James Travel

  
Mention South America and the average traveler thinks of Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, the Amazon River and the Andes Mountains.  Perhaps the Incas and Machu Picchu come to mind along with the splendid variety of the vibrant modern cities and lush tropical landscapes, frozen mountain peaks and echoes of ancient cultures. 

Increasingly, travelers are turning their attention southward, and the result is South American is emerging as a popular destination.  In addition to the continent’s myriad of attractions, access is convenient from Denver and other major gateway cities within the United States. 

Capital in the Clouds:

The capital of Ecuador, Quito, is located in the Andes Mountains at 9,300 feet.  A visitor arriving at Mariscal Sucre International Airport can’t help but marvel at the green cloud-clad peaks that surround the thriving city sprawled below. 
Since Spanish conquistadors took Quito from the Incas in 1534, the city has been Ecuador’s political and historical center, and its colonial architecture retains an air of dignity.  But this is only the starting point; with a day’s trip from Quito in a direction you’ll find nature and culture of nearly every kind.

Avenue of Volcanoes:

In just one day, a traveler could take in ten of the snowcapped volcanoes that tower above the rest of Ecuador.  Directly overlooking the capital from 15,000-plus feet is Pichinca.  And then there’s Cotopaxi, which reaches 19,342 feet into the sky to earn distinction as the world’s highest active volcano.  Even that loft height, however, can’t match Chimborazo, the tallest peak in Ecuador, at 20,700 feet.

Cities Historic and Happening:

A quick flight south leads to the harmonious, historic city of Cuenca.  Set among emerald hills, Cuenca retains its colonial charm, with its cobblestone streets, wrought-iron balconies, and baroque architectural details. 

In clear contrast to Cuenca is Guayaquil, a booming economic center on the pacific coast.  Ecuador’s largest city, it moves to a more modern beat than most places in the nation.

The Evolving Galapagos:

Of course, for many the highlight of a trip to Ecuador is the Galapagos Islands.  In the Pacific 680 miles out, the isolated Islands have been made famous since Charles Darwin developed this theory of evolution based in part upon observations of the islands’ unique wildlife.  Ecuador annexed the Galapagos in 1832, and today 90 percent of the land is protected as a national park.  All of these unbelievable sights are located in Ecuador, one country smaller than the state of Arizona.

Inspired to discover more of South America?  Treat yourself to all of Ecuador’s highlights, from the colonial capitals to the Andes Mountains then to the Galapagos Islands.  For more information about ideal tour for the traveler with an adventurous spirit call James TravelPOINTS for complete details 1-800-538-7461, www.travelpoints.com.

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!