| |
   |
|
 
 |
Population: 12.5 million
Area: 256,370 square km.
Capital: Quito
Language: Spanish
Electricity: 120 volts, 60 cycles
Currency: US Dollars
Holidays: January 1, February 12, February 27, May 24, October 9, November 2,
November 3, December 24, December 31, Good Friday – March / April
Times: 7 hours behind SA (shops Mon-Fri 9.00-17.30, Sat 9.00-12.00)
Climate: Ecuador has very different climates and microclimates.
The Pacific coast has a rainy season between December and May and a dry one from June to November. The Highlands has a rainy, cold climate from November to April and a dry one from May to October. In the Amazon, the climate is rainy and humid between January and September, with temperatures between 23 and 36 degrees centigrade, and it is dry between October and December. The Galapagos has a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 22 and 32 degrees centigrade.
|
 |
 |
If you would like a hard copy of our Explore South America Booklet, please send us an Email Request. |
|
| |
|
|
Ecuador is a magical country. Rich in culture and colourful traditions, Ecuador is home to scenery of a dazzling nature.
Located in north-western South America, Ecuador offers splendid natural treasures, such as the
Galapagos Islands, the exotic Amazon Rain Forest and magnificent volcanoes such as Chimborazo and Cotopaxi.
Ecuador is one of the countries with highest biodiversity in the world in relationship with its size. When you travel to Ecuador, you will meet warm and gentle people.
It is an extraordinary destination full of adventure, diversity, gastronomy, art, and a unique contact with ancestral cultures and nature. Ecuador is a country with a happy and generous spirit.
|
 |
 Quito Galapagos Islands Equadorian Coast The Amazon Andes
|
|
| QUITO |
 |
|
At an elevation of 2800 meters, you'll find the charming Franciscan city of Quito. Quito extends an invitation to you to discover its modern and historical treasures, the same that have charmed visitors alike for centuries. In honour of these treasures the city has been declared a "Cultural World Heritage Site" by UNESCO.
Various tours explore the colonial and modern districts: beginning with the Balcony Of Quito, then to the Legislative Palace, the Colonial Hall, and the city’s centre- the Plaza of Independence plus the Palace of Carondelet, the Government seat, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Temples of the Company, San Francisco Cathedral, and the watchtower "El Panecillo," with a panoramic view of Quito. Just 30 minutes away from Quito is the "Middle of the World" site. Here you will experience the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere at the same time.
In the 18th Century, the French Geodesic Mission arrived to conduct important studies on the land formations. A monument was erected and an interesting Ethnic museum was created.
|
|
| GALAPAGOS ISLANDS - Origin and Evolution |
 |
|
The Galapagos Islands lie almost a thousand kilometres off the coast of Ecuador’s mainland. Biologically diverse, they are one of the planet’s natural paradises and one of the most visited national parks in the world. The flora and fauna here are truly unique. The island has unending beaches of marble white sand, tunnels of lava, spectacular diving areas and colourful birds.
The Galapagos Islands are home to many islands on which tourists can appreciate and explore the pristine state of the complex, constantly evolving ecosystem that has made the Galapagos so famous.
Other points of interest in the Galapagos Islands are El Géiser, El Soplador, and Cucubes, all of which are home to a variety of exotic and rare birdlife.
Santa Fe is a bay surrounded by forests of giant cactus, sea lions, sparrow hawks, and iguanas. Isabela is home to a nursery of turtles and constant volcanic activity.
Tortuga Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Galapagos Islands. It includes two beaches, separated by a headland of mangroves, each of which is covered with marble coloured sands. In Floreana, on the other hand, there is Playa Negra, the black lava beach.
|
|
| ECUADORIAN COAST - Beaches, sunshine, sport, and the easy life |
 |
|
The Ecuadorian Coast’s climate varies from hot and dry in the north to hot and humid in the south. Several national parks such as Machalilla and Manglares-Churute provide endless opportunities for eco-adventurers. Moreover, with a well-developed tourist infrastructure, all of Ecuador's beautiful beaches offer relaxation and entertainment in a tropical paradise. |
|
| AMAZON - The Unfathomable Mystery of the Rainforest |
 |
|
In the eastern part of the country, commonly known as the Amazon Basin, heavy rainfall and high humidity are constant features. The vegetation of the Ecuadorian Amazon is exuberant, as is its fauna. Within and around the huge protected areas of the Amazon Rain Forest several indigenous ethnic groups live side by side, still living traditionally, each group maintaining its distinct customs and traditions. |
|
| ANDES |
 |
|
Noth - Folklore between the Paramo and the Snow
The Ecuadorian Andes is known world-wide for their impressive mountains, volcanoes, and snow-capped peaks. The ten Andean provinces are also home to cities and towns of historical interest and importance such as Quito and Cuenca and artisan centers such as Otavalo. The area is also home to several national parks with an abundant variety of flora and fauna. Moreover, the area is a place visited by almost all visitors who come to Ecuador, as Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport is the nation’s most frequented entry point.
South - Archaeological Monuments and Sanctuaries
The country’s oldest archaeological ruins are to be found in this region. The area is also home to several villages full of handicrafts as well as to a variety of protected areas, national parks, and nature reserves. Cuenca, the capital of Azuay is known for its hot springs and the traditional medicines, which are used here.
|
|
|
