Ecuador

Nestled between Colombia and Peru, Ecuador offers a range of exotic attractions more suitable to a country several times its size. From its pre-Columbian treasures and vibrant colonial cities to the variety of its terrain—coastal, rainforest, and mountains—and its many species of birds and wildlife, Ecuador has a wealth of extraordinary options. Few cities in South America top the beauty of Cuenca and Quito, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The equator runs right through Ecuador, which means the night sky brings out the stars in both hemispheres. The mainland has three distinct regions: the Andes Mountains that run north to south, the Pacific coast, and the Amazon basin in the east. Savor the palpable culture and history of the Andean Highlands and marketplaces. Explore breathtaking snow-capped volcanoes and small artisan villages. Discover the astounding biodiversity of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Return to Eden at the Galápagos Islands and escape on nature walks where you can encounter a variety of wildlife including blue footed boobies, marine iguanas, giant tortoises and families of sea lions.