Encounter with some of the most traditional indigenous communities on our planet and the Galapagos archipelago, one of the world's most unique places.
Les Essentials
Ecuador in detail
Some information relevant to the country Ecuador.
Capital :
Quito
Area :
283 520 km²
Population :
16 millions
Currency :
USD
Language :
Spanish
Time difference :
From -6h to -7h (Paris)
Best seasons :
Coast: June to November | Amazon: November to February | Galapagos: January to May
Equateur
Practical info
Find out more about your dream destination. You'll find all the practical information you need to make sure you don't get lost on your first trip.
Gastronomy
The cuisine is varied, with good products dominated by pork, chicken, corn, plantains, potatoes, a variety of vegetables, fish and seafood on the coasts and in the Amazon region. Fruit juices are excellent. Lager is also available. Drink purified water.
International credit cards are accepted in most establishments in the major cities, but not necessarily in more remote areas. You can withdraw cash from ATMs everywhere, which dispense US dollars. As elsewhere, you need to be vigilant when making transactions.
Route selection
Climate
Temperate and humid climate in the Andean region, with wide temperature variations. It can be very cool, even cold, especially in the evening. Remember to bring warm clothing. The Pacific coast enjoys a tropical climate. The Amazon region is hot and humid.
Electricity
It is 110 V, with flat plugs. An adapter is required. Computers and cell phones generally have an internal transformer, so all you need is an adapter for the socket.
Public holidays
January 1: New Year's Day
February 20 and 21: Carnival
April 7: Good Friday
May 1: Labor Day
May 24: Battle of Pichincha
August 10: Primer Grito de Independencia
October 9: Guayaquil Independence Day
November 2: Day of the Dead
November 3: Cuenca Independence Day
December 25: Christmas
Opening hours
There are 6 hours less than in France in winter and 7 hours less in summer. When it's 4:00 p.m. in France, it's 10:00 a.m. in winter and 9:00 a.m. in summer in Ecuador. For the Galápagos, you need to allow one hour less.
Internet
Internet connections generally work well. Take advantage of WIFI connections, which are becoming increasingly widespread, whether free or for a fee.
Language
The official language is Spanish, in addition to the languages spoken by the indigenous communities.
Money & Change
The US dollar replaces the former national currency, the Sucre. It is advisable to bring US dollar bills in small denominations or US dollar traveller's cheques. As everywhere, you need to be vigilant when making transactions, and exchange currencies at official and secure banks and exchange houses. Tipping is a must. It is advisable to leave a tip of around 10% of the value of the drinks.
Clothes
Sportswear for visits with good shoes. Bring warm clothes to cover up in the mountains. There is practically no heating in hotels. Bring a light raincoat.
Recommendations: hat, sunglasses, sun cream and mosquito repellent.
Taxis
Health
No vaccinations are required on entering the country. Don't forget to take your medication with you, if you need to take a course of treatment. It is advisable to be up to date with your Diphtheria Tetanus Poliomyelitis (DT Polio), Hepatitis A and B vaccinations. In the Amazon region, you must take precautions against malaria. Some visitors may suffer from altitude sickness. You should consult your doctor before departure. Drink mineral water and protect yourself from mosquito bites.
Security
It's important to respect basic safety rules and to remain cautious. Avoid places that are too isolated, and never take too much money with you when you visit.
