Lonely Planet's local travel experts reveal all you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime to Ecuador & the Galapagos.

Discover popular and off the beaten track experiences from travelling to the lower Rio Napo into the Amazon jungle to taking a dip in the paradise of a white-sand cove at Puerto Chino, and braving a spiritual cleansing from a curandero (healer) at Parroquia Puerto Limon.

Build a trip to remember with Lonely Planet's Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands travel guide:

• Our classic guidebook format provides you with the most comprehensive level of information for planning multi-week trips
• Updated with an all new structure and design so you can navigate Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands and connect experiences together with ease
• Create your perfect trip with exciting itineraries for extended journeys combined with suggested day trips, walking tours, and activities to match your passions
• Get fresh takes on must-visit sights including Volcán Chimborazo; Museo Arqueológico Centro Cultural Orellana; and Quito's UNESCO-listed Centro Histórico
• Special features on wildlife encounters, exploring 24 iconic volcanoes, Galapagos islands guide
• Expert local recommendations on when to go, eating, drinking, nightlife, shopping, accommodation, adventure activities, festivals, and more
• Essential information toolkit containing tips on arriving; transport; making the most of your time and money; LGBTIQ+ travel advice; useful words and phrases; accessibility; and responsible travel
• Connect with Ecuadorian culture through stories that delve deep into local life, history, and traditions
• Inspiring full-colour travel photography and maps
• Covers Quito, Northern Highlands, North Coast & Lowlands, The Oriente, Central Highlands, South Coast, Cuenca & the Southern Highlands, Galapagos Islands

Create a trip that's uniquely yours and get to the heart of this extraordinary part of the world with Lonely Planet's Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands.

Ideal for independent travellers, this guidebook to Ecuador and the Galápagos, written by destination experts, combines must-see sights with hidden gems and offers essential tips for both planning and on-the-ground adventures. It's sustainably printed to ensure environmental responsibility.

Inside this Ecuador and the Galápagos travel book, you'll find:

• Regional deep dive - coverage of key regions, offering a rich selection of places and experiences, and honest reviews of each one


• Itinerary samples - designed for various durations and interests


• Practical information - tips on how to get there and get around, use public transport, beat the crowds, save time and money, travel responsibly and more


• Expert recommendations - insider advice on where to eat, drink, and stay, alongside tips for nightlife and outdoor activities


• Seasonal tips - when to go to Ecuador and the Galápagos, climate details, and festival highlights to plan your perfect trip


• Must-See pick - a curated selection of not-to-miss sights as chosen by our authors - Otavalo market, Quito, Canoa, whale-watching, Parque Nacional Machalilla, Malecón 2000, Nariz del Diablo, La Compañía, climb a volcano, Museo Nacional Del Ecuador, Ingapirca, Lagina Quilotoa


• Navigational maps - colour-coded maps highlighting essential spots for dining, accommodation, shopping and entertainment


• Cultural insights - engaging stories delve into the local culture, history, arts and more, enriching your understanding of Ecuador and the Galápagos


• Language essentials - a handy Spanish dictionary and glossary to help you communicate and connect with locals


• Inspiring travel photography - full-colour pictures capture the essence of Ecuador and the Galápagos, bringing each location to life and fuelling your wanderlust


• Bonus eBook - Free download with purchase, offering digital access to our comprehensive guide


• Coverage includes: Quito, the northern sierra, the central sierra, the southern sierra, the Oriente, the northern lowlands and coast, Guayaquil and the southern coast, the Galápagos Islands

Canoe through the Amazon, explore the bustling capital of Quito, snorkel in the Galápagos, or kick back on the coast: Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Moon Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands. Inside you'll find:

• Flexible itineraries for spending time in the Sierras, the Amazon, the coast, Quito, and the Galápagos Islands
• Must-see highlights and unique experiences: Hike through the Amazon rainforest, paddle across lily-covered lagoons, and spot camian, tapir, or pink river dolphins. Dive with hammerhead sharks in the Galápagos, cycle the epic waterfall route in Baños, and watch the sun rise over the peaks where the Amazon meets the Andes. Wander cobbled colonial streets and gaze up at snow-capped volcanoes rising from wildflower-strewn grasslands. Take a surfing lesson in Montañita, and relax on the beach with a mojito in hand
• How to ethically experience Ecuador like an insider, support local and sustainable businesses, and respectfully engage with the indigenous communities, including those with shamanic traditions
• Expert insight from local author Bethany Pitts on what to eat, how to get around, where to stay, and how to avoid crowds
• Full-color photos and detailed maps throughout
• Reliable background on the landscape, climate, wildlife, and history, as well as health and safety advice and common customs and etiquette
• Handy tools including a Spanish phrasebook, volunteer opportunities, packing suggestions, and travel tips for families with kids, seniors, travelers with disabilities, and LGBTQ travelers

With Moon Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands' practical tips and local know-how, you can plan your trip your way.

Heading to Central America? Check out Moon Costa Rica. Sticking to the islands? Try Moon Galápagos Islands.

About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell--and they can't wait to share their favorite places with you.

For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.

The Galápagos archipelago is one of the most beautiful, wild, and untouched places on earth. Travel back in time with Moon Galápagos Islands. Inside you'll find:

• Strategic tour advice on which boats to take, how long to stay, and where to stop along the way
• The top activities and unique experiences: Snorkel past playful sea lions and gentle sea turtles or dive with hammerheads and whale sharks. Spot blue-footed boobies, albatross, and pelicans just as Darwin did when formulating the Theory of Evolution. Walk along sandy beaches where marine iguanas sun themselves on the rocks, or hike through forests of cacti and along otherworldly lava trails with ocean views
• Expert insight from Lisa Cho on how to experience the islands like an insider, visit sustainably, avoid crowds, and respectfully engage with the culture
• Background information on the history, landscape, and diverse wildlife of the archipelago, including how and where to see each animal while protecting their habitats
• Full-color photos and detailed maps throughout
• In-depth coverage of Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela, Floreana, and the remote uninhabited islands of Santiago, Fernandina, Española, and Genovesa, plus the gateway cities of Quito and Guayaquil

With Moon Galápagos Islands' practical tips and expert insight, you can have the trip of a lifetime.

Expanding your trip? Check out Moon Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands.

About Moon Travel Guides: Moon was founded in 1973 to empower independent, active, and conscious travel. We prioritize local businesses, outdoor recreation, and traveling strategically and sustainably. Moon Travel Guides are written by local, expert authors with great stories to tell--and they can't wait to share their favorite places with you.

For more inspiration, follow @moonguides on social media.

This Ecuador & Galápagos guidebook is ideal for travellers seeking inspirational guides and planning a more extended trip. It provides interesting facts about Ecuador & Galápagos's people, history and culture and detailed coverage of the best places to see. This Ecuador & Galápagos travel book has the style of an illustrated magazine to inspire you and give a taste of Ecuador & Galápagos. The book is printed on paper from responsible sources, and verified to meet FSC's strict environmental and social standards.

This Ecuador & Galápagos guidebook covers: Quito, Day Trips from Quito, Northern Sierra, The Avenue of the Volcanoes, The Southern Sierra, The Oriente, Oriente Wildlife, The Western Lowlands, The Pacific Coast, Guayaquil and the South Coast, The Galápagos Islands.

In this Ecuador & Galápagos travel guidebook, you will find:

• Unique essays - country history and culture, and modern-day life, people and politics


• Ecuador & Galápagos highlights - Avenue of the Volcanoes, Baños, Otavalo, Cuenca, Pacific coast beaches, Ingapirca, Quito, Galápagos Islands, Amazon lodges


• Practical travel information - getting there and around, budgeting, eating out, shopping, public holidays, information for LGBTQ+ travellers and more


• When to go to Ecuador & Galápagos - high season, low season, climate information and festivals


• Insider recommendations - tips on how to beat the crowds, save time and money and find the best local spots


• Main attractions & curated places - narrative descriptions of where to go and what to see, covered geographically


• Tips and facts - interesting facts about Ecuador & Galápagos and useful insider tips


• High-quality maps of Ecuador & Galápagos - must-see places cross-referenced to colourful maps for quick orientation


• Colour-coded chapters - each place chapter has its own colour assigned to aid easy navigation of this Ecuador & Galápagos travel guide


• Striking pictures - rich, inspirational colour photography on all pages, capturing attractions, nature, people and historical features


• Free download of title's eBook - available after purchase of the printed guidebook to Ecuador & Galápagos


• Fully updated post-COVID-19

This Ecuador & Galápagos guidebook is just the tool you need to get under the skin of the destination and accompany you on your trip. It also makes a great gift because of its premium quality. This book will inspire you and answer all your questions while preparing a trip to Ecuador & Galápagos or along the way. It will also remain a beautiful souvenir after your trip.

- All new full-color photos in this edition
- New planning tips for one-, four-, and eight-day travel options
- Includes new opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving, new amenities on various live-aboard outfits, and more

The Galapagos Islands aren't a vacation destination for those wanting to sip umbrella drinks by the resort pool--which is exactly why The Galapagos Islands and Ecuador continues to be a standard resource for inquisitive adventurers, nature lovers, and DIY travelers. This new 3rd edition packs in even more interesting and useful natural history and travel information, including:

- Significant updates to all the major islands and visitor sites; the number of sites has nearly doubled in recent years
- Newly updated and expanded maps
- New photography tips for digital equipment and process
- New detailed chapter on visiting Quito and mainland Ecuador, featuring primary ecological and historical areas in the Andean highlands, rainforests, and coastal areas
- New discussion on how the islands are now a living laboratory of global warming, including how wildlife is being affected by changes in food sources

Marylee Stephenson brings to her guidebook the perspective of a dedicated birder and naturalist, skilled photographer and experienced traveler (who has made no fewer than ten visits to the Galapagos Islands). This concise handbook is a superb introduction to the biological wonderland made famous by the writings of Darwin. --Donovan Thomas, Ph.D., Professor of Biological Sciences (Retired), University of Windsor

Don't just see the sights--get to know the people.

The people who inhabit the diverse landscapes of this beautiful land are proud, friendly, hospitable, and hardworking, but to understand the culture in any depth, you need to know the complex historical divisions between the highlands and the coast, and the rigid class and racial discrimination that has dominated the country's history.

This updated edition of the award-winning Culture Smart! Ecuador takes you beyond the usual descriptions of what to see and digs into the heart of this multi-layered nation to give you an insider's view of the people and their traditions, history, food, and culture, and the practical tools to make the most of your time there.

Have a richer and more meaningful experience abroad through a better understanding of the local culture. Chapters on history, values, attitudes, and traditions will help you to better understand your hosts, while tips on etiquette and communicating will help you to navigate unfamiliar situations and avoid faux pas.

This new, thoroughly updated and lavishly illustrated fourth edition of Bradt's Galápagos Wildlife is packed with information and magnificent pictures to aid in identifying key species, all in an easy-to-carry format that covers everything from the wildlife that you're likely to encounter, whether flying in the air, running along the ground or swimming underwater, to a succinct history of the islands, their habitats and volcanic origins. This guide includes the most detailed descriptions and maps of the main visitor sites of any book in print, so you can see where a boat will land and what can be seen there - enabling you to plan effectively for a rewarding visit. An overview of conservation efforts is also included, as are unique island trail plans for those looking to explore.Written and illustrated by two expert-naturalist guides, who have both been visiting the islands for decades, this new edition covers all the latest information, from the discovery of an 'extinct' tortoise species not seen for over 100 years on Fernandina island and the discovery of new rare 'pink iguanas' on Isabela island's Wolf volcano (the highest point on the Galápagos), to the change in taxonomy of 'Darwin's finches' and the new species status of the almost-extinct little vermillion flycatcher. Snorkelling with sea lions, penguins and sharks at Devil's Crown, Floreana is included, as is kayaking in pristine locations such as Española's Gardiner Bay.Travelling to the Galápagos is a rite of passage for serious wildlife enthusiasts. Now with more detailed descriptions, more photos, and updated information on conservation efforts, Bradt's Galápagos Wildlife is the perfect companion for this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Stories from the Andes examines travel as a metaphor for life and self-discovery.

Excerpt: Explore

As a rule, I don't give advice. But on one occasion, I counseled my nephew at a low point when he felt lost and sought guidance and the strength to carry on.

Where do I draw strength? he asked. First, I replied, Fold your arms across your chest and hug (love) yourself. Are you done? Good, now let's move on. In no order: take inventory of yourself and your situation and own it. Pick up the pieces. Sooner rather than later. There's a world out there waiting for you. Yes, you. You're in demand. You'll discover new people, relationships, perspectives, and cultures. You'll find that new places and people are pure enlightenment and entertainment. Laugh with and not at them. It's free. And that's something when you mistakenly believe you have nothing. Now, explore. When you get bored, explore some more. Incrementally, things will fall into place. Trust me, nephew. I've been there, done that. You can do that too. Love you, Now, stop hugging yourself. It's creepy.

For readers of this book, his story is also yours. At some point, we all find ourselves in the depths of uncertainty and confusion. But remember, it's in the act of exploration, whether through travel, self-reflection, or trying new experiences, that we find solace and strength. Our journeys of discovery reflect universal human experiences that transcend boundaries - whether real or imagined. The philosophy of travel, regardless of destination, is about engagement, finding purpose, defining our role, and understanding our place in life. Ultimately, it's about recognizing ourselves in others and fostering a sense of connection and empathy that enriches our lives.

Moving to Ecuador: A Comprehensive Guide for Expatriates

Dreaming of a life less ordinary? This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about relocating to Ecuador, from navigating visa requirements and choosing the perfect region to embracing the culture and building a thriving expat life.

Discover the diverse landscapes, from the Andes Mountains and Amazon rainforest to the Galapagos Islands and Pacific coast. Learn how to navigate the visa process, find affordable housing, access quality healthcare, and manage your finances in a dollarized economy.

Immerse yourself in Ecuadorian culture with practical advice on etiquette, language learning, and connecting with locals. Explore job opportunities, entrepreneurial ventures, and the unique benefits of retiring in paradise. Gain insights into safety, transportation, education, and the vibrant entertainment scene.

Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or a fresh start, this guide equips you with the knowledge and tools for a successful transition to Ecuador. Start your Ecuadorian adventure today!

Celebrating the City of Quito is a little collectible souvenir book that belongs to the Celebrating Cities Book Series by Walter the Educator. USE THE EXTRA SPACE TO TAKE NOTES AND DOCUMENT YOUR MEMORIES. Collect them all and more books at WaltertheEducator.com.

In 1996 writer-adventurer Mark Newman traveled to the Galapagos Islands. He stayed in the famed archipelago for longer than Charles Darwin had and visited more than twice as many of the islands. Here is his fascinating account of that journey, undertaken partly by Brigantine Schooner, partly by kayak, and partly on foot. There are animal encounters galore, a hike around the second largest caldera in the world, and plenty of entertaining anecdotes about the lesser known aspects of Darwin's 1835 visit. Globetrotters, wildlife enthusiasts, armchair explorers, and Darwin history buffs will all find this book irresistible.

The Galapagos Islands of Ecuador have an exotic lush environment and a plethora of wildlife species. Travelers from far and wide visit this tourist destination to see where Charles Darwin made his famous discoveries. The experience often proves to be one of the most unique trips a visitor will ever take.One of the highest cities in the world (at 2,850 meters above sea level), the

The Great Guide to the Andes a unique bilingual English - Spanish guide featuring 16 of the best places for Hiking, Trekking, Climbing and other outdoors activities in the Ecuadorian highlands; among them you will find 10 main peaks, 5 lagoons and Ecuador's best rock climbing site. Inside this guide you'll find full color pictures along with fast facts, general descriptions and information on how to get to each place from the closest main city; besides, you can learn about hikes and trails suggestions among other important and interesting information on the 16 best places for hiking and climbing in the Ecuadorian Andes. A small Ecuador map on each page will let you see the locations in relation to Ecuador's main cities and a full color map of Ecuador at the end will show you the specific location of each of the 16 places described within this guide. The icon index will show you with clear signs the main mountain adventure activities that can be performed on each place. The different options featured in this guide have been organized starting from the highest ones to the lowest places so you can know the exact altitude information in meters as well as in feet. This guide will encourage the world's mountain lovers to visit the Ecuadorian Andes and feel the same way the English explorer Edward Whymper felt in 1.892 when he conquered for the very first time most of the main summits in this mountain range together with the Italian Carrel brothers, after of which he wrote the book Travel Amongst the Great Andes of the Equator.

Birding Northwest Ecuador is more than just a travel guide; it is an insight into the most biodiverse region of the world. Written for the independent birder, it describes the best locations to observe birds within its area of focus. It relates not only the birding regions but provides detailed maps on how to best reach these location at an economical price. There are trail maps for most of the reserves as well as food and lodging suggestions for every budget. Best of all, there are detailed bird lists for each of the location making it easy to record each sighting along your route.

Learn how to move, live, work, and retire in the most affordable country in South America discover if Ecuador is for you and wade through all of the fluff with this no nonsense fun loving guide. Enjoy the expat stories that are peppered throughout. Our guides are known for their accuracy, thoroughness, and easy to read style. As an avid world traveler, Enete has visited over 35 countries, has lived in five, and continues to explore new ways of living. 8x author Enete shares her experiences and lessons learned teaching how to successfully save money and live the rich life.

Explore on foot the fabulous Spanish colonial historic center of this beautiful city set in a valley in the Andes Mountains. What a great way to experience Quito

In a memoir that is at once heart-breaking and hilarious, former U.S. intelligence analyst Maureen Klovers embarks on a year-long quest to understand why so many Latin Americans are willing to risk their lives to come to America. She moves into a convent with a rogue American priest, two nuns, and dormitory full of volunteers, and begins teaching children from the poorest and most dangerous slums of Quito, Ecuador. Soon, she is fending off marriage proposals from thirteen-year-old Darwin, locked in a battle of wills with his classmate Oscar, and struggling to decode the intricacies of the junior high pecking order. As she visits slums and leper colonies, interviews inmates at the Quito Women's Prison, and tussles with corrupt government officials, she paints a vivid portrait of a nation in transition. Everywhere, she asks the tough questions most travel writers breeze over: What separates the developed world from the developing world? Is the third world destined to be poor forever? And if so, why? But perhaps the most important question is one she never set out to answer at all: Is America headed for the same fate? In the midst of a spirited public debate about income inequality, government regulation, and political dysfunction, In the Shadow of the Volcano serves as a fascinating and disturbing chronicle of how ordinary citizens can be affected by a crony capitalism that concentrates wealth and power in the hands of a few.

Headhunters of the Amazon (1921) which tells an extraordinary story that simply would not get published today even if any contemporary explorer or adventurer had the opportunity or the cojones to do what Up De Graaf and his companions did so blithely a century ago. However, this is not just a schoolboy tale of derring-do, but contains much fascinating socio-cultural information about the eponymous head-hunters of the title and some fascinating cryptozoological snippets. Could there indeed be a hitherto undiscovered species of giant stork luring in the Amazon jungle? Could it be the same as a prehistoric creature whose remains have been discovered in the same area? And could sightings of such a rara avis explain modern day accounts of pterosaurs reported across central and South America with monotonous regularity? This book sets out the stall for CFZ Classics. It is lavishly illustrated, not only with the original pictures from the original volume but with contemporary engravings and photographs which - we feel - do much to enhance the zeitgeist of the book and the reading experience. Here we would like to thank the massively talented Gareth Shaw who worked so hard on the cover illustration, and who - like us - is a devotee of a style of art, which like so many of the explorers whose thrilling exploits its illustrated, doesn't seem to be around in the rarefied and ever so slightly decadent days. And there's more. One of the most important aspects of this entire project is that, because all the books which are being produced by CFZ Classics are out of copyright and in the public domain, the author royalties from it will be paid to the person who did all the work preparing this new edition. This provides a unique, and we hope entertaining, way for impecunious cryptozoological researchers around the world to fund their activities.