Ecuador

An unrivalled wealth: the Andes, Amazonia and the Galapagos Islands, a compendium of nature and culture.

Les Essentials

Ecuador in detail

Click on regions to see related articles.

Capital :

Quito

Area :

283 520 km²

Population :

16 millions

Currency :

USD

Language :

Spanish

Time difference :

GMT-5 time zone and does not observe daylight saving time

Best seasons :

Coast: June to November | Amazon: November to February | Galapagos: January to May

Equateur

Practical info

Gastronomy

The cuisine is varied, with good products dominated by pork, chicken, corn, plantains, potatoes, a variety of vegetables, fish and seafood on the coasts and in the Amazon region. Fruit juices are excellent. Lager is also available. Drink purified water.

Embassy

https://embassies.net/ecuador-embassy

Crafts

Ecuadorian crafts are famous for the iconic toquilla straw hats (commonly known as Panama hats), colorful textiles, and tagua (vegetable ivory) jewelry. Markets like Otavalo are must-visits for souvenir hunters.

Credit cards

International credit cards are accepted in most establishments in the major cities, but not necessarily in more remote areas. You can withdraw cash from ATMs everywhere, which dispense US dollars. As elsewhere, you need to be vigilant when making transactions.

Route selection

Climate

Temperate and humid climate in the Andean region, with wide temperature variations. It can be very cool, even cold, especially in the evening. Remember to bring warm clothing. The Pacific coast enjoys a tropical climate. The Amazon region is hot and humid.

Electricity

The electrical current is 120 volts with American-style outlets (flat prongs). Bring an adapter for your European devices.

Public holidays

Opening hours

Ecuador operates in the GMT-5 time zone and does not observe daylight saving time. The Galápagos Islands are in GMT-6, one hour behind the mainland.

Internet

Internet coverage is decent in major cities and tourist areas, with free Wi-Fi often available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. In rural areas and the Galápagos Islands, connectivity may be limited.

Language

The official language is Spanish, in addition to the languages spoken by the indigenous communities.

Money & Change

Ecuador’s official currency is the US dollar (USD). ATMs are available in urban areas, but it’s advisable to carry small bills and coins for minor transactions, especially in markets or rural areas.

Clothes

Sportswear for visits with good shoes. Bring warm clothes to cover up in the mountains. There is practically no heating in hotels. Bring a light raincoat. Recommendations: hat, sunglasses, sun cream and mosquito repellent.

Taxis

Opt for official taxis or book through apps like Uber or Cabify in major cities. Always agree on a fare before getting in if the taxi doesn’t have a meter.

Health

Tap water is not drinkable in Ecuador. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Take mosquito repellent with you and get vaccinated against malaria, especially if you are travelling in the Amazon. It is advisable to be up to date with your Diphtheria Tetanus Poliomyelitis (DT Polio), Hepatitis A and B vaccinations. Some visitors may suffer from altitude sickness. You should consult your doctor before leaving. It is advisable to drink mineral water and protect yourself from mosquito bites. Travel insurance is essential.

Security

Ecuador is relatively safe for tourists, but stay vigilant in urban areas and avoid traveling alone at night. Be cautious with your belongings in crowded places like markets or public transportation.

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