subject: Ecuador: A Little Centre Of Wonders [print this page] Ecuador may be the smallest country among the so-called Andean nations, but it is certainly not small in terms of wonderful things to see and experience. In fact, only expertly guided walking holidays can do justice to all the things the country offersfrom exploring archeological ruins and artifacts, visiting quaint little villages that seem be frozen in time, or simply going shopping. The sights, sounds and flavours will quickly ingratiate this wonderful destination to the adventurous traveller.
Getting Lost in Poncho Square
Of course, we mean lost in a positively delightful way. In Ecuador, walking holidays are always a treat for the senses; that's never more true than in the countrys renowned traditional market, the Plaza de Ponchos. You will find pactically everything that the country and its people producefrom foodstuffs, to clothing and blankets painstakingly and meticulously woven by local craftspeople, to souvenir items and stone and wooden carvings, and household utensils unique to Ecuador. Needless to say, its a deeply rewarding cultural and culinary (not to mention all the shopping) experience and you can derive it all from one place. If you visit on a weekend, expect the market to swell in size as even more vendors occupy half a dozen more side streets. This means youll even have more shopping options (and if you know what youre doing, better haggling leverage) to enjoy.
An Encounter with the Ingapirca Incan Ruins
In southern Ecuador, in a place called Ingapirca, youll find the ruins and archaeological artefacts left by the ancient Canari and Inca peoples. With a good tour leader, walking holidays to this site can be an intriguing experience. The area has been successfully excavated and meticulously restored so that visitors can get a clear idea of how the ancient peoples lived.
Retracing Darwins Steps in the Galapagos Islands
A trip to Ecuador would not be complete without a visit to the Galapagos Islands, made famous by Charles Darwin and his work on the theory of evolution. Witness first-hand why this island so enthralled young Charles mind to such an extent that he would return home a changed person, the fire of ideas and enlightenment burning within him. The islands are home to an astonishing variety of wildlifemany of the animals here have no experience with the predatory behaviour of humans so they mingle with visitors, entirely fearless.
Taking a Nice, Hot bath at Banos
For walking holidays into the Amazon jungle, Banos is the perfect starting pointall paths into the jungle start from here, as the guides say. Tucked away at the foot of the active volcano, Tungurahua, Banos is a city that not only enjoys much from its strategic location, but also from its diverse natural wonders. You could actually have a great time without leaving the townits huge waterfalls and invigorating hot springs are a major draw. You can also take part in any of a number of exciting activities, such as trekking, mountain climbing and rafting.
