Ecuador Facts

Reasons to visit Ecuador
Did you know that...?
The 4 worlds of Ecuador

TEN REASONS TO VISIT ECUADOR

1. Unmatched diversity:
Ecuador spans four vastly different worlds. From the endless reaches of the Amazon, to the breathtaking beauty of the Andes, to the pristine stretches of the Coast and the legendary Galapagos Islands - each region boasts a unique landscape, ecosystem and culture. Nowhere else on earth can visitors experience such extreme diversity in one country. And because Ecuador is only the size of Nevada - USA, it's possible to see it all in just one trip!

2. Home to the Galapagos Islands & Unesco World Heritage Sites:
Ecuador is home to the Galapagos Islands and is the number one, most biodiverse country per square mile in the world. Ecuador counts some 50 different ecosystems, several of which are considered Biodiversity Hotspots by Conservation International and have been named UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

3. Endless array of adventures:
Only in Ecuador can a traveler climb the tallest active volcano in the world, kayak the rapids of the Amazon rainforest, crisscross the Equatorial line on horseback, surf tropical Pacific swells along a Pre-Incan archeological site, and swim with penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions and harmless whale sharks - all in one trip!

4. Authentic cultural experiences:
Some 27 different ethnic groups, each blessed with a rich cultural heritage, co-exist peacefully in Ecuador. Many, especially in the Andean highlands and the Amazon rainforest, have had limited contact with modern civilization and still live much the same way their ancestors did hundreds of years ago. Ecuadorians are proud of their culture, passionate about conserving their way of life and keen to sharing their traditions and rituals with foreigners. Perhaps most rewarding for a visitor, is the opportunity to be a participant, rather than just an observer.

5. An example in sustainable tourism:
Ecuador has made conservation and responsible tourism development a priority. The country is taking aggressive steps to establish a sustainable tourism infrastructure that will ensure its unique ecosystems are carefully monitored to preserve their natural abundance. By visiting Ecuador, travelers contribute to the local economy and participate in Ecuador's mission to become a leader in sustainable tourism.

6. Something for everyone:
Ecuador is one of the most versatile destinations on the planet, with plenty to offer to just about any type of traveler. From adventure seekers and Eco-tourists, culture and history aficionados, inquisitive families and active honeymooners, to water sports enthusiasts, incentive travelers, and visitors looking to learn Spanish, itineraries catering to their interests are easy to arrange.

7. Easy to travel:
A choice of US and international carriers offering daily flights from both the East and West Coast of the US, a short 4- to 6-hour flight from Miami and New York, a Dollar-based economy, conveniently located international airports, a reliable transportation system, a wide range of accommodations and English readily spoken in the major cities and tourist areas make travel to Ecuador effortless.

8. Safe and friendly:
Ecuadorians are honest, warm and service-oriented people who truly enjoy welcoming foreign visitors to their country. Their friendly nature makes travelers feel safe and well looked after, as they are treated like guests rather than tourists.

9. Eternal spring-like weather:
Residing on the Equator has its advantages! Ecuador enjoys mild spring-like weather conditions year-round, creating an ideal environment for the country's rich fauna and flora to flourish and its people to enjoy a laid-back lifestyle. More importantly, this makes Ecuador an ideal place to visit any time of the year and an easy trip to pack for!

10. Off the beaten path:
Ecuador is an "up and coming" destination among international travelers "in the know". Free from mass tourism, the country is a haven for travelers looking to discover something new and different. And if that doesn't raise a few eyebrows and impress the boss, one can always mention bragging rights one through nine!

DID YOU KNOW THAT?

• Ecuador has 1600 species of birds, 18% of the world's total.
• It has 124 species of hummingbirds, 35% of the world's total.
• 18% of its territory is in national parks and protected areas.
• 3 out of 10 hotspots of the world are found in Ecuador.
• 10% of the plants in the world are found in Ecuador.
• Ecuador considered being a mega diverse country, is home to the largest tortoise, the smallest monkey, and other unexpected species such as, penguins, bears and flamingos.
• Ecuador has been honored with 5 UNESCO world heritage sites.
• Ecuador holds the highest elevation from Earth to space, Mount Chimborazo that overcomes Mount Everest due to its location on the middle of the world.
• Ecuador is home to over 27 different ethnic groups

Ecuador is the number one active destination in the world . Although it's the smallest Andean country, its mega diversity offers something special for everyone.

THE 4 WORLDS OF ECUADOR

Within minutes, from any major city, you can enjoy one of Ecuador's geographic areas: la Costa, los Andes or la Amazonia. Imagine biking along the exotic coast, trekking through the magnificent Andes along the Inca trail or enjoying the view on horseback. If you want more adventure, join an expedition into the mystical Amazon and let's not forget the Galapagos which is a world on its own.

The Andes

The northern area of the country holds part of the famous locations that makes Ecuador worldwide known. North of Quito, the capital, up to the border with Colombia and crossed by the middle of the world, we find an area of great natural beauty and cultural interest. The landscape is mountainous, with views of Cotacachi, Imbabura, Chiles and glacier-covered Cayambe, interspersed with several lakes such as San Pablo, Cuicocha and many others. This is also a region renowned for its artesanía (handcrafts). Several villages specialize in their own particular craft, be it textiles, hats, woodcarvings, bread figures or leather goods. And, of course, there is the town of Otavalo, with its outstanding Saturday market - a must on everyone's itinerary. The northern region hosts several national parks, volcanoes and valleys.

Southern Ecuador offers its own treasures. Take an unmatched trip southbound to Cotopaxi Volcano, the highest active in the world, and cross the Avenue of the volcanoes with impressive views of mountains, indigenous markets and other natural wonders. Continue this trip on top of the Andean Train to finally reach Ingapirca, our best Inca ruins to finally reach Cuenca, one of the 5 UNESCO heritage sites, located in the Inter Andean valley. It is recognized by natives and foreigners as the most beautiful city in Ecuador offering a placid atmosphere of a small city. Cuenca contains a myriad of architecture which derives from the Pre Inca, Inca, Spanish and French influences.

South of Cuenca we find the Indigenous communities of Saraguro, a perfect example of sustainable communitarian tourism. Then we find the city of Loja and finally Vilcabamba, the "valley of longevity", situated in the province of Loja. This town is known for its natural beauty including the high mountains of Podocarpus National Park as well as the pleasant weather of this subtropical valley. These assets make this place as the best destination for active travel as well as relaxing at the top spa facilities available.

The Pacific Coast

Witness one of the last dry forests in the world at Cerro Blanco in Guayas province; this is a vital part of the 2% of the dry forest which remains in the world. The reserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna, the most noteworthy of which is the Red Fore-headed Parrot, an endemic species that changes habitat with nightfall.

Machalilla National Park in Manabi, has one of the very few crystal clear water beaches in the Pacific coast of South America. The Park has traditionally drawn travelers from all over the world who come to sun on its virgin beaches and explore La Plata Island, hosting several colonies of sea lions as well as an incredible coastal bird life, offering a unique experience for ecotourism and bird watchers.

During summer, tourists delight in coming to Machalilla to witness migrating humpback whales from the Antarctic who come to mate in warm waters of the Ecuadorian coast.

The Sun's Way is a coastal road that passes through some of the most interesting fishing villages and beautiful beaches. A great cultural and active journey could be done alone this route.

In the Manglares-Churute Reserve, in the province of Guayas, the vegetation is characterized by the presence of mangroves. The 50,000-hecatare reserve is home to exotic species such as pelicans, howler monkeys, and slots. In the Santa Clara Wildlife Reserve, on the island of the same name, located just off the coast from Puerto Bolívar, we find the largest concentration of marine birds in Ecuador.

Our main port is Guayaquil, a vibrant and modern city with lots of interesting sites for visitors. Esmeraldas offers cultural encounters to witness the mixture between the African cultures brought by the Spanish with slavery and the American cultures. Manta is another fun destination for beach activities. These ports are host of intercontinental vessels with more than 2,000 travelers arriving from Antarctica, Chile and Peru.

The Amazon

While the bio-diversity of Ecuador's Amazon Basin is truly remarkable, it is the combination of breathtaking beauty and the region's rich culture that make it a truly memorable destination.

In the eastern part of the country, commonly known as the Amazon Basin, heavy rainfall and high humidity are constant features. The vegetation of the Ecuadorian Amazon is exuberant as its fauna. The biodiversity of Ecuador's Amazon Basin is some of the richest on the globe. Here pink dolphins are plentiful, and the bird watching is one of the most rewarding anywhere. Ecuador is one of the planet's top 17 nations with respect to biodiversity.

Within and around the huge protected areas of the Amazon Rain Forest several indigenous ethnic groups live side by side, still living traditionally, each group maintaining its distinct customs and traditions. The Ecuadorian Amazon region is made up of six provinces. Anthropological and historical studies conclude that the Amazon forest was inhabited by man as early as 10.000 B.C.

A perfect way to visit the Amazon jungle might be with a Lodge inside the jungle, vessels sailing the rivers or just camping deep in the humid forest. Several activities such as rafting on hundreds of rivers, hikes through forest trails, visit to local native communities and bird watching are part of what the Amazon Jungle offers to the adventurous a unique way to experience the natural world.

The Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands lie almost a thousand kilometers off the coast of Ecuador's mainland. Once a hideaway of British pirates, today is a living laboratory and place of birth of the evolution theory developed by Darwin after he visited the islands on 1835.

Biologically diverse, they are one of the planet's natural paradises and one of the most visited national parks in the world. The flora and fauna you'll find here are truly unique. Here, you'll see unending beaches of marble white sand such as those of Tortuga Bay, tunnels of lava, spectacular diving areas, and a marine reserve, not to mention the prehistoric animals and colorful birds you'll get a chance to observe since they are totally unafraid to man. There are thirteen main islands that make up the archipelago. The climate here is sub-tropical.

The Galapagos Islands emerged from the bottom of the sea 5 millions years ago, and many of their species traveled from mainland and evolve in a unique way. The islands are still growing and in a few million years they will touch mainland.