Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands

Ecuador and the Galápagos - Otavalo Market

Despite its relatively small size, Ecuador is one of South America's most diverse destinations.  Straddling the Equator and enjoying pleasant spring-like weather all year round, it offers 4 distinct geographical regions.

To the east lies the Amazon Rainforest, where you can stay in jungle lodges or cruise on its great rivers in search of an incredible array of plant and animal life.

The heartland of the country is located high in the Andes, with glorious UNESCO-listed colonial cities, colourful indian craft markets and spectacular snow-capped volcanoes.

The Pacific coast, less visited than the other regions, has charming villages and attractive beaches, with excellent whale-watching opportunities from June to October.

And, last but not least, the Galápagos Islands - 'the Enchanted Isles' - are simply one of the world's top travel destinations, with a unique natural history and a wealth of fauna found nowhere else on earth.  Charles Darwin sailed here in 1835 and his observations set the stage for the development of his famed theory of evolution.

Below you'll find a selection of sample Ecuador and the Galápagos holidays with World Discovery.