From the snow-covered peaks of the Andes to the verdant lowlands of the Amazon rainforest we know the best people to arrange the best trips.  All of the wonderful things to see and do are within hours of the capital, Quito. For the naturalist, the incredible range of flora and fauna, particularly birds, will mean binoculars and cameras are never idle.

The Andes are two chains of mountains that cross Ecuador from north to south. The earth’s cataclysmic movements have produced snow-capped volcanoes and mountains. Today they form a backdrop to pleasant green valleys and impressive Colonial cities such as Quito and Cuenca. Dotted along the sierra are quaint Indian villages, farms, turquoise lakes and white-water rivers. Spectacular train rides run through the Andean highlands.

Both sides of the Andes are covered with a misty cloud forest. This dense forest is packed full of orchids, bromeliads and hundreds of species of birds including the cock-of-the-rock and hummingbirds as well as the spectacled bear.

To the east lies the Oriente or Amazon lowland forest that merges seamlessly into Peru. Comfortable lodges run by indigenous communities offer an authentic experience in comfort.

The Pacific coast lies to the west, Guayaquil the biggest city and main port, lies in the lowlands and is closer to the Galapagos archipelago.

Throughout the country we have selected some of the best places to stay from wooden canopy lodges deep in the cloud forest to charming 17th century Spanish haciendas.

From wandering through colourful and chaotic Indian markets, rafting down rivers, wildlife spotting in cloud forest and the Amazon or horse riding and trekking through the mountains, there is never a lack of activities on offer on your own Ecuador holiday.

We can help plan the perfect tailor-made holiday to suit your interests and budget.

When to go:

Even through the climate varies depending on whether you are on the coast, mountains or jungle it’s an all year round destination.

All our tailor made Ecuador holidays are individually designed, but as a guide we can arrange a 12 day itinerary from £3,000 including flights.