Planning my first trip to Ecuador. Read through the older threads but wanted to check if info is still current.
My main questions:
1. Best area to stay for easy access to the scene?
2. Realistic daily budget including accommodation?
3. Any areas to avoid?
4. How is the quality compared to the Philippines?
5. Uber or taxi?
Coming from Australia with experience in a few different countries but first time in Ecuador.
Any recent reports or recommendations appreciated. Thanks!
Best areas in Ecuador? Planning my first trip
Started by SoCalSurfer · 17 Mar 2026 · 471 views
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17 Mar 2026 at 16:13
San Diego, CA | Member since 2024
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19 Mar 2026 at 09:13
Did you use dating apps or find girls at bars?
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20 Mar 2026 at 23:13
Word of caution — some online profiles are fake. Other than that, great destination.
Yorkshire Lad — Leeds, UK
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21 Mar 2026 at 09:13
+1 on this. Exactly my experience too. Solid destination.
Yorkshire Lad — Leeds, UK
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22 Mar 2026 at 19:13
+1 on this. Exactly my experience too. Solid destination.
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22 Mar 2026 at 22:13
Adding my experience: scene has evolved since pre-COVID. Biggest change: more online activity.
Euro Explorer — Boston, MA
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24 Mar 2026 at 20:13
Did you use freelancers or find girls at the hotel?
Do your research, respect the locals, stay safe. — Newcastle Nick
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25 Mar 2026 at 15:04
Also recommend downloading Google Translate before you go. Essential.
Montreal Max — Montreal, Canada
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25 Mar 2026 at 17:13
Quick question — how was the transport?
"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page."
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25 Mar 2026 at 19:13
Quick question — how was the hotel security?
Do your research, respect the locals, stay safe. — Wanderlust Carl
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25 Mar 2026 at 21:04
Agreed on all points. Make sure to get a local SIM.
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25 Mar 2026 at 22:04
I was there in March and prices were exactly as described. Spent about $100/day all-in.
My tip: avoid weekends.
My tip: avoid weekends.
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26 Mar 2026 at 01:04
What was your total spend roughly? Trying to budget for mine.
"Travel is fatal to prejudice." — Nashville, TN
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26 Mar 2026 at 02:04
Can confirm. Was there recently and everything checks out.
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26 Mar 2026 at 04:04
I was there in February and prices were exactly as described. Spent about $80/day all-in.
My tip: midweek is much better.
My tip: midweek is much better.
"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page."
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26 Mar 2026 at 05:04
Also recommend downloading WhatsApp before you go. Essential.
Portland, OR | 20 countries visited
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26 Mar 2026 at 08:04
Different experience for me. Prices were higher when I went.
Portland, OR | 20 countries visited
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26 Mar 2026 at 12:13
Spot on with the prices. Matches what I paid recently.
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26 Mar 2026 at 15:04
How long did it take to feel comfortable and find the good spots?
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26 Mar 2026 at 16:04
Also recommend downloading Maps.me before you go. Essential.
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