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.
Resting on the west bank of the Guayas River, Guayaquil is the largest and most populous city in Ecuador is also its main port and economic hub. It has also carved a rich identity for itself with a number of urban renewal projects that have transformed it into an extremely appealing destination. While visitors can still enjoy the colonial grandeur of sites like the Guayaquil Metropolitan Cathedral and the historic Las Peñas quarter, the city’s modern offerings include The Malecon, a bustling 2.5km riverfront walkway and the Museo Antropologico y de Arte Contemporaneo – a must for art lovers. The protected area of Santay Island offers a taste of local village life. Guayaquil is also the departure point for trips to the Galápagos Islands.
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, lies on the slopes of the Andes’ mighty Pichincha volcano in the Guayllabamba river basin. The city’s Old Town is its main attraction - one of the most well preserved in Latin America and the first-ever UNESCO heritage site. Wander among ancient, colourful streets; pop into glorious historic churches; or spend an afternoon browsing the vibrant Mercado (markets) and learning about the unique, traditional Ecuadorian Sierra culture. Other bucket list items in Quito include a visit to the impressive Casa Museo Guayasamín; the Museo de la Presidencia which provides insight into Ecuador’s history; and a climb up the iconic towers of the Basilica. Numerous gorgeous public parks and a thriving and exciting culinary scene complete the package.
The picturesque rural parish of Angochagua lies in Ecuador’s northern Andes, where high-mountain landscapes, páramo, and Andean forest create a dramatic setting for hiking, wildlife, and cultural experiences. Much of the surrounding countryside is characterised by steep volcanic terrain, springs and waterfalls, including the Cóndor Yaku waterfall, reached by a trail through high-montane forest. Wildlife is another draw, with Andean condors soaring above the mountains and the Condor Huasi Project at Hacienda Zuleta working to conserve and reintroduce the threatened birds. The area also has a remarkable archaeological heritage, particularly the large Caranqui ramp-mound complex at Hacienda Zuleta, dating to the culture's Late Period. Visitors can round out their experience by meeting local Kichwa communities and discovering their distinctive embroidery, traditional cuisine, music and rural way of life.
