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Learn Spanish Abroad - Travel Information about Ecuador
If you want to travel to Ecuador, there are some things you should know:
Visa
A valid passport is required to enter and leave Ecuador. At this time, a visa is not required for US, Canadian and most European citizens if visiting for less than 90 days. Visas are required for citizens of some Asian, Central American and Eastern European countries. It is the passenger's responsibility to check with local immigration offices or the Ecuadorian consulate prior to departure to determine if a visa is necessary. For more information see.
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Electricity
All of Ecuador uses 110-volt electrical outlets standard to the U.S. For video cameras, we suggest packing an extra set of charged batteries. Some Ecuador hotels and Galapagos boats have hair dryers for guest use, but most do not.
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When to go?
Ecuador is a year-round destination. The climate varies with altitude more than seasons. There are three distinct regions: Pacific coast (including the Galapagos Islands), Sierra or Andes, Oriente or Amazon lowlands. However when it is dry in one it is usually wet in another. Locals swear it does not rain during a full moon...
Coast & Galapagos
During the hot season between December-March, temperatures range from 25-32°C. It may rain occasionally in the afternoons (especially during a rare "El Niño" year). It is good for snorkelling. During the cool season May-November the effects of the cool Humbolt current are more pronounced making it drier but cooler 16-22°C, there is often a mist or garua in the mornings.
Andes or Sierra
Here the altitude is the main factor. Over 5000m are permanent snows. The central valleys about 2600m can be near desert like and often need irrigation. In Quito and the Andes you can get all four seasons in one day! The driest months are opposite to the jungle, June - August, with a 'mini' summer in December. The slopes of the Andes where the cloud forest occurs are often shrouded with mist. Weather is generally better in the mornings.
The temperature range of Quito: Jan min 8°C max 22°C, Jul min 7°C max 22°C
Oriente or Amazon
The eastern rainforest it is hot and wet throughout the year, driest in January wettest in July.
The temperature ranges from 23-26 °C
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Money and costs.
The US dollar is now the official currency of Ecuador. Visa, MasterCard and Diners Club are the most recognized credit cards in Ecuador. American Express is not widely accepted. ATM machines (Visa/MasterCard/Cirrus/Plus), with directions in English, are widely available in all major cities and large towns including the Galapagos Islands and the only reliable method of obtaining money on Sundays but not at all locations. Hotels exchange money, and most offer safe-keeping for valuables. On trips of two weeks or less, we recommend carrying only US cash in denominations of $20s to exchange as needed.
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Health and safety
Lack of Personal Safety: At night, stick to busy well-lit streets and never admit you are traveling alone. Be sure someone at home knows your itinerary.
For transportation, think twice before driving, as roads are poor, and travel only during the day. Definitely do not hitchhike, particularly women.
Theft of Valuables: Bring as little with you as possible. Keep your cash, cards, and papers in a money belt, especially in large cities. And don't let your bags out of your sight while traveling from place to place.
Inoculations: You are required by Ecuadorian law to show a vaccination certificate for yellow fever. Also, make sure you're up to date on your other vaccinations and boosters.
Food and Water: Tap water is unsafe to drink. Bottled water and sealed soft drinks are safe.
Sunburn: Use a high-factor sunscreen
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