South & Central America

Not only is Ecuador blessed with a delightful temporate climate, but despite its relatively small size, it is also a treasure chest of some of nature's most exotic marvels. Coursing like a backbone through the middle of the country are the Andes mountains with their snow-capped volcanoes and stunning scenery. To the east of the country is the Oriente which is home to the Amazon basin and a dizzying array of the world's exotic flora and fauna, whilst to the west lie the rich farmlands of the coastal plain and the sand beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean.

But perhaps the coutry's greatest prize are the Galapagos Islands that lie 1000 kilometres off the coast in the middle of the ocean. On account of their extreme isolation from the rest of the world the remarkable wildlife that lives here were to bceome the very basis of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution as discussed in his book 'The Origin of Species'. These are one of the world's greatest natural wonders and remain to this day a living laboratory and close encounters with the wildlife are normal here due to their complete lack of fear.

On account of its rich Inca and colonial history, the country remains a cultural gem. The Andean highlands remain home to large populations of indigenous Indians who still live the colourful rural lives of their forbears with their vibrant, bustling markets, whilst the larger cities such as Quito and Cuenca are still cloaked in an enchanting display of beautifully preserved Spanish colonial architecture.

Ecuador is a small, peaceful and truly beautiful country.