Ecuador is a country of spectacular variety and beautiful scenery. From beaches to volcanoes, you can expect to find almost any kind of environment here. This means Ecuador's tourism opportunities are some of the best in the world. It also means that there are a lot of activities to enjoy in this country. Best of all, Ecuador offers the opportunity to enjoy the ruins left behind by the Amerindian cultures that populated this country many years ago. It also gives easy access to one of the greatest rainforests in the world – the Amazon! Besides the Amazon, the Galapagos Islands have much to offer the intrepid adventurer. You will never run out of things to discover when you visit Ecuador!
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Popular tourism opportunities in Ecuador include a variety of activities such as horse riding, kayaking, sea-kayaking, swimming, surfing, skiing, jet skiing, para-gliding, sky diving, white water rafting, trekking, hiking, volleyball, scuba diving, snorkeling, mountain climbing and mountain biking. Some of the activities are somewhat extreme while others are gentle and relaxing, so you can choose what will best suit you. Some places offer a variety of activities while others offer virtually none at all, so it is always best to ensure that whatever sort of activity you wish to pursue is available at your chosen destination.
The Ecuadorian tourism board is quite well established with regards to warning tourists about the risks involved in such activities and ensuring that these things take place in the safest conditions possible. This means visitors should heed these warnings for their own safety.
The Galapagos Islands are, in themselves, a massive tourist attraction. Millions of people flock here each year just to enjoy the chance to get close to nature. Scuba diving spots and nature walks are available throughout the islands so remember to bring your cameras!
If you enjoy the Galapagos Islands, why not to head for the Machalilla National Park? The park is quite large and even includes the Isla de la Plata. Plant life and animal life are preserved here in all shapes and forms.
Another reason why Ecuador's tourism is booming is because of the strong prevalence of Incan ruins in the area. The Ingapirca Inca Ruins are quite large and impressive to see. Also notable are the Inca ruins of Rumicucho, La Tolita and Tomebamba. The Incas were not the only culture to leave their mark here. There are various ruins relating to the ancient Valdivia culture that dot the outskirts of Guayaquil.
Also popular amongst tourists is the Otavalo market in Otavalo. The abundance of well-made hand-crafted goods can make it quite challenging to choose what to buy, but you can be sure that you are getting top quality regardless of what you choose.
Sheer relaxation can be found at Baños from where visitors can also gain access to the towering Andean mountains. Or you can enjoy excitement at the sea side at Salinas. Perhaps exploring the Amazon basin is more to your taste? There are plenty of Jungle tours available. Ecuador has so much to do and see that you should never get bored.