Ecuador FAQs

Ecuador FAQ’s

1. When is the best time to go?

Because the Equatorial Line passes through Ecuador, the seasonal variability is low in the country, so any time of the year is a good opportunity to visit it.

There are slightly wetter and drier season, which can be unpredictable; Ecuador does not have extreme climate changes.

Quito and the highlands are comfortable year-round, with and average temperature of 60oF (16oC) during the day and occasional light showers in the evenings.

Guayaquil is a more humid, tropical temperature that in average is of 73oF (23oC).

The Amazon region is hot, humid, and wet year-round with a slightly wetter season from April to June. The rainforest temperature ranges between 73oF - 78oF (23oC-26oC).

2. Do I need a passport or visa to go to Ecuador?

Ecuador requires a valid passport with at least 6-month validity issued by the traveler’s country of residence. Visas are only required from visitors of the following countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Senegal, Cuba and Somalia.

The traveler must also hold proof of return or onward journey. We recommend all passengers to check with the respective authorities in their country before departure.

3. Are there any language restrictions?

We can guarantee both English and Spanish tourist guides. If you require a guide in other languages, please let us know in advance to make the respective arrangements, *an extra fee applies in order to hire this service.

4. What is the time zone in Ecuador?

Ecuador has an eastern time zone (GMT -5).

5. What is the currency in Ecuador?

The regular currency of the country are US dollars.  You can also make your purchases with major credit cards that are accepted in most establishments.

6. What are the business hours?

Most stores, banks, malls, etc. and foreign exchange offices are open from 9:00 to 18:00, Monday through Friday. On Saturdays, many stores open from 9:00 to 13:00. However, shopping malls are open every day including weekends, from 10:00 to 20:00 and hold ATMs and foreign exchange facilities.

7. What should I wear when visiting the highlands?

For Quito and other highland cities, wear comfortable springtime clothing during the day and a sweater or coat in the evening.

For the outlying highlands and high Andean moor­lands (paramo), warm, winter clothing is essential. We recommend visitors to dress in layers, mornings until midday can be sunny and warm as on the afternoons and evenings it can be rainy and cold.

8. What should I wear when visiting the Pacific Coast?

Ecuadorian beaches are “nature seeking” experiences and include long walks, swimming, and other physical activities.

Therefore, we advise you to bring comfortable breathable clothes, sandals or similar, swimsuits, sunscreen, insect repellent, wide-brim hat, sunglasses, binoculars, eye drops. Evening gowns and accessories are not necessary. During the night, fresh, casual attire is advised.

9. What should I wear when visiting the Amazon rainforest?

For your Amazon or other rainforest explorations, you may prefer a long-sleeved shirt and long pants for protection against mosquitoes. Insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and eye-drops must be part of your traveling equipment, especially if you are sensitive to the sun.

A camera, binoculars and a flashlight are necessary for sightseeing, as well as a waterproof jacket, rubber shoes, and swimwear.

 

10. What are the tipping suggestions?

Tipping is a very personal and optional matter. If you feel you have been given excellent service, you may express your thanks by giving tips, as suggested below.

  • Restaurants and coffee shops: 10% of the bill
  • Hotel / airport portage: US$1 per suitcase
  • Guides on mainland Ecuador: US$10 per day, per person
  • Driver on mainland Ecuador: US$ 8 per day, per person

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