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.
Established in 1975 as a protected area, Cotopaxi National Park – situated about 50km southeast of the capital Quito – represents the most impressive of what Ecuador has to offer by way of animals and birds, including the majestic Andean condor, as well as valleys, lakes and a number of volcanoes. Center stage is occupied by the snow-laden Cotopaxi volcano that rises to 5 890m – a favorite with mountaineers. An excursion might have you spying puma, the rare Andean spectacled bear, Andean fox or orange-headed caracara, which is endemic in the area. The ruins of Incan forts and other ancient stone ruins can be seen surrounding Santo Domingo Lake. A number of haciendas outside the park offer accommodation.
The small, central-Ecuadorian town of Banos de Agua Santa (‘Baths of Holy Water’) lies in the verdant foothills of the Tungurahua volcano. Adventure lovers can make the most of this idyllic setting by taking a waterfall tour; going paragliding, bridge jumping or white-water rafting. Those looking for views with a hint of danger can try a ride on the ‘Swing at the End of The World’, to sail out over the mountainside and see unobstructed views of the (possibly erupting) volcano. For the less bold, a visit to the mineral-rich hot springs will do nicely, followed by a stroll along the town’s red, blue and yellow pavement and a sampling of the local fare at one of the many welcoming eateries. Several beautiful colourfully-lit cathedrals add a sense of wonder to the town at night.
Set in the middle of Ecuador, between a triangle of nature reserves in the country’s Amazonian region, Napo Province offers its visitors an incredible natural paradise. In Papallacta, relax in famous, wonderful natural hot springs, or go searching for orchids and hummingbirds. In Tena, explore the spectacular Jumandi Caves and swim the pool beneath, go chocolate tasting at the Kallari Chocolate Farm, and work it off with watersports on the Jatunyacu River. Take a shower in magnificent waterfalls in Misahualli, or learn about (and follow the trail behind) the legend of the Treasure of the Llanganates at the Llanganates National Park. At the Sumaco Napo-Galeras National Park, see some 280 birds species, and look for glimpses of jaguars and brown-toed sloths. Meet locals in the communities of Oyacachi and Paquiestancia, and watch Andean condors fly overhead, in the Cayambe-Coca National Park.
Perched high up in the spectacularly scenic Andes Mountain Range, the small town of Papallacta is known for its breathtaking setting and high-altitude hot springs. The undeniable highlights of this town are tucked away in the surrounding landscape. They include the beautiful Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve, boasting numerous glistening lakes and scenic trails and the luxurious therapeutic hot springs at the Termas de Papallacta Spa and Resort, which offer over three-dozen sparkling pools. Nature lovers and adventure seekers alike can discover the beautiful surrounding valleys, explore the lush jungle trails, and soak in the steaming open-air baths with the majestic Andean mountains as a backdrop.
