Spanning three distinctly different geographical zones, from the steamy Amazon east of the Andes through the Andean Highlands, before extending 1,000 kilometres out to sea toward the rocky marine haven of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador’s vast natural attractions proudly bely its status as the smallest South American country.
Ecuador’s Amazonian region is incentive enough to visit the country alone, even before venturing to Galapagos. Staying in the remote jungle of the world’s largest rainforest is an experience not to be missed, where traditional life and ancient traditions combine with abundant wildlife. Amongst the mammals living in the steamy jungle are armadillos, sloths, monkeys, tapirs and ocelots, but the smaller stars of the Amazon are the countless butterflies, frogs, lizards and tropical fish that you will come across as you explore by boat or walking safari.
With its abundance of natural habitats and protected areas, Ecuador is home to a number of different species of New World monkeys, including Pygmy Marmosets, Spider monkeys, Squirrel monkeys, Capuchin monkeys, Woolly monkeys and Howler monkeys. All New World monkeys are arboreal (meaning they live in trees) and feed on seeds, fruits and insects.
The armadillo, a creature that seems to have walked straight out of a science fiction movie with its oddities and clumsy gait, is a mammal belonging only to the New World: the American continent. As if prepared for a kind of medieval war, it always goes about in a suit of armor, with tough skin covering all its body except its feet and belly. This armor protects it, allowing it to amble around off-guard with its short-sighted vision and terrible hearing while it rummages around the earth.
The largest flying bird with a wingspan of up to 10.5 feet, the Andean condor is one of Ecuador’s most distinctive species. Andean condors are found in mountainous regions, as their name suggests, but also live near coasts replete with ocean breezes and even vast deserts with warm breezes. Condors are vultures, so always keep a sharp eye out for carrion for which they can scavenge on. Although the Andean condor is considered threatened, reintroduction programs are working to grow populations of these South American birds.
Ecuador is one of the very best destinations to embark on a birdwatching tour. Home to over 1,600 bird species within just 283,000 km2, the mega-diverse paradise hosts the verdant Amazon rainforest, the towering Andes, the lush Pacific coast, and the renowned Galapagos Islands. Each of these incredible habitats is home to dozens, if not hundreds, of different bird species. Toucans, parrots, and so many more species provide an enviable destination for birdwatching. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the Andean cock-of-the-rock - a small bright orange bird with brilliant scarlet plumage on the top of its head. Males have a large disk-like crest.
From the beaches of Rio and the statue of Christ the Redeemer, to tracking the majestic jaguar through the wilds of the Pantanal Wetlands, and finally witnessing the awe-inspiring sight of the world’s largest waterfall system, this safari allows you to experience three of the most enduring symbols of Brazil.
From 18750 per person
A complete Argentinean adventure; experience the breathtaking Iguassu Falls, the verdant wetland and wildlife haven of Ibera Wetlands, the marine wildlife of the Valdes Peninsula and the characterful city of Buenos Aires on this ultimate safari across Argentina. Visit relaxed Bariloche and enjoy chocolatier workshops and a day hike and spend time on a traditional Argentinian ranch.
From 11125 per person
An exclusive tailor-made puma tracking safari in Torres del Paine National Park. Track the big cats in Chile in winter; the best time to see them in the wilderness of Chilean Patagonia, stay in luxurious accommodation too. Based in the exclusive Explora Patagonia lodge, and with breath-taking scenery on your doorstep, even if the puma eludes us, there is still plenty to see in this impressive part of Patagonia.
From 5600 per person
Travel through the wildlife-rich regions of Costa Rica to get a sense of the country's incredible biodiversity, including visits to observe the turtles of Tortuguero National Park, the primates of Manuel Antonio and the elusive quetzal in the Monteverde cloud forests. On this safari, you will discover the incredible biodiversity of Costa Rica against a backdrop of imposing volcanoes and lush rainforest. Visit a variety of unique ecosystems, from the cloud forests of Monteverde to the beaches and mangrove forests of the Osa Peninsula, and explore little-known sanctuaries such as the marine reserve around Caño Island. You will also stay in lodges located in the depths of the rainforests, ensuring you are in the best location for unbeatable wildlife encounters.
From 7250 per person
Join wildlife and travel photographer Steve Winter on this immersive safari into the heart of Brazil’s Pantanal wetlands, in search of the elusive jaguar.
From 8985 per personThe spectacled bear, also known as the Andean bear, is the only bear species native to South America, and it is found in several countries, including Ecuador. Here they inhabit the montane forests and cloud forests of the Andes Mountains and are typically found at altitudes ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 meters (3,280 to 13,123 feet) above sea level. Generally solitary and are known for their shaggy black fur with distinctive beige or whitish facial markings that give them the appearance of wearing "spectacles," hence their name. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a diet of vegetation, fruits, and occasionally small mammals.
Spectacled bears are considered vulnerable and are listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. They face threats such as habitat loss due to deforestation, human encroachment, and poaching. Ecuador has taken steps to protect spectacled bears and their habitats. Several national parks and protected areas, such as Sangay National Park and Antisana Ecological Reserve, provide important habitats for these bears. Conservation organizations also work on raising awareness and conducting research to aid in the protection of this species. It's important to note that while spectacled bears are known to inhabit parts of Ecuador, they are elusive creatures, and sightings are relatively rare.
