There are 13 countries situated along the Equator, which passes through three of the seven continents. Let’s explore them all, starting in Ecuador and then following this imaginary line that separates the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. We’ll travel first heading east through the Amazon, then cross the Atlantic to the heart of Africa, next exploring two very different Asian archipelagos before winding up in the Pacific Ocean nation of Kiribati. So let’s go. Here’s what we can expect from our journey halfway along the Equator.
Equador
Ecuador translates from Spanish to English as Equator, so there’s really no better place to begin our mythical journey around the world at its widest point. A short drive north of the capital city of Quito is the Mitad del Mundo, or the Middle of the World. There, a monument topped with a globe marks latitude 0 degrees – or rather it almost does, as modern GPS technology actually places the Equator about 260 yards away. But, that doesn’t seem to matter to most visitors, who happily pose for pictures as they straddle the yellow line that’s painted across the plaza. Now, here’s a bit of fun trivia. It’s supposedly easier to balance an egg on a nail at the Equator than anywhere else on the planet, so you can give that bizarre feat a shot should you make the trip.
Columbia
From Ecuador, the line slips into Southern Colombia. This remote region is a world away from the north of the country, where colorful cities, inviting beaches, and verdant coffee plantations captivate visitors. Instead, it’s characterized by lush rainforest and hidden waterfalls. Infrastructure for tourism close to Colombia’s stretch of the Equator is far less developed than in the Peruvian or Brazilian Amazon. That said, for those prepared to forgo luxury lodges, a rafting or kayaking trip along one of the area’s many rivers will bring the area’s abundant wildlife close indeed.
Brazil
In Brazil, the Equator line bisects the enormous 2.5 million square-mile Amazon Rainforest. At its eastern point, it travels through the city of Macapá, a busy river port closely linked to neighboring French Guiana. Capital of the Amapá State in Northern Brazil, Macapá is located in the Amazon Delta along the river's northern channel where it feeds into the Atlantic Ocean. There’s not a lot to see in the city, except an Eighteenth Century fort and the 98-foot high Marco Zero Monument, which marks not only the Equator, but also the movement of the Sun. At the time of the equinoxes in spring and fall, the Sun is perfectly aligned, shining through the circle at the top of the monument and along the Avenida Equatorial.
São Tomé and Principe
São Tomé and Principe is an island nation close to the coast of Africa. This emerging destination remains under the radar for many travelers. That’s a pity, because this volcanic paradise is brimming with rainforest and unspoiled beaches. Two of its sights not to be missed are only a stone’s throw from the Equator: The first is the Lagoa Azul or Blue Lagoon located in the Obô de São Tomé Natural Park behind a few secluded beaches. Lagoa Azul is surrounded by massive Baobab trees filled with chirping birds and the water is said to be a gorgeous shade of blue. This area is not only easy on the eyes but is one of the prime snorkeling and diving spots in the country. The second is the striking Pico Cão Grande, a towering pinnacle of solidified lava. The summit of this landmark needle-shaped volcanic peak is an impressive 2,175 feet above sea level.
Gabon
Continuing eastward, we come to the mainland and the nation of Gabon. Sometimes dubbed “Africa’s Last Eden” because of its wildlife and natural beauty, it’s also nicknamed “The Land of The Surfing Hippos,” thanks to a spread published several decades ago in National Geographic. Photographer Michael Nichols snapped the animals in Loango, a couple of degrees south of the .Equator. Loango is one of 13 national parks established by former President Omar Bongo, which cover about 10% of the country. Gabon hopes one day to become Africa’s answer to Costa Rica, but for now, its limited infrastructure means it’s for intrepid travelers only.
Republic of the Congo
Relatively few tourists make it to the Republic of the Congo (don’t confuse it with the Democratic Republic of the Congo – that’s next door). Those who do visit the former will need to research their trip with care. Many parts of the country are risky for foreign nationals, with high crime rates and incidences of rebel activity and banditry. The Equator passes through the northern area of the country where you're likely to encounter tranquil rural landscapes and lush forest, as this area forms part of the Congo River's drainage basin. But, if traveling to the country, you're likely to land in the capital Brazzaville and it’s worth seeking out the flamboyant Sapeurs (you might have seen them in a 2014 commercial for Guinness). Most are day laborers, taxi drivers or gardeners, but as Sapeurs they wear dapper designer suits and take great pride in their appearance. Traditionally most Sapeurs have been men, but recently women and children have also adopted the lifestyle.
It's a fascinating world in which we live. Who knew there was so much natural beauty, abundant wildlife and cultural diversity along the divide between our planetary hemispheres? Not me, but I look forward to having you join me as we explore the second half of this imaginary journey in a future post.
Until next time...safe travels.
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