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WHY BOOK A TRIP TO ECUADOR
What Ecuador lacks in bulk – roughly the size of Colorado – it compensates in natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Quito, the second-highest capital in the world, boasts epic views from Cruz Loma lookout and foodie delights in trendy La Floresta. Alternatively, head to Cuenca, a highland city of cobblestone streets, majestic churches and a Unesco-listed historic center.
If you prefer wild pursuits, head to Cotopaxi National Park, dominated by its titular active volcano and vertebrae of the Andes. Admire its snow-capped cone with hikes around the park, or see it in double, reflected in Limpiopungo Lagoon. For further outdoor adventures, head to Baños de Agua Santa to take the waterfall route and Tena, gateway to the Amazon Rainforest, to go jungle trekking and white-water rafting on the Rio Jatunyacu.
Finally, don’t forget the world-famous archipelago 1,000km (620mi) off the west coast. The Galapagos is a naturalist’s dream, home to giant tortoises, penguins and sharks, and is the place where Charles Darwin cracked evolution and changed our understanding of life on earth.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What’s the best time of year to visit Ecuador?
For beach breaks, aim for the rainy season (October to May), when it’s warm with brief downpours in the afternoon. If you’re planning an Andean adventure, visit during the dry season (June to September) when it’s sunny and clear.
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What’s the climate like in Ecuador?
In general, there are two seasons: rainy and dry. However, the climate varies between regions. Typically, the higher you go, the cooler the climate. The Amazon experiences year-round sun and rain, while the Galapagos Islands has a dry season (June to December) and a wet season (January to May).
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What’s the currency in Ecuador?
US dollar
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What language is spoken in Ecuador?
Spanish is the official (and most-spoken) language. However, there are several indigenous languages including Quichua, which five percent of the population speak.
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What is the time difference in Ecuador?
There are two. The mainland follows Ecuador Time (UTC-6), which means there is no time difference with New York. LA is 3 years behind Ecuador, while London is 6 hours ahead. Galapagos Time (UTC-5) is a further hour behind compared to the mainland.
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Major Airports in Ecuador:
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), Quito
- Seymour Airport (GPS), Galapagos
- José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), Guayaquil
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What are the top destinations to visit in Ecuador?
- Quito – sky-high capital with Inca roots and a historic colonial center
- Galapagos Islands – natural wonder where Charles Darwin developed his theory of evolution
- Cotopaxi National Park – hiking and biking hotspot with lots of wildlife and an active volcano
- Baños – home to a series of spectacular cascades and the Swing at the End of the World
- Cuenca – colonial city with Unesco-badged historic center and chilled vibe
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What are the top Ecuadorian dishes to try?
- Bolon de verde – these deep-fried dumplings are made from green plantains, and stuffed with either cheese or tender pork
- Cuy asado – if you had a pet guinea pig growing up, look away now. That’s right, roast guinea pig is a staple of the traditional Ecuadorian diet
- Ceviche – Peru and Ecuador claim to have invented this deliciously tangy dish, where raw seafood is ‘cooked’ in citrus and salt
- Empanadas – these yuca or plantain pastry parcels are baked or fried, and stuffed with cheese, meat or something sweet
- Morocho – similar to rice pudding, except made from corn rather than rice, and spiced with cloves and cinnamon
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Is Ecuador safe to travel to right now?
Broadly speaking, yes, it is safe to visit Ecuador. The safest way to do so is on a group tour, where you’ll be led by an experienced local guide. There has been some civil unrest in recent times here, prompting the government to implement a state of emergency and curfews in certain regions. Be sure to check with your local government ahead of travel on the latest safety and travel information.