During a trip to Ecuador, you will discover all of Latin America rolled up into a single country. Jungle, Andean mountains, sea, endemic fauna, amazing landscapes: Ecuador is a little-known wonder.
Take advantage of your trip to Ecuador to visit Otavalo. Every week it is the scene of the most fabulous, the most beautiful, the most typical and the most genuine market of the whole continent. The poncho market is superb. As for the cattle market, it is an absolutely unique living spectacle. All things considered, maybe it is simply the most beautiful market in the world? The question deserves to be asked.
Embark on a boat at Puerto Lopez and go to watch the whales that come here to mate and give birth to their calves. These giants of the sea create a fascinating spectacle that it is impossible to get tired of.
Go to meet the tribes of the Amazon rainforest. Discover their way of life, traditions and beliefs. Culture shock and unforgettable moments are guaranteed.
The Amazon jungle, Andean mountains, the beach near Guayaquil, colonial cities, landscapes of breathtaking beauty - even though it is the smallest country of Latin America, Ecuador brings together all the wonders of a whole continent.
The blue-footed booby, the red-footed booby and the endemic species: the animals of the Galapagos are unique on Earth. A trip to the Galapagos Islands is a voyage to one of the most mythical places imaginable in the life of a traveller.
Mitad del Mundo, the middle of the world, is where the Earth divides into two hemispheres. Walk on the mythical line with one foot in each hemisphere. Hop from the northern to the southern hemisphere. It's very touristy but still a must-see.
The second highest capital of the world, Quito shows off the beauties of its colonial legacy. You will be in one of the most beautiful and interesting cities of the continent.
If you're after an authentic, typically South American holiday, then a trip to Ecuador should be top of your list. If that's not the case and comfort calls, then give it a miss. Even more so if you don't want to learn or speak Spanish.
Top places to discover.
British nationals only need a passport that is valid for 6 months from the date of entry for a trip to Ecuador lasting less than 3 months. If you are planning to stay longer, a visa is necessary.
There is no obligatory vaccination. However, because of the local situation, yellow fever, typhoid and hepatitis A vaccinations are highly recommended. Provide for a treatment against malaria for any stay in the Amazon and against mountain sickness for the Andes.
Spanish is the official language and spoken by all the inhabitants. Some Indians speak a sort of Quechua and English is often considered to be the language of the gringos.
-6 hr in summer and -5 hr in winter. When it is 12 p.m. in London, it is 6 or 7 a.m. in Quito depending on the season.
Country Code +593
Internet is accessible anywhere in Ecuador from the many internet cafes or hotels.
Electrical sockets are 110 volts. You will need an adapter.
Ecuador Embassy in London
Flat 3b, 3 Hans Crescent
London SW1X 0LS
Tel: 0207 584 1367
eecugranbretania@mmrree.gob.ec
British Consul in Ecuador
Citiplaza Building, Naciones Unidas Avenue and Republica de El Salvador, 14 th Floor
Quito
Switchboard: (593) (2)2970 800 / 801
quito.consular@fco.gov.uk