Ecuador
Today, we'll be continuing our journey with a trip to one of the world's most unique countries - Ecuador. Although it's the continent's 4th smallest country, this small country on the Equator (which is also how it got it's name) more than makes up for it's size with a variety of incredible landscapes. From imposing mountains, pristine crater lakes, volcanic archipelagos, and much more - few countries can match Ecuador's natural diversity. Charming towns and sprawling cities can be found across the country's rugged interior - and we'll be sure to visit a few of them too on our way across this beautiful country.
We'll begin our journey in the country's largest city of over 3 million residents - the important port city of Guayaquil. Known as a gateway to the country's beautiful coastal region, this former colonial city is now the beating commercial heart of Ecuador and is home to a number of the country's tallest buildings, such as La Previsora, seen here along the city's waterfront.
After a brief stay in Guayaquil, we catch a flight and head towards the country's ancient volcanic archipelago, the Galapagos Islands. These islands are known for their amazing diversity, and many species here can found no where else on earth. Bartolome Island's Pinnacle Rock is the islands' most recognizable natural landmark - after an underwater volcanic explosion millions of years ago, erosion and pounding waves over the centuries have given it a unique shark tooth look.
We head back to the mainland, and we'll be heading towards the country's rugged interior to get a true taste of what Ecuador has to offer. We'll be getting there via railroad - and the tracks here are among the world's most dangerous and highest above sea level. The "Devil's Nose" is particularly noteworthy - due to nearby mountains with nearly perpendicular walls, the tracks hug the cliffside at a perilously steep angle - any trip along this section is one you'll remember for a long time.
After traveling through the heart of the country by train, we finally get off at Riobamba and make our way towards one of the country's most popular tourist destinations - the charming resort town of Baños. There's lots to do here - from hot springs, waterfalls, rafting, paragliding, restaurants, and plenty of other activities to keep you occupied - it's a great destination for anyone wanting to get a real taste of the region.
Ecuador's interior is home to countless navigable rivers that are often traversed by locals and tourists alike on motorized canoes. We catch one on the banks of the Rio Aguarico and head into the heart of Ecuador.
Ecuador's rugged hillsides are lined with quaint farms and fields - here we see a typical homestead in Lloa.
Ecuador's mountainous interior is home to a variety of natural wonders - such as the mesmerizing, pristine waters of Quilotoa. This massive crater lake was formed after an enormous eruption in 1280, and over the years has gained a reputation as one of the country's most beautiful destinations.
Ecuador's best known natural wonders are its impressive volcanoes - and we'll conclude the trip with a look at two of it's most famous. The distinctive cone of Cotopaxi is one of the country's most photographed locations - and most dangerous as well, with frequent eruptions over the years.
The impressive 20,703 foot tall Mount Chimborazo is our last stop today - Ecuador's tallest point. Although there's plenty of mountains across the globe that are taller - Chimborazo holds the unique claim as the world's tallest mountain above the Earth's center, due to the slight bulge of the planet's surface around the Equator.
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-korver
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