"This unique region provides more geographic, biological and recreational diversity than any other country in Latin America. It has Darwin's Galapagos islands, misty cloud forests, the snow-capped Andes and the Amazon Basin. The natural attractions are unparalleled. This book is the ultimate resource for travelers. With an eye toward ecotourism, it's packed with practical travel tips and full of details about the region's unique cultures." -- Amazon customer

"Provides all the suggestions and tools necessary to put together an outstanding trip... candid... " -- The Bookwatch

"Adventure Guides aim to deliver content... Moderately-priced and truly user-friendly, they are packed with information that other series rarely cover." -- Library Journal

A guide to the region of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, which provides more geographic, biological and recreational diversity than any other country in Latin America. It contains misty cloud forests, the snow-capped Andes and the Amazon Basin. The natural attractions are unparalleled, and many people come just for them. The series of "Adventure Guides" are about living more intensely, waking up to your surroundings and truly experiencing all that you encounter. Each book offers a mix of practical travel information along with activities designed for everyone, no matter what their age or ability. Comprehensive background information - history, culture, geography and climate - presents a knowledge of each destination and its people. Regional chapters take you on an introductory tour, with stops at museums, historic sites and local attractions. The volumes also cover: places to stay and eat; transportation to, from and around your destination; practical concerns; useful websites; e-mail addresses; and tourism contacts. Detailed regional and town maps feature walking and driving tours.

Simply put, Ecuador provides more biologic, geographic and recreational diversity than any other country in Latin America. You can experience the biological wonders of the Galpagos Islands, misty coastal cloud forests, the snow-capped jewels of the Andes, and the unparalleled diversity of the upper Amazon Basin. Add to this native markets and the beauty of the indigenous people. True adventure travel entails experiencing life through the simple beauty of discovery. To do so, you must expand your limits and open your arms to new encounters. Ecuador, a country that offers a cornucopia of rich, newfound experiences, is full of enchanting natural landscapes and welcoming smiles. Whether your goal is recreation, exploring pristine natural environments, or photographing the amazing variety of scenes, you will be delighted with the opportunities here. This is a land that gives back three times what you bring to it. So go now and take a chance. Challenge yourself, meet the people, try their food, and take a stab at speaking their language. The Ecuadorians will love you for it. And dont be surprised when you decide to return! (from the Introduction) Full details on seeing the Galpagos Islands, the Amazon rainforest, the Andes, the tropical beaches, Quito, Guayaquil Visiting the jungle reserves, cloud forests, native villages The best accommodations and restaurants in all price ranges Hiking, horseback riding, rafting & kayaking, biking, birding, animal spotting, climbing the volcanos, camping Shopping for crafts, walking tours, sightseeing, how to get around Entertainment, festivals, nightlife Climate, history, the people & their culture, the food, business hours, medical care, banking Recommended tour operators, ecotourism and ecolodges