With four geographic regions squeezed into a compact 283,561 sq km (109,484 sq miles), Ecuador caters to all kinds of travelers.
Whether you’re looking for adventure in spectacular landscapes, relaxation on white-sand beaches, or cultural experiences in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a trip to Ecuador will surely fit the bill. However, like traveling anywhere, visiting this enchanting country has its own peculiarities. Here are our useful tips to help you make the most of your trip to Ecuador, one of the most biodiverse places in the world.
1. Ecuador is More than Just the Galápagos Islands
Although many consider continental Ecuador a stopover on the way to the Galápagos Islands, visiting the country is well worth your time. For adept travelers, staying in Ecuador for seven to ten days will allow ample opportunity to explore its main attractions. However, if you can stay longer, anything near 15 to 20 days will suffice to tour Ecuador’s most prominent cities and towns.
2. Be Aware of Altitude Sickness
Sitting at 2850m (9350ft) above sea level, the Ecuadorian capital, Quito, is the second-highest capital city in the world. This elevation increases the risk of altitude sickness upon arrival, manifested through headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Moreover, this can also be an issue if you visit cities in the highlands with similar elevations. If arriving from lower altitudes, take things slow and allow your body to acclimate during the first few days of your visit. If you’re feeling unwell, keep hydrated and avoid excessive physical activity.
3. Despite Popular Belief, Ecuador is Not a Tropical Country
The moniker “the country in the middle of the world” leads many travelers to incorrectly assume Ecuador boasts oppressively hot weather. However, the climate largely depends on the region you choose to stay in. In the highlands, expect chillier weather and occasional rain, especially between October and April. Conversely, the coastal region enjoys warmer and generally steadier temperatures, although you need to be cautious of rain between February and April.
4. Pack Accordingly
If venturing into the mountains, bring a packable jacket that keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable sturdy footwear for long walks. Additionally, if staying in Quito, bringing a jacket or cardigan is essential, as weather can change dramatically within minutes. Moreover, if you plan to sunbathe on the Pacific coast or explore the Amazon rainforest, don’t forget your beach essentials, comfortable clothing, and a sun protection hat.
5. Make Sunscreen Your Best Friend
While sunscreen may not seem necessary in the Andean highlands or while strolling through colonial cities, it is critical due to Ecuador’s equatorial location. Sun rays shine perpendicularly, making it essential to keep sunscreen handy and reapply regularly to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
6. Tackle the Toilet Paper Myth
There are conflicting reports about discarding toilet paper in Ecuador. While some suggest it is safe to flush toilet paper, others find that certain cities and buildings do not have sufficient plumbing to guarantee this without clogging the system. The best advice is to consult your hotel or accommodation regarding their practices. When in doubt, use the wastebasket.
7. Tipping is a Courtesy, Not Mandatory
The US dollar is the official currency in Ecuador, so dining out may not be dramatically cheaper than in neighboring countries. Prices, however, remain relatively affordable compared to the US and Europe. Generally, service is included in the bill (you’ll see a disclaimer on menus), so tipping is not mandatory. Nevertheless, leaving a tip is a nice gesture to show appreciation for good service.
8. Don’t Drink the Tap Water
Most urban cities in Ecuador have reliable potable water systems, so using tap water for cooking and washing is considered safe. However, Ecuadorians typically avoid drinking tap water unless it has been purified, opting instead to boil it before consumption. In rural areas, water may not be potable, so favor boiled or bottled water to ensure safety.
9. Learn Basic Spanish Phrases
While knowing how to communicate with locals is important on any trip, learning a few key Spanish phrases can enhance your experience in Ecuador. Etiquette words such as buenos días (good day), por favor (please), and gracias (thank you) will go a long way when interacting with Ecuadorian people. While many Ecuadorians can find ways to communicate even if they do not speak your language, do not expect them to understand without your attempt at Spanish.
If you’re unsure about your Spanish, Quito serves as an excellent destination for language learning due to its residents’ slower, clearer speech.
10. Violence and Crime Has Increased
Unfortunately, Ecuador has seen an increase in violent crime associated with drug cartels and transnational criminal organizations. This violence is primarily concentrated in port cities and coastal regions. Nonetheless, travelers should not entirely rule Ecuador out of their itinerary, as people continue to offer unforgettable experiences to visitors.
Checking the latest foreign travel advice from your government can provide updated information about which areas, if any, to avoid.
11. Take Safety Precautions
Although falling victim to crime can happen anywhere, being careful and taking additional precautions is always encouraged. If traveling to Guayaquil or the provinces of Esmeraldas, Guayas, and Los Ríos, avoid conflict areas and red zones. A good rule of thumb is to refrain from wandering alone and to avoid being out late at night.
12. Be Wary of Overly Friendly People
Traveling often means meeting new people and forming friendships; however, it is wise to be cautious. Solo travelers in beach areas and nightlife scenes should remain particularly alert to common theft and robbery tactics. Always pay attention to those who seem overly eager to engage or get close for no apparent reason. Additionally, refrain from accepting anything (flyers, cards, etc.) on the streets and keep your valuables hidden.
13. Make Basic Checks on Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
Using apps and hailing taxis on the street can be relatively safe and affordable in Ecuador, but it’s important to check credentials. Ensure the car has visible license plates; if not, do not enter. When opting for a taxi, confirm that the meter is on when you enter. If you feel uncomfortable hailing taxis from the street, ask your accommodation for their recommended transportation providers.
