The Andes
Ecuador's Andes region offers awe-inspiring highlands, dramatic valleys, colonial towns and breathtaking views. Team Germany members Steve Hanisch, Rocket & Wink, and Michelle Phillips and Johannes Conrad of Studio Yukiko recommend visitors immerse themselves in the colors of the region.
Their picks for the region's most inspirational experiences are riding the luxurious Tren Crucero, a bright red, four-coach train that winds its way through the mountains, and taking a moment to just breathe while overlooking the still blue waters in the Quilotoa volcanic crater, more than 12,800 feet above sea level.
The Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands are a living museum of evolution. The region includes 13 major islands, each with unique offerings. For Team USA artist Scott Pommier, uninhabited Española Island was the true stand out.
"We saw such incredible animals at such proximity," he says. "You're greeted by sea lions, brightly colored crabs and lava lizards all over the shore. You have to step over marine iguanas to make your way down the trail to one of the only places you can see the mating dance of the waved albatross. On the way there, you pass hooded and blue-footed boobies."
The Pacific Coast
Forest, mangroves and beaches line Ecuador's picturesque Pacific Coast. Here, travelers can catch a wave at more than 50 beaches, try the region's African-influenced, seafood-based cuisine or sample chocolate made from locally grown cocoa, considered the world's best.
Team Canada artists Rick Leong, Jesse Louttit and Jeff Bartlett each came away with unforgettable experiences to inspire their art. Louttit and Bartlett's must-do lists include boating with dolphins, exploring the coastal town of Montañita, visiting a cocoa plantation and, of course, trying the chocolate.
"I think that the coast can offer different things to different kinds of travelers," Leong says. "The luxury traveler will find places to relax and try amazing cuisine, and the budget traveler can head to Montañita to surf and hang out. I think it's ideal for adventurers, who want to explore and discover."
Learn more about the artists' inspirational discoveries at FeelAgainProject.com and explore the many unforgettable experiences of Ecuador at ecuador.travel.
Quilotoa crater lake