Ecuador expedition overview

Ecuador is an extremely diverse destination with something to satisfy the tastes and interests of everyone. Although one of the smallest South American countries, it is packed with contrasts of landscape and culture, and is situated between Peru and Colombia. The mainland consists of three principal geographical regions that also influence the climate: the Sierra (Andes) run down the country in a central spine, with an area of Amazonian rainforest to the east and coastline to the west. There are numerous national parks in Ecuador, home to an incredible variety of animals, birds and plant life. This destination has the possibility of being as challenging as a team wishes their expedition to be.

The country is home to many different ethnic groups and the national language is Spanish. There are Quichua speaking communities in the Andes and, among others, Shuar communities in the Oriente. Overall, this blend creates a fascinating and mixed culture which teams will be able to see and experience first hand. Ecuador is a good destination for teams looking for a diverse expedition. There is so much to do that teams can concentrate on a Northern or Southern route to maximise time on different phases and minimise time spent on internal travel.

Expedition highlights

• Haggle over typical Ecuadorian and Galápagosian crafts and souvenirs at the colourful Otavalo market, or be amazed at the variety of animals on offer at the sprawling Sasquilli market.
• Spot endangered Andean Condors as you trek past crater lakes and snow-capped volcanoes.
• Try the local cuisine, barbecued "cuy" or guinea pig.
• Trek through the cloudforest towards the Amazon basin and raft down steamy jungle rivers.
• Learn about life in the Amazon basin from your local guide as you trek through the rainforest and travel down river on a motorized canoe.

Things to know

• In Ecuador things generally get done "mañana" (tomorrow) and being late for everything is considered completely normal!
• The language spoken in Ecuador is Spanish.
• Chimborazo volcano is the highest peak in Ecuador at 6267m and because of its equatorial position it is also the point on the earth's surface that is furthest from its core.