Diverse Ecuador is a 'nature-lover's paradise'

Those planning to take an adventure holiday with an emphasis on nature should pay a visit to Ecuador, according to the promotional body for the nation.

On its website, the Ministry of Tourism for Ecuador noted that there are many reasons to visit the South American destination, but one of the most persuasive is its impressive biodiversity.

"[The destination is] a nature-lover's paradise: Ecuador is one of 17 countries in the world classified as 'megadiverse' by UNESCO, with an incredible variety of birds, mammals and orchids," the website reads.

"In fact Ecuador is the most megadiverse country per square kilometre in that list."

Ecuador is home to the Galapagos Islands, which is home to many species that are only found in this destination, such as the Flightless Cormorant.

The list of megadiverse destinations was announced by UNESCO in 1988; some of the other countries on the list are Papua New Guinea, Peru and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.