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.
San Cristóbal is the easternmost island in the Galapagos archipelago. The island offers unlimited opportunities for nature enthusiasts to witness some unique spectacular natural wonders. As the administrative center of the Galapagos, the island boasts some wonderful shopping and dining opportunities as well as one of the local airports. Take a break from snorkeling and hiking to enjoy the best of Ecuadorian cuisine and to admire some of the exquisite artwork and designs of local artisans. Must see attraction include: the Galapaguera Tortoise Reserve; the Interpretation Center which provides important background information on the Galapagos; and Puerto Grande, a protected cove on the north-western side of the island which boasts a magnificent white sandy beach - ideal for a peaceful walk, swimming and photographic opportunities.
The island of Santa Cruz is home to Puerto Ayora, the largest and most developed town in the Galapagos. While many visitors use this island as merely a springboard for the more remote surrounding islands, those who dig a little deeper will discover that this island has plenty to offer. With numerous visitor sites, easily accessible beaches and remote highlands in the interior, Santa Cruz makes an excellent base for adventurous activities. The most popular attraction is undoubtedly the Charles Darwin Station which offers an impressive turtle breeding area and interesting information about the conservation of the unique biosphere of the Galapagos. Don’t miss the opportunity to swim or snorkel at one of the island’s magnificent beaches where you will find white sand and turquoise waters as well as an abundance of fascinating wildlife including pelicans, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas.
Resting in the western part of the Galapagos archipelago, Isabela Island is larger than all of the rest of the islands combined. Comprising six volcanoes, the island is about 120 km long and covers 4,585 square kilometres. Travellers who make the effort to this visit this remote location will be richly rewarded with a profusion of fascinating wildlife including large numbers of flamingos, typically spotted at the lagoon in town or along the boardwalk to the impressive Giant Tortoise Breeding Center. Don’t miss Concha de Perla, a natural pool which is ideal for snorkelling and interacting with sea lions; Las Tintoreras, a lagoon where white tip sharks come to rest; and Los Tuneles, where you'll find an abundance of turtles, rays, and fish swimming in the canals and pools.
