South American Vacations

Ecuador is known as the Republic of the Equator, and is bordered by countries of Colombia from the north, Peru from the east and the Pacific Ocean on the west.  Along with the rest of Ecuador’s territory, the government also counts ownership in the Galápagos Islands.  The country has an estimated population of 13,755,680.  The reason behind the name Ecuador?  Of course, the nearness of the country to the earth’s equator.  When the Gran Colombia fell in 1830 Ecuador was one of three countries that succeeded with its own government.  As recently as the 20th century, Ecuador was warring with some of its neighboring countries over border rights.  However, as of 1999 the country has finally resolved these issues. 

The weather in Ecuador, like many South American territories, is tropical in nature, especially along the coastal regions.  However, as elevations increase and you move inland you will notice a cooling the temperatures.  In mountainous regions it is wise to dress warmly.  However, closer to the coast more casual clothing is the norm. 

When in traveling throughout Ecuador be careful to pay attention to local standards of communication and avoid disrespect.  For example, it is considered rude to gesture with downward-facing palm when describing the height of a person, since this indicates you are talking an animal.  On the other “hand”, it is also considered impolite to issue someone a “come hither” gesture with the palm facing out.  Reverse your palm in either scenario for respectful communication.  Spanish is the official language of Ecuador, though languages such as English or Quichua are spoken in some hotels.

Unlike some other South American countries, Ecuador has a wide variety of influences in its cuisine.  For example, in Sierra rice is very popular, but in and near coastal regions, potatoes are the most preferred side.  Soup is very common in restaurants as is avocados and seafood.  Most tourists advise you to buy bottled mineral water, as regular water is usually not safe to drink.

Major Cities In Ecuador

Quito: The capital city of Ecuador, and one of the first cities to ever be officially declared a World Heritage City by UNESCO.  It contains some ruin sites, historical landmarks and museums. 

Baños: A great location for seeing active volcanoes, which periodically give off small eruptions.  Volcano Tungurahua is one of the most famous.  There are also hot spring mineral baths in the city.

Otavalo: Great marketplace for finding indigenous crafts and livestock.

Riobamba: Come see the Nariz del Diablo train ride as well as Mount Chimborazo, which is the highest peak in all of Ecuador.

Esmeraldas & Bahía de Caraquez: Two of the best destination spots for beaching activity.

Sucumbios: A city centered around a jungle area. 

Things To Do In Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands: A piece of history, as these islands of natural animal habitat have been the inspiration of Charles Darwin, along with millions of visitors every year. 

Cotopaxi: Parque Nacional Cotopaxi holds the volcano called Cotopaxi, which is about 5,900m in height and is still active, making it one of the few large active volcanoes in the world. 

Piedra Blanca: A small community located in a rainforest valley.  This is a somewhat low profile community that resists heavy tourism in order to avoid
traffic and ecological damage.

Papallacta: Has natural hot springs and thermal baths to look forward to. 

The Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve: This national park offers sightseeing as well as more physical activities like horseback riding, trekking and mountain biking. 

Ecuador Trivia: Did you know that the Panama hat is actually of Ecuadorian origin?  There it is known as the “Sombrero de paja toquilla.”