Ecuador, with an area half the size of France, is the smallest Andean country, and certainly the easiest to explore. Yet it boasts a remarkable diversity of landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to coconut-lined beaches, passing through the lush jungle vegetation and the volcanic world of the Galápagos.

This little-known country, spared from mass tourism, remains nonetheless one of the most beautiful in Latin America. Here are ten reasons that will make Ecuador your next vacation destination:

1 - The Volcanoes

One of the most impressive natural phenomena in the world, volcanoes have always fascinated us and constantly remind us of the power of Mother Nature.

The famous "Avenue of the Volcanoes" in Ecuador holds far more surprises than one might imagine, and is home to some of the most beautiful and highest peaks of the Andes. From Quito to Riobamba, this natural barrier rises between 2,000m and 3,000m, crowned with around forty summits exceeding 4,000m in altitude. With exceptional climate conditions, this region of the world is particularly conducive to observation and exploration of these giants of nature. While the most peaceful among them are perfect for hiking, the more capricious ones offer an absolutely unique spectacle.

Setting out to conquer Chimborazo, the farthest point from the Earth's center and the country's highest peak (6,268m), climbing Guagua Pichincha to overlook Quito, or simply admiring the perfect cone of Cotopaxi from Laguna Limpiopungo…

The possibilities are endless.

From the most intrepid travelers to the most cautious, there is certainly a volcano in Ecuador to satisfy your desire for discovery and wonder.

2 - Quito

Ecuador's capital is the city of all records.

It is the very first city inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1978, in recognition of the beauty and preservation of its historic center.

Perched at 2,850m above sea level, it is the world's highest official capital (La Paz is not Bolivia's constitutional capital). It is also the only city in the world where you can straddle both hemispheres of the planet at once! A trip to Mitad del Mundo, north of Quito, is enough to satisfy this wildest desire.

Once a mighty city of the Inca empire, Quito bears witness to the history of this continent and the forces that clashed within it, both human and natural. Under the benevolent gaze of Cotopaxi and the volcanoes surrounding it, this city perfectly blends Sierra traditions with contemporary life. Lonely Planet even ranked it second among the 10 most beautiful cities in the world to visit in 2016. Reason enough to convince the last skeptics to come and discover the treasures of this unique city.

3 - Adventure

Looking for thrills and new challenges? Ecuador is made for you. Its unique geography and relief make this country the ideal playground for all travelers seeking adventure and a change of scenery. Hiking and trekking in the Andes, whitewater rafting on Amazonian rivers, mountain biking down volcano slopes, surfing on the Costa… and much more.

Lovers of sport and nature will find ample opportunity everywhere to pursue their passions. Come walking, running, swimming, flying, fishing, jumping, gliding, pedaling, climbing, horseback riding, diving, sailing, breathing… simply LIVING and constantly pushing your limits. Ecuador has all that to offer you, and more, for all adventurers in search of adrenaline and wide-open spaces.

4 - Diversity

Ecuador is the country with the highest biodiversity per square kilometer in the world, both plant and animal. What more can be said?

Variations in altitude, the country's equatorial position, and its tumultuous geography create an astonishing variety of climates and give rise to a concentration of very different ecosystems. In just a few hours of travel, you literally feel as though you've changed countries. Beaches, mountains, Amazon, volcanoes, and glaciers—Ecuador is a concentrated dose of magic and scenery, all gathered within roughly 300,000 square kilometers: half the size of France.

A veritable natural laboratory, this country has always fascinated scientists and naturalists. For nature lovers, it is the country to explore as a priority.

5 - The Galápagos

Known as the "Islas Encantadas," or "enchanted islands," quite rightly, the Galápagos archipelago needs no introduction. These isolated volcanic islands and their fragile ecosystem have an almost mythical status and attract curious visitors from around the world each year. An absolutely unique place on the planet, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in second place, just after Quito.

Once threatened, it is now a paradise for wildlife observation.

The submerged face of millennia-old underwater volcanoes, this "open-air showcase of evolution" will enchant both young and old alike with the proximity and rarity of the species it harbors.

A candidate for the eighth wonder of the modern world, the Galápagos are unquestionably one of Ecuador's most beautiful treasures, to be discovered without delay.

6 - The Amazon

The Ecuadorian Amazon, the Oriente region, covers more than half of the country. The lush vegetation of the "green hell" continues to harbor fauna and flora of exceptional richness. The deepest silence suddenly gives way to unsettling insect sounds, bird calls, and monkey howls. Listening intently for every whisper, rustling leaf, in search of the most beautiful and unusual species.

At the foot of giant trees, gliding in a canoe along the water, perched on a canopy platform, there are countless ways to appreciate the beauty of the planet's lungs.

Plunge into the depths of the world's origins, where time has stood still and where mankind becomes, for a fleeting moment, a simple spectator of the nature surrounding them.

Flamboyant plumage, scales and fur, shells, mandibles, an explosion of colors and verdure—the Amazon is a powerful experience accessible to all ages. A thrilling sensation to experience at least once in a lifetime!

7 - Folklore

Proud of its origins and traditions, the Ecuadorian people will surprise you with their folklore and colorful celebrations. Rhythmed by religious and Andean festivities, the country is constantly sustained by songs and dances with tireless energy and renewed spirit.

What better way to soak in this atmosphere on a daily basis than to explore traditional markets? Multicolored displays, wood, wools, beads, and other essences jostle together and testify to the extreme richness of this culture. Otavalo, Riobamba, and Quito are the privileged venues for this folklore, but many other towns hold countless secrets for those willing to uncover them.

8 - Wildlife

Few are the countries on Earth that can boast of encountering such a number of animal species. Ecuador was the first country to officially recognize the rights of nature and thus played a major role in its preservation. Rather than treating nature as a commodity, Ecuador recognizes that nature has constitutional rights and has the "right to exist, persist, maintain, and regenerate its vital cycles."

As you travel through its 4 regions—Galápagos, the Costa, the Sierra, and the Oriente—you may spot in turn iguanas, sea turtles, whales and dolphins, llamas, spectacled bears, hummingbirds, monkeys, butterflies, and caimans... A list of course not exhaustive, which gives you a small glimpse of your upcoming excursions.

9 - Water

A single unique element breathes life into the world: Water.

A symbol of life and power, this element is particularly present in Ecuador. In the form of lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and waves, it draws its strength from the volcanic peaks that feed it and pours its energy throughout the country. An object of contemplation at the famous Quilotoa lagoon, a source of relaxation in the thermal baths of Papallacta, or of thrills on the Route of the Cascades of Baños, water will be a powerful element of your journey in Ecuador.

Synonymous with rejuvenation and spirituality, it fertilizes the lands and brings greenery to every corner of the country.

Unless you prefer to try to master this element through rafting, canyoning, kayaking, surfing, or snorkeling…

What is certain is that none of these experiences will leave you indifferent.

10 - The Pleasure

"Ama la Vida," "love life," does that inspire you? Ecuador has made these three meaningful words the motto of its country. A stage for all kinds of wandering and desires, Ecuador gives a place of honor to the simple pleasure of living. In varied settings, relax in thermal waters with legendary virtues. Stroll through the historic hearts of cities while sipping an unknown fruit juice or coffee from local production.

Explore traditional markets and restaurants in search of new flavors. Let yourself be tempted by vibrant gastronomy and participate in original and flavorful culinary experiences.

Treat yourself to a canelazo in the evening in the patio of a charming countryside hacienda... Take time to live and enjoy every moment on Ecuadorian soil… For the pleasure of all your senses.

Ecuador is an absolutely magnificent country that will astound you more than once, both by the beauty of its landscapes and by the great kindness of its inhabitants. A country to discover or rediscover with urgency.