Do you want to show your private paradise to the World?

(and create some extra income)

Rural Tourism in Ecuador is in its initial stages. There is a growing interest from urban Ecuadorians to go out to Nature and connect with different cultures.

How to safely get into the world of tourism

Unlike many Ecuadorians in rural areas, city dwellers—and especially foreigners—often feel a deep curiosity about life on the land. And when it’s someone from another country running a farm? That story becomes even more compelling.
You don't need to be a commercial farm to welcome visitors. If you grow food for your own table, you already have a story worth sharing. If your space is natural, peaceful, and beautiful, people will want to experience it.
We can help you evaluate whether anything is missing on your property to receive guests comfortably and safely. My rule of thumb is simple: the less industrialized your space is, and the closer it feels to nature, the more appealing it becomes. That said, it’s always nice to have a quiet area with hammocks and a pleasant view—just enough to let people rest and take in the surroundings.
You’ll always be free to decide how often you open your doors—whether daily, twice a week, once a month, or only for special occasions. You’ll also have full control over requiring advance reservations and limiting the number of visitors at any one time.
You’ll choose whether or not to include food and beverages. Offering meals can bring in more income, but it also means more work, so only do it if you’re truly willing.
If you have empty rooms, consider offering overnight stays. Remember, you don’t need to build anything new or add artificial attractions. You don’t need a giant swing or a swimming pool. These things don’t hurt if you already have them, but in rural tourism, less is truly more.
Still, even minimally structured activities—like a walk to the river for a swim, a short explanation of your water treatment system, or a visit to your organic garden—can create meaningful experiences that guests remember.
Social media now allows you as a host to connect directly with the right people for just a few dollars. If you create a simple video that captures the energy and spirit of your place, it will naturally resonate with those who are looking for exactly what you offer, and with those who will resonate with you.
If safety is a concern, remember that in Ecuador, crime is highly focalized in specific urban areas and social contexts. Until very recently, Ecuador was widely regarded as one of the safest countries in Latin America, and most Ecuadorians are kind, peaceful people who deeply value tranquility and community.
Rural areas like Loja, Azuay, and Vilcabamba are known for their calm atmosphere, strong local bonds, and warm hospitality—making them ideal places to share your land with mindful travelers.
And finally, keep in mind that visitors can buy your extra produce or handmade goods. Peopke who do tourism usually have money to spend --and they appreciate. taking home something real from their visit.

variety of vegetables display with Certified Organic signage

Tools to attract visitors

Social media and a website are tools to attract visitors. I think the combination of a good video with some advertising in social media is a great combination.

1. Campaigns that work—even at $5 a week

Social media platforms now let you reach exactly the kind of traveler you want: someone who values nature, authenticity, and real human connection. It’s not about showing your place to everyone. It’s about reaching the few who will truly appreciate it. That focus means less wasted money—and better results.

2. Search Engine Optimization

If you have a website, you can turn Google into a quiet but steady source of visitors. With basic SEO—clear descriptions, local keywords, and real photos—your property can appear when people search for things like “rural stay near Vilcabamba” or “farm experience in Loja.” No magic. Just visibility.

3. Show the real experience—nothing more, nothing less

Your online presence should reflect what guests will actually find. Use natural lighting, real moments, and clear, simple words. Avoid filters, special effects, or staged perfection. Authentic photos, honest videos, and transparent descriptions build trust faster than any polished ad ever could.

a building with a sign on the front of it

About me

I’m Riki Cevallos—a hotel owner for 15 years in Guayaquil, a communications specialist in tourism, and an expert in digital marketing and audiovisual content creation.

I served as Director of TransPort, Ecuador’s leading technical tourism magazine, as well as Viajero VIP and Revista do Turagente, specialized travel publications for Spanish-speaking Latin America and Brazil. I was also a founding partner of Colibrí, a digital marketing agency focused exclusively on tourism.

For over 10 years, I’ve been writing about and promoting agroecology. Today, I want to help passionate people who own beautiful properties but don’t know how to share them with the world.

See my full bio here.