Ecuador lies directly  on the equator in the northeast corner of South America.  From its climate (extreme and exhilarating!) to its natural beauty, there’s something in Ecuador for everyone.

The Galapagos Islands,  Ecuador’s prime attraction, can pique any adventure traveler’s interest. They contain some of the rarest flora and fauna seen on earth. Even though much of the island’s appeal is its incredible wildlife, there are also activities for the adventure travel enthusiast.  You can go  on a kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving or sailing trip around the Galapagos shores to get a glimpse of the rich underwater wealth that rivals the nature viewing up on land. You can also book adventure trips such as hiking or trekking around the different Galapagos Islands to explore the wildlife.  Don’t miss the incredible opportunities for photography when viewing the giant Galapagos turtles, iguanas and various mystic birds that you cannot see anywhere else in the world.

Ecuador has the Avenue of Volcanoes present in its capital Quito.  Cotopaxi, the Illinizas, Tungurahua, Carihuairazo and Chimborazo are just some of the more well-known peaks lining the Avenue of Volcanoes. Cotopaxi, in Cotopaxi National Park, is the world’s highest active volcano and one of the most well-known destinations for trekking and climbing adventures in the Southern Hemisphere. There are also Cotopaxi mountain biking tours that point downhill from 4600 meters up the mountain. Don’t miss Chimborazno, Ecuador’s highest mountain, a very difficult hiking and climbing experience for the even the most experienced adventure traveler.

Often overlooked is the fact that Ecuador is a part of the Amazonian rainforest. Trekking or hiking through this country is a marvelous experience. The greatest and most exotic plant and animal diversity awaits an adventure trekker to this remote location.

For those into a less intense adventure, you can visit the fly fishing facilities to take advantage of the over 270 lakes and lagoons located within the park’s borders.

Ecuador is one of the few countries that allows travelers to ride atop train roofs, because this is the best way you can take in the scenery. Even when your train is ambling along the perilous Devil’s Nose, you can be a daredevil and ride on top of the train. You must make it a point to take this legendary traveling adventure from the Riobamba station to the Alausi station, but only if you are brave enough to be on a roof that long!!

Find adventure trips in Ecuador below