Cotopaxi National Park is a protected Andean landscape in Ecuador, located around the snow-capped Cotopaxi volcano and extending across the provinces of Cotopaxi, Pichincha, and Napo. Its high-altitude terrain includes volcanic plains, grasslands, wetlands, and rugged mountain slopes. Cotopaxi, one of the world's highest active volcanoes, dominates the park and rises above the surrounding páramo.
In Chile's arid Norte Grande, only one river in 700 miles of coastline makes it to the sea. Many towns have never experienced rainfall and depend on "Fogcatchers" to collect the morning dew for drinking water.
Wales is a country where centuries-old castles rise above green valleys and coastlines are marked by rugged cliffs and quiet coves. Its capital, Cardiff, combines modern architecture with historical landmarks like Cardiff Castle, which has Roman origins and a Victorian Gothic interior. Just outside the city, St Fagans National Museum of History offers a walk-through experience of Welsh life over the past 500 years, with original buildings relocated from across the country.
The capital of Hunan Province in central China, north of Guilin. Founded over 5000 years ago, it has long been a major cultural and educational center. Mao Zedung lived here and attended school.
Traverse City offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan's Grand Traverse Bay, this charming city is renowned for its stunning waterfront views and picturesque landscapes. The region's pristine beaches, such as Clinch Park, provide an ideal setting for relaxing under the sun or engaging in water sports.
Located roughly in the center of the country, Riobamba is one of Ecuador's largest cities and the starting point of the scenic train ride to Nariz del Diablo (Devil's Nose). The city has a strong indigenous presence, which lends itself well to the open-air artisan market, and plenty of opportunities for mountainous activities such as hiking and mountain biking.
Other Popular Destinations in Ecuador
Quito
Situated on the equator and nestled beneath an imposing volcano, the rugged, sprawling, and vibrant city of Quito offers adventure galore. A South American gem and Ecuador’s capital, Quito combines the best of its Incan and Spanish influences in fascinating cultural attractions, and the city’s surrounding natural beauty will surely astound you.
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island is the beating heart of the Galápagos and is home to the largest town in the archipelago, Puerto Ayora, and a key access point for travelers exploring this unique region. But beyond its small port and shops, the island reveals a surprising range of ecosystems, from black lava shores to lush highlands where giant tortoises roam freely.