Hi,

recently I thought of going to South Africa, for a visit,
then someone suggested Ecuador,


has anyone been to either of these places,

If anyone has been, could anyone help me with my decision,

is it better to go to SOUTH AFRICA OR ECUADOR,


thankyou,
Sincerely,
Becky.

Hi Becky

The question you are asking is simply comparing apples to peaches.

Two wonderful but totally different fruits.

You should tell us what your main interests are: animals, nature, culture, landscape, travel days etc etc plus your budget without long-haul - budget is the most important thing here as SA is expensive compared to Ecuador!

Then fodorites will be happy to help.

Asking the question you ask means others should make YOUR choice! How can they? If you ask whether you should choose chocolate or vanilla ice cream - that also is a totally personal choice. I would choose chocolate. Now are you going to eat it ;-)?

Let's flying in your information please in order to get you to the point at which you can make a qualified decision!

SV

Becky,

It depends what you want out of your holiday and when you are going, as SV states. I've been to Ecuador 3x and SA 2x and would get a double scoop of Jamocha Almond Fudge on my cone, and I'd be happy to share some suggestions and ideas for countries or ice cream.

To get you started:

When do you wish to travel?

Would you include the Galapagos Islands if you went to Ecuador?

Are you planning a safari?

Do you like to snorkel?

How do you feel about spending time on a boat/cruise?

Are you into museums and culture?

One thing both countries have in common is penguins. Of course you'll eat well in both locations too.

I have a feeling on the Africa board to vote will be predictable.

If it's amazing wildlife you want, I'm guessing Africa is it. A bit more exciting and varied--from big game, lions and such to birds and little creatures--than lizards, boobies, turtles and seals. Although you can't beat being ut of the ocean...

I've been to both, I agree you are comparing apples and oranges.

Between the two I preferred Ecuador. However, that is just my preference.

The Galapagos Islands were just incredible. In the Galapagos, the wildlife is just "there", you don't have to drive around looking, waiting, etc. A safari is an entirely different experience.

Of course, both countries have much more to offer, Ecuador, historic cities, volcanoes, the chance to stand on the equator, etc. South Africa, wineries, scenic sights, etc.

You really need to read about the two places and deceide which one appeals more. Another factor in choosing which country to visit is the time of year you will be travelling.

Then again, Liechtenstein or Mongolia are appealing as well.

Here is a link to your original question on SA, so you have that info handy.
http://www.fodors.com/community/afri...le-east/sa.cfm

I have never been to Ecuador so cant comment on that, but I love SA and it's people. An amazing place that has gone through and is still going through some turbulent times, but for the tourist it is just an amazing place to visit, The beauty of the Cape and the sense of humour of the Cape Coloured, our chequered past, our stunning Kwazulu natal, Mountains and St Lucia Wetlands both world heritage sites, Durban a fascinating melting pot of Asian, Zulu and European cultures, the Indian Ocean and stunning game parks. Mpumulanga the wild life and magnificent scenery, the Karoo, Clarens, Jhb a vibrant, noisey, exciting city with an energy that never subsides (I love Jhb), the Apartheid Museum a stunning visually exciting museum. so much here so SA gets my vote. www.kimssouthafrica.blogspot.com