Ecuador

Fall in love with the beautiful colonial architecture, relaxed ambiance and dramatic mountain setting of Quito, Ecuador’s photogenic capital

Head to the Galapagos Islands to cruise, kayak, cycle and swim through spectacular island scenery and discover the unique wildlife that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution

Join a mountaineering expedition to climb to the snowcapped summits of Cotopaxi and Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest peak

Travel along the rocky slopes and switchbacks of the Andes on the Devil’s Nose Train, one of the world’s great rail journeys

Discover the astounding beauty, abundant flora and rich wildlife of Ecuador’s rainforests at the award-winning Napo Wildlife Center and eco-lodge

Explore vibrant local culture and colourful indigenous markets in Otavalo

Admire the faded beauty of Cuenca's 16th century architecture

Ecuador’s climate varies widely depending on altitude and region, despite its position on the equator. In the Andes, including Quito (2,850m / 9,350ft), days are typically mild with average temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F), while nights can be cool, dropping to 5–10°C (41–50°F). Showers can occur year-round, with the wettest period usually from March to May. On the coast, the climate is tropical, with hot, humid summers (December to April) when temperatures reach 28–32°C (82–90°F) and more overcast, drier conditions from May to November. In the Amazon, conditions are consistently hot, humid and wet, with daytime temperatures between 28–34°C (82–93°F) and frequent tropical downpours throughout the year. The Galápagos Islands have a subtropical climate, with a hot season from December to May and a cooler, drier season from June to November, when seas can be rougher but skies often clearer. Travellers should pack for varied conditions and always carry lightweight rain protection and layers, especially when travelling between regions.

Ecuador is -5 hours behind GMT/UTC

Spanish (Castillian) (official), Quechua

US Dollar

US dollars cash are the main currency of Ecuador.

Credit cards and ATM machines are available in large cities and hotels, however it is not recommended to rely on these solely.

+593

Electricity in Ecuador is 120 Volts, at 60 hertz. The most common pin type is A. (2 flat prong).

Electricity in Ecuador is 120 Volts, at 60 hertz. The most common pin type is A. (2 flat prong).

Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.

Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.

We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.

We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.