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.
The Ecuadorian province of Orellana lies along the northeastern border and is located very close to the Amazon rainforests, near the confluence of the Coca and Napo Rivers. It serves as an ideal base for jungle adventures and discovering the cultures of the indigenous people - the Taguareis, Kichwa, and Sachas tribes live here, some in their native forests. Start by visiting the Museo Arqueologico Centro Cultural Orellana to gain insight into thousands of years of forest culture. There are also wonderful traditional villages to explore. Primary attractions include the Yasuni National Park, the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, and the Sumaco Napo-Galeras National Park. The province’s name and capital city, Puerto Francisco de Orellana, was inspired by the El Dorado explorer Francisco de Orellana. From Orellano, visitors can take boats to Peru, Colombia, and Brazil.
As previously described
