Quito Tourism: Chocó Andino as one of the best destinations to visit in 2026

This international recognition has been replicated and analyzed by specialized and regional media such as EKO Negocios, La Hora and various tourism analysis platforms that monitor the main global travel trends.

It represents the result of the sustained work of the Municipality of the Metropolitan District of Quito, through the management of the Mayor of Quito, who has promoted public policies aimed at environmental conservation, the recovery and protection of ravines, the restoration of ecosystems and the strengthening of the Metropolitan Subsystem of Protected Natural Areas.

Thanks to this vision, forests, water sources, flora and fauna essential for the environmental balance of the city and the region are protected, consolidating the Andean Chocó as a competitive, responsible destination deserving of international recognition.

The favorite destination for tourists in 2026, why choose it

Globally Important Biodiversity:
The Andean Chocó is part of one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. Its cloud forests are home to thousands of species of plants, birds, amphibians, and mammals, many of them endemic. This natural wealth was one of the main reasons cited by The Wall Street Journal for including the region in its global ranking.

The area also has UNESCO recognition as a Biosphere Reserve, which confirms its environmental value and its commitment to long-term conservation.

In this context, it is key to highlight that the Metropolitan District of Quito concentrates approximately 83% of this biological diversity, a figure that reaffirms the enormous responsibility and firm commitment of the city to the protection of strategic ecosystems of global relevance.

Nature and adventure tourism
The Andean Chocó offers a wide and diverse range of experiences linked to nature and adventure tourism:

Hiking in cloud forests and protected areas
Bird and wildlife watching
Waterfalls, rivers and natural viewpoints
Mountain biking and tours along rural routes
Community experiences and visits to agroecological farms
This type of offer responds directly to a global trend that prioritizes authentic contact with nature, outdoor activities and low environmental impact experiences.

Proximity and Accessibility:
Less than two hours from Quito, the Andean Chocó combines excellent accessibility with a feeling of total immersion in nature. This proximity, along with the quality of the natural environment, makes it a highly valued destination for national and international travelers seeking authentic experiences, far removed from mass tourism.

Trends and figures in nature and adventure tourism

Several international studies support the growing interest in destinations with the characteristics of the Andean Chocó:

Approximately 70% of international travelers prefer destinations that offer sustainable and environmentally responsible experiences.
Between 45% and 50% of tourists prioritize nature, wildlife, or protected area destinations when planning their trips.
More than 60% of travelers incorporate at least one adventure or outdoor activity into their vacations.
Nature and adventure tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments, surpassing traditional urban tourism.
These figures explain why biodiverse, well-preserved regions with a community-based approach are gaining prominence in international rankings and sustainable tourism awards.

Quito has it all, and so does its Biosphere Reserve

The Andean Chocó offers visitors:

Cloud forest landscapes, rivers, and waterfalls;
high diversity of flora and fauna observable year-round;
low-impact activities;
local communities committed to sustainable tourism;
local gastronomy and agroecological products;
tranquility and authentic experiences, far from mass tourism
. The Andean Chocó represents the kind of destination that defines the tourism of the future: well-preserved nature, authentic experiences, responsible adventure, and strong community involvement. Its inclusion by The Wall Street Journal among the best destinations to visit in 2026 not only recognizes its extraordinary natural value but also highlights Quito's institutional commitment to sustainability, conservation, and the responsible management of its natural heritage—key factors in making it an award-winning and globally preferred destination.

Source: Quito Tourism.