Where to go in Ecuador

One of South America’s smallest countries, Ecuador does not compromise its attractions, which range from millennia old preserved islands containing abundant endemic species to steamy Amazonian rainforest, beautiful colonial cities and long golden beaches. Such is the ease of access across the various areas that in the morning you could be in the Amazon and by the afternoon relaxing on a beach on the Pacific Coast. With short flights departing from the country’s capital, Quito, most areas of Ecuador are easily accessible allowing for some of the most thrilling and exciting combinations in a Latin American getaway!

The Amazon

Containing some of the richest and most biodiverse habitats of the Amazon to the east of the Andes, Ecuador’s upper Amazon basin is brilliantly accessible. The accommodation within these idyllic settings showcases the true splendour of this corner of the country. Comprising less than 5% of the total population, the inhabitants of the Ecuadorian Amazon are a melting pot of smaller communities who live fascinatingly traditional lives in the jungle, with ancient traditions and ceremonies that are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago. Accessed from Quito usually by 30-minute flight into Coca, you will then head onward by boat to some of the more remote jungle lodges on the rivers and tributaries of the area or board a boat cruise. The Amazon itself starts at the east of the Andes, where the terrain suddenly plummets 10,000 feet over just 30 miles. Coca is set just 40 miles from the foothills on the edge of the Amazon area, where local communities can enjoy more successful agriculture and breed livestock

Cotopaxi

The snow-capped peak of Ecuador’s biggest volcano, and indeed the highest active volcano in the world, is visible in the distance from the capital, Quito. Forming part of the Avenue of Volcanoes that runs south of Quito towards Cuenca, Cotopaxi, meaning ‘neck of the moon’ in Incan language, is undoubtedly one of the emblems of Ecuador and carves a perfectly conical shape into the skyline. The national park and countryside that surround the majestic volcano offers excellent hiking, birding and scenic viewpoints as well as an insight into rural indigenous life through its colourful local markets. With its peak at a soaring 5,897 metres in height, Cotopaxi is arguably the most imposing of all Ecuador’s volcanoes and mountains. It is easily accessed from Quito and the 40-mile journey takes just under two hours by car with the main entrance to Cotopaxi National Park being located just a few kilometres before the town of Lasso.

Quito

The atmospheric Old Town of Quito is a mesmerising place of grandiose buildings, immense green plazas and brilliantly white cathedrals, all worthy of exploring as part of your visit to Ecuador. Set at a dizzying altitude of nearly 3000 metres, the Ecuadorian capital of Quito is surrounded by volcanoes and the Andes mountain range. It is impossible not to be overwhelmed by the views of the city, sprawled along the sides of the long, narrow valley that envelops it. The many panoramic vantage points to be found make it one of the most spectacular settings to be found all South America’s major cities.

Zuleta Region

Enjoy the stunning setting of Zuleta, taking part in a variety of optional excursions. Zuleta is known for its Zuleteño horse, a unique mixture of Spanish – Andalusian, English and Quarter horses. The outcome of this crossbreeding is a robust, noble and smooth Andean horse with a perfect disposition for trail riding. Spend time learning about the local condor conservation project, or enjoy hiking on the nearby trails with a chance to spot the elusive Andean bear. You can also go birdwatching, biking, stargazing or just sit back with a glass of wine and take in the fresh air.

Mashpi Cloud Forest

Wake to the sounds of the dawning jungle before enjoying some of the excursions within the cloud forest. These may include forest walks, visits to nearby licks and leks to view some of the abundant bird species found locally, or walks to nearby waterfalls.