Ecuador Travel Guide — Best Cities, Food & Tips

Good to know

Best time to visit

Visit November–April for Amazon low water and coastal warmth; June–September is drier in the highlands and best for trekking. The Galápagos is good year-round, with cooler, nutrient-rich waters from June–November and warmer seas December–May.

Currency

United States Dollar (USD); carry small bills and some cash for markets and remote areas

Language

Spanish (official); Quichua (Kichwa) widely spoken in the highlands and some English in tourist hubs

Getting around

Domestic flights link Quito, Guayaquil, and the Galápagos; buses are frequent and inexpensive for intercity travel, while taxis and ride-hailing apps work well in cities. For remote Amazon lodges or mountain trekking, arrange transport through operators or local hosts.

Culture & etiquette

Greet people with a handshake and maintain polite formality; using a few Spanish phrases is appreciated. Respect indigenous customs and ask before photographing people, especially in rural or indigenous communities.

Country highlights

Quito

Explore a beautifully preserved colonial Old Town at high altitude with Plaza Grande, La Compañía church, and panoramic views from El Panecillo.

Galápagos Islands

See fearless endemic wildlife—giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies—via day tours or live-aboard cruises from Santa Cruz or San Cristóbal.

Cotopaxi National Park

Hike or bike around the iconic Cotopaxi volcano and its high-altitude páramo landscapes for accessible alpine adventure.

Amazon (e.g., Yasuni/Francisco de Orellana)

Stay at an ecolodge to spot primates, caimans, and parrots while learning about indigenous Kichwa culture and conservation projects.

Cuenca

Wander a UNESCO-listed colonial city known for its panama hat workshops, elegant plazas, and nearby Inca ruins at Ingapirca.

Montañita & Pacific Coast

Enjoy surf culture, beaches, and nightlife at Montañita or relax at quieter coastal towns like Mompiche and Puerto López for whale watching.

What to eat

Ceviche

Seafood cured in citrus with onions and cilantro—coastal variations often include shrimp or mixed seafood.

Hornado

Slow-roasted pork typically served with mote (hominy), llapingachos (potato cakes), and pickled onion.

Encebollado

A hearty tuna and yuca fish soup popular for breakfast or hangovers on the coast.

Locro de papa

Creamy Andean potato soup with cheese and avocado, comforting at high altitudes.

Fanesca

Seasonal Easter soup made with grains, beans, and salted fish—rich in tradition and flavor.

Insider tips

Acclimatize for 1–2 days in Quito or other high-altitude towns to avoid altitude sickness.
Carry a photocopy of your passport; real one is required for some domestic flights and Galápagos entry controls.
Tap water is generally safe in major cities, but use bottled water in rural and Amazon areas.
Book Galápagos trips and permits in advance, and expect additional park and transit control fees.
Negotiate taxi fares in smaller towns before starting the ride and prefer metered or app taxis in Quito/Guayaquil.

Cities in Ecuador

Quito🇪🇨 Ecuador

Highland charm at the equator's edge

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Good to know — FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Ecuador?

Many nationalities (including US, Canada, EU) can enter visa-free for up to 90 days; check current requirements and passport validity before travel.

Is Ecuador safe to travel in?

Ecuador is generally safe for tourists, but use normal precautions against petty theft in cities, avoid flashing valuables, and stay informed about local conditions.

How do I visit the Galápagos and what are the costs?

Fly from Quito or Guayaquil to Baltra or San Cristóbal, pay park entrance (~$100) and transit control (~$20), and choose between day trips, land-based stays, or cruises priced accordingly.

What vaccinations or health precautions are recommended?

Routine vaccines should be up-to-date; yellow fever vaccination is recommended for some Amazon areas and may be required depending on itinerary—consult a travel clinic for personalized advice.