Ecuador
South America · Americas
- Capital
- Quito
- Currency
- United States Dollar (USD $)
- Language
- Spanish, Quechua
- Timezone
- UTC-5 (mainland), UTC-6 (Galápagos)
- Safety rating
- 6/10
- Best time to visit
- June to September is the dry highland season; the Galápagos are good year-round, with warmer seas December to May.
Overview
Compact Ecuador packs astonishing diversity, from the colonial splendor of Quito's UNESCO old town to Amazon rainforest, Andean volcanoes, and the legendary wildlife of the Galápagos Islands. It straddles the equator, offering markets like Otavalo and the scenic Quilotoa crater lagoon.
Visa requirements
Most travelers, including US, EU, and Canadian citizens, enter visa-free for up to 90 days per year.
Safety information
Tourist areas remain popular, but Ecuador has seen rising crime and security concerns, especially in coastal cities like Guayaquil and Esmeraldas. Stick to safer zones, avoid displaying valuables, use registered taxis, and monitor current advisories.
Travel tips
Ecuador uses the US dollar, so no currency exchange is needed for US travelers. Carry small bills as change can be scarce. Altitude in Quito (2,850m) calls for gentle acclimatization, and a Galápagos park fee is payable on arrival.