Ecuador: Discover the Wonders of South America's Enchanting Gem
Despite being the smallest country in the Andean Highlands, Ecuador is one of the world’s most bio-diverse destinations. Visitors will experience dramatic changes in altitude, scenery and temperature while journeying between Pacific Coast beaches, the sweltering rainforest, the ice-covered volcanoes surrounding Quito and the windswept highlands of the Andes Mountains. They will also encounter an astounding variety of birds, wildlife and vegetation in these contrasting climatic zones.
What’s more, Ecuador’s geographic environment has influenced the cultures and traditions of its people. Two mountain chains and over 30 volcanoes make up the Andean highlands, the country’s backbone. Between the two chains lies the central valley, the Avenue of Volcanoes, at about 8,960 feet (2,800m) above sea level.
This valley, or sierra, is the heartland of cultural activity, punctuated by dozens of remote communities. It is also home to the bulk of the population. Larger towns like Saquisilí and Otavalo swell on market days, with villagers coming to sell their produce and handiwork in a vibrant, colourful, and festive atmosphere.
Additionally, the sierra contains most of the old and historically important cities, including the aforementioned Quito. The country itself is beautiful, with colonial architecture, magnificent, panoramic scenery and a welcoming people blending together magnificently.
One of the world’s greatest treasures of natural history lies in the bewitching Galapagos Islands. Famed for its unique wildlife such as marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and colourful Sally Lightfoot crabs, the island chain is the highlight of any holiday in Ecuador.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Spanish is the official language, but many speak an Amerindian language called Quichua.
- Passport/Visa:
All visitors should hold an onward or return ticket, and must demonstrate proof of sufficient funds for their stay in the country. Extensions are possible for travellers who do not need a visa to enter Ecuador. Those who are travelling to the Galapagos Islands need to register with the government prior to arrival. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The US dollar (USD) is the official currency in Ecuador. It is recommended that travellers bring US dollar notes, as other foreign currencies are difficult to exchange outside of Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. Small denominations in good condition are the easiest to exchange outside of the main cities. In the main centres, most currencies can be exchanged at banks and exchange houses (casas de cambio) at variable commission rates. ATMs are available in the cities, and major credit cards are accepted in tourist areas and large hotels.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Two-pin, flat prong plugs are standard.
Overview
As a travel destination, Ecuador is most famous for its ecological wealth. Indeed, the country’s most notable tourist attraction is the Galapagos island chain, once the scientific playground of Charles Darwin. On this small archipelago of volcanic islands, weird and wonderful animals like the giant tortoise and marine iguana can be observed. Tourism on the Galapagos is strictly controlled to preserve the famous eco-system.
Other breathtaking natural wonders in Ecuador include the many volcanoes, particularly Cotopaxi, which is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, and home to one of the few equatorial glaciers in the world. The Amazon rainforest attracts many adventurous travellers, with the town of Tena the most common launching point for jungle treks. Nature lovers will appreciate the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve as well. It lies in the Andean foothills.
Those wanting to experience the scenic Ecuadorian coastline should to head to the southern coast, where numerous picturesque beach resorts can be found. The most popular of these is the pretty town of Montanita.
The capital, Quito, is the transport hub of the country and attracts tourists in its own right, thanks to its colonial architecture, colourful markets, and Cotopaxi looming in the background. Cuenca is also a very attractive town and a hotspot on Ecuador’s tourist circuit.
Climate in Ecuador
Ecuador’s geography has endowed the country with a variety of microclimates. The coast is hot all year, with a humid rainy season between December and May. In the mountains, climate depends on altitude, becoming cooler the higher travellers go. The Amazon region is hot, humid and wet, while the Galapagos Islands are dry with a steady year-round average temperature of 77ºF (25ºC).
Health Notes when travelling to Ecuador
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if travellers are arriving from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, or have transited through an airport in one of these countries. Vaccinations are recommended for hepatitis A and hepatitis B. There is a high risk of malaria in areas below 5,000 feet (1,500m), and there has been a dramatic increase in the number of reported cases of dengue fever, primarily in coastal and Amazon regions. The best prevention is for visitors to cover up and use mosquito repellent liberally throughout the day. High altitude can affect some people’s health so visitors to Quito (6,500 feet/2,800m), for example, are advised to take it easy for the first few days. Tap water should not be consumed; bottled water is available. Medical facilities are often inadequate, especially outside of Quito, and comprehensive medical insurance is highly recommended.
Safety Notes when travelling to Ecuador
Ecuador is generally a safe country to travel to but visitors should be vigilant with their belongings, as most crime is opportunistic. Travellers are warned not to store belongings in the overhead lockers or under seats on public buses and trains, and to watch out for pickpockets. Kidnapping is a concern throughout the country.
Travellers should also avoid hiking to Volcan Pichincha via Cruz Loma, as violent gangs are known to operate in the wooded areas; a cable car provides access, but there have been several cases of armed robbery and rape reported in the area. Several incidents have also occurred along the hiking trail up Cerro Mandango near Vilcabamba, Loja, where masked men have robbed hikers of all valuables.
Ecuador has many active volcanoes, which are rather poorly monitored. Eruptions have caused the evacuation of thousands of people, particularly in the Banos area.
There is an ongoing risk of disruption to travel due to social and political unrest; all public gatherings and demonstrations should be avoided, as they should be in all foreign countries.
Customs in Ecuador
Travellers should always ask permission to take photos of the local people, who will often request a tip for taking a photo. It is a legal requirement to carry identification at all times. Dress is more conservative and modest in the highlands compared to the coast. Politeness and good manners are essential and a light handshake is the practiced form of greeting.
Duty Free in Ecuador
Travellers entering Ecuador do not have to pay customs duty on 400 cigarettes, 25 cigars or 500g tobacco, three litres of alcoholic beverages, and perfume for personal use.
Doing Business in Ecuador
An essential aspect of conducting business in Ecuador is having a link with a reputable local partner. Business dealings are somewhat formal; dress is usually smart and conservative, punctuality is important and greetings are made with a handshake. Dress can be more casual in hotter regions such as Guayaquil. Business cards are usually exchanged and it is recommended to have some business cards, company brochures and presentations translated into Spanish. Business disputes that would be dealt with by civil litigation in countries such as the United States are often, under Ecuadorian law, viewed as criminal, and can lead to arrest and imprisonment. Although the official language is Spanish, English is widely spoken and understood in the business sector. Business hours are usually 8:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday, with some businesses closing during lunch.
Communication in Ecuador
The international access code for Ecuador is +593. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free WiFi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.
Tipping in Ecuador
A 10 percent service charge is usually added to bills at good-quality hotels and restaurants, but patrons often add another five to 10 percent as a tip. Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped but tour guides usually do.
Passport/Visa Note
All visitors should hold an onward or return ticket, and must demonstrate proof of sufficient funds for their stay in the country. Extensions are possible for travellers who do not need a visa to enter Ecuador. Those who are travelling to the Galapagos Islands need to register with the government prior to arrival. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in Ecuador. A visa is not required for 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in Ecuador. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in Ecuador. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days, irrespective of the endorsement with regard to national status contained in the visitor’s passport.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in Ecuador. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in Ecuador. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in Ecuador. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in Ecuador. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
Tourist Offices
Official Tourism, Quito: +593 2993300 or http://www.visitquito.ec
Ecuador Embassies
- In the United States:
Embassy of Ecuador, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 234 7200.
- In Canada:
Embassy of Ecuador, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 563 8206.
- In the United Kingdom:
Embassy of Ecuador, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7584 1367.
- In Australia:
Embassy of Ecuador, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 2 6286 4021.
- In Ireland:
Ecuadorian Embassy, Dublin, Ireland, +353 1 280 5917
- In South Africa:
Ecuadorian Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa, +27 12 346 1662
Foreign Embassies in Ecuador
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Quito: +593 2 398 5000.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Quito (also responsible for Australia): +593 2 245 5499.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Quito: +593 2 397 2200.
- Irish Embassy
Irish Honorary Consul, Ecuador: + 593 2 380 1345.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Santiago, Chile (also responsible for Ecuador): +56 2 2616 3000.
- South African Embassy
South African Honorary Consulate, Quito: +593 2 246 7219
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
