UK
Four Worlds in One Country
From the Amazon rainforest and Andean peaks to Pacific beaches and the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador packs astonishing diversity into a compact space. For UK travellers, it’s a gateway to nature, culture, and adventure—without the long internal travel times.
Air Travel
Flights from London to Quito or Guayaquil take around 14–16 hours with stopovers, typically via Madrid, Amsterdam, or Bogotá. Domestic flights are frequent and essential for reaching the Galápagos or Amazon.
Airlines
KLM, Iberia, Avianca, and LATAM offer international routes. Domestic carriers include LATAM Ecuador and Avianca Ecuador.
Ecuador
Four Worlds in One Country
Landmark
Travel Season
- June–September: Dry season in the highlands and Amazon
- December–May: Best for Galápagos (warm and wet)
- Year-round: Coastal regions and cities like Guayaquil
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: US Dollar (official currency)
- Cards accepted in cities; cash preferred in rural areas
- ATMs widely available
- Tipping: 10% in restaurants is standard
Connectivity
- Good Wi-Fi in cities and tourist hubs
- Local SIMs: Claro, Movistar, CNT
- Coverage drops in remote Amazon and Galápagos areas
Getting Around
- Domestic flights for Galápagos and Amazon
- Long-distance buses are affordable and extensive
- Taxis and ride apps (Cabify, Uber) in major cities
- No rail network for tourists
Time Zone
- Ecuador Time (ECT) – GMT-5 Galápagos Time – GMT-6
Etiquette & Culture
- Spanish is the official language; Quechua spoken in indigenous areas
- Greet with a handshake or cheek kiss
- Respect for indigenous traditions is key
- Avoid political discussions unless invited
Top Destinations
- Quito: Historic centre and gateway to the Andes
- Galápagos Islands: Wildlife and marine exploration
- Cuenca: Colonial charm and artisan culture
- Baños: Adventure sports and thermal baths
- Otavalo: Indigenous market and Andean scenery
- Amazon Basin: Jungle lodges and biodiversity
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Ceviche, Llapingachos (potato patties), Hornado (roast pork), Locro de papa (potato soup)
- Unique: Guinea pig (cuy) is a traditional delicacy
- Drinks: Fresh juices, canelazo (spiced cinnamon drink), Ecuadorian coffee
- Tap water is not safe—stick to bottled
personal_bag What to Pack
- Layers for altitude changes
- Waterproof gear for rainforest and Galápagos
- Power adapter (Type A/B – 120V)
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, and altitude medication
Best Time to Visit
- Galápagos: Dec–May for warmer seas and wildlife
- Highlands: Jun–Sep for dry weather and festivals
- Amazon: Year-round, but drier from Aug–Dec
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- FCDO advises caution in coastal provinces and near the Colombian border
- Emergency numbers: 911 (general), 101 (police)
- Travel insurance is essential
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever (for Amazon); mosquito precautions advised
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Quito
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Guayaquil
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