If you're toying with the idea of trekking out on some of the amazing hiking opportunities in Ecuador, but don't really know where to start, you should head into Chugchilán. This small town is built into the mountainside and overlooks the Río Toachi Canyon. Here you'll find hiking, horse riding in the cloud forests and visits to the cheese factory—with samples, yum!—and guides that can help you get to nearly anywhere in this area. There are three excellent lodgings available that have private rooms with showers and all serve yummy, healthy vegetarian meals.