Ecuador is a country rich in natural attractions ranging from the Galpagos Islands to snowcapped volcanic peaks, and from Amazon lowland rainforests to high Andean paramo. You can find superb
Ecuador hotels all around the country, ready to accommodate all natural lovers. If you want to hike or climb, bird-watch or simply just admire the innate attractiveness, you will find numerous natural wonders here.
* Cuicocha Lake: Formed thousands of years ago in the extinct crater of a massive volcano, this stunning, clear blue lake is a favorite destination. You can choose between hiking around the rim of the crater, or scrambling down for a boat ride on the waters of the lake. The lake is named after the famous dish cuy (guinea pig), because locals thought the islands in its center resembled guinea pigs.
* Cotopaxi National Park: It is Ecuador's most popular national park, after the Galpagos. The snow-covered Cotopaxi is the country's second highest peak, and allegedly the highest active volcano on the planet. Tour opportunities here vary from leisure hikes at lower elevations, to full-on summit climbs, with a variety of other options, from mountain biking to horseback riding to camping.
* Cajas National Park: Located just outside Cuenca, this stunning national park is famous for its 232 high montane lakes and misty cloud forests. It's also an amazing place for hiking and bird-watching. Rapidly accessible, it's an awesome change of pace from the cobblestone streets, colonial-era churches, and Panama hat shops of Cuenca.
* Isla de la Plata: The crowning jewel of Machalilla National Park is Isla de la Plata, an offshore island frequently touted as "the poor man's Galpagos." Isla de la Plata provides fantastic bird and wildlife viewing and snorkeling. What's more, late June through early October, you may have the great chance of seeing humpback whales on the boat ride out to the island. On land, Machalilla has some fabulous trails and beaches.
* The Beaches West of Atacames: In overall, Ecuador is not a perfect beach destination. It definitely can't hold a candle to beaches located in the Caribbean, South Pacific, or even Mexico or Costa Rica. However, the comparatively short section of Pacific coast west of Atacames has a few small and beautiful beaches. Sua and Same are maybe the most favorite among the tourists, but Atacames itself, as well as Tonsupa, Tonchigue, and Galera, are also attractive. And for someplace particularly unique and isolated, you can head to the small island of Muisne.
* The Rainforests of Ecuador's El Oriente: Ecuador's El Oriente is a extensive area of lowland tropical rainforest which is part of the Amazon basin which feeds and forms the Amazon River. Actually, Francisco Orellana, who first named and navigated the Amazon River, started his long journey here in Ecuador. Above 500 species of birds and some 15,000 species of flora can be found here, together with fresh-water dolphins, 11 different species of monkeys, anacondas, caimans, and jaguars.
* The Galpagos Islands: Ecuador's prime attraction is a naturalist's paradise. This is a group of thirteen islands, which are rich in astounding beaches and pretty
hotels in Ecuador. Water sports enthusiast can find great possibilities for practicing surfing for instance. The wildlife is another reason to visit these amazing islands.
