Surrounded by Colombia, Peru, and the Pacific Ocean, Ecuador
is a little known treasure of South America. Although they're
around 600 miles off the coast, the Galápagos Islands are also
considered part of Ecuador. The country received its name
because it straddles the equator, making it a very tropical part
of the planet. The location also means it's one of the most
biologically diverse areas in the world. You may have heard of
the problem with endangered animals on the Galápagos Islands.
If you've ever wanted to see the raw power and beauty of nature,
the time is now. As the modern world progresses, the natural
landscape is swallowed slowly but surely. Today, though, you can
still pop down to Ecuador and enjoy the last of the "Edens" on
Earth. There's plenty of destinations that are worthy of your
time.
Fun in Ecuador
Amazon jungle - Do you want to see the beauty of the Amazon
rainforest up close and personal? Ecuador offers a great place
to experience some of the most intense jungles in the world.
Amazon Basin - The tail end of the Amazon Basin can be found
in Ecuador. This is something special if you have a chance to
see it up close and personal. If you're an animal lover, you're
going to have a lot to see.
Andean Volcanoes - The Andes mountains are home to volcanoes
that are quite impressive. If you've never seen one before,
seeing them in Ecuador is something to consider.
Beaches - If lounging on the beach and swimming in the ocean
is more your thing, don't worry. Ecuador has some of the world's
most beautiful beaches.
If you're a fan of European football (i.e. Soccer), then you'll
be pleased to know that it's the favorite sport in Ecuador. If
you're lucky, you might be able to see a game (or two) when
you're in the country if you plan carefully. Two of the more
well known teams are Barcelona and Emelec. So, if you're in the
city of Guayaquil, keep that in mind! Seriously, though, Ecuador
takes sports seriously and if you're a soccer fan, you're going
to fit in and find a lot of great extra activities while you're
visiting.
Interesting Ecuador Facts
Spanish is the official
language of Ecuador, but Quechua and other indigenous
languages are still in use all over the country.
Chimborazo Volcano is the
highest point in Ecuador.
There are more volcanoes
(active and not) in Ecuador than any other country in the
world.
In the 16th century, Quito
served as the capital of the northern half of the Inca Empire.
Most of the balsa wood in
the world comes from Ecuador.
If you're eating out at a
restaurant, be sure you know what you're ordering. Guinea pig
is thought to be a delicacy in the country.
The equator is a special place, and Ecuador is lucky enough
to be in that zone. If you want to see one of the most diverse
areas in the world, a trip to Ecuador should be on your horizon.
Even if culture and history is more your thing than the outdoors
and nature, you're going to find that there is plenty to keep
you busy if you decide to travel to Ecuador. It's a rather small
country, but it offers quite a bit to the world. For vacations
that require something unique and special, Ecuador fits the
bill.
