Ecuador may be tiny, but it sure packs a spectacular punch.
The smallest country in the rugged Andean highlands, Ecuador has an array of vibrant indigenous cultures, well-preserved colonial architecture, otherworldly volcanic landscapes, dense rainforest and sublime islands - all in a nation no bigger than the US state of Nevada.
There is a high risk to the security of those traveling in the northern areas of Ecuador that border with Colombia because of kidnappings and increased crime. Landmines are also present in the Cordillera del Cóndor region, bordering Peru. These areas should be avoided.
There have also been isolated reports of armed robberies on Volcán Pichincha, near Quito and on Cerro Mandango, around Vilcabamba.
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