With a name Like Ecuador, you would expect the Equator to feature in any itinerary to the country, and well you would be mad not to miss seeing it, even if it is just a big yellow line located out side the capital… or is it. Standing between the equator is a little bit mental, because it is one of the only places on the planet where you can do some interesting experiments to see the difference between the northern and Southern hemispheres.
Check out this video and you will see what we mean.
On many of our Ecuador Programmes you can visit the Midad Del Mundo (literally meaning the middle of the world) and see it for yourself. It is one of those experiences in travel that makes you feel like you are doing something slightly nutty, but great to tell your mates in the pub back home.
Quito
The Mitad Del Mundo is just outside Quito, the capital of Ecuador, Quito is often the first port of call on a South America Gap Year, and because it is perched quite high up in the Andes, it is often a good idea to allow your self to acclimatise there. Fear not though on our Ecuador Adrenaline Over Drive you can do just that, spending a week in Quito and around the area, doing some really cool adventures, like White Water Rafting, Mountain biking down CotoPaxi and of course visiting the impressive Avenue of the Volcanoes.
Immense landscapes, Indigenous culture mixed with a sprinkling of Colonial Architecture and amazing coffee is the order of the week.
When you get a little bit hungry, why not munch on some Guinea Pig (they love that shit in Ecuador) or perhaps not, just chew some Coca leaves instead – it suppresses your appetite and keeps you up all night. Like Thai Red bull on Red bull steroids.
What ever you eat or drink, Quito is a nice intro into South America, you have alot of options using Quito as a base, either heading up into the Mountains or down towards the Jungle to dip your Toe in the Amazon (just avoid the Piranha infested bits). A stroll around the city reveals centuries of history, colourful markets and city that genuinely feels alive.
No wonder Quito is a popular backpacking destination.
