Tailor-made
Ecuador
Holidays
Our experts, Louise and Dawn, know and love Ecuador with a passion. With their first-hand knowledge, real-life stories and personal touch, you'll know your precious holiday is in great hands.
Overview
Here at HA, we don’t believe in off-the-shelf holidays. Every trip we design is completely tailor-made, shaped around your interests, desires and travel style. Whether you’re after adventure, wildlife, authentic culture or a bit of everything, our experts know exactly how to bring it all together. With first-hand insight and brilliant local contacts, we’re here to help you experience Ecuador beyond the highlights, in the most meaningful and memorable way.
Meet our Ecuador experts
We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our experts Dawn and Louise are dedicated to all things Ecuador and are here to help you plan your perfect trip.
Dawn Smith
Destination Manager
Dawn’s explored Ecuador from top to toe. Wandering Quito’s streets, hiking the Andes and discovering the Amazon. With all that first-hand know-how, she’ll craft a trip that’s perfectly shaped for you.
Louise Mumford
Destination Manager
Where to visit in Ecuador
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[content] => A crumbling colonial-influenced town, likely to feature as an overnight stop on the Pan-American highway through the Avenue of Volcanoes. Riobamba is flanked with luscious scenery, towering mountains and the Chimborazo Volcano. If you have time to explore the Monasterio de las Conceptas, Parque Maldonado, Riobamba Cathedral and the Municipio are well worth a visit. The town is historically significant in Ecuador’s independence as this was the place where the first constitution was signed in 1830.
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[content] => The town of Coca is a fairly uninspiring gateway to some of the most astounding biodiversity in the Ecuadorian Amazon. From Coca take a motorised canoe and head down the magnificent Rio Napo, deep into the Yasuni National Park and Amazon basin. This area is home to indigenous populations as well as over 300 species of mammal, more than 350 types of reptile and over 800 species of fish.
Deep within the forest a handful of beautiful rustic wooden lodges offer well organised fixed programmes, including all activities and meals during a typical three-night stay. Activities during a stay in the Amazon generally involve nature walks and boat trips designed to showcase the flora and fauna of the unique ecosystems. Your naturalist guide will be on hand to help you look for lurking caiman, playful river otters, howler monkeys and, if you are very lucky, the elusive jaguar. Bird lovers will not be disappointed; the areas is home to a huge array of species including toucans, macaws and tanagers.
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[locationaddress] => Orellana Province, Ecuador
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[content] => Cuenca is often labelled as one of Ecuador’s most attractive towns. The colonial UNESCO recognised town is a real gem to explore on foot, and Cuenca is well worth a visit during a trip to mainland Ecuador. Cuenca, with its enthusiastic residents, has a distinctly positive, yet laid-back atmosphere and retains a unique charm. Exploring the pretty cobbled streets and buildings is enjoyable in the mild climate. Home to many crafts including ceramics and distinctive metalwork that you will see in abundance adorning local houses. Here you will also find one of Ecuador’s most famous exports, the Panama hat. A visit to the factory comes highly recommended.
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[content] => Although the town is not particularly attractive, Mindo does hold a certain ramshackle charm. The area attracts visitors primarily for the wonderful setting within the misty and dense surrounding cloud forests. Here is where two of the world’s most biologically diverse ecoregions meet: the Chocoan Lowlands and Tropical Andes. Surrounded with private reserves and rustic nature lodges, the region is relatively easy to access as it is just a few hours’ drive from Quito. The areas is home to wildlife including pumas, spectacle bears and monkeys, however you are more likely to come here to spot some of the 600 recorded bird species - this incredible area is a bird enthusiast’s paradise. Those prepared to rise early will be rewarded with sightings such as the famous Cock-of-the Rock, often seen strutting to attract mates, proudly displaying their blood-red and orange feathers. For the adrenaline-junkies, many outdoor activities can be booked in Mindo including rafting, zip-lining, and mountain biking.
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Rainfall - 3mm (Feb) – 108mm (Oct)
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[content] => Otavalo lies just a few hours’ drive north of Quito, and is famous for being one of the most important market towns in Latin America. The area is culturally rich and traditional; locals dressed in colourful embroidered blouses, felt hats and long layered skirts continue to use the market in the way their ancestors have since pre-Colombian times. The market is famous for an array of traditional crafts including exquisite weavings, textiles and livestock. The real beauty of the Otavalo region lies in its stunning natural surroundings. The drives around the town take you through incredibly diverse microclimates, and you will see long stemmed rose plantations and many different crops that Ecuador excels at producing.
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Rainfall - 9-69mm / month
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[content] => Gateway to the Galapagos, coastal Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city and has come a long way in recent years. Once unappealing to visitors, this sprawling and humid city has been transformed in recent years with various urban development projects. Locals will enthusiastically recommend visiting ‘Iguana Park’ or a stroll along the Malecon, a tree-lined waterfront promenade with many attractive restaurants, cafes and piers. The pretty, colourful restored Barrio of Las Penas is also worth visiting, and there is a budding theatre and arts scene in the city that is well worth exploring.
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[title] => Cotopaxi National Park
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[content] => Hiking, mountain biking, horse-riding, bird-watching and climbing – you can do it all within the spectacular high altitude setting of Cotopaxi National Park. Named after the symmetrical snow-capped volcano that towers above, Cotopaxi is the most visited National Park on Ecuador’s mainland. Glistening lakes, dramatic mountains and rolling grasslands are the main draw here, although the park is also rewarding for wildlife enthusiasts. A visit is likely to include sightings of swooping Andean condors, grazing llama, wild-horses and timid deer. The spectacled bear and a rare type of high altitude hummingbird are also residents of the area, but sightings are extremely rare.
Cotopaxi’s last notable eruption happened during 1904. Activity is monitored extremely closely as it continues to be one of the most active volcanoes in South America. Travel restrictions were put into place in 2016 during the volcano’s most recent ‘active’ phase. Fortunately for the inhabitants living in surrounding areas, this phase only produced sporadic gas emission and minor ash clouds. The area is now back up and running, and visitors are free to enjoy the beauty of the area.
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Rainfall - 40 - 145mm / month (April wettest month)
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[content] => Sitting 2800 metres above sea level within the Guayllabamba river basin, Quito is the world’s highest capital city. Its dramatic location within the fertile Andes mountain range certainly makes for a memorable first impression of Ecuador. The city feels almost suffocated within its natural borders, and it has sprawled for miles lengthways to fill every possible space available. In fact, as you drive from the airport to reach the city, the distinctive colourful Ecuadorian homes dotted precariously across the slopes may be your first lasting memory.
A city full of contrasts, your time here is likely to be focused upon the historic streets of the Old Town. This area was of the first to be recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1978, and it remains one of the best preserved and least altered historic sites in South America. Here you will find streets bursting with shabby yet beautiful colonial houses, cobbled plazas and impressive monuments. Here you can also get a feel for the cultural heritage, with market stalls, peddlers selling their wares and shoe shiners vying for business. In the New Town, you will find the majority of modern conveniences, accommodation and a sophisticated dining scene.
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About Ecuador
Often overlooked by visitors for its more famous neighbours in South America, colourful Ecuador is easily one of the most fascinating and diverse regions on the continent. With a similar size to Germany, Ecuador is relatively tiny by South American standards but is brimming with wonderful sites and contrasts, making it one of the most rewarding travel destinations in the world. Pretty colonial towns are on the doorstep of astoundingly biodiverse rainforests, while awe-inspiring scenery and dramatic landscapes are commonplace. However, topping the long list of highlights could only be achieved by visiting the unique and otherworldly Galapagos Islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best way to summarise weather in mainland Ecuador is unpredictable! The country falls upon the equator line, so there are no traditional summer and winter climates. Come prepared for sunny, clear days or rain at any time of year. In the Andes mountains there is a particularly noticeable variation in temperature throughout the day, and it can get especially cool in the evenings. Bring layers and rain gear so you are prepared for any eventuality. High season falls from June to September (in terms of visitors), when it can get very busy in the mainland and the Galapagos.
Ecuadorian food is fresh, tasty and highly underrated. Once you scratch beneath the surface of the occasional bland ‘international’ tourist restaurant, you’ll find an incredible array of delicacies from the distinct geographical regions. It’s easy to eat simply and well without breaking the bank. If you’re looking to treat yourselves, you’ll find some world-class restaurants in the more popular destinations. It is difficult to predict how much you’ll spend on food as it depends on your preferences; a simple local meal can cost $3-6pp, while a three-course menu in a top restaurant with wine can cost $50-70pp.
Meats and stews are more popular in the Andean regions, seafood is abundant on the Pacific coast, while soups and a dizzying array of unrecognisable fruit and vegetables are commonplace throughout Ecuador. One of the most delicious soups you are likely to encounter is called Locro and includes potato, cheese and corn with half an avocado. You may want to try cuy, or guinea pig, which is a delicacy. After trucha, or trout, one of the most common seafood dishes you’ll find in Ecuador is ceviche. It is worth noting that it is a little different from what you may expect from the dish. Although it can include raw fish, more commonly Ecuadorian ceviche comprises of shrimp that has been pre-cooked. It is then doused in lime juice, chilli and onion, but is accompanied by popped corn and fried plantain – delicious!
You should take advantage of mouth-watering juices made from a myriad of local fruits such as maracuya or tree tomato. While a high standard of coffee is produced here, sadly, most of the best stuff seems to have left the country. Beers such a Pilsner and Club are common, as is the local tipple of Chicha made from fermented corn or yuca. Traditional fermentation methods of chewing and spitting out the ingredients are now becoming less common!
UK and European passport holders don’t require a visa to enter Ecuador for stays up to three months. A six-month validity is required for all passports, as well as a return flight ticket.
Tourists are required to take out adequate health insurance when visiting Ecuador. It is worth having a copy of your details to hand in case these details are requested.
If you are flying to Ecuador via the USA, you need to apply online for an ‘ESTA’ electronic travel authorisation, even if you are only in transit. This currently costs $14 per person, is valid for two years and should be applied for on the official Department of Homeland Security website.
The Galapagos
If you're thinking of combining your Ecuador holiday with some time in the Galapagos Islands, please note there are two compulsory entry charges for trips to the Galapagos. The first is a transit control tax of $20pp, payable at the airport when departing the mainland. The second is the hefty $100pp National Park entry fee, payable on arrival in the Galapagos. Please note this must be paid in cash, and $100 bills are not always accepted. The Galapagos Islands are constantly revising their entry requirements. The latest detail requested by the authorities is blood type for visitors. Please note that not one of our clients has actually been asked for this information to date, but be prepared that technically, you may still be asked locally!
South America has a reputation as a dangerous part of the world to visit. Whilst crime rates in Ecuador are above the world average, it is one of the safest places to visit in South America (along with Uruguay, Argentina and Chile). The majority of incidents are concentrated in certain areas, and our local guides know where to avoid and will give you plenty of advice locally.
If you take sensible precautions, such as not being flashy with expensive jewellery and cameras, we honestly believe that you are no more likely to be a victim of crime than in many European cities. In over a decade of travelling to Ecuador and sending clients to South America, there have been but a handful of incidents of minor crime, and once you get there, you will be pleasantly surprised by how safe you feel.
Self-driving is not something we usually recommend in Ecuador. Although the roads are of a high standard, we find that there are many unwritten rules on the Ecuadorian roads which can make driving in the country a little unpredictable! Adding to this, our reliable and friendly local drivers and guides offer great value for money. Quite often, they make impromptu stops and can really add to the enjoyment of getting from A to B.
As we’re not medical experts, we feel it's essential you contact your doctor regarding vaccinations for travel to Ecuador. What follows are suggestions, but please note they must be verified by a medical professional.
General: Vaccinations required are the same as you’d routinely have in the UK, so make sure these are up to date. The Travel Doctor, is an interactive website providing specialist health information for travellers plus customised lists of travel medicines, vaccines and malaria tablets for holiday makers, global adventure travellers and expeditions.
Yellow fever: If you are arriving from a country with yellow fever (such as Peru) then you may be asked to produce a certificate of vaccination against the disease.
Please note that a GP will usually write you an exemption note if you are over 60 years old.
Malaria: The risk of contracting malaria in Ecuador is low, although it does exist in areas below 1500 metres. Usually, this means precautions are required for visits to the Amazon or coast (Guayaquil is non-malarial).
Zika: Fortunately, confirmed instances of the Zika Virus have been limited compared with other countries in the region. At the time of writing, the latest advice from the World Health Organisation does not place any restrictions on travel within the country. Mosquitoes that spread Zika usually do not live at elevations above 2,000 meters because of environmental conditions so this is worth bearing in mind.
Sun: The equatorial sun is extremely strong, so always apply high sun cream liberally.
Altitude: It is worth noting that much of Ecuador is above 2400 metres. Altitude affects people differently, but generally, it is rare that people experience significant problems in Ecuador. Drink lots of non-carbonated water, avoid too much alcohol, eat light meals and take things slowly while you acclimatise. Breathlessness and a slight headache are common, but if you experience extreme dizziness or severe headaches do let our local agents know. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is extremely rare but can be a very serious condition.
Travel insurance: it is vital you check your travel insurance, as some policies exclude altitudes of more than 2000 metres. You may have to pay a small additional charge to cover you so it is worth checking.
In 1999 there was near financial collapse in Ecuador when the Sucre, the century-old currency, took a huge nosedive in value. In 2000, the currency was abandoned completely in order to bolster stability within the country, and Ecuador’s official currency is now the US dollar.
It is worth taking US dollars with you or withdrawing cash directly from ATMs; it can be difficult to change other currencies locally. It is important to avoid bringing large value ($50 or $100 bills in particular) or ripped notes, as these can be tricky to use in the country. Credit cards are widely accepted in Ecuador (except in smaller restaurants and at markets).
Tipping
Tipping is very common in Ecuador, so do keep hold of smaller notes when you get them so you do not get stuck with larger bills. We would advise adding roughly 10% in restaurants, which should be given directly to the waiting staff. Guides always appreciate tips, roughly $10 per day would be appreciated, and around half this amount for drivers. It is important to remember that tipping is a very personal thing, and if you feel someone deserves more or less, or even no tip, then that is entirely your prerogative and you should not feel bound by these suggestions.
We believe travel should be a force for good. That means exploring with open eyes, treading lightly, and respecting the people and places that make the world so special. Our code of conduct isn’t about rules, it’s simply a guide to help you travel thoughtfully, ethically, and with care. Because every small choice makes a big difference.
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If you choose to trust us with your holiday, we’ll send you a “Travel Facts” document when confirming your booking. This includes useful facts and travel advice, such as restaurant recommendations, reading tips, basic language information, cultural traditions, climate information, brief historical overviews, and more. We feel that this offers a useful insight and can help you interact with local residents in a more sensitive, well-informed manner. Please do try to take the time to read this information before your visit, it’s worth the time!
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A number of the countries in which we operate holidays are religious societies with a widely observed set of customs. Always respect these norms, particularly when visiting religious buildings.
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To the best of our knowledge, all hotels, lodges, and camps within our portfolio operate stringent measures to minimise water usage. All of our destinations have issues with water supplies to a certain extent, so feel free to raise any possible wastage should you encounter it during your stay, either with the accommodation or with us upon your return.
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Please ask permission before taking photographs of people, and respect their wishes if they are not happy to be photographed. We find that friendly requests and a smile are usually met with a ‘yes!’
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Strive, where possible, to make your own contribution to environmental practices as you travel. This might include minimising your electricity usage, not smoking in protected areas, avoiding coral while snorkelling, and safely disposing of all litter (recycling where possible).
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Where possible, try to purchase from local suppliers. This includes shopping for souvenirs, dining out at restaurants, and booking additional excursions during your free time. In areas where haggling is an accepted part of daily life, don’t be offended if you’re unable to obtain what you perceive as a fair price for an item.
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We emphasise to local suppliers that our clients should never be taken on unsolicited shopping trips, but if this does happen, try to retain your sense of humour, provide a firm refusal to participate and do let us know about it on your return. We pass on all feedback from every trip undertaken with us to our relevant local suppliers, who all share our commitment to travelling with sensitivity.
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Please don’t remove any indigenous items from their natural habitat and attempt to bring them home as a souvenir. This particularly applies to everything from coral, shells, plants and food in the natural world, to cultural artefacts and antiques.
If you’re unsure about anything relating to the above, please feel free to chat to us. We’ve travelled extensively in the country and will be more than happy to offer our considered advice.
Meet our Ecuador experts
We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our experts Dawn and Louise are dedicated to all things Ecuador and are here to help you plan your perfect trip.
Dawn Smith
Destination Manager
Dawn’s explored Ecuador from top to toe. Wandering Quito’s streets, hiking the Andes and discovering the Amazon. With all that first-hand know-how, she’ll craft a trip that’s perfectly shaped for you.
Louise Mumford
Destination Manager
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Ecuador In-Depth, Wildlife of Ecuador & Galapagos, Colonial Quito & Volcanoes, Quito, Markets & Amazon
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