Ecuador is Latin America in microcosm. From its high Andean peaks, snow-capped volcanoes, lush Amazon lowlands, stunning waterfalls and fascinating islands – Ecuador has it all.
The incomparable Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean 906km from the Ecuadorian mainland. The islands’ indigenous wildlife includes some of the most fascinating and unique creatures on earth. By observing these animals, a young Charles Darwin saw evidence which supported his nascent theory of evolution and subsequently wrote On the Origin of Species, a landmark scientific achievement which changed the world forever. Follow in his wake for an unforgettable cruise around the Galapagos Islands.
Boasting a UNESCO world heritage colonial centre, the national capital of Quito is located just south of the Equator, after which the country is named. Visit Otavalo, a small Andean village close to Quito, which is famous for hosting one of the biggest indigenous markets in South America.
The Galapagos Islands National Park boasts unique flora and fauna which has long fascinated travellers and scientists alike. Enjoy cruising this enchanting archipelago and observe its amazing wildlife.
Capital: Quito
Population: 2 million
Language: Spanish, Quichua & Shuar are the official languages. Other indigenous languages are official languages where predominantly spoken.
Food: Popular on the coast is ceviche consisting of fresh fish and shrimp cured with lemon, onion, herbs and tomato salsa. The grilled meat of cuy, guinea pig, is a popular in the highlands. Cangrejada, boiled crab, is popular on the coast, served with a variety of sauces.
Voltage: 110-120V, 60Hz. Wall outlets in Ecuador usually accept Type-A two prong US plugs and Type-B three prong plugs.
Visas: Valid passport with or without visa depending on your nationality. Few nationalities require tourist visas for travel to Ecuador. Inquire at your nearest Ecuadorian Embassy or Consulate.
Money: The official Ecuadorian currency is the United States Dollar ($). Bills come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 & 100 US Dollars. Coinage comes in United States cents and Ecuadorian centavos, denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 & 50 centavos.
Payment methods: Major foreign currencies can be exchanged in banks and authorized bureaus. American Express, VISA, Diners and Master Card are widely accepted. Traveller’s cheques are no longer widely accepted and can be difficult to exchange outside major cities.
Health & Vaccinations: Aside from routine vaccines, it is recommended travellers to Ecuador are vaccinated for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Inoculation against Yellow Fever is not recommended for travellers whose itineraries are limited to areas above 2300m high, the cities of Guayaquil and Quito or the Galapagos Islands. Note that Ecuadorian authorities require you to present evidence of Yellow Fever vaccination if arriving from a country where Yellow Fever is endemic. Malaria is not present in the cities of Guayaquil and Quito or the Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos: Teeming with giant tortoises, terrestrial and marine iguanas, brightly coloured birdlife, the incomparable Galapagos Islands inspired Darwin’s breakthrough Theory of Evolution. Myriad vessels operate cruise programmes of at least 4 days visiting several islands of this impressive volcanic archipelago.
Quito: The Ecuadorian capital is home to a fascinating Colonial Centre which was the first location awarded UNESCO status. Picturesque cobbled streets are lined with baroque-style churches, fascinating museums and inviting restaurants. Just to the north of Quito, the Middle of the World monument celebrates the country’s namesake: The Equator.
Guayaquil: Ecuador’s largest city is perched on the Pacific Coast at the mouth of the Guayas River. A popular place to promenade, the riverside Malecon 2000 boardwalk is overlooked by the colourful hillside neighbourhood of Las Peñas. Parque Seminario is known for its large population of free-roaming iguanas.
In the Highlands, June-September is sunny with clear skies. October-November is cool weather with afternoon showers. Cool weather continues from December-May with occasional showers.
On the Pacific Coast, December-April is the warm season with occasional showers. May-November is mildly cooler but with fewer showers.
The Galapagos Islands experience cool, dry weather June-December. Weather is warm and there are occasional showers from January-May with calmer seas.
