Ecuador: A World of Wonders in One Compact Country
Ecuador may be one of the smallest nations in South America, but it packs incredible diversity and accessibility into every corner. Four distinct regions—the Andes, Pacific Coast, Amazon, and Galapagos Islands—are all within easy reach, allowing travellers to experience astonishing biodiversity and landscapes without long travel days.
The capital city, Quito, was the first city ever declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it still boasts the best-preserved historical centre in the Americas.
From Quito, head south to Cuenca—but don’t rush the journey. Take the scenic route known as the Avenue of the Volcanoes, where snow-capped peaks, vibrant markets, and stunning highland vistas make every stop unforgettable. And if you’re short on time, the Amazon Basin is just a 30-minute flight away—start your day in the Andes Mountain, and enjoy lunch surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest.
Nestled in the northwest of Ecuador, and only an hour drive from Quito, the cloud forest offers a peaceful escape. This misty paradise overflows with rare birds and vibrant wildlife. It’s a dream for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. Imagine waking up to the vibrant sounds of the jungle as it awakens. Then, you hike through lush, emerald-green forests, following trails that wind past beautiful orchids and bromeliads. You’ll easily spot colorful hummingbirds flitting between branches and hear the faraway calls of howler monkeys echoing through the trees. Next, you can wade through crystal-clear streams and even swim beneath secluded waterfalls, experiencing pure serenity. The cloud forest in Ecuador is the perfect antidote to busy, modern life.
And finally, for an adventure unlike any other, set your sights on Ecuador’s famed Galapagos Islands. Just a short two-hour flight from the mainland, this legendary archipelago dazzles travelers of all ages. Walk among giant tortoises, snorkel with playful sea lions, or simply soak in the serenity of untouched beaches—every moment here feels extraordinary. Whether you seek thrilling exploration or peaceful retreats, the Galapagos delivers with its wild beauty and awe-inspiring encounters. A true multi-generational gem, it’s a place where wonder never fades.
When to go to Ecuador?
– April to November: Dry season in the highlands—perfect for exploring the Avenue of the Volcanoes. – Galapagos Islands: A year-round destination. December to June is warm and humid; July to November brings cooler breezes and vibrant marine life. – Amazon Basin: Driest from December to February. In contrast, the wettest months tend to be May and June. But of course, this is the rainforest, and rainfall is typical all year round.
Our Experts Choice:
– Embrace slow travel and enjoy the wonders of Ecuador’s natural beauty on foot. We have a range of walking tours to help you get away from it all and discover this beautiful country at your own pace. – An overnight stay in a converted historical hacienda. This is the ultimate way to experience the country’s sublime landscapes in style. – Enjoy the laid-back small-town atmosphere of UNESCO Heritage-listed Cuenca, with cobblestone streets, graceful balconies, and religious art treasures.
Talk to Us
We know Latin America by heart
Highlights
Quito
Quito was the first UNESCO Heritage Site in Latin America and boasts a stunning colonial centre, fascinating museums and is just a short drive from the famous Middle of the World Monument.
Galapagos Islands
One of the most remarkable destinations in the world, the Galapagos Islands are a must for wildlife enthusiasts; choose from stunning luxury lodges, safari-style camps or laid-back island-hopping itineraries, as well as a diverse range of cruises to suit every budget.
Avenue of the Volcanoes
Travel overland through the Andes from Quito to Cuenca, stopping at colonial haciendas, visiting markets and national parks along the way! Hike the Avenue of the Volcanoes with our exclusive Camino de las Haciendas tour.
Cuenca
Cuencanos, known for their traditional demeanour and conservative cultural values, match their 18th-century surroundings and continue a proud intellectual tradition that has produced more notable writers, poets, artists, and philosophers than anywhere else in Ecuador.
Cloud forests
Although relatively small in size, the Ecuador Cloud Forests are considered the single most vibrant hotspot on the planet, containing approximately 15-17% of the world’s plant species and nearly 20% of its bird diversity. Ecuador’s Cloud Forests are home to iconic species such as the Spectacled Bear, Jaguar, Sloth, Howler Monkey, puma and many other creatures.
Amazon
Community-based tourism thrives in Ecuador’s Amazon Basin. Leaving Quito in the morning, you can be swinging in a hammock at your chosen lodge by lunchtime.
TOURS
Caribbean to Cape Horn: 50 days to celebrate our 50th Birthday
Cycling in Latin America has become increasingly popular as a convenient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective means of transportation within cities. Many urban areas now offer dedicated bike lanes and improved safety measures to encourage cycling and reduce traffic congestion. Additionally, some cities implement Ciclovia Sunday initiatives, where major streets are closed to cars, allowing cyclists and pedestrians to freely enjoy these routes. This biking revolution has transformed the urban landscape, making cycling a fun and healthy way to explore the vibrant cities of Latin America.
Moreover, on Sundays, you can experience the joy of cycling along famous streets, thanks to the growing Ciclovia Sunday initiatives that turn major arterials car-free for bikers. It’s a wonderful way to explore the urban landscape and stay active!
Best Latin America Cities for Biking
Bogota
Every Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Bogotá shuts down 120km of streets and highways, handing them over to cyclists, runners, and walkers. Furthermore, Cali and Medellin have adopted a Sunday ciclovia scheme after witnessing its popularity.
Despite its often choking traffic, Bogotá is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.
Mexico City
From 8 am to 2 pm each Sunday, more than 55km of city streets are closed to traffic. Grab a shared bike and enjoy coasting from Chapultepec to the Zocalo!
Cycle from Chapultepec all the way to the Zocalo along the normally congested Avenue Reforma
Quito
The Ecuadorian capital hosts its famous ciclopaseo (cycle-stroll) every Sunday. The city closes the main north-south arterial to vehicular traffic from 8 am to 2 pm.
Sao Paulo
Cycling in one of the world’s largest cities may seem daunting. However, every Sunday from 7 am to 6 pm, the city sets up pop-up bicycle lanes, enabling locals and visitors alike to safely explore downtown.
Rio de Janeiro
An excellent shared bike system and more than 450km of cycle lanes have transformed Rio into one of the world’s great cycling cities!
Cycle Rio’s beautiful coastal route from Leme to Ipanema – with plenty of opportunities to cool off with a swim en route
Buenos Aires
The Argentine capital already has more than 250km of bike lanes and is aiming to boost daily trips by bike to 1 million in 2023! The bike-sharing system makes exploring by bike even more appealing!
La Boca, Buenos Aires Cycling in Latin America
Merida
From 8 am to 12 pm every Sunday, the city-wide BiciRuta takes place along Paseo Montejo. Lined with stunning colonial mansions, this is one of the most picturesque avenues of the city.
Admire the stunning historic centre of Merida on traffic-free Sundays
Explore Latin America by Bike
There are lots of different ways you can explore South America by bike! Ask us about bike tours available on your holiday – these are a fun and immersive way of getting to know a city. Alternatively, use local shared bike systems to get around town! Not only will you be getting exercise and saving on cab fares – you will gain a much better sense of the geography and layout of the city when biking.
And for true biking enthusiasts, there are always more in-depth explorations in Latin America! Join a cycling tour of Cuba. Alternatively, tackle Argentina’s Route 40. Give your legs and lungs a workout biking through the Andes. In fact, we have met people who cycled over 10,000km from Tierra del Fuego to the northernmost tip of Colombia. Cycling in Latin America offers endless adventures!
So, whether you are a biking novice or a full-blown obsessive, there are multiple ways to cycle through Latin America. Talk to the team at Contours Travel about including a bike tour on your next holiday…and if all this sounds like too much hard work, there is always the option of an e-bike!
There's been a biking revolution right across Latin America. Discover our favourite cycling cities!
7 Best Wildlife Experiences in South & Central America
Wildlife Wonders of South & Central America: Where Nature Steals the Show
Close your eyes and listen. That primal roar echoing through the mist? It’s the howler monkeys of the Amazon, nature’s alarm clock in the world’s greatest rainforest. The thunderous splash ahead? A southern right whale breaching off Argentina’s Valdes Peninsula, its newborn calf learning to navigate Patagonia’s turquoise waters. The delighted gasp beside you? That’s you, face-to-face with a blue-footed booby in the Galapagos as it performs its comical mating dance.
South and Central America don’t simply host wildlife—they orchestrate earth’s most spectacular animal encounters. Where else can you witness:
The Galapagos Big 15—from ancient tortoises to flightless cormorants—all in one extraordinary journey
Millions of monarch butterflies transforming Mexican forests into living tapestries each winter
Puma tracks fresh in Chilean Patagonia’s morning frost, leading to a kill site just beyond your luxury camp
The real-life Paddington Bear munching orchids in Ecuador’s cloud forests, his spectacled face peering through the fog
This is travel that rewires your senses. Where the statistics sound impossible until you’re there—kayaking through 30 million breeding birds on South Georgia, or realizing Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula packs 2.5% of Earth’s biodiversity into an area smaller than London.
Our specialists have spent decades perfecting these moments. We know when the orcas hunt at Punta Norte, which Amazon lodges offer night walks with resident biologists, and how to pair Galapagos cruises with exclusive land stays for the ultimate wildlife immersion.
These 7 unforgettable experiences aren’t just sightings—they’re initiations into nature’s most exclusive circles. The only question is: which will you choose first?
The Galapagos Big 15: Your Ultimate Wildlife Checklist
Move over, African Big 5—the Galapagos Islands boast an even more exclusive “Big 15” roster of iconic species. What makes this archipelago extraordinary? With the right itinerary, you could spot all of these evolutionary marvels in one trip.
No doubt you have heard of Africa’s Big 5. But did you know that the Galapagos Islands has an even more extensive list of iconic, must-see species known as the Big 15? And what’s more, by choosing your Galapagos cruise carefully, you have a high chance of seeing most (if not all) these incredible species all on one trip! So, what unique species make up this exclusive list?
Meet the Stars of the Show
The Giants: Ancient Galapagos tortoises (the islands’ namesake) & sunbathing marine iguanas (Earth’s only ocean-going lizards)
The Charismatic: Playful Galapagos sea lions and fuzzy fur seals that snorkel beside you
The Rare: Flightless cormorants and Galapagos penguins (the only penguins north of the equator)
Pro Tip: Visit April-May for peak wildlife activity (courtship rituals, hatchlings) or Aug-Nov for cooler waters teeming with marine life.
“After experiencing both, I’d argue the ideal Galapagos trip combines a shorter cruise with land-based exploration—you get the best of both worlds.” – Escape’s Galapagos Insider Guide
Why This Decision Matters
Cruise Advantages: Access 97% of the archipelago’s protected areas & rare species
Land Advantages: Deeper cultural connections, luxury amenities, and flexibility
The Magnificent Frigatebird – one of the Galapagos Big 15
Whale Watching on the Valdes Peninsula
While Patagonia’s mountains steal the spotlight, the Valdes Peninsula delivers South America’s most dramatic marine wildlife encounters—with barely a crowd in sight. This UNESCO World Heritage site is where the desert meets the sea in a explosion of life:
Penguin cities with 200,000+ Magellanic penguins
Playful orcas that beach themselves to snatch sea lion pups (Aug-Nov)
Gentle southern right whales breaching just meters from shore (Jun-Dec)
Elephant seal colonies where 4-ton males battle for dominance
Stay Where the Wildlife Comes to You
Base yourself at Bahia Bustamante, a remote coastal estancia turned luxury lodge, where you can: ✓ Watch whales from your bedroom window ✓ Kayak alongside dolphins at sunrise ✓ Join biologists to track orca hunting strategies
Don’t-Miss Experiences
Underwater Whale Watching: Descend in a semi-submersible to lock eyes with curious calf whales
Punta Norte: Witness orcas’ daring “strand hunting” technique (unique to this region)
Caleta Valdes: Walk among 2,000+ elephant seals with no barriers
This isn’t Argentina’s Galapagos—it’s better. Fewer tourists, more raw encounters, and landscapes that look stolen from a David Attenborough documentary.
[Explore our Patagonia Wildlife itineraries] “Our clients rate Valdes higher than Galapagos for animal interactions” – Contours Travel Specialist
The unforgettable sight of orcas hunting seals and sea lions along the shore in Peninsula Valdes
Hearing your first Howler Monkey in the Amazon
The Amazon plays by its own rules. Here, wildlife reveals itself through sound before sight—a symphony of chattering macaws, rustling peccaries, and the otherworldly howl of monkeys that vibrates through your chest. While spotting animals in this dense green labyrinth takes patience, the rainforest’s aural drama more than compensates.
The Howler Monkey’s Call: Nature’s Alarm Clock
No first encounter prepares you for it. At dawn, the red howler monkey—one of Earth’s loudest land animals—sends its 5km-bellow ripping through the canopy. This primal sound has startled explorers for centuries, yet it’s the ultimate Amazon wake-up call.
Pro Tip: Listen from your lodge in:
Yasuní, Ecuador: Where clay licks attract rainbow flocks of parrots to complement the howlers’ chorus
Puerto Maldonado, Peru: Wake to howlers as giant otters splash in oxbow lakes nearby
Iquitos, Peru: Deeper into the flooded forest, where voices echo across waterways
3D Soundscape: Birds above, frogs below, and howlers all around—you’re inside the ecosystem
Night Magic: After dark, the forest transforms with caiman eyes glinting red in your flashlight beam
Exclusive Access: Our partnered lodges sit in pristine reserves where wildlife thrives undisturbed
Ready to trade sightseeing for sense-seeing? Our Amazon Wildlife Itineraries place you where the wildest concerts unfold.
A tender moment between a mother and baby howler monkey at the Tambopata Research Centre in the Peruvian Amazon.
A Living Tapestry: Mexico’s Monarch Butterfly Spectacle
Witness one of nature’s most extraordinary migrations: every autumn, 200 million monarch butterflies complete an epic 4,500km journey from Canada and the U.S. to the oyamel fir forests of central Mexico. By winter, entire mountainsides shimmer with their orange-and-black wings—so thickly clustered that branches bow under their weight.
How to Experience the Magic
Best Time: November to February (peak numbers mid-December to January)
Pro Tip: Visit midweek to avoid crowds; mornings offer the best light as butterflies take flight with the sun’s warmth
UNESCO-Listed Reserves: Sierra Chincua and El Rosario sanctuaries offer guided trails through this living kaleidoscope
Beyond the Butterflies
Pair your visit with explorations of:
Mexico City’s cultural treasures (just 3 hours away)
Pátzcuaro’s Day of the Dead traditions (for November visits)
Morelia’s colonial architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Ready to walk through a butterfly blizzard? Our Mexico Wildlife Journeys can combine this with other iconic experiences like whale watching in Baja or birding in Chiapas.
Monarch Butterflies in Michoacan
Experiencing the extreme biodiversity of Costa Rica
It’s no secret that Costa Rica sets the gold standard for ecotourism—with 30% of its land protected by national parks and reserves. But for those seeking the ultimate wildlife immersion, one place stands apart: the Osa Peninsula. Dubbed “the most biologically intense place on Earth” by National Geographic, this untamed corner crams 2.5% of the planet’s biodiversity into just 0.001% of its surface area.
Why the Osa Peninsula? Because it is home to Corcovado National Park and Caño Island Biological Reserve. Corcovado National Park: Trek through primary rainforest where spider monkeys swing overhead, Baird’s tapirs rustle through the undergrowth, and elusive jaguars leave paw prints along riverbanks. Don’t miss the daily spectacle of scarlet macaws—Central America’s largest population—painting the sky crimson at dawn. Caño Island Biological Reserve: Swap jungle boots for snorkeling gear. Glide alongside green turtles, curious reef sharks, and schools of technicolor fish in waters ranked among Costa Rica’s clearest.
From rustic eco-lodges to luxury treehouses, the Osa offers stays as diverse as its wildlife. For a curated selection of our favorite lodges and expert-guided itineraries, explore our Costa Rica Wildlife Journeys.
Ready to witness nature’s greatest show? The Osa Peninsula doesn’t just host biodiversity—it throws a full-blown, squawking, roaring, fin-flashing celebration.
Discover the diversity of flora and flora on the Osa Peninsula
Reliving your childhood with the real-life Paddington Bear
Remember Paddington Bear? That beloved character from children’s books? While many recall his fictional journey from “Darkest Peru,” few realize South America is home to real-life spectacled bears. Named for their distinctive facial markings, these elusive creatures roam cloud forests from Colombia to northern Argentina. Spotting one is as rare as encountering a jaguar—except in a few special places.
At Hacienda Zuleta, a 17th-century working farm spanning 4,000 acres, conservation is woven into the landscape. Thanks to the legacy of former Ecuadorian president Galo Plaza Lasso and his family (whose presidential heritage is detailed in this article from The Age), the property has become a haven for wildlife. Over 30 spectacled bears are frequently spotted here—making it one of the best places to meet your own “Paddington.”
But the bears aren’t Zuleta’s only conservation triumph. The hacienda also runs a pioneering Andean Condor Rehabilitation Project (learn more here), helping rescue and release these majestic birds. From bear-tracking hikes to condor encounters, a stay here blends luxury with extraordinary wildlife experiences.
An Andean Spectacled Bear snapped in the cloud forests of Ecuador
Witnessing the mind-boggling multitudes in South Georgia
Forget everything you know about wildlife encounters. On South Georgia Island, the numbers alone stagger the senses:
30 million breeding birds carpeting cliffs and shorelines
7 million penguins forming bustling cities that stretch to the horizon
250,000 albatrosses riding Antarctic winds
2 million fur seals crowding beaches like living pebbles
Half the world’s southern elephant seals hauling out on glacial moraines
This isn’t just density—it’s biological superabundance. During peak season, researchers estimate more animals per square meter than anywhere else on Earth. And with no innate fear of humans, they’ll waddle, soar, and splash within arm’s reach (though we always keep a respectful distance).
Why Our Clients Call It “The Greatest Show on Ice”
King Penguin Mega-Colonies: Walk among 100,000+ pairs at St. Andrews Bay—their golden-necked chicks outnumbering humans on the entire planet
Seal Spectacles: Witness bull elephant seals clashing like prehistoric titans in November breeding battles
Albatross Ballet: Watch these ocean wanderers (with 3.5m wingspans) skim waves alongside your Zodiac
Pro Tip: Pair South Georgia with the Antarctic Peninsula for the ultimate polar trifecta—icebergs, whales, and even more penguins.
Ready to experience wildlife at its most raw and abundant? Our Antarctic Cruise Experts can tailor your journey to catch South Georgia at its liveliest.
Nothing can prepare you for seeing almost half a million King Penguins at Salisbury Plain
Of course, there are countless other incredible wildlife experiences to be had in South & Central America! There’s jaguar spotting in the Pantanal and swimming with Whale Sharks in Mexico. Not to mention puma tracking in Patagonia and the beautiful camelid species of the Andes. And then there are the myriad bird species that dazzle us every time we visit – curious toucans, rainbow-coloured macaw, brilliantly hued Quetzals, and the elegant flamingoes of the Atacama Desert.
So, why not get in touch with one of our expert consultants? And find out how to make your next South & Central America holiday a wildlife adventure to remember.
Calling all wildlife enthusiasts! Check out some of the best places in Latin America for wonderful wildlife experiences.
There’s a lot of competition out there! So why should you book with Contours Travel? With decades of experience, Contours Travel stands out as Australia’s longest-running and most trusted tour operator to Latin America. Here’s why choosing us ensures a holiday of a lifetime.
Australia’s Longest-Running Latin America Tour Operator
Since 1975, we’ve specialised exclusively in Latin America, from South America to Central America, Mexico, Cuba, and even Antarctica. With 50 years of expertise, our knowledge of the region is unparalleled.
We Know Latin America By Heart
Contours Travel owner and founder Ted Dziadkiewicz has travelled to Latin America more than 125 times! And every one of our Travel Specialists has travelled widely throughout the region. That’s why we feel confident in saying you’d be hard-pressed to find a better-travelled team of Latin American experts in Australia! As a matter of fact, there is only ONE country in all of Latin America that no member of our team has been to…..can you guess which one?
Tailor-Made Journeys, Designed Just for You
Every single member of the Contours Travel team has travelled extensively around Latin America. And because we’re all a little bit different – we’ve experienced this amazing continent in different ways.
Likewise, we encourage all our clients to discover Latin America in their own way. This means getting together with one of our expert consultants and discussing your must-see destinations, specific interests, budget, and preferred accommodation options. Then it’s time for us to get to work, creating a unique holiday designed specifically for you.
Tailor-made means no two journeys are exactly alike. We invite you to browse the many suggested, sample itineraries on our website for inspiration. Or better yet, give us a call. Our passionate Travel Specialists love sharing their enthusiasm for all things Latin America.
What’s your passion?
The reasons behind a trip can be as diverse as the people who decide to embark on the travel adventure. Birdwatchers, tango dancers, orchid growers, train enthusiasts, and cattle farmers. We’ve worked with them all to design unique special interest holidays. Book with Contours Travel and indulge in your unique passion! Browse our website for inspiration, or let one of our travel specialists create a bespoke journey just for you.
Embark on a journey of discovery aboard the Belmond Andean Explorer.
Exceptional Value for Money
We aim to provide the best value for money, regardless of whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge. Our long-established relationships with suppliers mean competitive prices & quality service. And we want to ensure you’re getting the best advice and the most competitive price at the moment you make an inquiry. That’s why there are no prices on our website!
Hassle-Free Travel with Expert Guidance
When you book with Contours Travel, we share our in-depth knowledge of Latin America so that you get even more out of your trip! Our comprehensive pre-departure kit includes a Spanish phrase book, suggested reading and restaurant lists & more! And of course, we provide you with 24/7 emergency contacts throughout your trip! So you don’t need to worry about a thing! Just relax, and enjoy the holiday of a lifetime.
Hammock in Bariloche Lake District Patagonia Argentina
Committed to Ethical and Sustainable Travel
Contours Travel is committed to building a more sustainable tourism industry. We support local communities and encourage travellers to engage with social projectsduring their journey. Ask us how you can make your trip more meaningful.
Hear What Our Clients Say
Don’t just take our word for it—hundreds of satisfied clients and travel agents recommend Contours Travel. Join our community of happy travellers and see why we’ve been Australia’s Latin America experts for nearly 50 years.
