Books in Tough Guides series

The new, full-color Rough Guide to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands is the definitive travel guide to this captivating country. In-depth coverage of Ecuador's incomparable wildlife, vibrant indigenous cultures, and awe-inspiring scenery takes you to the most rewarding spots — from the Amazon rainforest to the heights of the Andes to glorious, laid-back beach resorts. Stunning color photography brings the land to life on the pages. Discover Ecuador's highlights, with expert advice on exploring the best colonial cities, participating in ancient festivals, scaling volcanoes and learning Spanish, straddling the Equator, and swimming with turtles, penguins, sea lions, and even sharks. The guide includes extensive coverage of the capital, Quito, and the Galápagos Islands, the world's premier wildlife destination. Easy-to-use maps, reliable advice on how to get around, and insider reviews of the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, and shops for all budgets ensure that you won't miss a thing. Make the most of your time with The Rough Guide to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands.

The Rough Guide to Southwest China is the essential, full-color guide to China's most compelling region, from tropical rainforests to the snowbound heights of the Tibetan plateau and the mighty Yangzi River. Inside its modern cities you'll find lively restaurants and teahouses, busy streets and trendy bars. Further afield are historic old towns and trade roads, once trodden by merchants, Communist guerillas, third-century warriors, and European plant-hunters. Limestone peaks, caves, waterfalls, and the world's largest sinkholes compete for your attention alongside rare monkeys, birds, and — of course — pandas. Half of China's fifty-six recognized ethnic groups live in the region, too, including Tibetans, Miao, Dong, Yi, Bai, and Dai, enlivening the countryside with wooden villages, monastery towns, extreme rice terracing, exquisite textiles, and exuberant festivals. Visitors can join pilgrims circuiting lamaseries, get a close-up view of monumental Buddhist sculptures, and climb holy mountains.