Ecuador
Ecuador is a nature lover’s paradise! Everyone is an explorer as you traverse the mountains and beaches of this breathtaking country! Discover fascinating wildlife on the Galapagos Islands, such as the blue-footed booby. Channel your inner scientist as you closely examine organisms that inspired Charles Darwin’s book, On the Origin of Species. Enjoy small talk with locals at the Otavalo Market. Experience the authenticity of Quito, the country’s capital and UNESCO World Heritage site built upon Incan ruins. This historical city has a beautiful backdrop amid mountains and volcanoes. Prepare to be amazed at everything this enchanting country has to offer! Now all you have to do is pack your bags.
Highlights
- Wildlife
Ecuador is the perfect place to see exotic wildlife! From giant tortoises and sea lions in the Galápagos Islands to the pink river dolphins, giant otters, and colorful Hoatzins that call the Amazon home, the animals of this country will never cease to amaze you! Relax during a Galapagos Islands cruise and experience the sights and sounds that Darwin did during his voyage on the HMS Beagle. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful macaws, slithering iguanas, and blue-footed boobies performing their mating dance. Whether you’re trekking the terrain of Tortuga Bay, or wandering through the Amazon basin, witnessing the abundant wildlife in their natural habitat will surely leave you in awe!
- Otavalo Market
Put your best bargaining skills to the test at the Otavalo Market! This outdoor market is the largest in South America. You could spend hours perusing hundreds of stalls lined with brightly-colored handicrafts, set against a picturesque backdrop of volcanoes. Saturday and Wednesday are the busiest days and have the most vendors. Popular items include jewelry, clothes made from alpaca wool, paintings, and ceramics, to name a few. A stop at this indigenous market is an experience unlike any other!
- Quito
Ecuador’s capital city is tucked between the Andes Mountains and the Pichincha Volcano. Built upon a former Incan City and more than 9,000 ft. above sea level, this city in the clouds is characterized by its stunning landscape and ornate architecture. Walking around is impossible without noticing the vast beauty and culture surrounding you. From brightly-colored castles (castillos) to towering churches that blend multiple architectural styles, the structures of Quito are a reflection of its inhabitants throughout the centuries. The buildings have been so perfectly-preserved that Quito was named a cultural World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1978. But just because it is one of the oldest capital cities in the world doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do and see today! Ride the TelefériQo (cable car) up the Pichincha Volcano to get a bird’s-eye view of the city. If adventurous, continue hiking up the volcano for even more jaw-dropping views. If you prefer a relaxed atmosphere, stroll down the Calle de la Ronda, a charming cobblestone street lined with artisan shops, galleries, and cafes.
- The Galápagos Islands
Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands are home to fascinating species and bizarre landscapes that you won't find anywhere else in the world! Travel in the footsteps of Charles Darwin on an island safari, discovering unique wildlife such as Darwin's finches, lava lizards, giant Galàpagos tortoises, and more. Wander through prickly pear forests, the white sandy beach of Tortuga Bay, and across jagged lava fields. The Galápagos Islands are the perfect destination for the adventurous traveler.
- The Amazon
Feel a rush of adrenalin as you explore the adventurous Amazon. Known locally as the "Oriente," Ecuador's Amazon Rainforest is one of the most diverse ecosystems in the entire world, home to astounding biodiversity with over 300 species of mammal, 800 species of fish, and 350 species of reptile. Occupying approximately one-third of Ecuador's land area, the Amazon basin lies to the east of the Andean Highlands and is comprised of beautiful landscapes of winding rivers, lakes, and seemingly endless dense rainforests, dotted with some of the world's last indigenous tribes.
Ecuador is the perfect place to see exotic wildlife! From giant tortoises and sea lions in the Galápagos Islands to the pink river dolphins, giant otters, and colorful Hoatzins that call the Amazon home, the animals of this country will never cease to amaze you! Relax during a Galapagos Islands cruise and experience the sights and sounds that Darwin did during his voyage on the HMS Beagle. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful macaws, slithering iguanas, and blue-footed boobies performing their mating dance. Whether you’re trekking the terrain of Tortuga Bay, or wandering through the Amazon basin, witnessing the abundant wildlife in their natural habitat will surely leave you in awe!
Put your best bargaining skills to the test at the Otavalo Market! This outdoor market is the largest in South America. You could spend hours perusing hundreds of stalls lined with brightly-colored handicrafts, set against a picturesque backdrop of volcanoes. Saturday and Wednesday are the busiest days and have the most vendors. Popular items include jewelry, clothes made from alpaca wool, paintings, and ceramics, to name a few. A stop at this indigenous market is an experience unlike any other! 
Ecuador’s capital city is tucked between the Andes Mountains and the Pichincha Volcano. Built upon a former Incan City and more than 9,000 ft. above sea level, this city in the clouds is characterized by its stunning landscape and ornate architecture. Walking around is impossible without noticing the vast beauty and culture surrounding you. From brightly-colored castles (castillos) to towering churches that blend multiple architectural styles, the structures of Quito are a reflection of its inhabitants throughout the centuries. The buildings have been so perfectly-preserved that Quito was named a cultural World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1978. But just because it is one of the oldest capital cities in the world doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do and see today! Ride the TelefériQo (cable car) up the Pichincha Volcano to get a bird’s-eye view of the city. If adventurous, continue hiking up the volcano for even more jaw-dropping views. If you prefer a relaxed atmosphere, stroll down the Calle de la Ronda, a charming cobblestone street lined with artisan shops, galleries, and cafes. 
Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands are home to fascinating species and bizarre landscapes that you won't find anywhere else in the world! Travel in the footsteps of Charles Darwin on an island safari, discovering unique wildlife such as Darwin's finches, lava lizards, giant Galàpagos tortoises, and more. Wander through prickly pear forests, the white sandy beach of Tortuga Bay, and across jagged lava fields. The Galápagos Islands are the perfect destination for the adventurous traveler.
Feel a rush of adrenalin as you explore the adventurous Amazon. Known locally as the "Oriente," Ecuador's Amazon Rainforest is one of the most diverse ecosystems in the entire world, home to astounding biodiversity with over 300 species of mammal, 800 species of fish, and 350 species of reptile. Occupying approximately one-third of Ecuador's land area, the Amazon basin lies to the east of the Andean Highlands and is comprised of beautiful landscapes of winding rivers, lakes, and seemingly endless dense rainforests, dotted with some of the world's last indigenous tribes.Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to Ecuador? See everything you need to know before you go.
| Overview | Capital: Quito |
| Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
| Staying Healthy | Malaria Malaria is present in Ecuador. Take precautions against getting mosquito bites. Speak with your doctor about taking a prescription medicine (before, during and after your trip) to prevent malaria. Yellow Fever The CDC recommends Yellow Fever vaccine for all travelers who will visit Yellow Fever Endemic areas of Ecudaor. Ask your physician for more information. CDC Guidance by country: Ecuador Proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination is required for travelers arriving to Ecuador (including the Galápagos Islands) from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda. This includes airport transits or layovers of more than 12 hours. Find a local vaccination center Altitude This tour includes some time at high altitudes where travelers may suffer from varying degrees of altitude sickness. Please consult with your physician about any precautions before you depart. |
| Weather | Ecuador's climate is very varied. There is no perfect time to go see it all. Coast: January to April is the rainy season with the warmest water currents, making it the most popular time to visit for surfers or snorkelers. Quito is always moderate and the Amazon is always humid. Layers and a waterproof/ breathable jacket are recommended if you will be hiking in the mountains. |
| Tipping | Tip 10% of the bill unless a service fee is included, additional small amounts are appreciated. Round up fare for taxi drivers. |
| Money & Credit Cards | Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
| Shopping | Shop in Ecuador for genuine Panama hats, pottery, filigree jewelry, wool sweaters, wood carvings, ponchos, and Amerindian weavings and handcrafts. |
| Electricity & Power Adapters | 120/127 volts. Plugs A & B. No converters or adapters needed. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
| Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
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- Destinations: Ecuador
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