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Ecuador
The Real Galapagos
4.9
(25 reviews)
18-85 y/o
2-8 weeks
Travel to Ecuador
Encompassing the Amazonian Rainforest, the Andes Mountains along with picture-perfect beaches and rich environmental diversity, Ecuador is an array of native beauty and scenic sights all within a short distance from each other.
Thanks to the small size of this country, it’s a breeze to get around and to fit everything in. The two cities of Quito and Cuenco, are so rich in history and so architecturally delightful with Spanish influences that their centres are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Speaking of UNESCO sites, Ecuador is best known as the home of the Galapagos Islands, a sultry archipelago in the Pacific Ocean diverse and abundant with unusual marine life such as blue footed boobys and red rock crabs.
Whether in the mountains, rainforests, islands, or cities, you can expect nothing but kindness from the locals who will treat you like their ‘pana’ (buddy).
Small yet abundant and enchanting to say the least, Ecuador’s charm will have you yearning for round two!
Key facts
Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
Population: 18.4 million
National dish: Ecuadorian Ceviche
Bottle of beer: 2.00 USD
Offical language: Spanish
Hello: Hola
Capital city: Quito
Minimum wage: 2.80 USD/hour
Annual temperatures: 9°C - 21°C
Ourtrips to Ecuador
Culture
The Ecuadorian culture is vibrant and full of life, blended with indigenous customs and European colonial influence. Ecuador’s population predominantly consists of mixed backgrounds which means you can experience entirely new micro-cultures between cities and villages.The country’s distinct architecture and artwork are a reflection of its heterogeneous community.
Best time to visit
Surprisingly, the wet season (December - May) is considered the best time to visit if you want to relax on the beaches, as it’s a lot warmer throughout the day with few tropical rainfalls in the afternoons.
April and May are exceptionally great months to visit, as the water is usually pristine off the Galapagos Islands. For those wanting to explore the Amazon, it's recommended you visit in the dry season (June - September).
Best places to visit
Quito
High above sea level and perfectly nestled in the mountain tops sits the capital city of Ecuador, Quito. The city’s heart and soul lie in its Old Town, overflowing with compelling architecture, stunning plazas and churches packed with amazing artwork. There’s no doubt why it’s dubbed a Unesco World Heritage Site.
High above sea level and perfectly nestled in the mountain tops sits the capital city of Ecuador, Quito. The city’s heart and soul lie in its Old Town, overflowing with compelling architecture, stunning plazas and churches packed with amazing artwork. There’s no doubt why it’s dubbed a Unesco World Heritage Site.