Climate

Ecuador has two seasons; wet and dry. Depending on which region you are in this can vary a great deal. The wet season hits the coastal areas (including the Galapagos) between January and April, the Oriente is pretty wet all year round, but September to December are the driest months. In the highlands the dry spells fall between June and September and also around Christmas, and are the best times to climb Mt. Cotopaxi.

Cash

The local currency in Ecuador changes frequently but since 2000 is has been the US Dollar, so American visitors will not need to use currency exchange.

The fluctuating economies of South America means shoe string travel is not as easy or cheap as it once was, but if you’re planning to camp and make your own journeys, expect to get by on $20 a day excluding travel – triple this or more if you intend to go jungle trekking and trips to the Galapagos Islands can run into several hundred dollars per day for experience such exclusive wildlife.

Visas

Most tourists do not need a visa for stays of less than 90 days, and UK citizens can stay longer. Business, work, residence and student visas are hard to come by in Ecuador.

Language

Spanish is the official tongue and Quechua and Quichua are the most widely spoken of the Amerindian languages.

Religion & Population

95% Roman Catholic. Older religious traditions still exist and are often found in a blend of Catholic and indigenous beliefs. Indigenous peoples represent 40% of the population, with an equal number of mestizos.

Health

Some of the coastal areas may have malaria risks so make sure you check the situation with a travel agent or the tourist board before visiting and take the necessary precautions. Altitude sickness in Highland areas – including Quito – can cause some discomfort and visitors will need to acclimatize, especially if you are planning to climb Cotopaxi.