Ecuador is an American country located in the southern section of this continent. Bordered on
the north by Colombia, south and east by Peru and west by the Pacific Ocean, which is the
place of the Galapagos Islands, located 1000 kilometres from the peninsula of Santa Elena to
San Cristobal Island. A volcanic section of the Andes mountain range divides the territory from
north to south, leaving a western flank, the Gulf of Guayaquil and a wooded plain, and to the
east, the Amazon.
The capital of the country and its most populated city is Quito. The official language is Spanish,
spoken by 99% of the population, along with thirteen other recognized indigenous languages,
including Kichwa and Shuar.

The Ecuadorian Andes are characterized by their impressive mountainous elevations,
volcanoes and snowy peaks. Amongst the most important are; Cotopaxi and Chimborazo.
Within its ten provinces their cities of great historical importance such as Quito and Cuenca, as
well as artisanal centres such as Otavalo. Likewise, there are several national parks with very
rich and varied flora and fauna.
Any time of the year is good to visit the Ecuadorian Highlands. For those who prefer a drier
climate, the ideal is from June to September, also in November and December. The rest of the
year is considered a rainy season. However, the inhabitants of the Sierra often say that here
the four seasons are lived in a single day since usually the morning tends to be spring, summer
midday, autumn afternoon and winter night.

The Amazon region of Ecuador is a natural region confirmed by an approximate area of
120,000 km² of the South American Amazon. It includes the provinces of Sucumbíos, Orellana,
Napo, Pastaza, Morona, and Zamora. It extends over an area of exuberant vegetation, typical of
humid-tropical forests, representing 43% of the Ecuadorian territory.
More than 13 indigenous people with their own languages, beliefs, and traditions make the
Ecuadorian Amazon a mega-cultural destination, which allows us to interact and know the
customs of its inhabitants living directly with them. One of every ten species of flora and fauna
in the world is found here, so it is also considered the most mega-diverse place on the planet
per square kilometre.
There are several activities to do, each surrounded by the beauty of nature: trekking, kayaking
or SUP, rafting, tubing, canopy, the sighting of many of fauna that inhabits there.

Galapagos Islands will inspire you to think differently about our world, just as others have
when visiting this fascinating place. Be an explorer and discover the many indigenous creatures
to which these volcanic islands are home. Witness a unique abundance of wildlife in a setting
unlike any other on the planet. Truly understand Charles Darwin’s inspiration when he wrote his
theory of evolution, a publication that changed the world. Take the opportunity to understand the
importance of the islands and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to see the nursery and
other initiatives employed in maintaining the majesty of the islands. Be part of an educational
and inspirational journey of a lifetime, learn about life in the archipelago, enjoy the local flavours,
discover small towns and hidden paths. Activities like hiking to the top of volcanoes, biking lava
trails, snorkelling through lava tunnels, kayaking to view wildlife and scuba diving – all are
possible in this paradise.