Four Worlds of Ecuador

Leading the Climate Conversation

Presented by:

Ministerio de Turismo

TOUCH THE SKY

Rising from the center of Ecuador, the Andes' glacial volcanoes and snow-capped mountains stretch thousands of feet into the sky. Major peaks include Cayambe (18,996 feet above sea level), the only snow-covered mountain on the Equator; Cotopaxi (19,350 feet), the world's tallest active volcano; and 20,700-foot Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest peak.

At lower elevations, the Andes are among the most visited regions in the country, and here the population is concentrated. Historic cities and picturesque villages, deep lakes and fertile valleys, waterfalls, lagoons, and evergreen forests add to the beauty of the region.

NATURAL AND MAN-MADE TREASURES

Standing at an altitude of 9,350 feet, Quito is Ecuador's capital and was the world's first city declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Former Spanish palaces, monasteries, and churches whose interiors are inlaid with gold co-exist with modern Quito's tall buildings and first-class hotels. At the Mirador of Panecillo, The Virgin of the Americas, the continent's only winged virgin statue, stands guard over the city. A new cable car carries visitors to the 13,300-foot summit in ten minutes.

Quito is also a main departure point for travelers. Two hours away, Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve covers nearly a million acres. Visitors can horseback ride, hike, bike, swim, even bathe in hot springs here. Two regions excellent for their thermal waters are Baños and Papallacta. Otavalo, north of the city, is known for its Poncho Fair, where handcrafted textiles fashioned into blankets, clothing, and wall hangings tempt buyers.

Also two hours from Quito, Mindo-Nambillo Cloud Forest is among the world's most important bird reserves. In this mini-Amazon, everything from rare hummingbirds to vibrantly colored parrots flutters its wings. Visitors nest in lodges and haciendas warmed by the friendliness and hospitality of the Ecuadorian people.