Ecuador Desk Reference - Travel Agent Academy

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2013-2014
DESK REFERENCE

Culpepper Island
Isla Charles Darwin
Wenman Island
Isla Theodoro Wolf
Touristic Map
www.ecuador.travel
of Ecuador
39
19
35
45
Galápagos National Park 3
17
37
Abingdon
32
Island
Isla Pinta
21
20
Colombia
Bindloe Island
12
Isla Marchena
Pacific Ocean
23
18
25
27
8
31
Equator
0º 00’ 00”
22
11
33
2
15
29
40
4
9
1.000 kilometers
(600 miles)
National Protected Areas System
NATIONAL
ECOLOGICAL RESERVES
PARKS
15 ANTISANA
1 CAJAS
16 ARENILLAS
2 COTOPAXI
17 EL ÁNGEL
3 GALÁPAGOS
18 CAYAMBE COCA
4 LLANGANATES
19 MANGLARES CAYAPAS MATAJE
5 MACHALILLA
20 COFÁN BERMEJO
6 PODOCARPUS
21 COTACAHI CAYAPAS
7 SANGAY
22 LOS ILINIZAS
8 SUMACO
23 MACHE CHINDUL
9 YASUNÍ
24 MANGLARES CHURUTE
10 YACURI
GEO-BOTANICAL RESERVES
BIOLOGICAL RESERVES 25 PULULAHUA
11 LIMONCOCHA
12 MARINA DE GALÁPAGOS
13 EL QUIMI
14 CERRO PLATEADO
Land Distances (Km.)
FAUNA RESERVES
MANGROVES WILDLIFE
26
5
26 CHIMBORAZO
REFUGES
27 CUYABENO
38 EL MORRO
28 MANGLARES EL SALADO
39 ESTUARIO RÍO ESMERALDAS
FAUNA PRODUCTION RESERVE
NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
ON THE COAST
40 EL BOLICHE
29 PACOCHE
41 PARQUE LAGO
30 PUNTILLA SANTA ELENA
42 ISLA SANTAY
43 LOS SAMANES
7
WILD LIFE REFUGES
31 PASOCHOA
32 MANGLARES ESTUARIO RÍO MUISNE BI-NATIONAL PARK
33 ISLA CORAZÓN
44 EL CONDOR
34 ISLA SANTA CLARA
30
35 LA CHIQUITA
GALERA MARINE RESERVE
43
36 EL ZARZA
45 SAN FRANCISCO
42
37 PAMBILAR
ISLAS ECUADOR
GALÁPAGOS
28 24
41
N
38
O
E
PACIFIC
ATLANTIC
OCEAN
OCEAN
1
S
Symbols
34
Capital of the Country
Ports
Fishing
Cycling
Province capitals
Docks
Rafting
Horse riding
Main cities
16
13 44
Historical cities
Beachs
Kayaking
Surf
International airports
Hot springs / SPA
Scuba diving
Paragliding
Local airports
Archaeological sites
Sailing
Observation of flora
36
Main rivers
Panamerican highway
Indigenous markets
Snorkling
Observation of fauna
Main access roads
Handicrafts
Mountaineering
Whale watching
Secondary access roads
Ethnic groups
Trekking
Observation of dolphins
Railway
Provincial borders
Agri-tourism
Camping
Natural-Cultural Heritage
of the humanity
6
“INSTITUTO GEOGRÁFICO MILITAR DEL ECUADOR AUTORIZACIÓN Nº IGM-2006-05-011 DEL 8 DE MAYO DEL 2006” REGISTRO Nº 3058
ESCALA 1: 2`000.000
Perú
10
14
galápagos pacific coast andes amazon
MAP OF ECUADOR

Galápagos
Esmeraldas
Tulcán
www.ecuador.travel
Ibarra
Nueva Loja
REGIONS
Puerto Ayora
Puerto
Baquerizo Moreno
Pacific
Ocean
Santo Domingo
Latacunga
Manta
Quevedo
Portoviejo
Ambato
Guaranda
Babahoyo
Santa Elena
Guayaquil
Azogues
Cuenca
Quito
Baños
Riobamba
Baeza
Tena
Puyo
Macas
Francisco de Orellana
N
0
Machala
O
E
GALÁPAGOS
ISLANDS
PACIFIC
OCEAN
ECUADOR
PUBLISHED SOUTH BY
AMERICA
ATLANTIC
OCEAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Map..........................................................................................................2
galápagos pacific coast andes amazon
Hotels.......................................................................................................... 4
I Discovered The Best Of South America in Ecuador.....................................5
I Discovered Sales Success in Ecuador............................................................6
I Discovered How Easy It Is To Travel To Ecuador..............................................8
Ten Things You Didn’t Know About Ecuador.......................................................9
I Discovered How to Share Essential Facts About Ecuador ............................. 10
I Discovered Seven Perfect Days in Ecuador.....................................................11
I Discovered The Best Way To Sell The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador............12
I Discovered The Best Way To Sell The Pacific Coast in Ecuador .................14
I Discovered The Best Way To Sell The Andes Region in Ecuador ..............16
I Discovered The Best Way To Sell The Amazon in Ecuador.................... 18
I Discovered 16 Special Interests Activities in Ecuador.........................20
Tour Operators..................................................................................22
This representation does not exactly correspond to a topographic cut of Ecuador in West -
Although every effort has been made to
guarantee the accuracy of information
appearing within this supplement, we
cannot be responsible for typographical
errors, omissions or changes since this
publication went to press.
Copyright © 2013. All rights reserved.
3

ECUADOR HOTEL LIST
Hotel Name Phone Number Website Stars # of Rooms City
El Dorado (593-7) 2831-390 www.eldoradohotel.com.ec 51 Cuenca
Oro Verde (593-7) 4090-000 www.oroverdehotels.com 77 Cuenca
San Juan (593-7) 2840-870 www.sanjuanhotel.ec 30 Cuenca
Crespo (593-7) 2842-571 www.hotelcrespo.com 41 Cuenca
Italia (593-7) 2840-060 www.hotelitalia.com.ec 40 Cuenca
Pinar Del Lago (593-7) 4089-751 www.hotelpinar.com 34 Cuenca
Yanuncay (593-7) 2829-144 www.hotelyanuncay.com.ec 30 Cuenca
Continental (593-4) 2329-270 www.hotelcontinental.com.ec 89 Guayaquil
Grand Hotel Guayaquil (593-4) 2329-690 www.grandhotelguayaquil.com 182 Guayaquil
Hampton Inn Boulevard Hotel (593-4) 2566-700 www.guayaquil.hamptoninn.com 95 Guayaquil
Hilton Colon (593-4) 2689-000 www.guayaquil.hilton.com 294 Guayaquil
Oro Verde (593-4) 2327-999 www.oroverdehotels.com 230 Guayaquil
Ramada (593-4) 2563-036 www.hotelramada.com 75 Guayaquil
Unipark (593-4) 2327-100 www.uniparkhotel.com 139 Guayaquil
Sheraton (593-4) 2082-088 www.ghlhoteles.com 141 Guayaquil
Courtyard By Marriott Guayaquil (593-4) 6009-200 www.courtyardguayaquil.com 144 Guayaquil
Hm International (593-4) 2280-806 www.hmhotel.ec 41 Guayaquil
Sonesta (593-4) 2690-590 www.sonesta.com/Guayaquil 112 Guayaquil
Alexander (593-4) 2532-000 www.hotelalexanderecuador.com 61 Guayaquil
Americas Las (593-4) 2294-444 www.hotellasamericas.ec 61 Guayaquil
Sol De Oriente (593-4) 2325-500 www.hotelsoloriente.com 56 Guayaquil
Palace (593-4) 2321-080 www.hotelpalaceguayaquil.com.ec 95 Guayaquil
Hotel City Plaza (593-4) 2309-209 www.hotelcityplaza.com.ec 97 Guayaquil
Galeria Man-Ging (593-4) 2395-498 www.hotelgaleriamanging.com 94 Guayaquil
Grand Hotel Mercure Alameda Quito (593-2) 2994-019 www.mercurequito.com.ec 147 Quito
Colon Internacional (593-2) 2560-666 www3.hilton.com 323 Quito
Hotel Casino Plaza (593-2) 2445-305 www.hotelcasinoplaza.com 100 Quito
Sheraton (593-2) 2970-002 www.starwoodhotels.com 172 Quito
J.W. Marriot (593-2) 2972-051 www.marriott.com 258 Quito
Quito (593-2) 2544-600 www.hotelquito.com 225 Quito
Radisson (593-2) 2233-333 www.radisson.com 112 Quito
Swissotel Quito (593-2) 2566-497 www.swissotel.com 288 Quito
Akros (593-2) 2430-600 www.hotelakros.com 128 Quito
Ambassador (593-2) 2566-986 www.hotelenquito.com 59 Quito
Inca Imperial (593-2) 2520-519 www.hotelincaimperial.com 45 Quito
Reina Isabel (593-2) 2544-717 www.hotelreinaisabel.com 100 Quito
Republica (593-2) 2436-553 www.hotelrepublica.com 46 Quito
Rio Amazonas Internacional (593-2) 2556-666 www.hotelrioamazonas.com 74 Quito
Sebastian (593-2) 2222-400 www.hotelsebastian.com 55 Quito
Tambo Real (593-2) 2563-820 www.hoteltamboreal.com.ec 82 Quito
Barnard (593-2) 5406-290 www.hotelbarnard.com.ec 35 Quito
Howard Johnson Plaza La Carolina (593-2) 2265-265 www.hojo.com 90 Quito
Patio Andaluz El (593-2) 2280-830 www.hotelpatioandaluz.com 32 Quito
Casa Gangotena (593-2) 2583-417 www.casagangotena.com 31 Quito
Nuhouse (593-2) 2546-713 www.nuhousehotels.com 57 Quito
Le Parc (593-2) 2276-800 www.leparc.com.ec 30 Quito
4 www.ecuador-specialist.com

In Ecuador,
environmental
awareness has
reached a new
level, described
as Conscious
Tourism
as the government and the private
sector move to support
stringent environmental and
cultural protection guidelines,
promote responsible investment
in the sector and secure Ecuador’s
role as a global hub for
earth-friendly practices.
The concept goes beyond the
environment to take into account
execution and investment of
public funds.
Using this new conceptual paradigm,
Ecuador is able to be an
even stronger supporter of tourism
management that aims to
protect the environment, sustain
local cultures and help humanity
overall. Tourism strategies in the
short, medium and long term
and the OAS’ XX Inter-American
Congress of Ministers and
High Level Authorities, both
of which took place within the
framework of the 54th meeting
of the UNWTO Commission for
the Americas. The events, which
took place in Quito, brought
together an array of world
leaders to discuss global and
regional tourism performance
I DISCOVERED
THE BEST OF SOUTH AMERICA
It
seems like everyone is concerned
about the environment
nowadays. But in Ecuador,
environmental awareness has
reached a new level, described
as Conscious Tourism.
The creation of Ecuador’s
Ministry of Tourism, Conscious
Tourism represents an even
more dedicated approach to
tourism. Based on ethical and
sustainable principles, the
campaign aims to promote the
values of peace, friendship,
respect and love for life as the
essence of tourism practice. It’s
an admirable way of thinking,
and a great way for agents to
show clients that Ecuador is a
destination that truly protects
and celebrates its natural and
cultural treasures—and that
visitors are encouraged to join
in their efforts.
The Conscious Tourism philosophy
translates into real action,
the human aspect as well—in
fact, it’s an attitude that seeks
to help travelers become better
human beings by encouraging
personal growth through travel.
To sum it up briefly, Conscious
Tourism is to “Love Life” according
to tourism officials.
Three main elements form the
foundation of this philosophy:
Sustainable tourism, ethical
tourism and life experience. Social
and environmental responsibility
will likely become even
more important as Ecuador continues
to grow as a tourism destination.
The government takes a
serious approach to protecting
its precious tourism resources;
all public policy related to tourism
must follow the guidelines
of Ecuador’s Plan Nacional de
Buen Vivir 2009-2013 (the National
Plan for Good Living 2009-
2013), a constitutionally based
national development plan that
lays out norms for planning and
IN ECUADOR
are being developed to further
this. As part of its goal to identify,
encourage and increase the
array of tourism services that go
along with the Conscious Tourism
philosophy, the government
will evaluate and quantify the
demand for tourism, recognizing
its source markets both domestically
and internationally, in
order to enhance the promotion
of investment activities and support
worthwhile development.
Ecuador’s new approach draws
directly from recommendations
from the United Nations World
Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and
other international organizations.
Ecuador, in fact, has been
playing an increasingly big role
in shaping world tourism. In
September 2012, the UNWTO,
in conjunction with the Ministry
of Tourism of Ecuador and the
Organization of American States
(OAS), hosted the II International
Congress on Ethics and tourism
and preview tourism goals
through 2030.
Ecuador’s Ministry of Tourism
plans to continue participating
in various international conventions,
workshops and meetings
to further its goal of fostering
Conscious Tourism. On-going
series of congresses, symposia
and other meetings in various
regions of Ecuador will contribute
further to the discussion and
development of the Conscious
Tourism philosophy.
The Ministry of Tourism expects
that the Conscious Tourism concept
will become an increasingly
important part of both the public
and private sector approaches
to developing the market. And
it’s a philosophy that bodes well
for travel agents and their clients
as well.
Encourage your customers to
“Love Life” in Ecuador!
5

I DISCOVERED
SALES SUCCESS
IN ECUADOR
There are lots of destinations
vying for travel agents’ attention
in Latin America, but few offer
as many diverse experiences as
Ecuador. Indeed, selling a destination
with as wide an appeal as Ecuador
is just a matter of qualifying
and matching clients to the ideal
experiences and regions. This
guide will help you to do just that.
A relatively small country in
South America, Ecuador packs
a lot of excitement into its
incredibly diverse geography. The
destination continues to rank high
on the list of “must-see” places.
Lonely Planet includes Ecuador
on its 2013 Top 10 list of the best
places to visit, and ranks it best
overall for off-the-beaten-track
experiences, activities and food.
The city of Quito is one of National
Geographic’s “Top 20 Must-see
Places” for 2013, and Trip Advisor
listed both Quito and Cuenca in
its Top 25 Best Destinations in
South America. And, Conde Nast
Traveller (U.K. edition) named
the Galapagos Islands as one
of the “Destinations to watch in
2013,” highlighting it as “one of
the most fascinating places on
earth and an evolutionary melting
pot.” If these accolades seem to
indicate that Ecuador has many
selling points, it’s not by accident.
Each of the four primary regions
of the nation has its own unique
qualities and allure for different
types of travelers.
Selling Geographic
Diversity and a World
of Experiences
Located on the equator in
northwestern South America,
Ecuador is bordered on the
north by Colombia and on the
east and south by Peru.
The eighth-largest country in
South America, Ecuador contains
just under 110,000 square
miles of natural wonders and
cultural treasures. Multiple cultures,
histories and heritages
converge in this fascinating
nation, while the geography in
each region is so unique that
it forms four different worlds.
In fact, this nation is considered
one of the most biodiverse
countries on the planet.
To make it easier for travel
agents to sell—and their clients
to begin discovering—Ecuador,
tourism officials divide the
country into four basic regions:
The Galapagos Islands, Pacific
Coast, Andes and Amazon.
It’s a natural progression that
represents a variety of rich ecosystems
and myriad activities
and attractions—something like
four different worlds that come
together in one exciting nation.
The warm, sun-soaked Pacific
coast gradually rises toward
the snow-capped heights and
temperate valleys of the Andes
mountains in the highlands,
dropping down to the lush green
carpet of the Amazon. And just
off the coast, the legendary
Galapagos Islands are a destination
that should be on everyone’s
bucket list.
Selling Activities
for Every Type
The array of activities available in
Ecuador is truly impressive, and
seemingly limitless. From rafting
and kayaking the rapids of the
Amazon rainforest to horseback
riding in the Andean mountains,
bird watching in lush cloud
forests to climbing the tallest
active volcanoes in the world, the
possibilities are endless.
Active travelers will enjoy hiking,
surfing, mountain biking and
trekking. Culture fans will love
the museums, historic architecture,
cuisine and fascinating indigenous
groups. And, of course,
nature lovers will be in heaven,
with everything from orchid
tours to up-close visits with giant
tortoises and sea lions among
the many possibilities.
In Ecuador, clients can wander
ancient archeological sites, participate
in agroturism activities,
study the Spanish language,
and find out more about Ecuador’s
diverse cultural traditions.
With so much to offer, it’s just a
matter of qualifying their needs.
Selling Natural Wonders
Anyone who loves natural beauty
should have Ecuador on his
or her itinerary. After all, the na-
Few countries
offer as
many diverse
experiences for
your customers
as Ecuador
6 www.ecuador-specialist.com

tion is home to no fewer than 45
natural state-protected reserves
and tropical areas with more
than 1,640 species of birds;
4,500 species of butterflies, 345
species of reptiles, 358 species
of amphibians and 258 species
of mammals.
Agents and tour operators alike
emphasize nature when selling
Ecuador, and with good reason.
The nation is second in the
world for endemic vertebrates,
third for amphibians, fourth
for bird species and fifth for
butterflies. Some 10 percent of
the world’s plant species grow
here, and 10.7% of all vertebrate
animals on the planet live here.
These are especially impressive
statistics when considering that
Ecuador covers only about 0.19
percent of the earth’s surface.
Sustainable tourism is more than
just an advertising slogan in Ecuador;
it’s a way of life and a
mantra for development. Both
the public and private sectors
are committed to protecting the
nation’s precious natural and
cultural diversity. Among the
initiatives is the creation of regulations
for adventure tourism
and ecotourism that assure that
Ecuador stays on track, with an
infrastructure designed to preserve
the environment, the resident
flora and fauna and also
the many indigenous cultures.
Nineteen percent of the nation is
protected area, and the Sumaco,
Yasuni and Galapagos National
Parks are all UNESCO Biosphere
Reserves. Ecuador is dedicated
to preservation, and that makes
it easy for nature lovers to enjoy
the destination.
Selling Sophisticated
Cities, Historical
Traditions
Ecuador may be a nature-lover’s
paradise, but it’s also an excellent
destination for clients looking for
big-city sophistication, historic
sites and cultural activities.
In the Andes region, the cities of
Quito and Cuenca were declared
UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
Sites, thanks to their beautiful
colonial centers. The capital
city of Quito is dotted with historic
treasures in its beautifully
restored colonial heart—which
just happens to be the largest
and best-preserved colonial center
in Latin America. The newer
sections of Quito, meanwhile,
encompass a business-forward
area filled with world-class luxury
hotels, shopping and dining
options. Along with its lovely
colonial architecture, Cuenca
attracts tourists from around
the world with some of the
country’s best art museums,
as well as nearby pre-Hispanic
archeological sites.
On the coast, clients can enjoy
a very different experience in
Guayaquil, a bustling port city
with a lovely waterfront Malecón
promenade, as well as lots of
shops, restaurants and cultural
institutions. This is tropical
city life at its best; the city has
been recognized by the United
Nations as a model for urban
development, with urban
renewal projects bringing new
opportunities to the city.
Heading away from the cities
is another great way for clients
to connect with fascinating
cultural traditions. The nation
is home to 27 different ethnic
backgrounds, including 13 indigenous
groups, in addition to
its majority mestizo population.
Colorful fiestas, fine handicrafts,
and delicious traditional cuisine
also attest to the rich diversity of
the country. Clients can easily
Quilotoa - Cotopaxi
join tours and make individual
visits to many of these communities,
immersing themselves
in centuries-old cultures while
enjoying the warmth of the
Ecuadorian people.
Combine Regions
& Sell More
Among the many selling advantages
that Ecuador offers travel
agents is that it’s such an easily
accessible way to sell multiple
types of experiences and regions.
The fact that Ecuador is
a relatively small nation means
that travel times are short, so
clients can easily combine an
Amazonian adventure with a
visit to the historic wonders in
Quito and Cuenca, the Pacific
splendors of the coastal region
and the unforgettable wildlife
of the Galapagos Islands. Savvy
agents educate themselves
about each of these distinct
regions, and learn how to present
the selling points to clients,
encouraging them to make each
visit the trip of a lifetime, with
new destinations to explore and
new activities to enjoy.
Recent developments—including
the opening of a brand-new
airport in Quito that can handle
more flights, as well as the introduction
of a new tourist train
service linking the highlands
with the coastal region—make
it easier than ever to construct
unique itineraries to fit the interests
of every client. All it takes is
a bit of creativity.
“Love Life” Promotional
Campaign
The Ministry of Tourism is also
assisting you to communicate
all the pleasures awaiting your
customers in Ecuador with the
continuation of an aggressive
promotional campaign in the U.S.
and abroad, encouraging them
to “Love Life” in Ecuador!
7
7

Los Frailes - Manabí
With its excellent transportation
infrastructure and
prime location in northwestern
South America, Ecuador is an
easy place for clients to visit.
Stress the number of convenient,
non-stop flights that arrive
from North America on a daily
basis, and also highlight the
wide range of transportation options—not
to mention the short
transit time—between destinations
within Ecuador.
AIR TRAVEL
Ecuador has two state-of-theart
international airports: One in
Quito, the capital city, and the
other in Guayaquil, which is the
nation’s largest metropolis.
Guayaquil’s José Joaquín de
Olmedo International Airport is a
modern, well-equipped facility,
and has traditionally been the
biggest gateway for international
flights, especially from North
America. This year, air service
options improved in Quito,
with the introduction of the
brand-new Mariscal Sucre International
Airport. The spacious
new facility, which is located
about 15 miles outside the
city and replaces the former
airport of the same name,
is designed to process a lot
more passengers than the old
airport, and the lower elevation
and longer runways at the new
airfield will also allow airlines to
introduce new nonstop service
from further-off destinations in
the Americas and Europe. The
new airport has 60 check-in
counters, 24 immigration counters
for arrivals, making the flight
experience smooth and efficient.
Taxis, shuttle buses and private
group transport link Mariscal
Sucre with the city of Quito.
In addition to extensive international
service, Ecuador’s smaller
Ecuador is easy
to get to, and
to access the
pleasures of
its four worlds
once you arrive
I DISCOVERED
HOW EASY IT IS TO TRAVEL
TO ECUADOR
airports—including facilities in
Cuenca, Coca and two airports
in the Galapagos—make for hassle-free
transportation options
around the nation. Visitors can
spend more time enjoying Ecuador,
since they’ll spend less time
traveling from place to place.
FLYING FROM NORTH
AMERICA
TO/FROM QUITO:
• American Airlines flies four
nonstop roundtrip daily flights
between Quito and Miami.
• Delta flies two daily nonstop
roundtrips between Quito and
Atlanta.
• LAN flies one daily roundtrip
between Quito and Miami.
• TACA flies two daily flights
linking Quito with New York
City, with an intermediate
stop in San Jose, Costa Rica.
• Ecuador-based TAME to start
nonstop flights to New York
City this year.
• United flies two daily nonstop
roundtrips between Quito and
Houston.
TO/FROM GUAYAQUIL:
• American Airlines and LAN
Ecuador both fly nonstop between
Guayaquil and New
York City.
• American Airlines operates
multiple flights linking Guayaquil
with Miami on Mondays,
Thursdays and Saturdays.
• LAN flies two daily one-stop
roundtrips between Guayaquil
and Miami.
Convenient connecting flights are
available from many other destinations
in the U.S. and Canada.
CRUISES
Passenger ships provide allinclusive
comfort at a variety
of price points, with amenities
and itineraries to suit every
client. Travelers can choose
from cruises along scenic jungle
rivers as well as the sparkling
Pacific Ocean, with activities
focused on interests that
include health tourism, cultural,
adventure and culinary travel.
A few of the options:
• In the Amazon Region, the
Napo River serves as a scenic
“aquatic highway” for discovering
the lush wonders of the
jungle. Well-appointed small
ships make stops at a variety
of interesting destinations in
the region.
• Around the Galapagos Islands,
clients can board any of a wide
variety of ships—ranging from
basic to superbly luxurious—
to explore the legendary flora
and fauna of the islands
and its waters.
• Several major cruise lines with
sailings to South America feature
the sun-soaked beauty of Ecuador’s
Pacific Region on their
itineraries; the main ports of call
are Guayaquil and Manta.
8 www.ecuador-specialist.com

TEN THINGS
YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT
ECUADOR
1. I DISCOVERED THE
GREATEST NATURAL DIVERSITY
IN THE WORLD IN ECUADOR
No other nation of its size has
as much glorious natural diversity
as Ecuador. Clients will find
four very different regions here,
including the lush Amazon, the
soaring Andes highlands, warm
Pacific coast and unforgettable
Galapagos Islands.
2. I DISCOVERED THE
LARGEST AMOUNT OF FLORA
AND FAUNA IN ECUADOR
The Amazon region contains the
largest variety of flora and fauna
per square mile in the world. In
addition, Ecuador overall ranks
second in the world for endemic
vertebrates, third in the world
for amphibians, fourth for bird
species and fifth for butterflies.
In fact, some 10% of the world’s
plant species and 10.7% of all
vertebrate animals are found
in Ecuador. And, like nowhere
else, due to the short distances
and good travel connections between
the top sites, your clients
can spend more time enjoying
this biodiversity!
3. I DISCOVERED UNIQUE
AND EDUCATIONAL
EXPERIENCES IN ECUADOR
Ecuador makes it easy to
connect clients with rewarding
local experiences that enrich
the mind and stimulate the
senses. In the Amazon region
alone, there are as many as
40 ecotourism projects, led by
local groups. In Ecuador, clients
are more than observers—they
are participants, discovering
and experiencing as they move
around the country.
4. I DISCOVERED THE
CULTURES OF 13 INDIGENOUS
GROUPS IN ECUADOR
Ecuador’s diverse peoples are
among its most valuable
resources. Thirteen distinct
indigenous groups live here,
allowing visitors to get a
glimpse of unique customs and
ancient traditions, as they view
beautiful handicrafts and ageold
celebrations accompanied
by traditional music. The
peoples of the Amazon region
are world-famous for their
traditional medicines as well as
their respect for their rainforest
home. On the Pacific Coast, in
the province of Esmeraldas,
visitors can learn about the
Afro-Ecuadorian people (noted
for their infectious dance and
music) whose history dates to
the 16th century.
5. I DISCOVERED THE WORLD’S
FIRST UNESCO WORLD
HERITAGE CITY IN ECUADOR
Quito was the very first city to
be declared a UNESCO World
Heritage Site in 1978. What
makes it so special? Take a look
at the city’s 791-acre historical
center, the best conserved
large colonial neighborhood in
Latin America. With its massive
churches and ornately detailed
residences and government
buildings, Quito’s historic center
is like one big open-air museum,
waiting to be discovered. The
city of Cuenca is yet another
UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
Site, where lovely and
historic republican architecture
is set against a beautifully
natural backdrop.
6. I DISCOVERED REMAINS
OF PRE-COLOMBIAN
CULTURE IN ECUADOR
One of the most important
archeological sites in the
country is at Ingapirca, just
outside of Cuenca. Here, an
elliptical Temple of the Sun,
used for ceremonies by the
Cañari and Inca cultures, is
easily visited. Clients can also
learn more about the country’s
early mestizo roots—the result
of the blending of pre-Hispanic
and European cultures—at
historic, colonial-era haciendas.
7. I DISCOVERED WARMTH AND
HOSPITALITY IN ECUADOR
Ecuadorians are, by nature, a
warm, honest and service-oriented
people. They love welcoming
visitors and showing the very
best of their nation. Clients will
feel like honored guests, not tourists,
as locals share the secrets of
their cultures and ways of life. The
warm welcome and hospitality on
the Pacific Coast, for example,
Offer your clients
the vacation of a
lifetime: a discovery
of Ecuador’s unique
four worlds
ranges from the cultural
and economic hub of Guayaquil,
to Esmeraldas—home
to the country’s largest Afro-
Ecuadorian community, and beyond
to every part of the country.
8. I DISCOVERED THE MIDDLE
OF THE WORLD IN ECUADOR
Clients can enjoy the only-in-
Ecuador opportunity to cross
from the southern to the northern
hemisphere with a single step.
The so-called Middle of the
World is easily accessed, just
outside of the city of Quito.
9. I DISCOVERED ETERNAL
SPRINGTIME IN ECUADOR
Ecuador benefits from an ideal
positioning along the equator—
and that means that, in many
areas, travelers can enjoy
spring-like weather, year round.
You won’t find an “off-season”
for Ecuador, so it’s easy to plan
great vacations any time.
10. I DISCOVERED FOUR
WORLDS IN ONE TRIP IN
ECUADOR
Clients can climb the world’s
tallest active volcano one
day, then kayak the rapids
of the Amazon rainforest the
next; cross the equator on
horseback one day and swim
with penguins and iguanas
in the Galapagos islands just
24 hours later. Beautifully
maintained colonial architecture
and ancient archeological sites
are just a quick trip away from
unspoiled nature preserves
and truly unique cultural
experiences with centuriesold
indigenous groups.
9

I DISCOVERED
HOW TO SHARE
ESSENTIAL FACTS ABOUT
ECUADOR
Q: Where is Ecuador?
A: Ecuador is located in the
northwest of South America, in
the middle of the world, at zero
latitude, along the equator line.
Q: What is the capital of
Ecuador?
A: Quito
Q: How big is Ecuador?
A: Ecuador is 98,985 square
miles (256,370 square kilometers),
slightly larger than the state of
Wyoming.
Q: What is the population
of Ecuador?
A: Approximately 14,666,055.
Q: What languages are
spoken in Ecuador?
A: Spanish is the official language.
Quichua is spoken in
some indigenous communities.
English is widely spoken. For
groups, guides who speak Spanish,
English, German, French and
Italian are readily available.
Q: What is the weather
like in Ecuador; what is
the best time to visit?
A: Ecuador is a year-round
destination. The country has
a wide range of climates,
depending on altitude, location
and due to the effects of the
Andes mountain range and the
impact of sea currents.
Galapagos Islands
• Hot season, warm and rainy
climate: Dec. through May.
• Dry season, windy and dry
climate: Jun. through Nov.
• Temperatures range between
72ºF / 22ºC and 90ºF / 32ºC.
• The eggs of the green sea
turtles begin to hatch: April
Pacific Region
• Rainy season: Dec. through
May, mostly in the evening.
• Dry season: Jun. through Nov.
• Temperatures range between
73ºF / 23ºC and 91ºF / 33ºC.
• Whale watching: Jun. to Sept.
Andes Region
• Rainy and cool climate:
November through April.
• Dry climate: May through Oct.
• Temperatures range between
55ºF / 13ºC and 64ºF/18ºC.
Amazon Region
• Rainy and humid season:
January through September.
• Dry season: Oct. through Dec.
• Temperatures range between
73ºF / 23ºC and 96ºF / 36ºC.
• Season of flooded lagoons:
April to June
Q: What currency is used
in Ecuador?
A: The U.S. dollar
Q: What Traveler’s
Checks, credit cards
are accepted?
A: American Express and Visa
traveler’s checks can be cashed in
banks and are accepted in some
hotels and by tour operators.
Accepted credit cards include
Master Card, Visa, American
Express, and Diners Club.
Q. What taxes can I expect
to pay in Ecuador?
A: 12% VAT (refundable in some
cases, with correct documentation;
check on this with participating
businesses prior to purchase)
and 10% service in most
hotels and restaurants (a tip is
normally added to this, depending
on the service received). Airport
Departure Taxes are US$55.66
in Quito and US$30.43 in Guayaquil
(these taxes are generally
included in the ticket).
Q. Will I need an adapter
for my appliances in
Ecuador?
A: The voltage (110/120) is the
same as in the U.S. and Canada;
plugs have two flat prongs, as in
the United States.
Q: What is the time zone
in Ecuador?
A: 5 GMT in mainland Ecuador
(Eastern Standard Time) & 6
GMT on the Galapagos Islands.
Q: What is the country
calling code?
A: +593 + city code.
Q: Will I have easy
Internet access?
A: Internet cafes can be found
almost all over Ecuador (average
rate: U.S. $1/hour), and many
hotels include Internet access in
the price of accommodation.
Q: Is Ecuador safe?
A: Ecuador is a safe country.
It is recommended to carry a
copy of your passport for all
trips in Ecuador and to leave the
original in your place of lodging.
In big cities, it is necessary to
take precautions as in any other
city in the world.
Q: Do I need a visa?
A: A visa is not required of
citizens of the U.S. and Canada.
A passport valid for at least six
months is required. Tourism stays
are allowed up to 90 days.
For further information about
Ecuador and its promotion
offices abroad, contact:
Ecuador’s Tourism
Promotion Board;
E-mail:
ecuador-specialist@
turismo.gob.ec.
10 www.ecuador-specialist.com

The perfect itinerary
can be designed
to fit each one of
your client’s special
interests. Here are
just a few samples.
I DISCOVERED
SEVEN PERFECT DAYS
IN ECUADOR
Culture & History Lovers
Day 1: Arrive in Quito, Ecuador’s
beautiful capital city. Clients can
take time to acclimate to the
altitude as they enjoy the
spectacular scenery and enjoy
a delicious dinner.
Day 2: Spend the day touring
Quito’s historic city center, discovering
why this city was the
world’s first UNESCO World Heritage
Site while visiting churches
and museums and strolling the
postcard-perfect streets.
Day 3: Travel by train to visit
Cotopaxi National Park and
discover incredible landscapes
(including snow-capped Cotopaxi
volcano) and unique Andean
fauna. Travel to a historic
hacienda for lunch and a tour.
Attend a local dance exhibition.
Day 4: Continue your train
journey south. Explore a rose
plantation on the way to Ambato
for lunch. Experience a visit with
a local craftsman and, if weather
permits, experience spectacular
views of the Tungurahua and
Chimborazo volcanoes.
Day 5: Travel by train across
fascinating Andean landscapes
to Colta community. Make a
stop at Balbanera church, where
Christianity first reached the
area. Back on the train, depart
for Guamote to enjoy its indigenous
market. Continue on to
Alausi and embark on the spectacular
descent by train to Devil’s
Nose. Continue on to Hulgra a
small village located between the
Andes and the Coast.
Day 6: On this day’s train journey,
travel to Bucay, while witnessing
the impressive transition
from the Andes to the Coast.
Visit with the Shuar community,
who will share their ancestral
customs and traditions. Continue
to San Rafael for lunch. Travel
by train on to Guayaquil, while
viewing typical coastal plantations.
Day 7: Tour Guayaquil, the nation’s
largest city, where visitors
can stroll along the beautifully
refurbished Malecon waterfront
promenade, gaze at Inca ceramics
at the Municipal Museum and
admire both archeological treasures
and modern art at MAAC,
the Museum of Anthropology and
Contemporary Art.
Nature Lovers
Day 1: Arrive in Quito and take
a city tour of the historic center.
Day 2: Take a quick flight to
the heart of Ecuador’s Amazon
region, stay at any of a variety
of beautiful nature lodges, or on
private ships that ply the waters
of the Napo River.
Day 3: Enjoy an adventurous day
exploring the rainforest, with activities
including hiking, canoeing
and bird watching. A nighttime
excursion is an especially exciting
way to view the wildlife.
Day 4: Attend a presentation
about local flora and fauna,
visit with a local indigenous
community.
Day 5: Fly back to Quito and
transfer to any of several upscale
nature lodges or haciendas located
in the Andes Region, with
expert guides available.
Day 6: Join a before-breakfast
tour of a nature reserve, spotting
resident wildlife including a seemingly
endless array of beautiful
birds. Guided morning, afternoon
and evening excursions provide
more opportunities to learn about
the natural wonders of the region.
Day 7: The return trip to Quito
can include a stop at the archeological
site called Tulipe, which
was home to the ancient Yumbo
civilization and is now also known
for its gorgeous cloud forest.
Adventure Lovers
Day 1: Arrive in Quito and head
out for trekking at nearby Pasochoa
– Cotopaxi Volcano, where
you might see more than 100 species
of birds as well as deer, foxes
and perhaps a puma or two.
Day 2: Take a day trip to Pululahua
Geobotanical Reserve,
which offers exceptional mountain
biking experiences through
the dense western cloud forest
and into an active crater.
Day 3: Fly to the legendary
Galapagos Islands to begin an
unforgettable, multi-day cruise.
Clients may fly into Baltra or
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and
then be transferred to their ship.
Day 4: The second day may
include a visit to Punta Pitt and
the white coral beach called
Cerro Brujo, both on San Cristóbal
island. Activities include
snorkeling, swimming, kayaking
and glass-bottom boat rides.
The beach at Punta Pitt is home
to sea lions, lizards and marine
iguanas, while Cerro Brujo is an
ideal place for bird watching.
Day 5: A stop at Punta Suárez
and Gardner Bay, both on
Española Island, allow for even
more exploration, water-based
activities and photo opportunities—
including shots of the waved
albatross and red and green marine
iguanas that exist only here.
Day 6: The itinerary wraps up with
a visit to the Charles Darwin Research
Station, located in Baltra
on Santa Cruz Island. A flight back
to Quito or Guayaquil allows for
one more night in Ecuador.
Day 7: Last chance to enjoy
Quito or Guayaquil, before the
flight home.
11

I DISCOVERED
THE BEST WAY TO SELL
THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
IN ECUADOR
Ask any traveler to create a The Galapagos Islands are a endangered giant sea tortoises.
“bucket list” of must-see sure-fire seller for clients considering
Here, tortoise eggs are incubated
destinations, and the world-famous
Galapagos Islands are sure to
appear. After all, nowhere else
on earth has such a concentration
of unique flora and fauna.
Indeed, the Galapagos Islands
are a beautiful, unspoiled paradise
where visitors can get unbelievably
close to wildlife, both
in the water and on land.
Ecuador, and it’s easy to ar-
range, whether a traveler prefers
to spend their entire trip exploring
the islands, or combine it with
visits to other parts of the country.
Most travelers join cruises
that can range from three to eight
or more nights, but land-based
visits are increasingly popular
as well.
until the babies hatch; the off-
spring are cared for until they’re
able to fend for themselves in the
wild. Clients can also gain insight
at the Van Straelen Visitor Center,
which provides a wealth of environmental
information, as well as
news about conservation efforts.
Off the east coast of Santa
Cruz are the Islas Plazas, two
An archipelago of 14 islands and
dozens of islets some 600 miles
Overview
Tour operators and cruise companies
islands that are home to a large
colony of Galapagos sea lions
off the Ecuadorian mainland,
offer finely detailed as well as hybrid iguanas that
the Galapagos Islands are itineraries, tailored to specific
are the result of mating between
home to a gigantic national park
and marine biological reserve. interests, time frames and
budgets, that take in the most
marine and land iguanas. Also
of note on Santa Cruz Island
Unique species including interesting sites in the Galapagos.
is Los Gemelos (The Twins),
iguanas, Galapagos tortoises,
Presenting these itiner-
gigantic craters that were
albatrosses, boobies and sea
lions make their home here,
and the one-of-a-kind flora and
fauna inspired scientist Charles
Darwin to study the islands as
part of his work on the origin
of species. The province has
been a UNESCO World Natural
Heritage Site since 1979.
ary options can help clients to
understand the options—and
the excitement—that await.
formed when earth collapsed
into underground cavities. And
divers won’t want to miss a visit
to Las Grietas, a channel of sea
water mixed with fresh water,
with giant crevasses that are
ideal for viewing marine life and
other underwater wonders.
With its legendary reputation, it’s
no surprise that the Galapagos
Islands enjoy an especially high
profile on the global tourism
map. This year, Conde Nast
Traveller (U.K. edition) named the
Galapagos Islands as one of the
“Destinations to watch in 2013,”
highlighting it as “one of the
most fascinating places on earth
and an evolutionary melting pot.”
One of the main points of entry
for the Galapagos is Baltra, a
small island that’s home to Seymour
Airport. A ferry connects
this island efficiently with nearby
Santa Cruz, the most populated
island. Puerto Ayora, the capital
of the archipelago, is on Santa
Cruz, and on the western side,
an interpretive nature trail, created
by the Galapagos National
Park and the Charles Darwin
Foundation, provides a helpful
introduction to the local flora and
fauna, while the Fausto Llerena
Breeding Center presents the
work of researchers who raise
Another important entry point
is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno,
a town on San Cristóbal Island
that also has its own airport
and marine port. Just five
minutes away is La Lobería de
San Cristóbal, a beach where
female Galapagos sea lions
and their offspring laze on the
white sand. Nearly 100 of these
large creatures make their home
here, under the watchful eye of
the resident bull sea lion. Nearby
is El Acantilado, a scenic
point that’s perfect for snapping
photos of the sea and the
soaring birds.
Also on San Cristóbal Island
is Cerro El Junco, a hill with
a crater that contains the only
freshwater lake in the Galapagos.
This is a popular spot
for marine birds, who come
to bathe and wash off sea
salts. On San Cristobal’s southeastern
side is Puerto Chino,
a lovely white-sand beach
lapped at by waters filled
with sea tortoises, manta rays
and sharks.
Just off the coast of San
Cristobal is the León Dormido
(the Sleeping Lion), a pair
of rocky islets named for their
interesting, lion-like shape.
The waters surrounding this
landmark are especially good
for scuba diving and snorkeling,
thanks to the wealth of fish and
marine mammals that swim here.
Fernandina Island - Galapagos
12 www.ecuador-specialist.com

Isabela, the largest of the Galapagos
Islands, is home to several
noteworthy sites, including
Cerro El Chato, a hill shrouded
in fog and mist, where the lush
greenery serves as a gorgeous
backdrop for groups of giant
sea turtles. The Alcedo Volcano,
which rises in the center of the
island, is reached via a four-hour
walk filled with scenic vistas and
rewards hikers with views of the
region’s largest wild population
of giant tortoises. Also dramatic
is the 860-meter Volcán Chico
(Small Volcano) and the Sierra
Negra Volcano, the world’s
second-largest active volcano,
which has a diameter of 10 kilometers—it
can be reached by
foot or on horseback.
An interesting stop on Isabela
for both natural and cultural
reasons is Puerto Villamil, a
village where the Ecuadorian
government operated a prison
between 1946 and 1959;
the prisoners built a 65-foot
monument called the Wall of
Tears, which is reached during
a two-mile walk that passes
pristine white-sand beaches,
lava tunnels and lagoons. In
the center of Puerto Vaillamil
lies Poza Salina, a saltwater
lagoon that serves as home to
smaller sea creatures and also
as a feeding spot for resident
and migratory birds. A special
boardwalk allows visitors to
enjoy the perfect vantage point
for viewing large flocks of pink
Caribbean flamingos.
Isla Floreana, the island with the
smallest population of humans
in the Galapagos archipelago,
is the oldest island. And while
the number of humans may be
small here, the massive colony
of Caribbean flamingoes is
indeed sizeable and impressive.
How To Sell
Clients may experience the
Galapagos Islands in a variety of
ways. Land-based tours are not
as common but are growing in
popularity; hotels on Santa Cruz
and San Cristobal islands serve
as bases for exploring, with day
trip cruises and excursions taking
in nearby sites.
For most travelers, cruises are
the best choice, as they offer
the greatest flexibility and the
ability to visit the widest array
of regions in the Galapagos.
The shortest cruises are usually
three nights/four days, and stop
at many of the most popular
sites, including Baltra, Española,
Floreana and Santa Cruz.
Five-day and eight-day cruises
are best for clients who want a
more in-depth experience, as
they include more destinations,
activities and experiences.
Agents should emphasize that
this is likely a once-in-a-lifetime
trip, so it’s a good idea to make
the most of it.
The same goes for the class
of service. Cruises are available
in five different classes of
service—luxury, first class, tourist
superior, tourist class and
economy—so that it’s easy to
match each client to the type
of service that best fits their budget.
Agents should be sure to
emphasize what amenities are
included on each ship and in
each class; luxury-class ships,
for example, have air conditioning,
hot water, cabins with ocean
views and private bathrooms
and sometimes swimming pools
and Jacuzzis, while at the other
end of the spectrum, economy-class
ships have double,
triple and quad cabins and
sometimes don’t offer private
bathrooms or air conditioning.
Target Markets
Nature lovers, adventure travelers
and fans of scuba diving
and snorkeling are among the
ideal target markets for a visit
to the Galapagos Islands. Although
considering its world-famous
reputation, it’s the kind of
place that nearly everyone may
find as an ideal once-in-a-lifetime
destination.
Nowhere
else on earth
has such a
concentration
of unique flora
and fauna
13

I DISCOVERED
THE BEST WAY TO SELL
THE PACIFIC COAST
IN ECUADOR
Guayaquil - Guayas
Ranging from the sandy
shores of the Pacific
Ocean to the rolling foothills of
the Andes Mountains, Ecuador’s
Pacific Coast covers seven
provinces, from the Colombian
border in the north to the
Peruvian border in the south.
Visitors will enjoy year-round
warm weather here, with stunning
geographic diversity, fascinating
cultures and activities
ranging from big-city fun to remote
natural getaways.
Overview
Most visitors to the Pacific
Coast arrive first in Guayaquil,
the nation’s largest city. This
fast-paced metropolis serves as
a cultural and economic hub for
the region, and is currently enjoying
an urban renaissance that’s
making it increasingly popular
with travelers. Clients can spend
days visiting the many restaurants,
bars, shops, art galleries
and cultural institutions. The
scenic focal point for the city
is the Malecón Simón Bolivar,
a waterfront promenade set
along the banks of the Guayas
River. A major redevelopment
of this site in 1999 has resulted
in an especially welcoming ambiance,
with tall, shady trees, a
historic clock tower and even an
IMAX theater among the draws.
Not far away is another unique
Guayaquil attraction, Iguana
Park. One of the city’s oldest
parks, this stretch of green lies
in front of the Guayaquil Metropolitan
Cathedral and, as its
name implies, is home to a large
number of much-photographed
resident iguanas. In Guayaquil’s
Bellavista district, clients can
witness the excitement of Ecuador’s
most beloved soccer team
at the 60,000-seat Barcelona
Monumental Stadium, the largest
such facility in the nation.
Just outside of Guayaquil, the
Manglares El Salado Fauna
14 www.ecuador-specialist.com

Production Reserve stretches
across more than 5,000 hectares
of land, with mangrove swamps
populated by coastal crocodiles
and other interesting flora
and fauna. Continuing to the
coast, visitors arrive at the
gulf of Guayaquil, where a
40-minute boat ride whisks
them to Puna Island, where dry
forests, unspoiled beaches and
large mangroves are among the
natural attractions.
A bit further up the coast is La
Chocolatera, South America’s
westernmost point, where
the rocky coastline creates a
dramatic backdrop for viewing
resident sea lions and, between
July and September, migrating
humpback whales.
Ecuador’s northernmost coastal
area is set in the province called
Esmeraldas, a fascinating region
that is home to the country’s
largest Afro-Ecuadorian community.
Delicious cuisine and unique
cultural experiences are among
the reasons to visit here, as are
the province’s natural beauty.
The Mangroves of Majagual,
a reserve that measures more
than 51,000 hectares, is a nature
lover’s dream — and clients can
sample tasty dishes made with
locally grown coconut, plantain
and banana, as well as freshly
caught seafood including crab
and shrimp.
Considering that the province
of Manabí has more coastline
than any other province on the
Ecuadorian mainland, it’s no
surprise that it has several lovely
beaches. Top stretches of sand
include Bahía de Caráquez,
Pedernales, Crucita and Puerto
López, and migrating humpback
whales can be viewed between
June and August. At the
50,000-hectare Machalilla
National Park, travelers may
view any of some 250 species
of birds, as well as animals as
diverse as monkeys, armadillos,
squirrels and wild pigs. Manabi
is also revered for its exquisite
cuisine. Just a few of its many
prized specialties are morcilla
(typical sausage with rice), viche
(soup with peanuts and fish or
shellfish), ceviche, corviche (fish
and green plantain croquettes)
and empanadas.
Just south of Manabí is Santo
Domingo de los Tsáchilas,
whose name refers in part to the
Tsáchilas, one of the few pre-
Incan groups still in existence,
who make this area their home.
Attractions here include the
Bomboli Viewpoint, which
offers a scenic view of the city
of Santo Domingo, and the San
Gabriel de Baba Boardwalk, set
on the banks of the Baba River,
where a natural pool offers a
lovely place for visitors to cool
off. Also noteworthy is the Padre
Julio Marrero Botanical Garden,
a 17-hectare space that has
more than 160 species of birds
as well as some 160 species of
trees and plants from Colombia,
Spain, Argentina, Slovakia,
Germany and Portugal. Active
clients can enjoy climbing,
tubing, kayaking and fishing
at the nearby Hermoso Valley,
while mountain biking is fun at
the Flor del Valle, a picturesque
spot where an eight-person
cable car offers beautiful views
of the lush vegetation.
The province of Santa Elena, located
west of Guayas and the city
of Guayaquil, is a great spot for
beach lovers, thanks to its resorts
and long stretches of sand. The
most-visited destination here is
Salinas, a beach from where travelers
can view migrating humpback
whales and enjoy a variety
of water sports. Punta Carnero,
meanwhile, is a preferred beach
for surfers, thanks to its excellent
waves. The light brown sand of
Olón Beach is also popular with
sun worshippers, while the coastal
village called Ayangue is an especially
beautiful place, thanks to
the mountains that extend right
into the sea, forming a natural
swimming pool. The unique conditions
and array of underwater
flora and fauna make Ayangue
one of the best places for scuba
diving in Ecuador.
Haciendas, beautiful structures
of historical and ecological
significance, also make for
interesting stops in the Pacific
Coast. Many are open to the
public and some continue to
produce cocoa, bananas and
sugar cane (integral to the local
economy). During guided visits,
your customers can learn about
their traditions, lifestyles and
current work on the plantations,
which may include the use
of cocoa, mango and fine
wood trees including caoba
and guayacán, with an eye
toward preserving the region’s
natural resources. Guests can
enjoy lunch, view livestock,
go horseback riding, watch a
rodeo, enjoy a bird watching
hike and many other activities,
depending on the particular
hacienda visited.
How to Sell
Organized tours—whether day
tours or multi-day escorted
itineraries—are an excellent
option for this part of the country.
Among tour operators offerings
are city tours of Guayaquil
as well as coastal excursions
like a six-hour visit to the
Manglares Churute Ecological
Reserve and trips to coastal
haciendas for tours of banana
and cocoa plantations.
When selling the Pacific Region,
emphasize the excitement of
Guayaquil as well as the natural,
unspoiled tropical beauty of
the coastline—this is a region
Visitors will enjoy
year-round warm
weather, stunning
geographic diversity,
fascinating cultures
and activities
San Pablo - Santa Elena
that many travelers have yet to
discover, let them know how
much there is to do and see here.
Target Markets
Adventure travelers, nature
lovers and clients who enjoy
warm weather relaxation are
ideal candidates for a visit to the
Coastal Region.
Considering that many international
flights arrive in Guayaquil,
it’s also easy to add the city
to existing itineraries that incorporate
other regions as well.
Repeat visitors to Ecuador
who are in the mood to discover
new territory are also recommended
for this region.
15

I DISCOVERED
THE BEST WAY TO SELL
THE ANDES REGION
IN ECUADOR
An especially
rewarding place
to connect with
culture, history
and stunning
natural beauty
The place where Ecuador
reaches closest to the
heavens, the Andes Region is
a temperate area with dramatically
beautiful geography, from
its snow-capped mountaintops
to its peaceful valleys. With two
UNESCO World Heritage Sites—
the cities of Quito and Cuenca—
it’s an especially rewarding place
to connect with culture, history
and stunning natural beauty.
Throughout the region, visitors
find a reflection of Ecuador’s
thriving tradition of holidays,
festivals and celebrations. Indeed,
most months include at
least one major festival. Most
of the major celebrations are on
dates of religious significance,
including those centering on the
patron saints of local communities.
Many of the most extravagant
festivities take place in the
indigenous villages in the Andes
Region, where days of nonstop
feasting, dancing and performances
of their unique ancient
rituals give the events a distinctly
Andean feel.
Visitors will also feel a part of the
local culture at the region’s many
colorful indigenous markets. The
most important market of this
kind in the country can be found
here, in Otavalo. Your customers
can haggle for (or goggle at)
everything from the famous textiles,
woven in a kaleidoscope of
colors, artwork and ceramics;
to articles crafted from bread
dough; to fine leather crafts and
embroidery; to every kind of
agricultural product.
Overview
This year, the city of Quito
opened a brand-new, much
larger airport, which will allow
for more flights and new nonstop
service from international
destinations. That means it will
become easier than ever for
clients to start their Ecuador
experience in the capital city.
Home to the largest colonial
center in Latin America, Quito—
one of the world’s highest capital
cities—is a not-to-be-missed
part of any visit to Ecuador.
The very first metropolis to
be named a UNESCO World
Heritage Site back in 1978, this
thriving destination combines
modern luxuries and amenities
with centuries-old traditions, well
preserved architecture and count
less attractions. Tours here often
showcase the colonial heart,
stopping at priceless landmarks
like the Compañía de Jesus, a
church built between 1605 and
1765 and made from volcanic
stone adorned with more than 50
kilos of gold leaf. Indeed, religion
played an important role in the
history of this city, as evidenced
by the many historic churches.
Also striking is the Gothic-
style Basilica del Voto Nacional
and the Church of San Francisco,
a massive structure that dates to
1550 and sits on a giant plaza
where indigenous residents once
bartered for products.
Multiple museums, focusing on
both historic and contemporary
art and history, provide additional
depth to any visit. And
the changing of the presidential
guard, which takes place every
Sunday at the Plaza de la Independencia,
is a popular photo
opportunity for visitors as well.
Gaze in any direction from
Quito’s oldest neighborhood
and you’re likely to see beautiful
views; soaring mountains
and the imposing Pichincha
Volcano are easily spotted. Also
standing out above the city is
the Virgin of Quito, a sculpture
created in 1976 as a replica of
an earlier work. This towering
figure, made of some 7,000
pieces of aluminum, is a muchphotographed
landmark, and
clients may visit a small museum
inside while also enjoying
spectacular city views from the
vantage point.
Clients looking for internationally
branded hotels will find plenty of
options in the newer part of the
city, where shopping, nightlife
and sophisticated dining also
abounds. In the colonial center,
unique upscale accommodations
set in historic structures are an
increasingly popular option.
Outside Quito
Quito serves as a well-located
base for exploring multiple sites
and activities in the region, both
as day trips and overnight excursions.
Among the most popular
destinations is Mitad del
Mundo (Middle of the World),
where a tall monument marks
the equator—the zero-latitude
spot on the earth where visitors
can cross between the northern
and southern hemispheres
with just one step. It makes
for a fun photo opportunity,
and the site also has a
small museum, a planetarium
and an insectarium.
Your culture and crafts-loving clients
will want to head for Otavalo,
in the Imbabura province, a town
that’s home to a large indigenous
community that’s famous for its
weaving and handicrafts. The
16 www.ecuador-specialist.com

the ruins were likely the home
of a tribe called the Cañaris, and
later became a settlement for the
Incas. During the third week of
June, the Inti Raymi celebration
takes place here, bringing ancient
customs and traditions to life.
Tambopaxi - Cotopaxi
How to Sell
Since it’s home to several of
the nation’s most famous cities
and attractions, the Andes
Region is an essential part
of any Ecuador vacation. No
first-time visitor should miss
this region, and repeat visitors
should be encouraged to
discover new attractions and
activities—which is easy to do in
an area this vast and fascinating.
Cities like Quito and Cuenca
can easily be visited either via
escorted tour or independently,
while other parts of the region
are most easily seen during
guided tours.
weekly market, which takes place
on Saturdays, brings dozens of
talented ven-dors and artisans
to the center of town, although
nearly any day is a good time to
shop for handcrafted clothing,
bags, fabrics and décor here.
Nature enthusiasts should consider
a visit to Mindo, a village
that sits in a valley of subtropical
forest. Here, the Andes Region’s
greatest diversity of flora
and fauna thrives, with bird
watching and visits to the local
butterfly farm—which is home
to more than 18 colorful species—among
the recommended
nature-oriented activities. Active
travelers will love Mindo as well;
sports including hiking, kayaking
and ziplining through the cloud
forest are also excellent here.
South of Pichincha is the province
of Cotopaxi, where the capital
city, Latacunga, is a cradle of
Ecuadorian cuisine and culture.
An especially good time to visit
Latacunga is in November,
when the Mama Negra festival
brings a colorful parade of costumed
characters to the street,
in a festive tribute to the Virgin
of La Merced. The snow-topped
Cotopaxi Volcano, the nation’s
second-highest peak, presides
over the region, while Cotopaxi
National Park offers clients the
chance to camp and even go
mountain climbing.
Heading South
Traveling south from Quito toward
Cuenca, an especially popular
stop is the city of Ambato,
famous for its carnival, called
the Festival of Fruits and Flowers,
held in the last two weeks
of February. This is a time of
colorful parades and festivities
(among them regional music
and dance performances) and
religious observances. A huge
mural constructed from flowers,
fruits and bread is displayed
outside the Cathedral as part of
the celebrations. Located nearby
is Baños de Agua Santa, a tiny
town tucked between the central
Andes and the Amazon, famous
for its natural hot springs that
are heated by the Tungurahua
Volcano. Adventure travelers will
find lots to do here as well, with
rafting, climbing, trekking and
canyoning among the activities.
Another must-see in the Andes
Region is Cuenca, yet another
of Ecuador’s UNESCO World
Heritage Sites. Some 52 lovely
churches dot the historic streets
of this charming city. The Old Cathedral,
which was the primary
place of worship during the colonial
era, has been replaced by
the Cathedral of the Immaculate
Conception, which dates to 1885,
but both structures remain iconic
landmarks. The quiet pace and
spring-like climate of Cuenca
help to make it even more appealing—as
does its proximity to
Ingapirca, Ecuador’s most significant
archeological site. Founded
at the end of the 15th century,
New options for traveling around
the region are now available
from Tren Ecuador, which
offers eight rail routes along the
Andean and coastal regions.
The two newest routes originate
in Riobamba; one passes
Chimborazo Volcano en route
to Urbina. Scheduled to launch
in June 2013 is a new, 54-
passenger luxury rail service
called the Tren Crucero, which
will travel between Quito and
Guayaquil on a four-day/threenight
itinerary.
Target Markets
Fans of history and culture—including
that of the indigen-ous
and colonial-era peoples—will
find lots of activities and attractions
in the Andes Region.
Adventure travelers should be
encouraged to visit the dramatically
landscaped countryside,
while those looking for more
comfort and an array of dining
and hotel options will do well
in the two largest cities.
17

I DISCOVERED
THE BEST WAY TO SELL
THE AMAZON
IN ECUADOR
The Amazon is a name that
conjures up many images;
a legendary place of lush vegetation
and unforgettable wildlife.
What some travelers may not realize,
however, is that Ecuador offers
the easiest and best access
to this hotspot of biodiversity.
OVerview
Starting in the eastern foothills
of the Andes, streams and waterfalls
wind their way down into
the jungle, which covers most of
Ecuador’s Amazon Region, one
of the least populated areas in
the nation.
Accessing Ecuador’s Amazon
Region is easy; the most common
Ecuador offers
the easiest and
best access to
this hotspot of
biodiversity
18 www.ecuador-specialist.com La Belleza - Orellana

gateway is the airport in Francisco
de Orellana, a town also called El
Coca, which is reached by a short
flight from Quito.
Once here, clients will be
thrilled by the array of flora and
fauna. Wildlife includes animals
like tapirs, anacondas, boa
constrictors, turtles, lizards,
monkeys and giant rodents.
Dozens of bird species fill the
skies and the trees, and freshwater
dolphins are another favorite
animal to spot. In addition,
clients can interact directly
with indigenous peoples whose
centuries-old knowledge of the
jungle provides fascinating insight,
and whose cultural traditions
are equally interesting.
During their visit, clients might
also want to try some uniquely
Amazonian cuisine, including
Maito, which is made of meat
wrapped in a turupanga leaf
and grilled.
Among the best places to
connect with the magnificent
creatures and cultures of the
Amazon is Yasuní National Park,
which spans across both the
Orellana and Pastaza provinces.
The nation’s largest mainland
national park, Yasuní is the
most biodiverse region of the
Ecuadorian Amazon. Some 600
species of birds, 170 species of
mammals and 120 species of
reptiles make their home here, as
well as hundreds of thousands of
insect species. There is so much
wildlife, in fact, that scientists
are still discovering new species,
even today. The park is also
home to the Huaorani people,
as well as the Tagaeri and the
Taromenane, two groups that
purposely isolate themselves
from modern society.
While here, clients can hike
through tropical forests with
experienced guides, to places
like La Belleza, a 22-meterhigh
waterfall where parrots,
crickets, butterflies and beetles
thrive. Visitors seeking a rustic
experience can camp at Las
Conchas, another picturesque
waterfall. Also rewarding are
boat tours of San Pedro Lake,
a black water lake managed
by the local community, where
visitors may view piranha,
caiman and turtles. And in
the Limoncocha Biological
Reserve, visitors can spot
some 450 species of birds and
the black caiman, as well as
gigantic cedar, balsa, ceibo and
laurel trees.
Clients can also have a unique
experience that combines
indigenous culture with natural
beauty at Añango Lake, which is
two hours by boat from the town
of Francisco de Orellana. Along
the water’s edge, the Quichua
community maintains its ancient
traditions and also supports
ecotourism efforts. Visitors may
join walking and canoe excursions
led by trained, English-speaking
Quichua guides and naturalists,
to seek out animals and even
learn about the medicinal use
of plants. Guests stay in solarpowered
private cabins, complete
with restaurant service—and
clients can also add a trip along
the Napo River to learn more
about local communities; at the
Native Survival Centre at Santa
Teresita, for example, Quichua
people demonstrate how they
hunt and fish.
Also on the Napo River is the
Cicame Museum, which features
an exhibition of funerary pottery
and spears from the Quichua
and Huaorani communities.
Within the Cuyabeno Fauna
Production Reserve, the Iripari
camp is yet another venue that
allows visitors to observe a
wealth of flora and fauna while
learning about the ancestral
traditions of the Quichua
people. Large reptiles and
pink dolphins are among the
creatures viewable here, during
excursions aboard canoes
hand-built by the local guides,
who can also teach survival
skills including hunting, fishing
and gathering fruit. Best of all,
the guides—who lead walks
around various lakes and
through multiple trails—can
tailor each visit to the individual
interests of the visitor. A stay
here can be part of a longer,
weeklong trip along the Napo
and Aguarico Rivers, with a
visit to the Native Survival
Centre in the community of
Santa Teresita.
Pastaza province is another
nature paradise; in fact, 80%
of the province is not colonized
and is home to part of both
the Yasuni and Llanganates
parks. The concentration of
indigenous communities of
over 30,000 people is made
up of Kichwa, Shuar, Waorani,
Achuar, Zapara, Andoa and
Shiwiar. Popular cultural
and nature immersion trips
are available with local tour
operators. Here, clients will
discover a distinctly different
lifestyle, experience its ancient
culture, and explore the extreme
biodiversity of its location. It is
an ideal site for bird lovers and
ornithologists alike, who can
spot rare birds indigenous to
the area, along with many other
unique life forms, thriving in this
untouched ecosystem.
Accommodations throughout
the region range from basic tents
to well-equipped, eco-friendly
lodges. These lodges may be located
in large private estates or
ecological reserves, and feature
packages ranging from three to
eight nights, with various activity
programs included. These
activities can feature hiking,
bird watching, canoeing, animal
spotting and even piranha fishing,
night walks and after-dark guided
canoe trips. These evening excursions,
with the aid of flashlights,
provide interesting views
of animals including caimans and
giant insects. Monkeys, reptiles
and frogs are also commonly
sighted during day trips.
How To Sell
To appreciate the natural and cultural
wonders of Ecuador’s Amazon
Region, it’s important to be
with an informed guide. This can
be arranged either through a multiday
escorted tour or by arranging
accommodations at places that
feature their own expert staff.
Thanks to its easy access from
the nation’s capital by air, the
Amazon Region can easily be
added to existing itineraries,
especially those featuring the Andes
Region. So clients who are
already decided about exploring
the historic wonders of Quito and
Cuenca should be encouraged to
spend a few more days and see
the very different world that is the
Amazon Region.
Target Markets
Nature lovers, adventure travelers
and clients interested
in indigenous culture will find
much to do in Ecuador’s Amazon
Region. Photography enthusiasts
will also have a great
time as they search for diverse
wildlife and spot beautiful plant
life around the region. Travelers
do best if they are able to
get around easily by foot, as
most excursions involve varied
degrees of walking, hiking, canoeing
and boating, but there
are different possibilities based
on the needs and abilities of
the traveler, so researching the
specific activities, the available
tours and the accommodations
is key to matching the client to
the ideal Amazon experience.
19

I DISCOVERED
16 SPECIAL INTEREST ACTIVITIES
IN ECUADOR
Ecuador is so
diverse that it’s an
easy sell for a wide
variety of traveler
types. Here are just
a few examples.
Surfing
(Expert to Novice Surfers)
How to Sell It:
Top surfing locations in Ecuador
have been qualified as
meeting international standards
of excellence. Ecuador
has hosted the World Surfing
Games, Salinas 2004 and the
2009 Quiksilver ISA World
Junior Surfing Championship
and the World Master’s Surfing
Montanita Ecuador 2013.
Where to Find It:
The main surfing locations
in Ecuador are found in
Esmeraldas, Manabí, Guayas
and the Galapagos Islands.
Rock Climbing
(Hard and Soft Adventure Travelers)
How to Sell It:
Rock climbing in Ecuador
is not limited to the Andes
Mountains. It’s possible
even in Guayaquil, where
the Guayas climbing wall
is one of the largest artificial
walls of its kind, and at
Quito’s Rock Climbing and
Rockodrome Complex
Where to Find It:
In the Southern Andes there
are excellent sites for sport
climbing such as Sayausí,
El Cajas, Cariamanga,
Cojitambo, and others.
Cayambe Volcano -
Pichincha
Whale Watching
(Nature and Wildlife Lovers)
How to Sell It:
The humpback whales have
frequented the coast of Ecuador
for thousands years. The
warm waters here are essential
to the growth of their calves.
The nutrient-rich waters attract
the whales very close to the
shore, creating excellent whale
watching opportunities.
Where to Find It:
The best viewing opportunities
are found in the
coastal towns of Súa, Bahía
de Caráquez,Puerto Cayo,
Perdernales, Puerto López,
Machalilla National Park,
Manta, and Salinas.
Rafting and Kayaking
(Hard and Soft Adventure Travelers)
How to Sell It:
A great way to experience
Ecuador’s ecosystems is on
its jungle rivers, the white–
water rapids of the Andes, the
Pacific Coast and Galapagos.
Where to Find It:
Tena is known as the “whitewater
rafting and kayaking
capital” of Ecuador. Other
popular rivers are the Río
Toachi, Río Blanco and
Baños de Agua Santa’s
Pastaza River in the Andes.
Sea kayaking: Mompiche,
Crucita, Puerto López,
Salinas, and on the island of
Santa Cruz in the Galapagos.
20 www.ecuador-specialist.com

Paragliding
(Adventure Travelers,
Sports Enthusiasts)
Mountain Biking
(Soft and Hard Adventure
Travelers, Nature Lovers)
Volcanoes
(Adventure Travelers,
Nature Tourists)
Archaeological Tourism
(Lovers of History, Archaeology
and Culture)
How to Sell It:
Paragliding provides travelers
with a unique vantage
point to discover Ecuador’s
four worlds.
Where to Find It:
Coastal Region: Esmeraldas,
Manabi, Guayas. Andes
Region: Ibarra, Cho ta Valley,
over Lake San Pablo, Cruz
Loma, the hills of Casitagua
and Pasochoa, Ambato,
Azuay and Loja.
How to Sell It:
With descents up to 10,000
feet in some areas of the
Andes, there are a variety of
challenging rides for experienced
mountain bikers, as
well as for those looking for
more of a scenic ride.
Where to Find It:
Bikers can find excellent
paths down the Cotopaxi
Volcano, and along the
scenic waterfall route from
Baños to Puyo, close to
the Amazon rainforest.
How to Sell It:
Ecuador is home to a strand
of more than 70 volcanoes
resting along a region of the
Andes featuring the Cotopaxi—
the world’s tallest active volcano.
Here, you’ll find a range
of tours offering fascinating
journeys along this famous
region known as The Avenue
of Volcanoes.
Where to Find It:
The Avenue of the Volcanoes
runs south of Quito between
the two main Cordillera ranges
of the Andes.
How to Sell It:
The Ecuadorian coast was
home to the Las Vegas
Culture, dating back to 8000
B.C., and the Valdivia Culture
thrived here between 3500
B.C. and 1800 B.C. The sites
of Agua Blanca, Japotó and
Chirije in Bahía de Caráquez,
the most important site for the
establishment of the Bahía
culture (500 A.D.), and the
Incan ruins of Rumicucho,
Cochasquí, and Ingapirca,
are just a few of the sites of
great treasures found here.
Cultural Tourism
(Cultural Explorers)
Scuba Diving
(Expert to Novice Scuba Divers)
Orchid Tourism
(Nature- and Plant Lovers)
Agritourism
(Culture- and Nature Lovers)
How to Sell It:
Ecuador is a multiethnic and
multicultural country, which
makes it a real gem for visitors
attracted by this diversity
of people and customs. Ecuadorian
heritage is discovered
in its culture, architecture,
arts, and folklore, all of which
are represented in drama,
music, dance, ancestral
legacies, and colonial and
modern architecture. Colorful
indigenous markets and
fiestas are also among the top
attractions for visitors.
Where to Find It:
Throughout the country
How to Sell It:
The Galapagos are considered
among the seven
underwater wonders of the
world, and Isla de la Plata
in Machalilla National Park
in Manabi has been called a
mini-Galapagos. Both areas
offer favorable conditions
year-round for new and
experienced divers.
Where to Find It:
Among the top sites are the
Wolf and Darwin Islands in
the Galapagos and Playa
Los Frailes, Isla Salango and
Isla de la Plata in Machalilla
National Park.
How to Sell It:
More than 4,500 species of
orchids have been documented
here. Traveling in search
of orchids, while discovering
Ecuador’s different ecosystems,
is perhaps one of the
most interesting specialized
tourism activities available,
and is something that is only
possible in Ecuador.
Where to Find It:
Orchids are found in numerous
locations throughout Ecuador.
They are found at sea level, in
the Amazon, and even in scrublands
at altitudes of more than
13,000 feet / 4,000 meters.
How to Sell It:
Agritourism options in Ecuador
allow visitors to learn
firsthand about the environment,
properties of medicinal
plants and the cultivation of
many agricultural products,
just one among them cocoa.
Ecuador’s “Cocoa Route”
is dotted with fascinating
coastal haciendas and estates
which grow this delicacy,
particularly in the provinces
of Guayas, Los Rios, Manabi
and Esmeraldas.
Where to Find It:
Ecuador’s Pacific Coast
High Mountain
Climbing and Trekking
(Hard and Soft Adventure Travelers)
Hacienda Tourism
(History and Culture Lovers,
Agritourists)
Birding
(Bird-Watchers, Nature
and Wildlife Lovers)
Learning Spanish in Ecuador
(Students or Anyone Interested
in Learning the Language)
How to Sell It:
The Andes Mountain
Range—especially along the
Avenue of the Volcanoes—
traverses Ecuador from north
to south, offering spectacular
views with 62 summits for
experts and beginners alike,
as well as a wealth of trekking
paths.
Where to Find It:
Top sites include Imbabura,
Cotacachi, Cayambe, The
Ilinizas, El Altar, Sangay, Rumiñahui,
Sincholagua, Corazon,
Pichincha, Cotopaxi,
Chimborazo, Carihuayrazo,
Antisana, Tungurahua and
many others.
How to Sell It:
Each hacienda (beautiful structures
of great historical and
ecological value) has its own
magic, its own ecosystem,
unique traditions and activities
for guests. Among the options
are haciendas in the Andes,
located on the skirts of different
volcanoes surrounding
majestic Cotopaxi; haciendas
that bear witness to Incan wisdom
and ancient cultures; and
haciendas that grow bananas,
cacao and more.
Where to Find It:
The member haciendas of
the Ecuadorian Tourism
Haciendas Association.
How to Sell It:
Currently, 1,640 distinct
species of birds have been
registered here, ranging from
the smallest to the largest
birds in the world. Ecuador’s
specialized bird-watching
guides can help your clients
make the most of their tour.
Where to Find It:
The cloud forest, near
Quito, considered the most
important area for birds in
South America; the lowlands
near Choco and the south–
east lowlands of the Tumbesian
Region on the coast; the Amazon
region; and the Galapagos.
How to Sell It:
Ecuador is the ideal place
to learn Spanish, while at
the same time discovering a
fascinating world of Hispanic
and Andean culture. Thirty
thousand travelers, including
students and adults of all
ages, visit Ecuador each year
to learn this language. Learning
a foreign language, while
traveling to other countries
with different cultures and
languages is one of the fastest
growing activities worldwide.
Where to Find It:
Throughout the country
21

Tour Operators
Tour Operator LOCATION Phone # Website Ecuador programs
Abercrombie & Kent
Unites States
& Canada
800-554-7016 www.abercrombiekent.com Galapagos Islands, Quito, Andes, Otavalo
Absolute Travel United States 212-627-1950 www.absolutetravel.com Galapagos, Andes
Acis Educational Tours United States 800-888-2247 www.acis.com
Quito, Otavalo, Cotopaxi, Riobamba, Cuenca,
Guayaquil; Galapagos
Adventure Associates United States 877-509-7124 www.adventure-associates.com Sacha Lodge, Quito, Spirit Of the Andes, Galapagos
Adventure Center Canada 604-734-1066 www.adventurecenter.com
Adventure Expeditions &
Travel LLC
United States 561-479-6355 www.adventureexpeditions.net
Adventure life United States 406-541-2677 www.adventure-life.com
Galapagos Cruises, Galapagos Island Hopping, Galapagos
Adventure, Ecuador Haciendas Ecuador, UIO, Amazon
Galápagos; Northern Andes; Ingapirca; Andes Route;
Inca Trail; El Chaco Trek; Quito - Otavalo
Ecuador Highlights, Ecuador Adventures, Wildlife Odyssey,
Cuenca Mulltisort, Sacha lodge, Haciendas Ecuador,
Huaorani Lodge, Cotopaxi, Quito, Andes, Galapagos
Adventures by Disney United States 800-543-0865 www.adventuresbydisney.com Galapagos, Andes
AHI Travel United States 800-323-7373 www.ahitravel.com Cuenca, Quito, Guayaquil
Amazon Wildlife United States 347-270-8631 www.amazonwildlife.co.uk Yasuní National Park
Andean Treks Inc. United States 800-683-8148 www.andeantreks.com
Austin-Lehman
Adventures
United States 800-575-1540 www.austinlehman.com Galapagos
Galapagos Cruises, Avenue of the Volcanoes, Andes,
Amazon
Avanti Destinations United States 800-422-5053 www.avantidestinations.com Amazon, Quito, Otavalo, Baños, Cuenca, Guayaquil
Backroads United States 800 462 2848 www.backroads.com Galapagos, Andes
Big Five Tours &
Expeditions
Canada 416-640-7802 www.bigfivetours.ca Ecuador Highlights, Explore Excuador, Galapagos
Borello Travel and Tours United States 212-686-4911 www.borellotravel.com Galapagos, Amazon Rainforest, Volcanoes
Butterfield & Robinson United States 866-551-9090 www.butterfield.com Galapagos
Canandes International
Tours
Canada - www.canandestour.com Galapagos, Andes, Amazon
CIT Tours Canada 905-264-0158 www.cittours.ca
Ecuador Highlights, Manatee Amazon Explorer, Anakonda
Amazon Cruise, Galápagos, Quito, Bellavista, Cotopaxi
National Park, Baños; Devil’s Nose Train, Ingapirca, Cuenca
Classic Journeys United States 800-200-3887 www.classicjourneys.com Galapagos
Collette Vacations United States 800-340-5158 www.collettevacations.com Avenue of the volcanoes & the Galapagos Islands
Contiki Holidays United States 866-266-8454 www.contiki.com Galapagos Island
Country Walkers
Cox And Kings, The
Americas
Unites States
& Canada
800-464-9255 www.countrywalkers.com Galapagos, Cuenca, Andes
United States 800-999-1758 www.coxandkingsusa.com Galapagos Discovery, Avenue of the Volcanoes
Cregor Adventures United States 800-731-4443 www.cregoradventures.com
Galapagos Cruises, Ecuador General, Amazon, Quito,
Coast
Dan Travel United States 301-540-2021 www.dantravel.com Quito, Galapagos, Cuenca, Guayaquil
Elder Treks Canada 800-741-7956 www.eldertreks.com Galapagos, Amazon
Exotik Tours Canada 514-284-3595 www.thomascookgroup.ca Galapagos Islands, Andean Highlands, Amazon Rainforest
Exotik Tours / Thomas
Cook North America
Canada 888-722-4212 www.exotiktours.com Galapagos, Andes & Amazonia
G Adventures Canada 800-465-5600 www.gadventures.com Galapagos
Galapagos Unlimited United States 786-360-4961 www.galapagosunlimited.com Galapagos Island travel
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Tour Operator LOCATION Phone # Website Ecuador programs
Gate 1 Travel United States 800-682-3333 www.gate1travel.com Amazon, Galapagos
Gateways Internacional Canada 800-268-0900 www.gateways-international.com
Mashpi Lodge, Kapawi Ecolodge, Ecuador Galapagos,
Signature Ecuador
Geographic Expeditions United States 415-922-0448 www.geoex.com Ecuador Expeditions, Galapagos Islands
Globus Family United States 877-867-3836 www.globusfamily.com Galapagos Island Cruises
Go South Adventures United States 800-575-1540 go-south-adventures.com
Goway Travel Canada 800-557-2841 www.goway.com
Cruises, Lodges, Galapagos Sports, Ecuador General,
Amazon, Quito, Coast, Andes
Ecuador Coast, Guayaquil, La Selva Lodge, Manatee Amazon
River, Mashpi Lodge, Quito, Sacha Lodge, Galapagos
Goway Travel Canada 888-469-2955
www.goway.com
www.gowayagent.com
Magic Ecuador program
International Expeditions
Unites States
& Canada
800-234-9620 www.ietravel.com Galapagos, Guayaquil, Santa Cruz, Quito, Cuenca; Amazon
Intrepid
Unites States
& Canada
800-970-7299 www.intrepidtravel.com Galapagos, Quito, Amazon, Otavalo, Cuenca
Kensington Tours Canada 888 903 2001 www.kensingtontours.com
Ker & Downey United States 800-423-4236 www.kerdowney.com
Galapagos Cruise, Deep Amazon Experience,
Galapagos Safari
Galapagos, Ecuador Amazon & Andes, South America
Journey, Grand Ecuador, Classic Ecuador
Ladatco Tours United States 305-854-8422 www.ladatco.com Amazon, Andes, Rainforest, Galapagos
Latin American Escapes,
Inc.
United States 530-879-9292 www.latinamericanescapes.com
Latour United States 800-825-0825 www.latour.com
Andes and Amazon Multisport, Classic Ecuador,
Cotopaxi Volcano, Ecuador Adventure.
Wonders of Ecuador 3 nights Quito, 4 nights
Galapagos Islands
Linblad Expeditions United States 800-397-3348 www.expeditions.com Quito, Galapagos
Martour Canadá 416-516-8202 www.martour.com
Mosaico Travel Services United States 801-582-2100 www.mosaicotravel.com
Galapagos Cruises, Ecuador General, Amazon, Quito,
Coast
Quito, Cayambe & Otavalo, Avenue of the Volcanoes,
Baños, Cuenca, Coastal Ecuador, Amazon, Galapagos
Mountain Travel Sobek United States 888-831-7526 www.mtsobek.com Galapagos
Natural Habitat
Adventures
United States 800-543-8917 www.nathab.com Galapagos island Cruises & tours
Pacific Holidays
Unites States
& Canada
800-355-8025 www.pacificholidaysinc.com Galapagos, Amazon, Andes
Prime Travel United States - www.primetravelatinamerica.com Galapagos, Quito, Guayaquil
SITA World Tours
Unites States
& Canada
800-421-5643 www.sitatours.com Quito, Cuenca, Guayaquil, Otavalo, Galapagos
Solar Tours United States 800-388-7652 www.solartours.com Galapagos Cruise and Basic Ecuador
Southern Explorations United States 206-784-8111 www.southernexplorations.com
Explore Ecuador, Amazon, Kayak Adventure, Journey
Ecuador, Galapagos, Haciendas, Hot Springs & Volcanoes
Tara Tours Inc. United States 305-278-4464 www.taratours.com Andes, Amazon, Cruises to Galapagos, Manatee River Boat
Tauck United States 800-788-7885 www.tauck.com Galapagos
Tourcan Vacations Canada 416- 391-0334 www.tourcanvacations.com Galapagos Islands, Ecuador in Depth
Trafalgar
Unites States
& Canada
800-854-0103 www.trafalgar.com Galapagos
Travcoa United States 800-992-2003 www.travcoa.com Andes, Galapagos
Viventura United States 888-238-1602 www.viventura.com Galápagos; Andes; Amazon
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