Avenue of the Volcanoes
Two hours' drive south from Quito is the Avenue of the Volcanoes, a road that winds its way between Andean foothills dotted…
Three is the magic number for travellers looking to explore Ecuador. It serves up a stunning trio of alluring mountain landscapes, serene beaches and all the mystery that comes with the Amazon jungle.
Ecuador is the second smallest country in South America and yet within its borders, you can find a microcosm of the entire continent – hence the joy of an Ecuador holiday.
Not surprising then that Ecuador tourist board coined the phrase ‘All you need is Ecuador’ given that they have mountains and beaches as well as the Amazon. Although the Galapagos Islands attract large numbers of visitors, not so many take the additional time to explore the Ecuadorian mainland. There you can find villages and markets which are truly local and not catering to tourists. It is just a delight.
One of the biggest benefits of a trip to Ecuador is that you don’t get the same concentrations of visitors that can be found in surrounding countries. Quito, the second highest capital in the world at 2,800m, was one of the world’s first UNESCO Heritage Sites, dates from 900AD and is well worth a visit. Outside the capital, you will find small villages with weekly markets where foreign faces are rare and traditional clothes prevail. Culture aside, the landscape is gorgeous and displays the lush green beauty of the tropics with brightly coloured birds flashing in the trees. Ecuador is small and short distances mean that travelling between the various regions is not complicated or tiring and allows you the opportunity of staying in Amazonian wildlife lodges, walking or riding in the Andes.
Every captivating tailor-made itinerary needs a perfect base. Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any adventure.
A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.
Ecuador hosts many festivals which generally have a political or religious derivation involving dancing and very authentic markets to visit for all to visit, with Easter celebration being particularly important.
As with everywhere you should take precautions about not walking around at night and avoid certain areas of the city of Quito – your guide will advise you of these upon your arrival. Avoid travel at night as this is a time petty crime can occur. Make sure you only take registered taxis booked by hotels.
Distances are relatively small within Ecuador and you can expect fascinating culture, great wildlife and incredible scenery.
Ecuadorian food is based around meat or fish, plantain and rice and is generally cheap, tasty and plentiful. With many of exotic fruits to hand in this tropical country expect to eat maracuya (passion fruit), naranjilla and guanabana which are served as juices and ice cream.
Different all over and very British in its temperamental nature. There are three vertical bands in Ecuador; from west to east- Pacific, Andes, Amazon with varying weather patterns. The driest time to visit the Pacific and Andes regions is from June to October. In the rainforest, surprisingly, you should always be prepared for rain – it’s what makes it so magical.
Ecuador is at its best June to November. Travel is possible outside of this time but be prepared for rain. Galapagos is a year round destination with seasonal variations.
Quito is at a height of 2,800 metres, so
spending your first day there taking it relatively easy is recommended. Staying
hydrated and maintaining a lazy pace will help you no end. Also, don’t eat too
much in the evenings, because your slowed rate of digestion will keep you
awake. Go careful with alcohol too, you will find it affects you quicker up
there.
Haven’t found what you’re looking for?
Speak to our experts
Our team is waiting to help you tailor a trip that will leave you with stories for a lifetime. Call us on
01285 601 784Our knowledge and expertise sets us apart. So too our curiosity. A curiosity of the world and of you, and your passions. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you.
Are you ready to discover extraordinary?