Due to Ecuador's compact size and the small area covered within the Amazon here, it is one of the best countries for wildlife viewing, especially as The Amazon's rivers, lakes, streams and marshlands support over 600 species of fish and more than 250 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the 'South American crocodile'; the caiman.

As you'd expect, activities and lodges are highly environmentally conscious with all excursions accompanied by experienced naturalist guides. An Amazon tour will have you exploring the rain forest on treks beneath the gigantic Amazon trees, along boardwalks crossing palm swamps and up observation towers for a close look at the forest canopy. Board silent dugout canoes to head up rivers and streams and enjoy early morning outings for bird watching.

Parrots and macaws flit overhead while mammals found here include armadillos, honey bears, sloths, tapirs, monkeys, and ocelots.