• Explore the rainforest of the lower Amazon basin and its abundant plant and animal life in the Oriente region. It is probably best to do this as part of an organised tour, which can be booked with a number of local operators providing tailor-made itineraries and experienced guides.

• Hike along trails in Parque Nacional Cotopaxi, one of them following the shores of Lago Limpiopungo, located at an altitude of 3,800m (12,465ft). The Parque Nacional Podocarpus is a popular destination for walking.

• Set off into the rainforest from Baños, Ecuador’s tourist Mecca for adventure sports and trips, also offering climbing expeditions to the nearby volcanoes. Climb the Cotopaxi volcano which, at 5,985m (19,345ft), is one of the world’s highest and is best reached, by experienced climbers only, from Quito.

• Cruise round the Galápagos Islands, whose most famous inhabitants are the giant Galápagos tortoises (weighing up to 272kg/600lb). Adventure tours around the islands are available, either in large cruise ships or in smaller ships and yachts (advance booking is essential).

• Try out various watersports at the beach resorts. Good snorkelling is available via chartered boat trips around the Isla de la Plata (located in the Parque Nacional Machalilla, Ecuador’s only coastal national park).

• Ride on the roof of a train on the famous precipitous ‘Devil’s Nose’ train passage, from Riobamba down to the Pacific coast. Train schedules are fairly erratic and visitors should check locally prior to travelling.

• Shop at a traditional lively street market, such as Chota’s Indian market (particularly good for traditional art and weavings), renowned throughout Ecuador.

See Contact Addresses for further tourist information.