The Country of Ecuador!

Galapagos Island- 

The 19 islands that make up the Galapagos Islands are home to unique wildlife not found anywhere else in the world. They’re best known as the site that inspired Charles Darwin to come up with his theory of evolution after visiting there in 1835. Located about 1,000 km (600 miles) offshore Ecuador, the Galapagos are home to such diverse species as giant tortoises, marine tortoises, flightless cormorants, and a variety of finches and mockingbirds. Cruises are the only way to explore the islands. There are a great number of tour operations working out of Quito and Guayaquil with boat options ranging from small yachts to luxury cruise ships. 

When i went we took the yellow boat you see in the picture. It was so much fun seeing all the different animals and learning about their habitat.

Quito-

At 2,800 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level, the Ecuadoran capital of Quito is the highest capital city in the world. This cosmopolitan city of 2.2 million people is located in an active volcano section of the Andes. Quito has one of the largest and best preserved historic districts in South America. Founded in 1534, it contains no fewer than 20 Catholic churches from the colonial era and despite intensive restoration, the old town retains the working class and indigenous character that has always defined it. Carondolet Palace, the seat of Ecuador’s government, is located in the historic area. There is so much to do, on the edges of town, the hillsides of El Panecillo give way to the soaring Andean peaks, mist-clad or snow-topped depending on the time of year. Meanwhile, Mercado Santa Clara and the various restaurants are filled with shrimp and cuy (that’s guinea pig!) dishes, and La Carolina Park is filled with bikers and football players. 

Otavalo- 

Otavalo is home to one of the most colorful, important weekly markets in the Andes. It’s the place to go for traditional handmade craft items, including the exquisite textiles the city is famous for, leather goods and jewelry. The market has been going on for centuries, since even before the Incas. It’s a photographer’s paradise, with Ecuadorans wearing their traditional clothing and snow-covered mountains as a backdrop. The main market takes place on Saturdays, but travelers may be able to find handcrafts at other times in the Plaza de los Ponchos. Part of the fun of traveling in Ecuador is exploring the handiwork crafted by local artisans, and there’s no better place to see and purchase local arts, crafts and clothing than at the markets in the small town of Otavalo. The city is known the world over for the handiwork of its indigenous people, the Otavalos. 

Montanita- 

Ecuador’s southern coastal region boasts scenic shorelines and world-famous beach resorts, including the popular Montañita. Montañita Town was a sleep fishing village until the international surfing community discovered the area’s exceptional surfing conditions. Montañita is known for its nightlife as well, with nightclubs, bars and cafés to entertain locals and visitors alike. Its home to one of the most reliable and accessible surfing spots in the country, this one’s bursting to the brim with board rentals and surf teachers offering their services. In short, if you’re after a blast of Caribbean living and Cali free love in Ecuador (plus some great surf ops), this is the place to go!

I was only in Ecuador for a couple of days and this is all i got to see. My next blog will be on BRAZIL!