Six of us are planning a trip to South America next September. We intend to visit Cuzco and Machu Picchu in Peru, and then see Quito and Guayaquil in Ecuador, before a short Galapagos cruise. At the end, we'd like to spend a few days in a beach resort chilling out. Can you suggest a suitable resort in Ecuador ­ somewhere quiet with a nice beach, and rustic rather than palatial? David Welsh, by email

Sunday Times travel expert Richard Green responds: September is a terrific time to visit Peru, but watch out for the Galapagos Islands weather in September, as it gets pretty overcast, with local "garua" mists, and sea temperatures cold enough for you to need a wetsuit to snorkel. It's also the time when some of the boats go into dry dock for maintenance, leaving a reduced choice of vessels.

However, the Ecuadorian coast is a great place to relax in; with secluded bays, lush tropical scenery, and from June and October, the chance to see humpback whales, which arrive from Antarctica and breed in the area.

The Mantaraya Lodge (doubles from £30) sits on a cliff top overlooking the Machalilla National Park and the ocean. It's built along rustic Mediterranean-style lines, with 15 simple and tidy rooms, all with a balcony or terrace. There isn't any air-conditioning, but the cliff-top location ensures good sea breezes and there's a nice pool. Close by is Los Frailes beach, one of the country's best.

Right on a stunning beach near to the town of San Lorenzo, is El Faro Escandinavo (doubles from £47), with eight bungalow style rooms, air conditioning, and a good-sized pool. It's friendly low-key place, with its landmark artificial "faro", or lighthouse, a good vantage point for watching the whales.

Alternatively, you might want to talk to a South American specialist tour operator, like Journey Latin America (020 8747 8315). It can arrange four night breaks to the beaches from £272pp, including return flights from Quito, and transfers.

Alternatively, it can plan your entire journey, so you have local back-up if needs be, and financial protection if anything goes awry. Or try Last Frontiers (01296 653000) or Cox & Kings (020 7873 5000).

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