When you’re balancing cultures across continents, planning a wedding gets complicated fast. Between venue visits, menu tastings, florist meetings, and endless phone calls, your calendar fills up fast. And when one of you is Ecuadorian and the other comes from abroad, there is another layer to consider: the family and friends who will cross continents to celebrate with you.
For many of your guests, your wedding will be their first trip to Ecuador. Your wedding planner will take care of the celebration itself. At MY TOUR EC, we work alongside your planner as your destination partner, looking after everything your guests experience outside the ceremony.
Here are some of the most frequent questions couples must respond to their guests and our recommendations to help your guests make the most of their trip.
What do your guests know about Ecuador?
Probably less than you think. Some will picture tropical beaches, a few will know that Quito sits high in the Andes, and many have no idea how close they will be to the Galapagos. Emerging challenges in recent years have also left some guests with concerns, so it helps to share the facts early:
- Security. Like many countries, Ecuador has some specific areas travelers should avoid, mainly on parts of the coast. Our featured destinations, including Quito, Mindo, Cotopaxi, and the Galapagos, are outside them. Your guests’ safety is our priority, with airport pickups, private transport, certified guides, and a local team on call throughout their stay.
- Altitude. Quito sits at 2,850 meters (9,350 feet), so the high-altitude air can catch first-time visitors by surprise. Staying hydrated and a calm first evening are usually all it takes for guests to adjust and prepare for the fun.
- Weather. Ecuador is on the equator, so there are no clearly defined seasons. In Quito, you can experience all four seasons in one day. Dress in layers and always pack a light rain jacket.
- Currency. Ecuador uses the US dollar. Small bills and coins are handy, as $50 and $100 bills are rarely accepted.
- Entry requirements. Many nationalities can visit without a visa for short stays. Guests should check requirements regarding their country with the nearest Ecuadorian consulate and make sure their passport is valid for at least six months.
What do you want them to see?
Besides your wedding, the next best thing is how much your guests can discover in one short trip. Encourage them to add a few days before or after the celebration. It will make all the difference to their stay.
- Quito’s historic center: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with gilded colonial churches, plazas, and rooftop views. A private guided tour makes a perfect welcome activity.
- Middle of the World Monument: Stand on the equator line just north of Quito. A fun, easy outing for all ages.
- Mindo cloud forest: About two hours from Quito in the Chocó Andino, with butterfly houses, hummingbirds, and canopy zip lines.
- Otavalo: About two hours north of Quito, famous for its indigenous artisan market, lakes, and volcano hikes.
- Cotopaxi National Park: One of the world’s highest active volcanoes, with paramo walks, horseback riding, and historic haciendas to explore.
- Cuenca: The jewel of the southern Andes, known for its colonial architecture, crafts, and the Panama hat.
- The Amazon rainforest: Eco-lodges offer guided jungle walks, canoe trips, and incredible wildlife.
- The Galapagos Islands: A once-in-a-lifetime trip for many guests, and a favorite honeymoon extension for couples too.
Beyond sightseeing, think about moments that bring everyone together before and after the wedding. In our experience, nothing beats hosting a rooftop welcome cocktail, a thrilling night ride through Quito on a chiva (a traditional party bus), or dancing in the streets with Andean performers.
How long should they stay?
If guests are flying for many hours, encourage them to stay at least a week. Here is a simple guide to help them plan:
| Trip Length | What Fits | Best For |
| 4–5 days | Wedding weekend, Quito’s historic center, Middle of the World (Equator) | Guests with limited vacation time |
| 7–10 days | Add Otavalo, Cotopaxi, or 3 nights in the Amazon | Most international guests |
| 12–14 days | Add 4–5 days in the Galápagos, plus Cuenca | Guests making it their big trip of the year |
How far in advance should they book?
The earlier, the better. Send your save-the-dates 9 to 12 months ahead so guests can start planning. Guests interested in a Galápagos cruise or land tour should request it about 9 months in advance to secure the best itineraries. Amazon lodges are best booked 2 to 3 months ahead.
So, how can we help YOU help your guests?
- We start with your wedding planner. They share your vision of how you want to host your guests, and we translate it into what Ecuador can deliver.
- Tours and logistics for your wedding website. Guests can sign up for pre- and post-wedding tours, reserve hotels, book their transfers, and pay for services, all from your site.
- Focus on the guest journey. Airport transfers, guided visits in Quito, Mindo, and Cotopaxi, welcome receptions, and chivas, so you and your planner can focus on the big day.
Your guests travel with less stress, arrive on time and rested, and go home with memories of your wedding and Ecuador´s highlights. And you can focus on your celebration, enjoy time with your loved ones when they arrive, and relax knowing they are in good hands.
What our couples say
“All my international guests were fascinated with the tours and fell in love with Ecuador thanks to you and your team!” — Sofía & Nicolás López, Spain & Ecuador
“We hired MY TOUR EC before our wedding, and we are so glad we did! Everything, from the service to the activities, went well beyond our expectations. Our guests from the United States loved the hospitality and loved Ecuador. We can’t wait to use their services again. Thank you so much!” — Nicolás & Fiorella, USA & Ecuador
Planning an international wedding in Ecuador? Visit our Weddings & Celebrations page and schedule a call with us.
