Ecuador

It’s an exciting time to be gay in Ecuador. Though it’s a conservative, Catholic-majority nation, the millennial attitude has evolved. Most notably, in June 2019, same-sex marriage became legal. Ecuador was one of the first nations to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and they’ve even outlawed conversion therapy. Interestingly, same-sex couples can’t adopt children but single gay people can…though straight singles get preferential treatment. There’s progress to be made but Ecuador is definitely a leading light in South America.

Gay Activity: Legal
Lesbian Activity: Legal
Same-Sex Marriage: Legal
Right to Change Gender: Legal
Same-Sex Adoption: Only legal for singles
LGBT Discrimination: Illegal

Though you’re legally protected from discrimination, you’re not immune from old-fashioned machismo and religious intolerance. While things are progressing quickly remember that our big gay welcome is new and unevenly distributed here. Be aware when you’re out, especially if by yourself: beware of drinks from strangers, and consider hailing a ride with Uber or Lyft after dark. That said, the nightlife is epic and Ecuador is a great place to discover.

Gay Villages

Solid communities have developed in both the capital of Quito, and Guayaquil – the gateway city to the Galapagos Islands. The LGBT community may keep a low profile during the day but they know how to blow their hair back once the sun goes down. With the gay scene being so young, many skip the bars and head straight for the clubs, late into the night. Consider a disco nap if you’re up for the challenge. Just don’t refer to the crowd as whippersnappers.

Pride Festivals/Events

Quito Pride: Annually in June
Quito Gay Film Festival: Annually in November
Guayaquil Pride: Annually in June

Best Gay Bars

Quito: Om Buda Lounge (Gay-Welcoming Lounge)
Quito: Pravda (Karaoke Bar & Disco)
Quito: Tercer Milenio (Nightclub)
Quito: Dionisios (Drag, Cabaret and Comedy)

Best Lesbian Bars

Quito: Radar is a gay club that hosts ladies-only nights, but you’ll also feel welcome in most other gay establishments.

5. The Quilotoa Loop
If you’re a fan of hiking, this multi-day trail takes you through the Andes Mountains, beginning and ending at a stunning crater lake.

4. Guayaquil
The second largest city in Ecuador is coming into its own. It even boasts a small gay scene and pride festival.

3. Quito & La Floresta
Off the tourist path in Quito lies this up-and-coming neighbourhood that gives you an authentic taste of life in Ecuador’s capital city.

2. Isla de la Plata – Silver Island
If time or budget is limited and you can’t make it to the Galapagos, this island is just as spectacular, but without the crowds and extravagant prices.

1. The Galapagos Islands
We’ve planned an entire cruise around this archipelago. The islands’ isolation has allowed biodiversity to flourish here in a totally magnificent way.