Ecuador wildlife: a complete guide

Ecuador is packed with diverse ecosystems, all within a country smaller than Nevada. With the misty Andes mountains and the dense Amazon rainforest to the sun-soaked Pacific coast and the one-of-a-kind Galápagos Islands, there’s a lot to explore. Here’s our guide to Ecuador wildlife. 
 

Your guide to see wildlife in Ecuador

Ecuador takes its environment seriously. It was the first country to enshrine the rights of nature in its constitution, giving ecosystems legal protection. Programs like Socio Bosque, which pay communities to preserve forests, show how sustainability can work on the ground. If it’s your first time here, check out our sample Ecuador itinerary — it’s packed with travel tips and takes in some of the best places to visit in Ecuador.

What animals can you see?

Ecuador hosts one of the planet's most diverse collections of wildlife, with species adapted to its four distinct ecological regions. The Amazon Basin teems with countless insect species, including 4,500 butterfly varieties, many still being discovered by scientists. Ecuador attracts birdwatchers who can spot hundreds of species in a single day. 

Mammals 

Ecuador is home to an impressive range of mammals, from tiny pocket mice to humpback whales that pass by its Pacific coast during migration season. In the Amazon, you’ve got rare species like jaguars and giant otters, while the cloud forests are one of the few places you might spot a spectacled bear—the only bear species in South America. Up in the Andes, mammals like llamas and vicuñas have adapted to life at high altitudes. A lot of Ecuador’s mammals are nocturnal, so if you want to see them, a guided night walk is your best bet. And while the big animals tend to get all the attention, smaller species like bats—more than 170 kinds—are just as important. 

Kinkajou

The kinkajou is a honey-loving mammal that often gets mistaken for a primate but is actually related to raccoons. These nocturnal creatures live in Ecuador's rainforests and are exceptional climbers, spending almost all of their time in the trees. With their golden-brown fur, prehensile tails, and long tongues, kinkajous are built for life in the canopy, where they play a vital role in seed dispersal. Though they’re hard to spot due to their nighttime habits, joining a night tour in Cuyabeno or Yasuní can increase your chances.
 

Puma

Known as mountain lions or cougars, pumas are Ecuador's second-largest cat and can be found in nearly every ecosystem, from coastal forests to Andean highlands. These stealthy predators hunt primarily for deer and small mammals but will occasionally go after domesticated livestock. Pumas are crucial apex predators that help keep prey populations in check. They generally avoid human contact, but signs of their presence—like tracks, scat, or claw marks—can be spotted in places like Podocarpus National Park and Antisana Ecological Reserve. Patience is key if you want to catch a glimpse.

Vicuña

The vicuña, South America's smallest camelid, is a graceful creature native to Ecuador’s southern Andean páramos. Known for its fine wool—once so prized it nearly drove the species to extinction—the vicuña is now thriving thanks to conservation efforts. These cinnamon-colored animals are well adapted to the harsh high-altitude environment, with blood that carries more oxygen and split lips (a bit like a rabbits) that allow them to graze sustainably. Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve is one of the best places to see vicuñas, as around 7,000 roam freely there.
 

Golden-mantled tamarin

With its golden mane and black body, the golden-mantled tamarin stands out in Ecuador’s Amazon basin. These small primates live in tight-knit family groups and are known for their agility in the midstory of the rainforest. They use specialized claws to cling to tree trunks as they search for fruits, insects, and tree sap. Unfortunately, golden-mantled tamarins are facing conservation challenges due to habitat loss and the exotic pet trade. To spot them, head to protected areas like Yasuní National Park or Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, where early mornings are the best time to catch them foraging.

Amazonian tapir

Ecuador’s largest native land mammal, the Amazonian tapir, is a fascinating creature that’s remained largely unchanged for millions of years. These herbivores can weigh up to 550 pounds and have a distinctive prehensile snout that they use to grab vegetation. Tapirs are stealthy animals that prefer to stay near rivers and streams, where they feed on aquatic plants. As “gardeners of the forest,” they play a key role in dispersing seeds. To catch a glimpse of a tapir, visit mineral licks at reserves like Cuyabeno during dawn or dusk. 

Three-toed Sloth

Spending nearly all its time hanging upside down in trees, the sloth moves so slowly that algae grows on its fur, helping it blend in with the surroundings. This slow metabolism allows it to survive on a low-energy diet of leaves. Sloths only come down from the trees once a week to defecate, making this a dangerous but necessary journey. Spotting one can be tricky, but with a trained eye, you can find them in places like Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve or around Tena, where their stillness makes them hard to miss.

Birds

Ecuador may be compact in size, but it’s home to over 1,600 bird species—almost double the number found across all of North America. This incredible bird diversity comes from Ecuador’s varied geography, which spans four distinct ecosystems: coastal lowlands, Andean highlands, the Amazon rainforest, and the Galápagos Islands. Each region hosts its own specialized bird species.

Andean condor

The Andean condor, Ecuador’s national bird, holds the title of the largest flying bird in the world by wingspan. Soaring through the Andes with a wingspan that can stretch up to 10 feet, these majestic birds play an essential ecological role by scavenging carrion, preventing disease spread. With their sleek black feathers and striking white neck ruffs, condors can live up to 70 years but breed slowly, laying just one egg every two years. Deeply ingrained in Andean culture, they symbolize power and freedom. Spotting one of these incredible birds soaring over Ecuador’s dramatic mountains is a rare and unforgettable experience
 

Blue-footed booby

The blue-footed booby is probably one of the most recognizable birds in Ecuador, thanks to its bright blue feet. Males perform a high-stepping dance to impress potential mates, and the bluer their feet, the healthier they are. These birds are mostly found in the Galápagos Islands and are known for their remarkable diving skills. They plunge into the ocean from heights of up to 80 feet, diving with precision to catch fish. Their name comes from the Spanish word "bobo," which means "clown" or “fool”, due to their awkward movements on land

Waved albatross

The waved albatross is the largest seabird in Ecuador, with a wingspan reaching up to 8 feet. These birds breed almost exclusively on Española Island in the Galápagos, and their survival depends on this location. They can fly thousands of miles without touching land, using wind currents to stay aloft. Their courtship rituals are fascinating—males and females engage in a series of bill clacking and skyward pointing to strengthen their bond. The species faces serious threats from longline fishing and plastic pollution. Watching their courtship or seeing them glide across the ocean is truly a unique Ecuador wildlife experience.
 

Flightless cormorant

Found only in the Galápagos Islands, the flightless cormorant is an incredible example of evolution in action. This bird has lost its ability to fly due to its predator-free environment, and instead, it has adapted to become a powerful swimmer. With its short wings and powerful legs, it hunts fish, eels, and octopus underwater. These birds have striking turquoise eyes and hooked bills, and their feathers must be dried out after each dive. There are fewer than 2,000 of these cormorants left, which makes them a rare sight.

Banded aracari

The banded aracari is a small bird from the toucan family, easily recognized by its large, colorful bill and the black band across its bright yellow chest. These birds are social and can be seen in small groups moving through Ecuador’s forests. 

They help maintain the health of the forest by dispersing seeds as they feed on fruits and berries. One of the interesting things about aracaris is their cooperative breeding behavior—other family members pitch in to help raise the young. Despite their striking appearance, they can be tricky to spot, as they tend to stay high in the trees. Their large bills are functional in several ways, including helping them reach fruit, regulate body temperature, and attract mates.
 

Amphibians and reptiles 

Ecuador’s ecosystems are a haven for reptiles and amphibians, with a surprising variety to discover. From the Galápagos Islands to the Amazon rainforest, the country is home to over 600 species, with new ones being discovered regularly. 

Giant tortoises

The Galápagos giant tortoises (Chelonoidis niger) are probably the most famous reptiles in Ecuador. These huge tortoises can weigh up to 550 pounds and live over 100 years, making them some of the longest-living vertebrates. They were nearly wiped out by sailors who used them for food during long voyages, but today, there are about 15,000 tortoises across the islands. Each island’s population has adapted with unique shell shapes—some have domed shells suited for forests, while others have saddleback shells, which help them reach higher vegetation in drier areas. You can see these tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station or out in the wild, where conservation efforts have helped several subspecies bounce back from near extinction.

Marine iguana

The marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) is only found in the Galápagos and is the only lizard in the world that’s adapted to life in the sea. These remarkable creatures dive up to 30 feet underwater to feed on algae. They’ve also developed special glands that expel excess salt through their nostrils, which explains their unique "sneezing" behavior. To save energy in cold waters, marine iguanas can shrink their bodies by up to 20%. During mating season, males display colorful shades of turquoise to bright red. Despite their intimidating appearance, with spiky crests and sharp claws, they’re harmless to humans and show just how adaptable life can be in such isolated places.
 

Black caiman

The black caiman (Melanosuchus niger), South America’s largest predator, is found in the Amazon’s waterways in Ecuador. These creatures can grow up to 16 feet long. They were hunted nearly to extinction for their valuable skins, but now, thanks to conservation efforts, they’re making a comeback. They’re known for their powerful jaws, capable of crushing turtle shells, and for their red-glowing eyes, which you can spot during nocturnal boat tours. Female black caimans are especially interesting because they display strong maternal care, protecting their nests and even carrying their young to water

Tree frogs

Ecuador’s rainforests are home to over 200 species of tree frogs, and their nighttime calls are a familiar sound. One of the most fascinating species is the glass frog, which has translucent skin, allowing you to see its beating heart and blood flowing underneath. Another is the red-eyed tree frog, known for its bright colors, which it uses to startle predators as a defense mechanism. Many of these frogs have specialized toe pads that let them climb vertical surfaces, even walk across glass. Beyond their beauty, these frogs are important indicators of environmental health. Their sensitive skin reacts to pollution and ecological changes, so spotting them in the wild can tell you a lot about the state of the ecosystem. A nighttime walk in the forest is one of the best ways to see them.
 

Marine life

Ecuador’s position, sitting between the Pacific Ocean and the Amazon Basin, creates a variety of aquatic ecosystems. From the Galápagos Islands to the Amazon rainforest, Ecuador is home to a range of species you won’t find anywhere else. 

Galápagos sharks

Galápagos sharks patrol the waters around the Galápagos Islands, and while they can grow up to 12 feet long, they're not a species exclusive to Ecuador. Still, they’re an important part of the local ecosystem. These sharks play a role in keeping reefs healthy by controlling prey populations. They’re easily recognized by their rounded snouts and tall dorsal fins. Despite their intimidating look, attacks on humans are rare. However, because they reproduce slowly, they’re vulnerable to overfishing, so there’s a growing effort to protect them. 

Giant river otter

The giant river otter, known locally as "lobo del río," is the Amazon’s top predator in the water. These social creatures can grow up to 6 feet long and live in family groups, communicating through a variety of vocalizations. They build dens along riverbanks and are pretty playful and smart, eating up to 9 pounds of fish a day. While they were once hunted for their fur, they now face threats like habitat loss, mercury contamination from mining, and conflicts with fisheries
 

Amazonian manatee

The Amazonian manatee is a gentle giant in Ecuador’s river systems. These freshwater creatures never go into saltwater, and they spend their days eating aquatic plants that help maintain the water quality. They have poor eyesight, so they rely on sensitive bristles on their bodies to explore their surroundings. These peaceful herbivores move with surprising grace despite weighing up to 1,100 pounds. 

Amazon river dolphin

The Amazon river dolphin, or "boto," is one of the most fascinating creatures in Ecuador’s waterways. Known for their unique pink coloration, these dolphins stand out in the flooded forests of the Amazon. Their flexible necks and excellent sonar abilities help them navigate the submerged trees, making them exceptional at maneuvering through the river’s dense environment. The color of these dolphins changes over time, with males becoming more vibrant during mating season. Interestingly, they also have the ability to swim on their sides, which helps them navigate through narrow spaces in the river.

Green sea turtles

Green sea turtles, some of the oldest mariners in the world, can be found in Ecuador’s waters, particularly around the Galápagos Islands. These ancient reptiles are the only population in the eastern Pacific that both nest and feed within the same archipelago. As adults, they mostly eat seagrass, and they play an important role in maintaining the health of these underwater grass beds, which serve as nurseries for many marine species. One of the most interesting things about green sea turtles is their long migrations. They travel vast distances between feeding grounds and nesting beaches, sometimes crossing entire oceans.

Best places to see wildlife in Ecuador

Ecuador’s impressive biodiversity comes from its unique location and geographic features. Although the country stretches just 175 miles from north to south, it spans four distinct ecosystems thanks to the Andean mountain range that cuts it into different regions. This setup creates extreme altitude changes, from sea level to the towering heights of Chimborazo, which reaches over 20,000 feet. The mountains are home to ecosystems like the páramo, a high-altitude grassland that supports rare animals such as the spectacled bear and mountain tapir.

To the east, you'll find the Amazon Basin, one of the most pristine rainforests in the world, with an incredibly high density of species. Over on the western coast, the lowlands feature both tropical wet and dry forests, which play a crucial role for migrating bird species. If you're unsure where to start 

Yasuni National Park

Located in the Amazon basin, Yasuni National Park is one of the most biodiverse spots on the planet. It spans nearly a million hectares of untouched rainforest, and its ecosystems are home to more species of trees per hectare than all of North America combined. A trip down the park's waterways might bring encounters with pink river dolphins, giant otters, or black caimans. The forest canopy is alive with howler monkeys, sloths, and a staggering 500+ bird species. If you visit, indigenous guides provide an in-depth look at this unique environment, where new species are still being discovered.

Machalilla National Park

Machalilla National Park is home to Ecuador's last remaining coastal dry forest. It includes beaches, coral reefs, and the offshore Isla de la Plata, which is sometimes called "Poor Man’s Galápagos." Between June and October, humpback whales migrate here to breed, and you can see them breaching from shore or on boat tours. The island also has nesting blue-footed and red-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and albatrosses. In the park’s dry forest, howler monkeys and endemic birds have adapted to the seasonal droughts. The marine areas protect coral reefs where sea turtles and tropical fish live.
 

Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are Ecuador’s iconic treasure for wildlife lovers. These volcanic islands are famous for their fearless animals, like marine iguanas that sneeze salt and giant tortoises that can live for over 150 years. The surrounding waters are just as vibrant, home to hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and playful sea lions. The islands are perfect for those hoping to witness evolution in action—blue-footed boobies show off their mating dance, and flightless cormorants have adapted to a predator-free environment.

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

Cuyabeno is a network of lakes and flooded forests in Ecuador's northeastern Amazon, and it’s a great place to explore by canoe. You might spot freshwater dolphins, anacondas, or caimans while gliding through the water. There are also 10 species of monkeys swinging through the trees, and harpy eagles soaring overhead. Nighttime is a whole different world, with tree frogs, tarantulas, and perhaps an elusive ocelot or jaguar. The area is home to indigenous communities who share their knowledge of local plants and sustainable living practices.
 

Cajas National Park

Cajas National Park is located high in the Andes, featuring a landscape of jagged peaks, páramo grasslands, and glacier-formed lakes. The park's altitude, ranging from about 10,170 to 14,600 feet, provides a home to wildlife that has adapted to these harsh conditions. The spectacled bear, South America’s only bear species, roams here, along with Andean condors that soar through the sky with wingspans exceeding 10 feet. The park also hosts a variety of bird species, including the giant hummingbird and tufted tit-tyrant.

Mindo Cloud Forest

Just two hours from Quito, Mindo’s cloud forest is one of the best places in the world for birdwatching. Over 400 species of birds live here, including hummingbirds, tanagers, and the colorful cock-of-the-rock. Early mornings are the best time to hear the dawn chorus of birds. At night, the forest comes alive with creatures like kinkajous and olinguitos, a mammal species that was only identified in 2013. Mindo is also a great spot for adventure lovers who want to explore by hiking or ziplining. The community-based ecotourism here helps protect the area’s biodiversity while benefiting local communities.
 

Best time to visit for wildlife viewing in Ecuador

Ecuador's wildlife is diverse and accessible all year round.  Ecuador has two main seasons: the rainy season (December-May) and the dry season (June-November). The peak tourist season aligns with the northern hemisphere summer (June-September) and winter holidays (December-January), meaning more crowds and higher prices. The shoulder seasons (October-November and April-May) tend to be quieter with better deals, but the wildlife is still abundant. For a better look, see our guide to the best time to visit Ecuador.

January–February: Best for marine life and Amazon wildlife

This is the wet season in the Galapagos, and the warm waters during these months create great conditions for marine life. More food in the water attracts a variety of species, and you’ll see turtles nesting on the beaches and sea lions with their pups. If you're into snorkeling, this is a good time to catch some of the ocean's creatures up close—sea lions, manta rays, and colorful fish are common sights. 

In the Amazon, the rainy season causes forests to flood, and you can explore the area by canoe for a different view of the wildlife. You might spot pink river dolphins, birds in their breeding plumage, and monkeys gathering around fruiting trees. 

March–April: Best for bird watching and amphibians

As spring rolls in, moderate rainfall makes it a good time for birdwatching. Both migrating northern birds and local species are active during these months, and it is a great time to see the variety of birds that call Ecuador home. In the cloud forests, you’ll spot hummingbirds, tanagers, and the unique cock-of-the-rock performing their courtship dances. 

In the Amazon, the wet conditions are perfect for amphibians, so you’ll likely see frogs like poison dart frogs, glass frogs with their see-through skin, and tree frogs. If you venture out at night, you’ll hear frogs and see bioluminescent fungi lighting up the ground. The rain helps keep the vegetation lush, and the landscape often has a misty feel to it.

June–July: Best for whale watching and highland species

During the dry season, the coast is great for whale watching, especially as humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to mate and give birth in Ecuador's warmer waters. This is one of the best times to spot these gentle giants breaching, tail-slapping, and even singing. Coastal towns run whale-watching trips where you can catch these incredible moments. 

In the highlands, the dry weather makes it easier to spot animals like the spectacled bear, mountain tapir, and the Andean condor, the world’s largest flying bird with a wingspan up to 10 feet. The páramo ecosystems (high-altitude grasslands) also have unique plants like frailejones (giant relatives of sunflowers), which are well-suited to the harsh environment.

September–October: Best for reptiles and Galapagos unique species

In the dry season, reptiles are especially active, and this is the best time to see them. In the Galapagos, giant tortoises move from the highlands to the lowlands to find places to nest, and you’ll also see marine iguanas and lava lizards sunning themselves on rocks. This is a good time to spot the Galapagos penguin, the only penguin species found north of the equator, during their breeding season. 

If you're interested in Darwin's finches, you’ll see them in action during these months. On the mainland, the Amazon's lower rainfall brings animals to rivers and waterholes, which makes it easier to spot creatures like black caimans, river turtles, and a variety of birds. The drier conditions also make trails more accessible, so you can go deeper into the jungle for a better look at the wildlife.

How to experience wildlife responsibly

Ecuador’s biodiversity is something to be respected, and ethical tourism is key to protecting it. When visiting the Galápagos National Park, stick to the 2-meter distance rule from wildlife and avoid feeding animals, even if you are travelling to Ecuador with kids. Human food can throw off their natural diet and behaviors. If you’re heading to Yasuní National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, make sure to go with a certified guide who will help minimize your environmental impact.

Entrance fees—$100 for the Galápagos and $10 for mainland parks—go toward funding vital conservation efforts. For more eco-friendly interactions, use reef-safe sunscreen in marine areas, stay on marked trails to avoid disturbing habitats, and pick tour operators certified by groups like the Rainforest Alliance or Smart Voyager. You might also want to check out community-led reserves like Maquipucuna, where local indigenous guides not only share cultural insights but also help protect thousands of butterfly species and endangered spectacled bears through sustainable tourism that supports the local community.