The most famous imaginary line on Earth, the equator touches just three continents and passes through only 11 countries. Where it crosses, there are no seasons – the sun will rise and set exactly 12 hours apart at the same time, every day of the year. You can also expect plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. But the question is, where are the best destinations to travel to in this area? We’ve answered that for you here.
Quito, Ecuador
It’s hard to beat Ecuador as perhaps the most diverse country the equator crosses. It’s home to the legendary wildlife-filled Galapagos archipelago, breathtaking beaches, hot springs, soaring volcanoes, Amazon rainforest and internationally-renowned heritage cities. If you want to actually “walk the line,” you can do it in Quito, just north of downtown at the Intinan museum. Here you’ll be able to stand on the line, painted with “real equator” as a tourist trap that’s actually worth a visit. You’ll also be able to do some mind-blowing things like balance an egg on the head of a nail. Afterwards, you can explore the city’s, and the nation’s, many other delights.
Indonesia
The largest archipelago on the planet, Indonesia includes more than 17,000 islands, all sprawled across the equator. While you’re unlikely to find a “line” to walk across, just north of Pontianak is a large dome known as Tugu Khatulistiwa which covers a monument with a spire that stretches from the center of the building into the sky. While you’re here, check out one of the least-visited Indonesian islands, Sumbawa, which lies east of Bali and Lombok. There are few tourist facilities here, but that just means you’ll be able to enjoy its striking beauty without the crowds. Typically, there are just a handful of surfers out riding the waves, and inside the reef, it’s the ultimate tropical paradise with only you and the sand.
Kenya
Kenya is often on or near the top of the list when it comes to seeing exotic wildlife, so if you’re hoping to check off two bucket list adventures, it may be your ideal pick. It’s considered to be one of the best spots to view animals like elephants and lions, as well as to watch The Great Migration, with the wildebeest and zebras dodging crocodiles as they cross the Mara River during the dry season. The rainier season brings the big herds of elephants and buffalo that feed on the tall grass. A forest grows along the banks of the Mara River, offering refuge for elephants, leopards and monkeys, while the big cats, find shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Brazil
The equator runs through the northern part of Brazil, and includes the Amazon Rainforest, an area that’s so remote there are no roads and an estimated 10 percent of the locals have never had contact with the outside world. If you’re hoping to visit one of the last true unspoiled places on Earth, this is a good place to do it. While you can take a tour to venture into the wilderness and view all sorts of wildlife, you’ll also be able to take advantage of the country’s many other offerings, from incredible beaches and parties that go all day and all night in places like Rio de Janeiro.
The Maldives
Ideal for romance-seekers who want to experience an equatorial destination, The Maldives lie in the Indian Ocean and are often ranked as the most romantic archipelago in the world. There are hundreds of idyllic sandy islands to choose from, and just as many luxurious resorts, many offering overwater bungalows or beach huts. Look forward to basking on the powdery white sand beaches that sit at the edge of crystal clear, warm waters in shades of blue and turquoise. You can be as active or as relaxed as you’d like, with the opportunity to dive or snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, sail, windsurf and more. Wander through the interesting fishing villages or head out to explore one of the hundreds of uninhabited islands where total seclusion can be enjoyed.
Kiribati
If you’re prepared or even welcome the chance to “rough it” a bit, truly getting away from it all, Kiribati might be your destination. Incredibly remote, this tiny nation made up of 33 coral atolls, most of which are uninhabited, floats nearly all alone in the middle of the Pacific. Its deserted feel and lack of tourist facilities make it ideal for serious divers, anglers and bird watchers. One of the main reasons to go is for the fishing, with huge schools of tuna, wahoo, sailfish and marlin found here. The pristine saltwater flats are ideal for fly-fishing and wading for triggerfish, milkfish, bonefish and trevally, including the elusive giant trevally.
Gabon
While few Americans seem to have even heard of Gabon, that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth visiting. In fact, that may be an even better reason to visit as you’re unlikely to run into too many tourists from back home, or crowds of any type for that matter. This peaceful, stable, French-speaking country is especially travel-friendly and offers the ideal combination of exotic wildlife like gorillas, chimps, elephants and hippos along with especially picturesque stretches of sands and gorgeous unspoiled parks.
Colombia
Colombia boasts diverse topography and a wide variety of wildlife, including more bird species than any other single nation. Once considered a place so dangerous it kept visitors away, most cities here today, like the coastal colonial city of Cartagena, are far safer than it was around the turn of the 21st century. You’ll find white powdery beaches, brilliant coral reefs and mangroves, as well as a historic old town surrounded by wall. In the center, the old homes have been converted into fabulous restaurants and boutique hotels. Be sure to check out the not-to-be-missed sites like the Convent of San Pedro Claver, the Spanish Inquisition Museum and Plaza Bolivar.
