Ecuador is a unique place to visit.
Nowhere else is it possible to wake up on the scorching pacific coast,
drive through snow-capped Andes and reach the Amazon rainforest basin by sundown.
Although it is a small country these wildly different terrains have more
than enough activities to keep visitors occupied for months.
It's one of the world's most bio diverse countries with over 25,000 species
of plants (more than the total found in the whole of North America)
and 1600 species of birds. Not forgetting that natural wonders that are
the Galapagos Islands, where Charles Darwin developed his theory of Evolution by natural selection.
Mainland Ecuador is divided into three geographically distinct regions:
coast, jungle and highlands. On the coast enjoy the water front of the Malecon
in Guayaquil which has been completely regenerated and then experience
the wide-variety of beaches. From the high-class, high-rise resorts of
Salinas to the laid-back surfer hangouts of Montaņita and Canoa and the
unspoilt beaches of Parque Nacional Machalilla, there are resorts to suit everyone.
Whilst in the Jungle make excursions deep into the unforgettable wilderness
of primary jungle and live with indigenous communities. Or you can just enjoy
the excellent white water rafting along the Rio Napo a tributary of the Amazon in Tena.
The most popular region is the highlands where one can enjoy the sights of the capital
city Quito and its UNESCO World Heritage site listed 'Old town'. One can also take endless
photos of oneself with a leg in each hemisphere at the Mitad Del Mundo monument.
South of Quito, one can attempt to climb the highest active volcano in the world,
Volcan Cotopaxi and then relax from the exhausting climb in the town of Baņos and journey
on the famous Nariz Del Diablo train ride.
Otavalo is a must to any visit to Ecuador. The town is nestled between the extinct volcanic
peaks of Imbabura and Cotacachi and hosts the best market in the whole of South America.
Haggle for a wide range of handicrafts, clothing, hammocks, weavings, carvings, jewellery,
ceramics and even fake shrunken heads. If shopping is not a pastime explore the beautiful
scenery of Imbabura, enjoying horse-back riding and hiking as well as looking out for the
famous Condor, the symbol of Ecuador.
The Galapagos Islands are 600 miles west of the Ecuadorian coast and make you wish that
we had evolved to have eyes in the back of our heads due to the marvelous array of wildlife
on offer. From giant tortoises to marine iguanas, sea lions to sharks and blue-footed boobies
to magnificent frigate birds, it's hard to know which way to turn.
Ecuador really is a unique destination and it is easy to see why tourism in the country is
increasing at an exponential rate. One thing is guaranteed in Ecuador; your holiday will be truly
unforgettable! Contact us now to help you plan your holiday!