Highlights

Quito

Quito's is the perfect gateway to Ecuador's diverse wonders. Quito’s identity is beautifully reflected in cobblestone squares and meticulously restored neo-classical mansions that line the streets. 

Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands are a living museum of natural history that combines adventure, education and conservation. You will be left with a profound appreciation for the planet's incredible biodiversity.

Amazon

Explore Ecuador's Amazon with expert guides. Discover wildlife and be immersed in the sounds of over 610 bird species, including macaws and toucans. Connect with the indigenous communities and their traditions. 

Cloud Forests

Discover the biodiversity of Ecuador's lush cloud forests at Mashpi Lodge. Explore the forest canopy and observe unique wildlife, home to hundreds of flora and fauna species found nowhere else on Earth. 

Cuenca

Cuenca's charming streets are renowned as the jewel of Ecuador. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers delightful afternoons wandering past red-tiled roofs, flower-filled plazas, along cobblestone lanes.

Otavalo

At Otavalo artisan market, witness thriving Andean culture during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Locals meet to exchange produce, goods and textiles, while you bargain for unique clothing and handicrafts. 

Useful information

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Communications

Country Code for Ecuador: +593 

 

Official Travel Advice:   

Ecuador Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

Safe Travel NZ | Ecuador (New Zealand) 

You can request emergency help in English from your smartphone. Use the application ECU 911. 

There's an Australian Consulate in Guayaquil, Ecuador. It can provide limited consular help. The Canadian Embassy in Quito, Ecuador gives consular assistance to Australians in Ecuador. If you need urgent help, contact the 24/7 Consular Emergency Centre in Australia on +61 2 6261 3305. 

 

New Zealand Embassy Bogotá, Colombia 

Embajada de Nueva Zelandia, Calle 81 #11-08, Office 802, Edificio 8111, Bogotá, Colombia 

Telephone: +57 601 439 1666 

Email: nzembajadacolombia@gmail.com 

 

For further information please visit: 

Ecuador Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

Safe Travel | Ecuador (New Zealand) 

Customs

Ecuadorians are warm and friendly. Common greetings include Hola (hello), Buenos Días (good morning), Buenas Tardes (good afternoon), and Buenas Noches (good evening). A handshake is typical when meeting for the first time, while friends often greet each other with a single kiss on the cheek or a hug.  

Manners and politeness are highly valued. Always greet people when entering shops, hotels, taxis, or when passing locals in smaller villages. Learning some basic Spanish phrases will be very helpful.  

Bargaining is common in markets but do so politely and with a smile. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Ecuadorians tend to dress quite conservatively. Always respect local customs and traditions, especially in indigenous communities, and ask for permission before taking photos of people. 

Electricity

Electrical Socket type: Type A and Type B 

Voltage: 120 volts 

Frequency: 60 Hz 

Health

Altitude sickness is a risk in Ecuador. Many areas of Ecuador are higher than 2,500m, including Quito at 2,800m. High altitude impacts the body by reducing oxygen levels, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness, fatigue and nausea – altitude sickness. How can you avoid developing altitude sickness? 

  • Acclimatise gradually. Avoid strenuous activities and gradually increase your activity level as your body adjusts. 
  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.  
  • Avoid alcohol, smoking and caffeine.  
  • Eat foods rich in carbohydrates to maintain energy levels. Avoid heavy or greasy food. 
  • Take long, slow, deep breaths to increase your oxygen intake and help your body adjust to the lower oxygen levels. 
  • Consult your doctor about medications which may reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. Also consider using local Andean remedies. 

 

Insect-borne diseases such as Yellow Fever are common in Ecuador. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Other insect-borne diseases are present in areas below 1500m. These include malaria and dengue fever and Zika virus. The following precautions are recommended: 

  • check that your accommodation is insect-proof 
  • use insect repellent 
  • wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing 
  • consider taking medicine to prevent malaria 

For further information please visit: 

Ecuador Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

Safe Travel | Ecuador (New Zealand) 

How to Get There & Getting Around

Travellers usually arrive in Ecuador via the major international airports in Quito (Mariscal Sucre International Airport) or Guayaquil (José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport). 

 

When travelling between Quito and other cities or to the Galápagos Islands, domestic flights are the best option. Taxis are widely available in cities and towns. Only use registered taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber for safety. 

Holidays & Festivals

  • Carnival (Ecuadorian Mardi Gras): Celebrated in February/March, 40 days before Easter with parades, water fights and traditional music.  
  • Semana Santa (Holy Week): March or April - a deeply religious event with processions and reenactments of Christ's journey to the cross 
  • Inti Raymi (Sun Festival): 21 June - an indigenous celebration of the winter solstice, featuring traditional music, dance, and rituals, particularly in Otavalo and other Andean regions. 
  • Independence Day: 10 August - commemorates Ecuador's independence from Spain in 1809. 
  • Día de los Difuntos (Day of the Dead): 2 November - a day to honour deceased loved ones with visits to cemeteries.

Language

The primary language spoken is Spanish. However, there are several indigenous languages that are also widely spoken. While not widely spoken, English is commonly understood in tourist areas.

Money, Tipping & Shopping

Ecuador uses the US Dollar (USD) as its official currency. It's advisable to carry small denominations (US$1, US$5, US$10) for convenience, especially if travelling to rural areas and shopping at markets. 

ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and larger stores.  

In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often included in the bill. If not, a tip of 5-10% is perfect for good service. Tip your tour guides US$15-$30 per person for a full day and US$10-$15 per person for a half day. 

Bargaining is common in the markets, and you should approach with a fun and friendly demeanour. Ecuador is known for its high-quality artisan goods and handicrafts, including textiles, pottery, and jewellery. Otavalo Market is particularly famous for its vibrant selection. Also keep an eye out for Ecuadorian chocolate, coffee, and Panama hats (which actually originated from Ecuador). 

Visas

The Travel Corporation has partnered with the company Sherpa to provide travellers with the latest government and health restrictions. Simply enter the country you want to travel to for information on safety regulations, border closures, quarantine requirements, your travel visa and more using the Sherpa travel tool: Visa Advice 

 
Australian and New Zealand passport holders can stay in Ecuador for up to 90 days without a visa.  

 

Foreign tourists must meet particular criteria, including filling out the Galapagos Transit Control Card at least 24 hours before entering, having an outbound flight, and travel insurance. You may be requested to show your hotel booking.  

 

For further information please visit: 

Ecuador Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

Safe Travel | Ecuador (New Zealand) 

 

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