Ecuador

Quito is surrounded by volcanoes and nestled in an Andean valley at an elevation of 9400 feet (2870m). The colonial part of Quito is well preserved with its churches and monasteries which exemplify the fusion of Spanish, Moorish, Italian, Flemish and indigenous influences making it the first city to be declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Quito is the most important old town in South America, places as Basilica Church, La Compañia, San Francisco church and square, Independence Square and others. The amazing experience in the city is at “Middle of the World”. Here goes the actual equatorial line and straddle the two hemispheres. Here we had participated in several experiments (such as watching water go down a drain in a different direction only inches away from either side of the equator, or balancing an egg on a nail, or using an ancient sun dial, etc.).

Mindo is the beautiful cloud forest in Ecuador on the slope of Andes. It is famous for the wonderful ecosystem in which it is situated. The cloud forest earns its name from the persistent low-hanging cloud and moisture filled air. As a consequence, the vegetation is thick and lush. It is a birdwatcher’s paradise and over 500 species have been spotted here, additionally it is also known for its butterflies, wildlife and orchids.

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