01 / 02
CREATE YOUR IDEAL TRIP
Plan custom city trips for the whole family, in Paris or anywhere else.
YOUR CITY ROUTE
A day in Paris
A lovely walk · 3 stops
SERVICESStaysActivities
Routaya · Country guideTravel guide to Ecuador
Ecuador is a South American country known for its exceptional biodiversity and rich culture. From the majestic Andes, the Amazon rainforest, Pacific beaches to the Galápagos Islands, it offers travelers a unique array of experiences.
Quick access
Currency converter
Indicative USD → EUR rate
Rate temporarily unavailable
Two ways to explore
3 stops
02 / 02
CREATE YOUR GPX CYCLING ROUTE
Routes tailored to your riding style, with useful roadside services.
THE ROUTE
68 km · Loop route
GPX · 68 km
ELEVATION PROFILE
Altitude 580 m
RentalsRepairs
Information is provided as a travel-planning aid. Confirm entry, health and safety requirements with official authorities before departure.
Quick facts
- Official languages
- Spanish
- Time zones
- UTC -5 (mainland Ecuador), UTC -6 (Galápagos Islands)
- Electrical outlets
- 110 V, 60 Hz. Type A plugs (two flat pins)
- Climate
- Varies with altitude: tropical on the coast and Amazon, temperate in the highlands, dry in some Andean areas.
Health
Consult your doctor before travel. Carry a first aid kit and obtain suitable travel health insurance.
Travel health advice
- Drink only bottled water.
- Protect yourself against mosquitoes, especially in the Amazon.
- Avoid raw or untrusted food sources.
Recommended vaccines: Yellow fever (strongly recommended for Amazon and rural areas); Hepatitis A; Typhoid
Required vaccines: Yellow fever vaccine for travelers coming from infected regions.
Money
Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
U.S. dollar is the official currency; exchange money before arrival or at exchange bureaus.
Credit cards accepted in major cities and hotels. ATMs available in urban areas.
Safety
Ecuador is generally safe for travelers but vigilance is advised, especially in big cities and remote areas.
- Avoid displaying valuables.
- Do not walk alone at night in some neighborhoods.
- Beware of pickpockets in tourist areas.
Areas to check before travel: Certain border areas with Colombia and Peru.; Sensitive neighborhoods in large cities like Guayaquil.
Regions
Region
The Andes
Mountain range with volcanoes, valleys, and colonial cities.
Region
The Pacific Coast
Coastal region with beaches, mangroves, and rich seafood cuisine.
Region
The Amazon
Vast tropical rainforest with exceptional biodiversity and indigenous communities.
Region
The Galápagos Islands
Archipelago famous for unique wildlife and volcanic landscapes.
Region
The Insular Region (Galápagos)
Protected area and natural World Heritage site.
Region
The Amazon Region
Dense jungle home to diverse animal and plant species.
Cities
City guide
Quito
Capital city at 2800 m altitude blending colonial architecture and vibrant culture.
- UNESCO historic center
- Equator Monument
- Contemporary Art Museum
City guide
Guayaquil
Main port city and economic hub with lively nightlife.
- Malecón 2000
- Historic Park
- Isla Santay
City guide
Cuenca
Charming colonial town known for architecture and crafts.
- Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
- Pumapungo Museum
- Historic bridges
City guide
Baños
Thermal town and adventure sports hub in the Andes.
- Pailón del Diablo waterfall
- Adventure sports
- Hot springs
City guide
Manta
Coastal city famous for beaches and fishing port.
- Tarqui beaches
- Manta Port
- Seafood cuisine
City guide
Puerto Ayora
Main urban center in the Galápagos, starting point for excursions.
- Charles Darwin Research Station
- Beaches and snorkeling
- Nightlife
City guide
Tena
Gateway to the Amazon rainforest, popular for eco-tourism.
- Canoe excursions
- Forest hikes
- Indigenous communities
Highlights
Must-see
Cotopaxi National Park
Iconic active volcano with hiking and climbing opportunities.
Must-see
Quilotoa Lagoon
Turquoise crater lake perfect for hiking and scenic views.
Must-see
Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
Amazon reserve offering river cruises and wildlife spotting.
Must-see
Las Peñas in Guayaquil
Colorful historic district with art galleries and panoramic views.
Must-see
Mitad del Mundo
Site to stand on the exact equatorial line.
Must-see
Quito Teleférico
Cable car ride up the Andes offering spectacular views.
Nature & other places
Islands
Galápagos Islands
Unique volcanic archipelago, home to endemic species.
Tropical forest
Yasuni National Park
Amazon rainforest among the most biodiverse on earth.
Mountain
Cotopaxi Ecological Reserve
Protected area around the volcano with alpine landscapes.
National park
Machalilla National Park
Coastal park with beaches, dry forest, and archaeological sites.
Nature reserve
Cofan de Sinangoe Biosphere Reserve
Indigenous habitat and biodiversity in the Amazon.
Volcano
Chimborazo Volcano
The point closest to the sun from Earth's center, featuring glaciers.
Travel conditions can change. Always consult official government travel advice and health authorities shortly before your trip.
Found this useful?
Share it with your travel companions.