WILD WONDERLAND : ECUADOR WILL AMAZE YOU
2023 ACTIVE & ADVENTURE | 15
Named in acknowledgement of the country ’ s position directly on the equator , Ecuador is perhaps most famous for its enchanting Galápagos Islands . But travelers to this South American nation can also find snow-capped volcanoes , stunning cloud forests and a well-preserved Inca city . Spend time surrounded by blue-footed boobies , marine iguanas and playful seals in a peerless island paradise and then seek out Ecuador ’ s other celebrated sites : Cotopaxi National Park , the Andean mountains and the colonial capital , Quito , each offering a wealth of exciting outdoor activities .
THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS
Undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime vacation , a trip to these treasured islands once chronicled by naturalist Charles Darwin immerses you in spectacular natural beauty and presents astonishing wildlife encounters . The isolated Galápagos archipelago consists of 14 main islands and has tight restrictions on tourist access . As one of the select few humans allowed to go ashore , you have the privilege of observing wild animals and plant life that exclusively appear on this tiny sliver of Earth . The result : a dizzying array of unforgettable discoveries supported by knowledgeable guides and experienced hosts . a purpose-built expedition ship specifically designed to protect these pristine waters and leave a light footprint on the environment . These vessels use Dynamic Positioning Systems to maintain their location without the use of anchors , which can damage coral reefs .
PRE- AND POST-CRUISE
Maximize your time in country prior to or at the conclusion of your Galápagos exploration with a local leader who can guide you through this fascinating region . Small group tours are a great way to meet like-minded people as you take a deep dive into the area ’ s culture , cuisine and atmosphere . Arrive early to properly explore the capital city of Quito , founded in 1534 on the ruins of an ancient Inca city , and now one of the best-preserved historic centers of colonial Spanish America . Known as Carita de Dios or God ’ s Dear Face , the oldest capital in South America is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Your post-cruise period could be spent trekking through ancient pre-Colombian routes like the Quilotoa Loop or the Inca Road to discover Ecuador ’ s biodiversity .
CHARTING YOUR COURSE
Cruising is the most common way of touring this fragile ecosystem due to its limited accessibility . Choosing your path through the islands is all part of the fun , with routes that follow eastern , western and northern itineraries . Another consideration is the length of your sailing . Will it be a four- , six- or sevennight cruise ? An experienced advisor can guide you through selections that are all-inclusive , worry-free and eco-friendly . You may opt for
PHOTOS
TOP : QUITO , ECUADOR
BOTTOM LEFT : CHURCH OF LA COMPAÑÍA DE JESÚS , QUITO
BOTTOM RIGHT : THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS
Contact our agency to help plan your Ecuador exploration today .