Ecuador

Ecuador

Ecuador, named after the equator that runs through it, is a country of diverse ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andean highlands, from the Pacific coast to the Galápagos Islands. Quito, the capital, offers a well-preserved colonial center, while Guayaquil is known for its modern Malecón 2000 waterfront promenade. Don`t miss the chance to visit the Galápagos, where Darwin formulated his theory of evolution. The country`s rich indigenous cultures can be experienced in the Otavalo Market or during the Inti Raymi solstice festival. Ecuadorian cuisine varies by region, from the seafood of the coast to the potatoes and meat dishes of the highlands.

Travel Time

January
Okay
February
Okay
March
Okay
April
Great
May
Great
June
Great
July
Great
August
Great
September
Great
October
Great
November
Okay
December
Okay

Highlights, Sights & Attractions

Baños

Baños, known as the gateway to the Amazon basin, is famous for its thermal baths, stunning waterfalls, and outdoor activities. It`s an adventure hub offering activities like white-water rafting, canyoning, hiking, and cycling along the scenic waterfa... more

Baños, known as the gateway to the Amazon basin, is famous for its thermal baths, stunning waterfalls, and outdoor activities. It`s an adventure hub offering activities like white-water rafting, canyoning, hiking, and cycling along the scenic waterfall route. The town is also a pilgrimage site with the iconic Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Holy Water, which pays tribute to numerous miracles performed through the Holy Water.

Cajas National Park

Cajas National Park is known for its striking natural beauty, with over 200 glacial lakes and a unique tundra vegetation at a very high altitude. It`s a paradise for hiking and fishing, and it`s also a vital area for bird-watching, home to various en... more

Cajas National Park is known for its striking natural beauty, with over 200 glacial lakes and a unique tundra vegetation at a very high altitude. It`s a paradise for hiking and fishing, and it`s also a vital area for bird-watching, home to various endemic bird species. The park offers several well-marked trails, ranging from short walks to challenging treks. Remember to dress warmly and prepare for changeable weather due to the high altitude.

Chimborazo

Chimborazo is the highest mountain in Ecuador and the farthest point from the center of the Earth, due to the planet`s equatorial bulge. Its summit is a popular destination for experienced climbers. However, the mountain`s high altitude and glacier c... more

Chimborazo is the highest mountain in Ecuador and the farthest point from the center of the Earth, due to the planet`s equatorial bulge. Its summit is a popular destination for experienced climbers. However, the mountain`s high altitude and glacier climbing require proper acclimatization and equipment. The surrounding reserve protects the Andean paramo ecosystem and is home to vicuñas, a wild relative of llamas.

Cotopaxi National Park

Cotopaxi National Park is home to Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. The park`s stunning landscapes include vast paramo plains, forests, and lagoons. It`s a popular destination for hiking, mountaineering, bird-watchin... more

Cotopaxi National Park is home to Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. The park`s stunning landscapes include vast paramo plains, forests, and lagoons. It`s a popular destination for hiking, mountaineering, bird-watching, and nature photography. The park also has rich biodiversity, with species such as Andean condors, white-tailed deer, and spectacled bears. Visitors are advised to acclimatize to the high altitude before attempting to ascend the volcano.

Devil`s Nose Train Ride

The Devil`s Nose Train Ride, or "Nariz del Diablo," is considered one of the most impressive feats of railway engineering. The train zigzags up steep cliffs, offering stunning views of the Andean landscape. The journey provides an exciting way to exp... more

The Devil`s Nose Train Ride, or "Nariz del Diablo," is considered one of the most impressive feats of railway engineering. The train zigzags up steep cliffs, offering stunning views of the Andean landscape. The journey provides an exciting way to experience the dramatic scenery of the Ecuadorian Andes. The train trip starts from Alausi and also includes a cultural performance and visit to a local museum in Sibambe.

Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a volcanic archipelago renowned for its unique wildlife. Charles Darwin`s theory of evolution was inspired by the distinctive species found here, such as the giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and... more

The Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a volcanic archipelago renowned for its unique wildlife. Charles Darwin`s theory of evolution was inspired by the distinctive species found here, such as the giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. The islands offer a truly unique natural spectacle and a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Diving, snorkeling, hiking, and bird-watching are among the top activities. Conservation is a priority here, so tourism is carefully regulated.

Guayasamin Museum

The Guayasamin Museum, located in Quito, houses the collection of Oswaldo Guayasamín, one of Ecuador`s most acclaimed artists. The museum showcases Guayasamín`s powerful paintings, which highlight social injustice and human suffering. The museum is s... more

The Guayasamin Museum, located in Quito, houses the collection of Oswaldo Guayasamín, one of Ecuador`s most acclaimed artists. The museum showcases Guayasamín`s powerful paintings, which highlight social injustice and human suffering. The museum is situated within La Capilla del Hombre, an architectural masterpiece designed by Guayasamín himself. The site offers a profound cultural experience, reflecting on the turbulent history of Latin America.

Ingapirca Inca Ruins

The Ingapirca Inca Ruins are the largest known Inca ruins in Ecuador. The site includes a sun temple, burial mounds, and other buildings. The site`s highlight is the elliptical Temple of the Sun, an unusual structure for Inca architecture. The site o... more

The Ingapirca Inca Ruins are the largest known Inca ruins in Ecuador. The site includes a sun temple, burial mounds, and other buildings. The site`s highlight is the elliptical Temple of the Sun, an unusual structure for Inca architecture. The site offers insight into the Canari and Inca cultures that inhabited the area. There`s also a museum displaying artifacts found at the site and providing historical context.

Climate

Month Temperature Sunshine hours Raindays
January 26 °C 8 19
February 26 °C 9 21
March 26 °C 9 25
April 26 °C 9 22
May 25 °C 9 20
June 25 °C 9 17
July 24 °C 9 13
August 25 °C 10 11
September 25 °C 10 13
October 26 °C 10 15
November 26 °C 9 15
December 26 °C 9 18

Facts

Language
  • Spanish
Currency US Dollar
Population 18256065
Tourists per year 2022000
Tourists per resident 0.11075771257388
Foundation 1830

Ratings

Popularity
75.00%
Safety
79.11%
Cost of living
39.76%
Parental Leave
70.00%
Beach vacation
75.00%
Backpacking
70.00%
Hiking
91.00%
Diving
90.00%
Cycling
75.00%
Skiing
0.00%
Roadtrip
70.00%

Hotel

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