Lonely Planet Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands

From the beautifully preserved colonial capital of Quito to remote Andean villages such as Chugchilán, Ecuador presents innumerable options for independent travelers. Whether you're interested in climbing the magnificent volcanoes of the Andean highlands, exploring the jungle of the verdant Oriente or swimming with sea lions in the equatorial waters off the Galápagos islands, this essential guide tells you everything you will need to know to travel through this enchanting country.

• a 32-page full-color guide to the wildlife of the Galápagos
• detailed coverage of conversation issues, ecotourism and wildlife-watching opportunities
• food and accommodations options for all budgets
• tips on adventurous ways to get around, from rooftop train rides to dugout canoe trips
• more than 50 detailed maps and a practical Latin American Spanish language section