Although a small country, Ecuador boasts a wide array of geographic and cultural diversity, including a variety of indigenous groups with distinctive cultures and languages. From snow-capped volcanoes and rainforests to tropical shorelines, Ecuador has varying landscapes and climates, making it wonderful for gay tours or exciting adventures a great idea any time of the year.
The Galapagos Islands are often the main reason visitors come to Ecuador, but the mainland also has numerous sightseeing opportunities and activities that make Ecuador gay tours memorable and fulfilling. Whether you are seeking an adventurous outdoor vacation, a spiritual retreat or gay travel that includes experiencing Quito\’s LGBT community, relaxing on the beach and exploring tropical rainforests, you are sure to find that Ecuador is a beautiful, interesting, diverse country. As soon as you take your first step off of the airplane, it will be easy to see why Ecuador is such a highly popular travel destination.
Travelers will find that Quito is largely the center of LGBT life and has the most visible community. This is particularly true in the La Mariscal neighborhood, which is the location of the Quito Pride celebration each year in June, as well as the district where LGBT-friendly clubs, bars, cafs and other establishments can be found. This bohemian neighborhood is a popular afternoon hangout and is the place to go for a night on the town on Fridays and Saturdays.
Aside from La Mariscal, this city that sits at 9,200 feet above sea level, yet still lower than the nearby Pichincha volcano that rises to 13,000 feet, has much to offer, including streets lined with cafs, art galleries and shops, and a historic district that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Local attractions include the Capilla del Hombre Guayasamin, the Museo de la Ciudad, the Centro de Arte Contemporaneo and the many stalls of handicrafts in the Parque el Ejido.
Legal rights have expanded over the last decade or so, which has made gay vacations to Ecuador more enjoyable; however, there is still a strong air of machismo and public discretion is advised in most areas. One way to increase security and ensure that gay vacations to Ecuador are safe and fun is to participate in gay tours organized by travel professionals well-versed in arranging community excursions and ensuring that visitors experience all of Ecuador\’s glory with minimal concerns.
This allows you to more fully enjoy your excursion with minimal worries and to explore this diverse country with like-minded travelers.
Advice about Ecuador initiated by Howie Holben. Spirit Journeys puts forth gay adventure travel and has resources for gay spirituality.


