There's a reason why the Galapagos Islands are on most savvy travelers’ “bucket-lists.” One of the world’s greatest natural wonders, nothing can prepare you for a visit to this exotic masterpiece of Mother Nature – a place that's every bit as miraculous and magical as people have been saying ever since explorers and pirates first landed on these volcanic shores 500 years ago.

Experience the world’s largest and highest salt flat: the Salar de Uyuni. Covering an area the size of the island nation of Jamaica, this vast and incredible landscape turns into the largest mirror on the planet when it becomes covered with a thin layer of water – which is simply mesmerizing ... and can’t be missed.

The word “Amazon” can conjure up fearsome images in even the most intrepid travelers, but we’re here to say that Ecuador is one of the user-friendly places for exploring the last untamed miracle of nature. Imagine sitting out in the evening as the sun goes down over the forest canopy, while sipping a glass of wine in the open air, as the creatures of the forest begin their nightly serenade to the beat of a tropical shower…

They are South America’s pride. In addition to awe-inspiring landscapes, the Andes are home to extraordinary plant and wildlife, as well as dozens of distinct cultural groups – each with their own language, history and civilization. The Andes evokes very special passions within us. After all, this is where we are based and where we began our operations specializing in this majestic region. Let’s start designing an inspiring journey just for you.

With more than 200 waterfalls reaching heights of 200 feet (60 meters), the power, size and sheer noise of it is simply astonishing. Iguazu Falls is one of those places that needs to be seen to be believed, as it is taller than Niagara Falls and wider than Victoria. Situated in tropical jungles near the three-way border between Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, it is recognized world-wide as one of the most impressive natural sights on Earth.

Experience adrenaline-pumping climbs up some of South America’s highest peaks right here in Ecuador. Whether its relaxed climbing tours or more challenging ascents, Surtrek offers the Ecuadorian mountain climbing experience just for you! The accessibility of Ecuador’s mountains make them attractive for intermediate and beginning mountaineers, while experienced climbers are offered the excitement of high-altitude ascents of over 20,000 feet. Ecuador may be small in size, but its majestic mountains offer an extraordinary range of challenges for all climbers!

An emerging travel destination, the highlands of Ecuador offer horseback riding for spirited travelers who seek special travel experiences – ones with magnificent colonial haciendas, jaw-dropping vistas, contact with authentic highland cowhands, and some of the gentlest horses you’ll ever find. As you make your way around mountain-top lakes bathed in green, you’ll pass snowcapped volcanoes and are likely to see ancient pre-Incan earth mounds. Discover the Ecuadorian Andes, where the opportunities for horseback riding are simply limitless.

A birdwatcher’s paradise, Ecuador and neighboring Colombia constitute the heart of a fantastic ecological region that boasts a bird list of more than 1,900 species! Given the region’s small size, its solid infrastructure, unsurpassable scenery and friendly people, both of these countries are considered some of the earth’s most rewarding birding tour destinations. Plus, the comfortable lodging and great meals make these trips a pleasure and accessible to everyone. For serious birding or more casual birdwatching – think Surtrek!