The Best Natural Attractions in Ecuador

Ecuador is a country abundant in natural attractions ranging from the Galápagos Islands to snowcapped volcanic peaks, and from Amazon lowland rainforests to high Andean paramo. You will find outstanding Ecuador hotels all over the country, prepared to accommodate all natural lovers. If you'd like to hike or climb, bird-watch or simply admire the innate splendor, you may find lots of natural wonders here. * Cuicocha Lake: Formed thousands of years ago in the extinct crater of a massive volcano, this stunning, clear blue lake is a popular destination. You'll be able to choose between hiking around the rim of the crater, or scrambling down for a boat ride on the waters of the lake. The lake is named after the famous dish cuy (guinea pig), considering that locals thought the islands in its center resembled guinea pigs. * Cotopaxi National Park: This is Ecuador's most popular national park, after the Galápagos. The snow-covered Cotopaxi is the country's second highest peak, and allegedly the highest active volcano in the world. Tour opportunities here range from leisure hikes at lower elevations, to full-on summit climbs, with a variety of other options, from mountain biking to horseback riding to camping. * Cajas National Park: Located just outside Cuenca, this fascinating national park is famous for its 232 high montane lakes and misty cloud forests. It is also an favourable place for hiking and bird-watching. Rapidly accessible, it's a good change of pace from the cobblestone streets, colonial-era churches, and Panama hat shops of Cuenca. * Isla de la Plata: The crowning jewel of Machalilla National Park is Isla de la Plata, an offshore island frequently touted as "the poor man's Galápagos." Isla de la Plata presents fantastic bird and wildlife viewing and snorkeling. What's more, late June through early October, you may have the good chance of seeing humpback whales on the boat ride out to the island. On land, Machalilla has some fabulous trails and beaches. * The Beaches West of Atacames: In general, Ecuador is not a fantastic beach vacation spot. It definitely can't hold a candle to beaches observed in the Caribbean, South Pacific, or even Mexico or Costa Rica. However, the comparatively short section of Pacific coast west of Atacames has a few small and lovely beaches. Sua and Same are maybe the most popular among the tourists, but Atacames itself, as well as Tonsupa, Tonchigue, and Galera, are also charming. And for someplace really unique and isolated, you can head to the small island of Muisne. * The Rainforests of Ecuador's El Oriente: Ecuador's El Oriente is a huge area of lowland tropical rainforest that is part of the Amazon basin which feeds and forms the Amazon River. In fact, Francisco Orellana, who first named and navigated the Amazon River, started his long journey here in Ecuador. Above 500 species of birds and some 15,000 species of flora could be observed here, together with fresh-water dolphins, 11 different species of monkeys, anacondas, caimans, and jaguars. * The Galápagos Islands: Ecuador's prime attraction is a naturalist's paradise. This is a group of 13 islands, which are rich in remarkable beaches and pretty hotels in Ecuador. Water sports enthusiast can find great opportunities for practicing surfing for instance. The wildlife is another reason to visit these amazing islands.

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