Best Landmarks in Southwest Coast
Planning a trip to Southwest Coast? Discover the best landmarks in Southwest Coast with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best landmarks in Southwest Coast
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
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28 landmarks
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Tourist attraction4.6★77,679 reviews
Malecon 2000
Malecón 2000 is a revitalized 2.5 km waterfront promenade in Guayaquil, Ecuador, along the Guayas River. A blend of history and modernity, it features gardens, monuments, shops, restaurants, and museums, making it a must-see attraction.
Daily 7:00–24:00
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Monument4.7★30,095 reviews
Middle of the World City
Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, just north of Quito, marks the supposed location of the equator. It's home to a towering monument, museums, and cultural exhibits, offering visitors a chance to stand in both hemispheres at once.
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 hub where locals and tourists gather, offering a glimpse into the city's rich cultural and political heritage. The square features the Independence Monument, honoring the heroes of Ecuador's independence.
Open 24 hours
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Tourist attraction4.7★11,221 reviews
La Casa del Arbol
La Casa del Arbol, or 'The Tree House,' is a renowned tourist attraction near Baños, Ecuador, famous for its thrilling swing that hangs over a steep drop. Originally built as a monitoring station for the Tungurahua volcano, it now offers visitors an adrenaline rush and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
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Tourist attraction4.6★10,671 reviews
Guayaquil Historical Park
The Guayaquil Historical Park in Samborondón offers a unique glimpse into Ecuador's past, showcasing the region's wildlife, traditions, and architecture. It's divided into three zones: Wildlife, Traditions, and Urban Architectural, providing an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
Wed–Sun 9:00–17:00
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Tourist attraction4.8★7,895 reviews
La Chocolatera
La Chocolatera, located on the westernmost point of Ecuador in Salinas, is a dramatic display of nature's power. Here, the Pacific Ocean's waves crash against rugged cliffs, creating a unique foamy spectacle that resembles a swirling cup of hot chocolate. It's a prime spot for breathtaking views, marine life observation, and stunning sunsets.
Daily 8:00–15:00
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Tourist attraction4.6★4,735 reviews
Playa Santa Marianita
Playa Santa Marianita, a tranquil fishing village near Manta, Ecuador, is renowned for its stunning beach and consistent winds, making it a prime destination for kitesurfers. The area offers a unique blend of relaxation, water sports, and authentic Ecuadorian culture.
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Museum4.7★3,666 reviews
Intiñan Equator Museum
The Intiñan Equator Museum, located just outside of Quito, offers a fascinating and interactive experience at the true equatorial line. Visitors can participate in engaging experiments, learn about indigenous cultures, and explore the unique phenomena that occur at this special geographical position.
Daily 9:30–17:00
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National park4.8★3,487 reviews
Parque Nacional Galápagos
Established in 1959, the Galapagos National Park protects 97% of the land area of the Galapagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago renowned for its unique biodiversity and role in Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Visitors encounter fearless wildlife, from giant tortoises to marine iguanas, in a landscape shaped by volcanic activity.
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National park4.8★2,478 reviews
Parque Nacional Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi National Park, named after the towering Cotopaxi volcano, is a stunning protected area in the Ecuadorian Andes. It offers breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for hiking, climbing, and wildlife observation. The park is easily accessible from Quito, making it a popular destination for day trips and longer excursions.
Hemicycle De La Rotonda
The Hemicycle De La Rotonda, located on Guayaquil's Malecón 2000, commemorates the historic 1822 meeting between Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín, key figures in South American independence. It stands as a symbol of unity and the fight against colonialism, featuring sculptures, gardens, and stunning river views.
Daily 8:00–23:59
Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Cristobal Ortega Maila
The Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Cristobal Ortega Maila, located just outside of Quito, is a unique museum and cultural center dedicated to the work of Ecuadorian artist Cristobal Ortega Maila. The museum's design, inspired by pre-Columbian architecture, creates a captivating setting for experiencing Ortega Maila's paintings, sculptures, and the traditions of the Andes.
Daily 9:00–18:00
Pearl Shell
Concha de Perla, or Pearl Shell, is a natural lagoon near Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island, Galapagos, offering calm, clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Accessible via a short boardwalk, it's a unique, free spot to swim with sea lions, penguins, sea turtles, and marine iguanas in their natural habitat.
Daily 6:00–18:00
Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado
The Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado is a tortoise reserve, sanctuary, and breeding center in the highlands of San Cristobal Island, Galapagos. Established in 2002 by the Galapagos National Park Service, it's one of the best places to observe endangered Galapagos giant tortoises, with both baby and adult tortoises in a semi-natural habitat.
Daily 6:00–18:00
La Nariz del Diablo
La Nariz del Diablo, or the Devil's Nose, is a mountain in the Andes near Sibambe, Ecuador, famed for its unique railway. Completed in 1908, this challenging segment of the Trans-Andean railroad zigzags down a near-vertical rock face, a testament to human ingenuity and a thrilling experience for visitors.
Tue–Sun 8:00–10:30, 11:00–13:30
Quitsato Solar Clock
The Quitsato Solar Clock, located near Cayambe, Ecuador, is a monument and outdoor museum demonstrating the astronomical importance of the equator and ancient Andean civilizations' understanding of the cosmos. Visitors can explore the large sundial, learn about solar timekeeping, and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape.
Daily 8:30–17:30
Reserva de producción de Fauna Cuyabeno
The Reserva de Producción de Fauna Cuyabeno is a protected area in the Ecuadorian Amazon, known for its incredible biodiversity, flooded forests, and complex network of lagoons and rivers. It's a sanctuary for wildlife and indigenous communities, offering a unique glimpse into the Amazonian ecosystem.
Wall of Tears
The Wall of Tears (El Muro de las Lágrimas) is a historical site on Isabela Island in the Galapagos, constructed by prisoners between 1945 and 1959. This towering wall, built from volcanic rock, stands as a haunting reminder of the penal colony's harsh conditions and the lives lost during its construction.
NATIVA BAMBU Ecolodge
Nativa Bambu Ecolodge offers a serene retreat from Montañita's bustling atmosphere, boasting an ocean view, lush gardens, and comfortable accommodations. It's conveniently located near the town center, providing easy access to the beach and local attractions, while maintaining a peaceful ambiance.
Latin Adventures
Latin Adventures, located in Quito, Ecuador, is a tour operator specializing in crafting personalized travel experiences throughout South America. With a focus on nature, adventure, gastronomy, and culture, they offer tailor-made journeys to destinations like the Galapagos Islands, Machu Picchu, and the Amazon rainforest.
Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00
La Segua
La Segua, located in San Antonio, Ecuador, is a captivating bird watching area renowned for its rich biodiversity and serene wetlands. It's a paradise for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a tranquil environment for photography, relaxing walks, and enjoying nature's symphony.
Puente Zigzag
The Puente Zigzag, or Zigzag Bridge, is a distinctive pedestrian bridge in Guayaquil, Ecuador, known for its unusual zigzag design. Officially named 'Paseo de la Juventud' (Youth Walkway), it connects the Malecón of the Universidad de Guayaquil with the Parque Lineal, offering scenic views of the Estero Salado and surrounding areas.
Faro
Faro Las Peñas, a charming lighthouse in Guayaquil, Ecuador, sits atop Santa Ana Hill in the historic Las Peñas neighborhood. Ascend 444 steps through colorful streets to reach the summit, where panoramic city and river views await. This beacon represents the city's history and offers a rewarding climb through a vibrant cultural hub.
Lugar mas al oeste del Ecuador
Fernandina Island, the youngest and westernmost island of the Galápagos, is a pristine volcanic landscape teeming with unique wildlife. Its active volcano, La Cumbre, dominates the island, creating a stark, beautiful environment where marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and Galápagos penguins thrive.
La Libertad Un lugar mágico - Huesos de Buda
La Libertad Un lugar mágico - Huesos de Buda is a unique space in Quito, Ecuador, blending art, culture, and a touch of the unexpected. Located in the Aguarico neighborhood, it's a place where creativity thrives and visitors can discover intriguing artistic expressions.
Open 24 hours
Recinto,San Andrés 1,Luz de America
Nestled near Luz de America, Ecuador, Recinto San Andrés offers a serene escape into nature. This hiking area provides a refreshing experience with trails winding through lush landscapes, perfect for a day of exploration and enjoying the tranquility of the Ecuadorian countryside.
Puerta azul desvío Salate (derecha)
Puerta Azul Desvío Salate is a historical landmark in Ecuador, showcasing the country's cultural heritage and architectural beauty. It offers visitors a glimpse into the region's past with stunning views and opportunities to engage with local culture.
DescubrEcuador
DescubrEcuador is a sightseeing tour agency that helps travelers discover the natural beauty and cultural richness of Ecuador. While this specific entry may not be a traditional tourist attraction, it serves as a starting point for planning your Ecuadorian explorations, offering a range of destinations from the Andes to the Amazon.
Daily 9:00–17:00
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