As global travel recovers, Ecuador positions itself as Latin America’s premier hub for business events, taking advantage of its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and rich cultural offerings. With business tourism, particularly the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector, experiencing significant growth—projected to surge by 7% annually from 2023 to 2032—Ecuador’s appeal as a destination for corporate events has never been more vital.
At the geographical heart of the world, Ecuador offers a unique blend of business convenience and unforgettable experiences. Hosting international MICE events has become a core part of Ecuador’s tourism strategy, leveraging its key cities, Quito and Guayaquil, and their accessibility, modern infrastructure, and cultural charm to attract global businesses and professional organizations.
Quito: Historic Charm Meets Modern Business Conveniences
Copia de ANDES PICHINCHA QUITO CENTRO.
Quito, the oldest capital in South America, holds immense historical significance and offers a blend of ancient and modern architecture that enhances its appeal to business travellers. Nestled in the Andes at 9,350 feet, the city’s breathtaking scenery and status as a UNESCO World Heritage site provide an unparalleled backdrop for corporate events.
Quito’s hospitality infrastructure is impressive for MICE planners. The Quito Metropolitan Convention Center (CCMQ) is one of Latin America’s largest and most advanced facilities. Located near the city’s international airport and business districts, the CCMQ spans over 16,000 square meters of indoor space and features modern exhibition halls, meeting rooms, and auditoriums. Certified in Accessibility and Universal Design, this venue is designed to accommodate diverse events while maintaining inclusivity for all attendees.
Top hotels like the JW Marriott Hotel Quito and Swissôtel Quito complement the city’s venue offerings, catering to large-scale conferences with the capacity to host thousands of participants. The JW Marriott boasts over 1,800 attendees across 11 meeting rooms, while Swissôtel can host more than 3,000 guests across 17 conference spaces. These luxurious venues offer attendees premium meeting spaces and high-end accommodations, making Quito an attractive business choice.
Beyond business, Quito offers visitors various leisure options, from exploring its colonial-era architecture to experiencing its world-class dining. Local Andean cuisine, paired with an active nightlife scene in neighbourhoods like La Floresta and Cumbayá, makes Quito a holistic destination for work and play. Adventurous groups can venture to the nearby Cotopaxi National Park or hike the Pichincha Volcano, immersing themselves in Ecuador’s natural wonders.
Guayaquil: A Coastal Economic Powerhouse
Sheraton Guayaquil Meeting Room.
While Quito draws visitors with its historical and cultural allure, Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city and primary economic engine, is a modern business hub ideal for international events. Positioned along the Guayas River and home to the vibrant Malecón 2000 boardwalk, Guayaquil effortlessly merges natural beauty with cutting-edge urban development.
Guayaquil’s reputation as a top MICE destination has been solidified through multiple accolades, including being named South America’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination by the World Travel Awards for five consecutive years. The city’s Centro de Convenciones de Guayaquil Simon Bolivar (CCGSB) is one of the most versatile venues in the region, capable of hosting up to 500 people in its 68,000-square-foot exhibition space. Conveniently located near the airport, CCGSB has hosted over 6,000 events, cementing its status as a premier site for national and international gatherings.
Leading hotels like the Hilton Colón and the Sheraton Guayaquil enhance the city’s offerings with state-of-the-art meeting spaces accommodating thousands of attendees. The Hilton Colón boasts a capacity of 2,300 participants in 23 meeting rooms, making it a prime location for large-scale conferences. Meanwhile, the Sheraton offers a capacity of up to 2,689 guests across its various meeting spaces, including the city’s largest auditorium, capable of hosting 800 attendees.
Guayaquil also prides itself on being a technologically advanced city. Free internet access in key locations and a commitment to smart city development make it an appealing option for tech-forward events and international conferences requiring seamless digital connectivity.
Ecuador: The Perfect Blend of Business and Culture
Ecuador’s strategic location, modern amenities, and exceptional cultural offerings make it a standout destination for the global MICE market. Whether hosting large corporate conferences in Quito or international business meetings in Guayaquil, Ecuador is a top contender for companies looking to combine professional opportunities with cultural enrichment.
Ecuador’s ease of access is a key selling point for international travellers. With three major international airports—Quito, Guayaquil, and Manta—offering direct flights to 17 countries and six U.S. cities, including New York, Miami, and Atlanta, Ecuador is well connected to the world’s major business hubs. Moreover, Ecuador’s use of the U.S. dollar eliminates exchange rate concerns, making it a financially convenient option for U.S.-based businesses and professionals.
As Ecuador continues to invest in its MICE infrastructure, it solidifies its position as Latin America’s emerging hub for business tourism. The country’s blend of business, culture, and adventure ensures that meetings and events are productive and memorable experiences for all involved.
For more information on Ecuador’s MICE tourism and business travel offerings, visit www.ecuador.travel.
Written by: Bridget Gomez
