Galápagos & Amazon Rainforest

The second-smallest country in South America, Ecuador was once part of the Incan Empire and officially gained independence from Spain in 1822. The country, which is bordered by Colombia and Peru, also includes the Galápagos Islands, the famous site where Charles Darwin studied natural selection.

Ecuador is known for its tropical surroundings and lush vegetation that not only attract a diverse range of animal life including 1,600 bird species, but also tourists from near and far, many of whom go hiking through the mountain terrain like the Andes mountains. Surfing and horseback riding are among the several other popular pastime activities in this tropical paradise.

Quito, the capital of Ecuador and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a great place to get a sense of the country’s history and culture—from the impressive architecture such as monasteries to the shops along Avenida Amazonas where locals sell handmade crafts to visiting tourists. To experience the country’s bustling city life, visit Guayaquil, where high rises, the humid climate and the trade business dominate the area.

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, sits at an altitude of 9,350 feet—the second highest capital city in the world. Just 15 miles south of the equator, Quito maintains a mild climate throughout its two seasons.

Quito is divided into three sections: the colonial old city sits in the center; the northern area is home to shops and high-rises; and the working class resides in the south. Explore the city on its rapid-transit systems, the easiest way to travel. Climb El Panecillo, a hill that houses a famous sculpture of the Virgin Mary; see Old Town, filled with churches and museums; visit the Museo del Banco Central, where modern, colonial and pre-colonial art works are on display.

Galápagos, a province of Ecuador, is most famed for the site of Charles Darwin’s studies that led to his theories on evolution. Home to giant tortoises of the same name, Galápagos consists of more than 100 islands, rocks and islets, some of which are still forming from volcanic eruptions. Conservation remains of much importance in the archipelago area, 97.6 percent of which is a national park.

Today, visitors can undergo their own evolution thanks to the area’s many diverse islands that feature exotic plants and wildlife. Start your tour at the cluster’s oldest island, Española, to see an iguana, then compare lava flows on Fernandina; say hello to a pink flamingo on Floreana (also called Isla Santa Maria) and go whale-watching by the marine reserve in the surrounding waters.

Be sure to send (islands) Ferdinand and Isabella our love.

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, sits at an altitude of 9,350 feet—the second highest capital city in the world. Just 15 miles south of the equator, Quito maintains a mild climate throughout its two seasons.

Quito is divided into three sections: the colonial old city sits in the center; the northern area is home to shops and high-rises; and the working class resides in the south. Explore the city on its rapid-transit systems, the easiest way to travel. Climb El Panecillo, a hill that houses a famous sculpture of the Virgin Mary; see Old Town, filled with churches and museums; visit the Museo del Banco Central, where modern, colonial and pre-colonial art works are on display.