Explore Ecuador

Tucked between 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 teeming with life, towering Andean mountain peaks, palm-fringed Pacific Coast beaches and fascinating historical sites are all part of Ecuador’s prolific charms. The vibrant capital city of Quito is worth a visit for its beautiful Old Town, wonderful dining and shopping, and excellent museums. 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. Arguably the most dazzling jewel in Ecuador’s crown is the Galapagos Archipelago in the Pacific, about 1,000 kilometers west of the mainland and a world away from anywhere else. The Islands' magnificent, pristine landscapes and prolific wildlife, which inspired Charles Darwin, have made this cluster of islands a world-famous travel destination.

Currency

In 2001, Ecuador adopted the US Dollar as their monetary unit. Be sure to bring small bills ($1, $5, $10, $20 are best).

Banking

Banking hours: Generally Mon-Fri 0830-1600/1700 and Saturday mornings.

Major credit/debit cards are accepted in most businesses. ATMs are available at most banks in urban areas.  Although widely accepted in mainland Ecuador, credit cards can only be used at a handful of businesses in the Galapagos (including tourist shops and upmarket restaurants and hotels).

ATMs are available at most banks in urban areas. Note that dirty or torn notes will not be accepted. Try to keep cash in smaller denominations; shopkeepers tend to refuse $50 and $100 bills as forgeries of these notes are common.

Ecuador is a small country and internal flight times are usually less than one hour, making air travel a quick and easy way to get around. Most flights operate out of Quito although Guayaquil also has direct services to main centres such as Cuenca, Loja and Galapagos. TAME (EQ) (www.tame.com.ec) flies frequently between Guayaquil, Quito and other destinations throughout the country. The airline has recently launched direct flights from Quito to Tena, cutting out the 5 hour bus journey beween destinations. A number of small airlines serve the coast and eastern part of the country. Flying is the usual mode of transport for intercity travel.

Galapagos Islands: There are daily flights to the Galapagos Islands on national airlines from both Quito and Guayaquil; note that airfares to Galapagos are much higher than to any other domestic destination, although there are discount fares on offer for Ecuadorian nationals and residents of Galapagos. There is also a national park admission charge, payable in cash only.

Cars are driven on the right hand side of the road in Ecuador. The Panamericana or Pan-American Highway is largely in good condition; there are still plenty of potholes in places though and some roads are more akin to rough tracks. Roads in the highlands can be especially bad due to the weather and cracks or holes here can be sizeable.

An extensive network of roads spreads out from the main north-south axis of the Pan-American Highway. There is a lack of road markings and signage, so driving at night is particularly best avoided.

Since getting around by public transport is so easy, few people rent cars in Ecuador. Nonetheless there are international and local car hire companies operating in Ecuador, with cities such as Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca the places to arrange pick-up and drop off. It may be difficult to hire a vehicle in smaller towns and even in main cities you should arrange your vehicle hire in advance. 4-wheel drive is necessary for some areas. Drivers need to be at least 25 years old and have a major credit card for the deposit.

The national speed limit is 100kph (63mph) on highways and around 50kph (30mph) in urban areas, unless otherwise indicated. There are strong penalties for even the most minor driving offences. An International Driving Permit is not required, but insurance is.

Taxis are widely available, particularly in larger cities and towns. Fares tend to be low but should be negotiated in advance. Taxis are metered in Quito, but rarely elsewhere. Taxis may be hired for a whole day. Drivers do not expect tips. All licensed taxis have a registration number prominently displayed.

Ecuador is home to some of the highest volcanoes and mountain peaks in the world, and the capital, Quito, has an altitude of 9,350 feet above sea level. Arriving there from lower altitudes can affect some people, although everyone reacts differently. To reduce the possibilities that altitude sickness will affect you, drink plenty of fluids and keep physical activity to a relatively low level on the first day.

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% 

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. 

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 

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.