House of travel South and Central America Brochure 2017 | Page 46

Experience
Ecuador
I
COLOMBIA
Otavalo
Galapagos
Islands
Lago Agrio
QUITO
Coca
Cotopaxi
National Park
Yasuni
National Park
Banos
Riobamba
Cuenca
42
Sangay
National Park
Macas
Guayaquil
Cuyabeno
Wildlife Reserve
ts quirkiness aside, Ecuador is an extremely diverse country with a unique
charm of its own, where returning visitors are always overwhelmed at how
rewarding their Ecuador experience has been. Over 350 species of mammals
and more than 1600 bird species proudly call Ecuador home; from the
wonderful wilds of the Amazonian jungle, through the mysterious Andean
cloud forest, to warm Pacific Island beaches and the spectacular wildlife of
the Galapagos Islands - you will find that Ecuador is a home for all.
Living amongst these natural riches is a potpourri of cultures, including
those of the indigenous Inca and Spanish descent. Colonial architecture from
Spanish times continue to live on in the capital city Quito and in Cuenca,
both of which are listed as World Heritage sites. Unsurprisingly there are
busy markets to explore, packed with Panama Hats and where bartering
and bargaining rules have not changed for hundreds of years. Otavalo is
arguably the most famous craft market in South America and is a must-do
while visiting Ecuador. You will spot the locals straightaway – men with their
pony tails and ponchos and women with braided hair and frilled blouses.
Ecuador is overflowing with grand things wrapped in a small parcel; and
each day of your journey through this country will stun you.