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The Brooklynite Abroad

WELCOME TO ECUADOR

ECUADOR TRAVEL GUIDE

Presenting to you, your ultimate Ecuador Travel Guide.

To those looking for a South American escape, there are so many reasons why choosing Ecuador was the right fit. If you love food, history, culture, and nature, you’re going to thrive.

From the coastal beaches of Olón & Montañita to the mountains of Baños & Cotopaxi, with frequent stops to interact with local sheep and cities like Quito, Cuenca, and Guayaquil, you easily find yourself extending your trip.

Now with direct flights from NYC, your trip to Ecuador just got easier. As a friendly tip, you’ll want to look up the political climate ahead of time to see if it impacts your travels.

Check out your ultimate Ecuador Travel Guide and everything you need to know to plan a perfect trip.

best time to visit

Let’s just start with there is no bad time to visit. As your ultimate Ecuador Travel Guide, this is what to expect each season so you can plan a perfect trip!

Since Ecuador is on the equator, it experiences two seasons (dry & wet) with stable year-round temperatures

  • Cuenca & Quito
    • (high 66-71, low 46-49)
  • Guayaquil & Manta
    • (84-89, 69-75)

Visiting the Amazon Rainforest

  • Dec – May (wet season). Every river and creek are navigable and lots of trails are flooded. Best chance to see monkeys & birds.
  • June – Nov (dry season) rivers are less reachable and because of that you see more river creatures migrating to bigger bodies of water (river otters, manatees) and other animals like anacondas & migratory birds.but all trails are walkable.

ECUADOR TRAVEL GUIDE:
what to know before you go

Language: Spanish is the official language and is spoken everywhere. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD) is the official currency and is used nationwide.

Plug Types: Type A & B (same as U.S. & Canada). Voltage: 120V, 60Hz.

Ecuador Travel Guide (Safety):

  • Tourist areas (Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca, Galápagos) are generally safe.
  • Be cautious in secluded areas or late at night.
  • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps and avoid displaying cash or valuables.
  • Dial 911 for any emergency, including police or fire.

BUCKET LIST EXPERIENCES

Living like a local: ECUADOR TRAVEL GUIDE

phrases you must know before you go!

“Hola,
¿cómo estás?”

Hello, how are you?

“POR FAVOR”

Excuse me

¿Cuánto
cuesta?

How much does
it cost?

“LA CUENTA, POR FAVOR”

Can I get the check please?

“¿Dónde está el baño?”

Where is the bathroom?

“GRACIAS / MUCHAS GRACIAS”

Thank you / Thank you very muchGreeting to say bye

National dishes

An Ecuador Travel Guide is incomplete without trying some of the country’s staple dishes. Eating like a local is an amazing way to get not only yummy food but a more authentic experience when traveling.

BOLON DE VERDE
A fried ball of heaven, the outer layers are made of mashed green plantains, with the inside containing pork, meats, cheese.

ENCOCADO DE PESCADO
Wild-caught fish, Covina, served with white rice, fried plantains, a topped with a savory coconut sauce.

Ecuador National Dishes

ECUADOR TRAVEL GUIDE: Transportation

  • Air Travel: Domestic flights connect Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca, and the Galápagos. LATAM and Avianca are the main carriers.
  • Buses: Ecuador has an affordable and extensive network connecting all regions. Interprovincial buses (e.g., Quito–Baños) are scenic and affordable.
  • Taxis & Ride Apps: In Quito and Guayaquil, use Uber, Cabify, or official taxis (check for meters). Always confirm the fare before starting a ride.
  • Driving: Roads between major cities are in good shape, but mountain driving requires caution. Gas is inexpensive; traffic is moderate.
  • Tip: Carry small U.S. bills as many shops and taxis won’t accept $50 or $100 bills.

TRAVEL GUIDES

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