Neighbouring Colombia and Peru, Ecuador is a relatively small country that nevertheless offers an enticing array of scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife species and interesting cities. Dense Amazon rainforest, towering Andean mountain peaks, palm-fringed Pacific Coast beaches and fascinating historical sites are all part and parcel of Ecuador’s prolific charms. The former Inca town of Cuenca is the nation’s third-largest city and a Unesco World Heritage Site. This alluring city, with its cobbled streets, beautiful architecture and photogenic plazas, boasts a huge variety of museums and art galleries. The vibrant capital city of Quito is also worth a visit. Arguably the most dazzling jewel in Ecuador’s crown is the Galapagos Archipelago in the Pacific, about 1000 kilometres west of the mainland. Their magnificent, pristine landscapes and prolific wildlife, which inspired Charles Darwin, have made this cluster of islands a world-famous travel destination.
Running along most of the length of the country, Ecuador’s subtropical Cloud Forest is a wonderland of phenomenal nature, thrilling adventure sports, and fascinating traditional villages. Set at around 2000 metres above sea level, the forest lives up to its name with sky-scraping trees decorated with brightly coloured orchids and bromeliads. It boasts more than 20 percent of the world’s bird species, including 35 species of hummingbirds, among other showstoppers. Animal lovers may catch glimpses of the endangered spectacled bear, as well as puma, Andean coati, and tayra. Activities on offer include sky-biking - pedalling over the canopies - as well as zip lining, mountain biking, rappelling down waterfalls, horse riding, and cable car rides. Discover the area’s unique culture in the village of Mindo, or visit one of the local chocolate farms.
