Complete Ecuador Travel Guide and Information | Trip to Ecuador

Situated on the Equator with varied and beautiful landscapes is the country of Ecuador. Home to the largest amount of plant and animal species this country has its fair share of white sandy beaches, lush tropical rainforests and the overpowering Andes Mountain overlooking this piece of paradise. With comfortable weather whole year old, this peaceful, relatively cheap and attractive country is always popular with the tourists visiting here.

Till about 10,000 BC the country was inhabited by the gatherers and hunters but was finally made a part of the Incan empire. Their rule was marred by internal conflicts within the royal Incan ruler until the country became a Spanish colony. Life under the Spanish rule was miserable for the locals but there was no major uprising. But soon the natives had enough of the tyranny and several attempts were made by the people to overthrow the Spanish rule. Their efforts finally paid off in the year 1822 when independence was finally won. Initial internal conflicts and instability finally laid way to the present day calm and tranquil Ecuador.

The entire country of Ecuador is cris-crossed by the Andes Mountains, fertile plains, tropical forests and attractive beaches. Situated exactly on the equator is the world heritage site of Galapagos islands. A haven for water sport loving tourists, one can indulge here in activities like snorkeling, scuba diving and sailing. Animal lovers would be amazed by the wide variety of animal life found on these islands. Ranging from the giant tortoises, iguanas and huge lizards there is a variety which would leave anyone mesmerized.

Overlooked by the Pichincha volcano is the capital city of Quito. Its ancient Spanish culture is evident from the generously speckled old time monuments found throughout the city. Through its plazas, churches and palaces this city has retained its Spanish charm. The regions of Latacunga and Ambato are famous for the volcanoes found within them. The Cotopaxi volcano found here is the world’s highest active volcano. A visit to Guayaquil is also recommended where overlooking the beautiful garden promenade of Paseo de las Colonias is the cities most historic landmark of Rotonda. If shopping for local handicraft’s also features on your list then a visit to the Otavalo markets is beyond doubt. The small town of Otavao has preserved its mastery over the handloom weaving being passed on generation to generation.

If you are looking for great mountain hikes or bike hikes then pack you bags and visit the city of Riobamba. Also this city also gives you the opportunity to take a ride on the picturesque Nariz del Diablo train ride. Chugging through highlands, mountains and forests this amazing ride will bring you the closest to nature that you can get. The ancient Inca civilization can be visited at Ingapirca. Known for its beautiful beaches is the city of Esmeraldas. Equally charming are the towns of Playas Posoria and Salinas. Even though the share of Ecuador in terms of rainforests is around 2% but the breathtaking variety present in this small percentage is astounding.

Everything to feast your eyes on and to sooth your senses be it volcanoes, ruins of old civilizations, sultry beaches or lush green highlands, Ecuador has it all.

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