Traveller Responsibility:
BirdsConTour endeavours to provide current and comprehensive travel information but does not accept responsibility or liability for omissions or inaccuracies.
Travellers shall inform BirdsConTour of any factors and physical restrictions relevant for selection of travel routes, accommodation and activities.
Travellers should be familiar with the itinerary and conditions of travel in the respective countries in which the according tour takes place.
Travellers need to ensure that passports, visas and health certificates are valid for travel to each destination.
Travellers shall adhere to the regulations of the legal authorities of the respective countries in which the according tour takes place.
Conditions of Guided Tours:
Travellers shall accept and follow all reasonable instructions given by the guide. Failure to comply could cause harm to the group or individual.
Travellers should take every endeavour to positively contribute to the harmony of the group.
BirdsConTour or the guide shall be informed of any dietary requirements, ailments, disabilities or other conditions that might affect the wellbeing of the traveller.
Group members are subject to seat rotation throughout the tour to allow each participant a fair chance of front and window seats.
Luggage is restricted to one suitcase and one hand luggage per person. Duffel bags are preferred and no hardshell suitcases are allowed. Luggage should be clearly marked.
Smoking is not permitted on the vehicles. Rest stops will be made periodically that will allow traveller to smoke outside.
Travellers should dispose of refuse responsibly without burdening the environment.
Neighbouring Colombia and Peru, Ecuador is a relatively small country that nevertheless offers an enticing array of scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife species and interesting cities. Dense Amazon rainforest, towering Andean mountain peaks, palm-fringed Pacific Coast beaches and fascinating historical sites are all part and parcel of Ecuador’s prolific charms. The former Inca town of Cuenca is the nation’s third-largest city and a Unesco World Heritage Site. This alluring city, with its cobbled streets, beautiful architecture and photogenic plazas, boasts a huge variety of museums and art galleries. The vibrant capital city of Quito is also worth a visit. Arguably the most dazzling jewel in Ecuador’s crown is the Galapagos Archipelago in the Pacific, about 1000 kilometres west of the mainland. Their magnificent, pristine landscapes and prolific wildlife, which inspired Charles Darwin, have made this cluster of islands a world-famous travel destination.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: United States Dollar
Symbol: $
ISO code: USD
Subunit: Cent
Banknotes: $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100
Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s club: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Yes
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: TAME, Avianca
International Airports: Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito), José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (Guayaquil)
Domestic Airports: Mariscal Lamar International Airport (Cuenca), Eloy Alfaro International Airport (Manta)
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: No
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Ecuadorian cuisine is diverse, featuring a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Highlights include ceviche (marinated seafood), llapingachos (potato patties), and locro de papa (potato soup). Notable local drinks include canelazo (spiced alcoholic drink) and horchata (sweet rice drink).
Tipping: 10%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies by region
Average temperature: 22°C
Summer:
Average highs: 26°C
Average lows: 16°C
Winter:
Average highs: 24°C
Average lows: 15°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Ecuador is during the dry season, from June to September, when the weather is generally sunny and pleasant.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type A, Type B
Voltage (V): 120V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz
*A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
