Destination of the Month: Ecuador

An exotic destination filled with volcanoes, beautiful cloud forests and tropical jungles, Ecuador‘s charm has enticed travelers from all over the world.  On expedition you will discover colorful rainforests, explore the ice caves around Cotopaxi, re-build local schools, and horseback through the Andean mountains.  If you want an expedition that provides environmental and cultural diversity, then Ecuador is the destination for you.

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• LANGUAGE:  Ecuador’s official language is Spanish, but Quichua, an Inca language, is spoken by the Indian population.
• RELIGION:  Ecuador is predominantly Roman Catholic.  Though, recently there has been a resurgence of native belief-systems as indigenous people have begun to reclaim their identity and voice.
• CULTURAL NOTES:  A few hours north of Quito is the enchanting city of Otavalo.  Otavalo is a small town with a big reputation.  Their beautiful and unique hand-woven textiles and other handicrafts can be found in almost every city in Ecuador and a wide range of countries around the world.  Otavalo is very rich in culture and the surrounding areas are among the most beautiful in Ecuador.
• NOT TO BE MISSED:  The Galapagos Islands are a must visit when traveling to Ecuador.  Just a short flight off of Ecuador’s coast, the Islands are filled with beautiful scenery and booming with exotic wildlife.  On the Galapagos you will be able to visit three unique islands.  You’ll snorkel with penguins, visit Charles Darwin’s Research Institute to observe the giant land tortoises, and cruise through the coastal water to spot sea lions and blue footed boobies!

What to see it first hand?  We know you do!

Learn about our Independents Expeditions to Ecuador in the summer of 2012!