Ecuador offers many activities of all levels for our most adventurous travelers. In this section, we present some specific activities of stronger level for wich you might need some previous experience.

For more information, you should read our “Adventure” page where we present a full list of activities available in Ecuador through our agency, as well as a detailed description of what you should expect and what is provided on site.

Snorkeling / Scuba Diving

Not only the Galápagos Islands offer amazing sites for snorkeling and scuba diving. The Pacific coast is also a true heaven for travelers seaking wild ocean fauna and unique ecosystems.

As mentioned in the Galápagos section of this chapter, boats usually provide you with the necessary equipment. Some of them will charge a rental fee, other will provide them free of charge, or included in their package price.

Diving equipment is usually only available through rental. Most boats are equiped with scuba diving gears, and we feature them on our products pages accompanied with the scuba diving logo. For complete coverage of scuba diving equipment, read the Diving Section in each of our cruise presentation.

On the coast, equipment rental is available in the main towns, like Puerto Lopez, Manta and Salinas, although snorkeling gear is usually provided by cruise tour operators we work with.

Rafting

Ecuador offers different levels of rafting, from level 2 to level 4. Companies we work with provide you with everything you need to enjoy this sport. However, remember to pack the essential:
- Swimsuit
- Fast-drying shorts
- Tennis shoes
- Water-proof camera
- Sandals with secure ankle straps
- Straps for glasses
- Fast drying t-shirt
- Extra set of dry clothes

Horseback riding / Mule riding

Many places in Ecuador offer horseback riding, starting with haciendas on the coast. In the Andes, horseback riding on the sides of volcanoes is a unique way to discover those deserted landscapes. This activity is always organised and monitored by local haciendas where you will usually be staying. They provide you with all the equipment, and all you have to carry is whatever is listed below.

Mule riding is another activity featured in our “Altar Expedition” package. It probably sounds less fun than horseback riding, but has its share of thrills and is recommended for people in good physical shape.

Remember to pack those items if you plan to experience one of those two activity:
- Good hiking shoes or
- Sport gloves
- Rubber boots
- Backpack
- Thick pants (old jeans are the best)
- Sunscreen
- Fast-drying t-shirt
- Cap or hat
- Long cotton socks