As a family living in Ecuador, we’ve had the opportunity to explore some incredible destinations that are both beautiful and family-friendly. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, these top three destinations are perfect for families with little ones. From serene lakes to vibrant cities, here’s a roundup of our favorite places to visit in Ecuador as a family of three.
1. Otavalo: A Family Favorite
Otavalo has a special place in our hearts; we’ve visited twice with our little one. It’s only about an hour and a half drive from Quito, making it the perfect destination for a quick, easy road trip. Otavalo’s blend of culture, nature, and family-friendly activities make it a must-visit destination for anyone with kids.
During our first trip, we stayed at Cabañas del Lago, a lakeside retreat perfect for families. The resort has kid-friendly amenities like mini-golf, a petting zoo, water sports, and even a daycare area (though it’s for children over two). The staff was incredibly accommodating, and the on-site restaurant served delicious meals, including an unforgettable breakfast. The only issue we ran into? We forgot to pack our travel crib! If you’re traveling with a baby, don’t forget it — co-sleeping was not ideal, with our little one needing all the space.
On our second trip to Otavalo, we stayed at the beautiful Hacienda Pinsaqui. While not as filled with children’s activities, it was a stunning place with horseback riding, gorgeous architecture, and spacious grounds for kids to roam. Even though the dining area seemed a bit fancy, the staff welcomed us with open arms, offering nighttime storytelling and delicious snacks.
We can’t wait to return to Otavalo, and we recommend it to anyone traveling with young children!
2. Cuenca: A Historic Gem
Cuenca is special in our travel hearts because of its vibrant culture, historic charm, and walkability. Our first visit to Cuenca was before our son was born, and this second trip with him was just as magical, if not more so.
There’s something about Cuenca that feels calm and welcoming. The city has a laid-back vibe, allowing us to explore freely. We wandered markets, discovered local vendors, and dined at incredible restaurants. One standout experience was dining at Picantería Karina, a Black-owned restaurant serving delicious local dishes.
Cuenca is a fantastic destination for families because it’s so easy to get around. We stayed at our favorite hotel in the city, Hotel Cruz del Vado, where the staff was super accommodating (as always). We made sure to bring our travel crib this time! We also hopped on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, which gave us a great overview of the city and allowed us to explore different neighborhoods.
If you’re planning a trip to Ecuador, Cuenca is a must-visit for families. The rich history, welcoming locals, and fun activities make it a great destination for all ages.
3. Quito: Exploring Our Backyard
Although Quito is our home base, we’ve made it a point to explore it as though we’re tourists. One of my favorite ways to do this is through guided tours. Recently, we did a city tour with our friend Edison, who runs a local travel company called Awaken. It was the perfect opportunity to learn more about Quito’s cultural and historical significance while adventuring through the city with our toddler.
Despite living in Quito, the tour made us appreciate our city in new ways. We explored areas we hadn’t visited before, and our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, making it easy to enjoy the experience even with our little one in tow.
On another occasion, we stayed at Go Quito, a boutique hotel with modern touches and a great location. The nearby restaurants were convenient, including a cozy pizza place across the street, making it an ideal base for a weekend away without leaving the city.
From our experiences in Quito, I’ve learned that travel doesn’t always have to mean going far. Sometimes, the best adventures are right in your own backyard. I encourage locals and visitors alike to take the time to explore their surroundings—you might be surprised by what you find!
Final Thoughts
As a family of three, we’ve discovered that Ecuador is full of fantastic travel destinations catering to parents and children. From Cuenca’s culture-rich streets to Otavalo’s scenic beauty and Quito’s vibrant energy, these destinations have given us countless memories and experiences.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Ecuador or live here, I hope our favorite family travel spots inspire you to explore this beautiful country. Don’t forget to pack your travel crib and enjoy the journey!
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