Cambodia Ecuador

Ecuador shares borders with Colombia to the north, Peru to the south and east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

It spans an area of 283,560 square kilometres and has a population of around 17 million people. Quito, the capital city, is famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture and sits high in the Andes.  Ecuador is a democratic republic.

Ecuadorian cuisine reflects the country’s diverse geography. Coastal regions are known for dishes like ceviche and encebollado (fish soup). In the highlands, popular foods include llapingachos (potato patties), hornado (roast pork), and cuy (guinea pig). Ecuador produces wine, particularly in highland areas where the climate is favourable for vineyards. Local beverages such as canelazo, a hot spiced drink, are also popular.

Outdoor enthusiast will find Ecuador to be a place of delight on their visits. The landscape offers the opportunity to participate in enjoyable activities all throughout the year. The Andes offer excellent hiking and trekking opportunities, including the Quilotoa Loop and the ascent of Cotopaxi Volcano. The Amazon rainforest provides unique wildlife viewing and river excursions. The Pacific coast is ideal for surfing and whale watching, while the Galápagos Islands are perfect for diving, snorkelling, and observing unique wildlife.

Ecuador is home to a vast array of ecosystems and wildlife. The Amazon rainforest is one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. The Andes mountains feature volcanoes, cloud forests, and picturesque lakes. The Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are renowned for their unique species and are a must-visit for nature lovers. National parks like Yasuni and Cotopaxi highlight Ecuador's natural beauty.

When you travel to Ecuador, you can enjoy plenty of festivals. The Carnival, celebrated in February or March, includes parades, music, and water fights. Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, is celebrated in June in Otavalo with traditional dances and rituals. Quito’s Foundation Day in December is marked by bullfights, concerts, and street parties. Guayaquil Independence Day, on October 9th, is also a significant celebration.

Vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, and yellow fever are advised for personal protection, especially if going to the eastern part of the country. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for those visiting the Amazon region. It is advisable to drink bottled water and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.

The official currency is the US dollar (USD).

Ecuador uses a 120-volt, 60 Hz electricity supply. The plug types used are Type A and Type B.

Ecuador has two international airports, Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito and José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil.  Buses, taxis, and boats are popular means of travelling. Uber and car rental services are also available, but they are mainly in urban areas, making it a choice for travellers looking to enjoy a more private exploration.

Spanish is the official language, but Quechua and other Indigenous languages are also spoken.

Ecuadorians are generally polite and friendly. It is customary to greet people with a handshake. Always dress neatly and modestly; the neater you dress, the more respected you are.

• Dry Season (June to September): The weather is cool with little or no rainfall. The Amazon area is an exception as it experiences rainfall all through the year

• Rainy Season (October to May): It is a bit chilly during this time. There can be sunny days during the earliest part of the days in some cases.

Ecuador offers options for all budgets. Budget travellers can expect to spend around $50 per day on accommodation, food, and transport. Mid-range travellers might spend up to $100 daily, enjoying more comfort and activities. Luxury travellers can expect to spend upwards of $180 per day.

For a well-rounded experience in Ecuador, visit the ancient ruins of Ingapirca and the colonial city of Cuenca. Explore the vibrant markets of Otavalo, known for their colorful textiles and crafts. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Montañita and Puerto López. Hike through the Andes and take in the stunning views at Quilotoa Lake. Don't miss the unique wildlife and natural beauty of Galápagos Island.