This charming hotel, located just outside Cotopaxi National Park's northern entrance, blends rustic Andean architecture with modern comforts, providing a perfect base for exploring the region's natural beauty and rich culture.
Isabela Island
Isabela Island, the largest in the Galapagos archipelago, boasts a unique seahorse shape formed by six shield volcanoes. Its diverse landscapes, from volcanic terrains to pristine beaches, teem with iconic wildlife, offering unforgettable snorkeling, trekking, and relaxation opportunities.
Hacienda San Agustin de Callo
Hacienda San Agustin de Callo, nestled in the Andean foothills near Cotopaxi National Park, is a unique historical site. Built upon the foundations of a 15th-century Inca palace, it has also served as an Augustinian convent and a home to notable figures, offering visitors a glimpse into Ecuador's rich past.
Sierra Alisos Hotel de Campo
Nestled in the Ecuadorian highlands near Mejía, Sierra Alisos Hotel de Campo offers a tranquil escape surrounded by lush scenery. This charming lodge combines comfortable accommodations with a unique cultural immersion, featuring a fusion restaurant and various outdoor activities. It's an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Volcan Altar
Nestled in the heart of Ecuador's Andean region, Volcan Altar is a breathtaking destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This stratovolcano, known for its stunning crater and rich biodiversity, offers picturesque landscapes that are perfect for hiking, photography, and exploration. The unique geological features and vibrant flora and fauna make it a must-visit location for tourists looking to experience the natural beauty of Ecuador.
San Rafael Waterfall (disappeared)
Once Ecuador's tallest and most powerful waterfall, the San Rafael Waterfall tragically disappeared in early 2020 due to a sinkhole that diverted the Coca River. What was once a major tourist attraction is now a memory, a stark reminder of the dynamic forces shaping our planet.
Playa Las Bachas
Playa Las Bachas, located on the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos, is a pristine white-sand beach known for its calm waters and diverse wildlife. The beach's name is a testament to its history, derived from the mispronunciation of 'barges' left behind by the U.S. military after World War II.
Napo Wildlife Center Ecolodge
Nestled within Yasuní National Park, the Napo Wildlife Center is a luxurious ecolodge offering unparalleled access to the Amazon rainforest's biodiversity. Owned and operated by the indigenous Anangu Quichua community, it provides a unique cultural and natural experience.
Hacienda La Alegria
Nestled in the Machachi Valley, south of Quito, Hacienda La Alegria offers a tranquil escape into Ecuador's 'Avenue of the Volcanoes'. This family-run organic farm provides comfortable lodging, horseback riding adventures, and a taste of traditional Andean culture.
Nativa Whale Domes Glamping & Camping
Experience a unique blend of comfort and nature at Nativa Whale Domes Glamping & Camping in Puerto López, Ecuador. These eco-friendly dome tents offer cozy amenities and breathtaking views, perfect for stargazing and exploring the nearby beaches and coastal ecosystems.
Ecuador & Galapagos Insiders
Ecuador & Galapagos Insiders, based in Quito, is a tour agency specializing in crafting personalized travel experiences to the Galapagos Islands and mainland Ecuador. With a focus on local expertise and customer commitment, they offer a range of services from Galapagos cruises to customized Ecuador tours.
Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00 · Sat 9:00–13:00
Sierra Negra
Hike the rim of Sierra Negra, one of the world's largest volcanic calderas, on Isabela Island in the Galapagos. Witness recent lava flows and unique geological formations while surrounded by the islands' distinctive flora and fauna.
RUTA DE LAS CASCADAS
The Ruta de las Cascadas (Waterfall Route) near Baños de Agua Santa is a breathtaking stretch of highway that follows the Pastaza River, connecting Baños with the Amazonian lowlands. This route is famed for its numerous waterfalls, adventure activities, and stunning scenery, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
Daily 9:00–21:00
Punta Cormorant
Punta Cormorant, located on the northern coast of Floreana Island in the Galapagos, is a captivating site boasting unique green and white sand beaches, a flamingo-filled lagoon, and diverse wildlife. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
LAGUNA AMARILLA
Laguna Amarilla, or Yellow Lagoon, is a stunning crater lake nestled within the caldera of the Altar Volcano, in Sangay National Park. Its unique greenish-yellow waters, tinged by mineral deposits, and the surrounding jagged peaks make it a breathtaking destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Volcano Sierra Negra El Cura station
Volcano Sierra Negra El Cura Station serves as the starting point for exploring one of the world's largest volcanic calderas on Isabela Island, Galapagos. The station provides access to stunning panoramic views, unique geological formations, and the chance to witness the raw power of an active volcano, making it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
Galapagos Tours Nature Galapagos & Ecuador
Galapagos Tours Nature Galapagos & Ecuador, based in Quito, is a travel agency specializing in tours to the Galapagos Islands and mainland Ecuador. They offer a variety of cruise and land-based tours, catering to diverse interests, from wildlife encounters to adventurous activities. While the agency itself isn't a tourist attraction, it serves as a starting point for unforgettable journeys to the Galapagos.
Mon–Fri 8:30–17:30
Very close to the equator
Stand remarkably close to the Earth's equator in Marian, Ecuador, a unique spot offering a thrilling and educational experience. It's a place where you can appreciate the planet's geographical marvels amidst lush landscapes and vibrant culture.
Open 24 hours
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