MARCH: Ecuador
Exploring the Ecuadorian jungle has hitherto necessitated roughing it in cabins and eco-lodges that might best be described as 'rustic'; and this can be a problem inasmuch as you rarely escape rain altogether in a rainforest, so it's as well to have a comfortable room to retire to in bad weather. But the opening of Mashpi Lodge (www.mashpilodge.com) means the area now has a luxury option.
Set in a 1,000-hectare reserve, the property consists of 22 well-designed, contemporary suites, some on a level with the tree canopy, with floor-to-ceiling windows through which to gaze at nature. There are 500 bird species here, among them toucans, toucanets, motmots and even a few golden-headed quetzals. There are also butterflies, monkeys and, though less commonly spotted, peccaries and the odd puma. The flora is fabulous, too.
The lodge is an ideal place from which to explore, whether on foot or using the environmentally-friendly 'aerial tram' which travels through the jungle for two kilometres. And if you're unlucky with the weather, at least there's a spa (with hammam and sauna) and a well-stocked library.
Original Travel (www.originaltravel.co.uk) is offering seven-night trips to Ecuador, including three nights at Mashpi Lodge, from £2,555 per person.
Pictured: The Ecuadorian jungle