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Named because of its location on the Equator, Ecuador has over
12 million people and one of the most varied topographies in all
of South America. The capital city of Quito, originally founded
by the Incas, sits at the base of Pichincha Volcano and the eastern
side of the country spills into the Amazon
Basin. The extraordinary life on the Galapagos
Islands that enchanted evolutionist Charles Darwin
can be found no where else on earth.
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| The
famous Otavalo Market occurs seven days a week.
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| Itineraries | | | Highlands and Islands | Quito, Otavalo, Galapagos
10 nights ~ from $3520 | | Ecuador, Galapagos, and Amazon | 3 night M/Y Coral cruise, 3 nights Kapawi Ecological Reserve
10 nights ~ from $2590 | | Peru, Ecuador and Galapagos Islands | Cuzco, Machu Picchu, Ecuador & 4 night Galapagos Islands cruise
11 nights ~ from $4953 | | Kapawi Jungle Lodge, Cuenca | Walk among colonial cities, ancient ruins, and wild animals in the deep Amazonian rainforest
8 nights ~ from $2049 | | Conserving Cloudforests and Traditions | Learn about conservation efforts in Maquipucuna, tour Otavalo and Cotopaxi Volcano
8 nights ~ from $1529 | | Forests of Ecuador | 4 nights rainforest, 3 nights cloudforest and 2 nights Highlands
12 nights ~ from $2329 | | Ecuador Circuit | Whirlwind tour through the major regions of Ecuador
10 nights ~ from $2629 |
Amazon:
These tropical lowlands in the east of Ecuador cover an area of
nearly 40% of the country. The rainforest is home to a wide range
of species, many of whom are yet to be discovered and named. Toucans,
parrots, caimans, freshwater dolphins and a hundred species of
butterflies and insects exist within an incredible bio-diversity
of plants. The complex system of waterways begins from the Andean
peaks to the west and flow down into the Amazon
Basin. Many of these rivers are navigable allowing visitors to
experience the depths of the primary forest. Luckily the tourism
infrastructure has been developed with a sensitivity to the delicate
environment with conservation in mind. Tours offer opportunities
to see the wildlife up close while respecting the territories
of the indigenous inhabitants like Shuar, Quechua, Cofanes and
Huaorani.
Ecuadorian
Highlands:
Over 6,500 feet above sea level surrounded by majestic mountain
ranges lie the Ecuadorian Highlands. These are a chain of fertile
valleys with unimaginable scenic beauty inhabited by kind people
with distinct customs and heritage. Dozens of small colorful villages
dot the mountains around Quito, which is located at 9,000 feet.
Mount Chimborazo
is the closest place to the sun on Earth at 20,697 feet and close
to the Equator in a country named for the Equator. Passing through
the Middle of the World brings you to the Indian markets of Otavalo,
renowned for its handicrafts. The market and many others through
the region offer wool textiles, fresh fruits and vegetables, ceramics,
wood carvings, embroidery, tools and native paintings.
South of
Quito is the Avenue of Volcanoes. Cotopaxi is the highest active
volcano on Earth. Each active mountain has its own wildlife
reserve and flora unique to the area.
Pacific
Coast:
Northwest of Guayaquil, you will find the most beautiful area
of the Ecuadorian coast. This is a tropical region made up of
a series of beaches and various types of virgin
ecosystems. Along these natural habitats you will find
small fishing villages and seafood delicacies so fresh they are
a must to try.
Machanilla
National Park is white sand beaches surrounded by primary dry
forest that is full of life and beauty. Rock formations look like
giant turtles. Outside the park by boat is La Isla de la Plata
(Silver Island), a beautiful wildlife sanctuary known as the Little
Galapagos. Masked boobies, seagulls and many other birds inhabit
this island which resembles the famous Galapagos Islands further
west. July to September is a must for whale watchers for mating
season dances.
Cuenca:
Cuenca, at 8,364 feet above sea level, is the only city in the
world crossed by 4 rivers: Tomebamba, Yanuncay, Tarqui and Machangara.
The city is suspended in time. Colonial houses and colorful balconies
combine with Spanish red tile roofs, cobblestone streets, heavy
wood-carved doors and Moorish domes to lend an ancient charm.
Founded in 1557, there is much more to the city than history,
as Cuenca is a center of handicrafts such as straw hats, silver
jewelry and embroidery.
Ecuador travel:
The Ecuador Highlands, Volcano Avenue, the cloudforests of the
Choco corridor and Amazon basin make Ecuador a biologically rich
destination. Choose one of our set itineraries or create your
own custom trip with one of our trip consultants.
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