The Galapagos Islands of Ecuador have an exotic lush environment and a plethora of wildlife species. Travelers from far and wide visit this tourist destination to see where Charles Darwin made his famous discoveries. The experience often proves to be one of the most unique trips a visitor will ever take. One of the highest cities in the world (at 2,850 meters above sea level), the "breathtaking" city of Quito is the capital of Ecuador. Quito was founded on the remains of an Incan city in the 16th century. The city is known for its natural beauty and has one of the most well preserved historical city centres in Latin America despite experiencing earthquakes in 1797, 1859 and 1917.