Ecuador & the Galápagos
Tiny Ecuador is a destination in its own right. Look for wildlife in the Amazon Rainforest, haggle for a bargain in Otavalo or relax at a
traditional hacienda. Then follow the steps of Charles Darwin as
you cruise amongst the wildlife rich Galápagos Islands.

Two hours north from Quito, the landscape changes from high mountain range to lower level tropical cloud forest. The verdant hillsides of Mindo have an incredible number of brightly coloured birds, butterflies, bromeliads and orchids. Ecuador is renowned as a prime birdwatching destination and Mindo has a large number of species, several of which such as the Choco Toucan are endemic to the region. Mindo can be visited in a day from Quito; but for a more relaxing time spend a few days here. Most of the accommodation tends to be in smaller properties, sitting in a comfy chair on the hotel veranda watching hummingbirds darting in and out is a great way to relax and birdwatch at the same time.
Properties
Bellavista

Ideal for visits to the Mindo Cloud Forest, Bellavista is a collection of rustic properties catering for small numbers of people. There are a number of houses spread out amongst the forest, the central building is four storeys high with a thatched roof dome. The 360º view from the dome enables you to appreciate all aspects of the rainforest. Accommodation is comfortable but basic, the focus being on the location and the experience.