The UNESCO Sites in Ecuador have resulted in the recognition of 5 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ecuador and 5 locations on the Ecuador UNESCO tentative list. These tourist sites in Ecuador are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
In addition to these 5 sites in the Ecuador UNESCO list, many other places to travel to Ecuador are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.
To help visitors discover these remarkable Ecuador tourist attractions, we have put together an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Ecuador.
Ecuador UNESCO Map
Click markers to show information and photo.
World Heritage Sites in Ecuador
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ecuador
There are 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ecuador. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.
- City of Quito
- Historic Centre of Santa Ana de los Ríos de Cuenca
- Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System
- Galápagos Islands
- Sangay National Park
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ecuador are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.
City of Quito
The City of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the capital city of Ecuador. It is one of the largest and best-preserved historic centers in the Americas, with a mix of Spanish, Italian, Moorish, Flemish, and indigenous architectural styles. The city’s well-preserved colonial-era buildings, including churches, monasteries, and plazas, showcase the fusion of European and indigenous styles that defined the city during the 16th and 17th centuries. The historic center is also home to the first astronomical observatory in South America and a system of underground tunnels used for hydraulic purposes during the colonial period. The City of Quito is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and architecture of South America.
Historic Centre of Santa Ana de los Ríos de Cuenca
Is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Cuenca, Ecuador. The historic center is a well-preserved example of a colonial Latin American city, with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and beautiful churches dating back to the 16th century. The city was founded in 1557 and played an essential role in colonizing South America. The most notable landmarks in the historic center include the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the Church of El Sagrario, and the Church of San Francisco. The Historic Centre of Santa Ana de los Ríos de Cuenca is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture.
Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System
Is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Ecuador. It is a network of roads and trails built by the Incas and other Andean cultures, covering over 30,000 kilometers and stretching through six countries in South America. The road system was used for transportation, trade, communication, and defense and was a vital part of the cultural exchange and integration between the different Andean communities. The roads feature impressive engineering feats, such as suspension bridges and tunnels, and are surrounded by stunning landscapes that showcase the Andes’ diverse ecological and cultural regions. Qhapaq Ñan is an important reminder of the ingenuity and skill of the Andean peoples and their contributions to the development of South America.
Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands is a UNESCO World Heritage site located off the coast of Ecuador. The islands are famous for their unique and diverse wildlife, which inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. The islands are home to many species found nowhere else, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. Visitors can explore the islands’ volcanic landscapes, swim with sea lions, and snorkel among colorful fish and coral reefs. The Galápagos Islands are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature and wildlife.
Sangay National Park
Sangay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in central Ecuador’s Andes Mountains. The park is home to diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, high-altitude grasslands, and snow-capped peaks. It is also home to several active volcanoes, including Sangay, Tungurahua, and El Altar. The park is prime for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, and birdwatching. Visitors can spot various wildlife, including spectacled bears, mountain tapirs, and Andean condors. The park is also home to several indigenous communities, who have inhabited the area for thousands of years.
Ecuador UNESCO tentative list
- Parque Nacional Machalilla
- Bosque petrificado de Puyango
- Zaruma ciudad minera
- Cultural Itinerary of Ecuador’s Trans-Andean Train
- Mayo Chinchipe – Marañón archaeological landscape
Tours in Ecuador
Our choices of tours in Ecuador are divided into thematic features such as the Galápagos Islands, Quito, and the Cotopaxi National Park Experience.