Ecuador Facts & Info

Quick Facts

• Ecuador covers 256,370 square km. It is bordered by Columbia in the North and by Peru to the East and South, and the Pacific Ocean to the West.
• Population: 14,483,499
• Capital: Quito
• Official Language: Spanish
• Currency: US Dollar

When to go

Ecuador is a year-round vacation destination. However, visitors should be aware that the country is geographically separated into four different regions: the Amazon, highlands, coast, and the Galapagos Islands. Each region brings a different climate, mostly based on altitude.

Amazon – The Ecuadorian Amazon is typically hot and extremely humid. June through August are the hottest; January through May have the highest rainfall; and October through January have the most intensive sunshine.

Highland – Ecuador’s highlands are typically cooler. At mid-day, temperatures are normally very comfortable; however, at night temperatures can decrease dramatically, getting as low as 5°C. The dry season in the highlands runs from June to September. When visiting the highlands it is advisable to dress in layers as temperatures change throughout the day.

Coast – Ecuador’s coast differs in climate from north to south, but in general the wet season runs from January to May, and this time also has the best beach weather. Days during these months are typically sunny until mid-afternoon when heavy rains should be expected. The dry season on the coast runs from June to December and skies tend to be overcast and with cooler temperatures.

Galapagos Islands – The Galapagos Islands are a great Ecuador travel destination year-round, and no matter what time of the year wildlife is abundant. The dry season runs from June to December and it tends to be cool and misty.

Getting There and Away

Two major international airports can be found in Ecuador, one in the city’s capital of Quito and the second in Guayaquil.

Quito Airport: Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO)

Guayaquil Airport: Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE)

Most major airlines serve Ecuador. Flights depart daily to the Galapagos Islands from each of these two main airports.

Visa Requirements

All nationals entering Ecuador as tourists need a passport valid for 6 months after their expected visit. Citizens from the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union do not require a visa to visit Ecuador.

Money

The official currency of Ecuador is the US Dollar. It is recommended for all travelers coming from outside the United States to bring a small amount of US currency, just in case there are issues with money exchange upon arrival.

In most cities throughout Ecuador there is access to ATMs, providing easy access to cash. Credit cards can be used in major cities when in most hotels and first-class restaurants; otherwise cash is the common form of payment.

Problems often arise with finding small change, most places will not cash bills larger than $20. Larger bills such as $50 and $100 bills can be useless if there is no change, so it is advisable to carry around small denominations.

Major Events

Ecuador celebrates a variety of events throughout the year. Here are some events to be aware of while planning your Ecuador vacation.

Carnival, celebrated the week before Lent throughout most of South America, often involves water fights, music, and parades. Expect to get wet when traveling during these times, as locals and tourists alike are targets for water buckets and balloons.

Day of the Dead, celebrated November 2nd throughout the country, is a day to honor and celebrate those who have passed. Most families will visit the graves of their loved ones, and eat and drink to celebrate their lives.

Independence Day is also celebrated throughout the country on August 10th especially in the city of Quito.