Ecuador: An ever-popular gap year destination

With stunning geographical features, a rich cultural history and plenty of scope for adventure, Ecuador remains a popular choice among gap year travellers.

Located in the north-east of South America - bordered by Colombia, Peru and the Pacific Ocean - the country welcomes thousands of people on gap year projects every year.

Many come to visit UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the capital Quito - widely regarded as the least altered historic centre in Latin America - while others come to explore the remains of Inca and pre-Inca fortresses in the Sierra.

Thousand year-old markets are dotted around the highland valleys of Ecuador, while the beautifully preserved Cuenca is rich in 16th century art and architecture.

Other visitors come to explore the Andean uplands, which offer plenty of scope for trekking and outdoor adventure, and some come simply with a view to improving their Spanish before heading to university.

Ecuador remains a popular destination for those looking to participate in voluntary work abroad, and with a third of the population living in poverty there are plenty of opportunities to make a positive contribution.

At present, 14 Year Out Group members organise trips to the country - Quest, Africa and Asia Venture, CVI, CESA Languages Abroad, Frontier Conservation, Latitude Global Volunteering, Gapforce, Gapguru, i to i Volunteering, Outreach International, The Leap Overseas Ltd, Real Gap Experience, VentureCo and WAVA.

And with the country straddling the equator, visitors can expect hot weather the whole year round - a welcome change to the UK.

See the different gap year destinations on offer.