Dry Season
The dry season runs from June to September, offering the best weather for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
Équateur
Ecuador, a country of diverse landscapes and rich culture, offers travelers a unique blend of experiences from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains and the Galápagos Islands.
Phelipemancheno · CC0- Best MonthsJune to September
- AirportsMariscal Sucre, José Joaquín de Olmedo
- TransitBuses and taxis
- Power120V, Type A/B plugs
- Tipping10% customary
- LanguageSpanish
01
When to go
The best time to visit Ecuador is during the dry season, from June to September, although the climate varies significantly by region.
Jan
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Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
From October to May, expect more rain, especially in the Amazon and coastal regions.
Transitional Periods
The months between wet and dry seasons can be unpredictable, with varying weather.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Cultural Hub
La Mariscal
A vibrant neighborhood in Quito known for its nightlife, restaurants, and art galleries.
Can be noisy at night.
Historic
Old Town (Centro Histórico)
A UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, churches, and museums.
Best explored on foot.
Residential
Cumbayá
A suburban area near Quito, known for its upscale homes and dining options.
Quieter than downtown.
Adventure
Baños
Famous for its hot springs and adventure sports, nestled in the Andes.
Can be crowded on weekends.
Beach
Montañita
A beach town popular with surfers and backpackers, known for its laid-back vibe.
Lively nightlife.
Cultural
Cuenca
A charming city with a rich history, known for its colonial architecture and nearby Cajas National Park.
Higher altitude, so prepare for altitude sickness.
Nature
Galápagos Islands
An archipelago known for its unique wildlife and pristine landscapes.
Book tours in advance.
Cultural
Otavalo
Famous for its indigenous market, where you can find local crafts and textiles.
Best visited on Saturdays.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Ceviche
A popular dish made with fresh seafood marinated in citrus juices, found in coastal regions.
→ Try the shrimp ceviche in Esmeraldas.
Locro de Papa
A hearty potato soup with cheese and avocado, commonly served in the highlands.
→ Best enjoyed in Quito.
Fanesca
A traditional soup made during Easter, featuring grains and fish.
→ Only available during Holy Week.
Hornado
Roasted pork served with potatoes and salad, a favorite in the Sierra region.
→ Try it in Ambato.
Empanadas
Savory pastries filled with meat or cheese, found throughout the country.
→ Look for them at local markets.
Choclo con Queso
Corn on the cob served with cheese, popular in the Andes.
→ A great snack while exploring.
Tigrillo
A breakfast dish made with ripe plantains and eggs, typical in the coastal region.
→ Best found in Guayaquil.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Galápagos National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique wildlife and ecosystems.
Cotopaxi National Park
Home to one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, offering hiking opportunities.
Mitad del Mundo
A monument marking the equator, located just outside Quito.
Quilotoa Crater Lake
A stunning volcanic crater lake known for its turquoise waters.
Ingapirca
The largest Inca ruins in Ecuador, showcasing ancient architecture.
Cajas National Park
A national park known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Otavalo Market
One of the largest indigenous markets in South America, famous for textiles.
The Devil's Nose Train
A scenic train ride through the Andes with breathtaking views.
La Mitad del Mundo
A monument marking the equator, with a museum and cultural exhibits.
Sierra Nevada
A mountain range offering stunning views and outdoor activities.
Guayaquil Malecón 2000
A waterfront promenade with parks, shops, and restaurants.
Historical Center of Cuenca
A UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture and museums.
Puyas de Raymondi
A unique plant species native to Ecuador, found in the highlands.
Chimborazo Volcano
The highest mountain in Ecuador, offering challenging hikes.
Amazon Rainforest
A biodiverse region with opportunities for eco-tourism and wildlife watching.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Ecuador's main airports are Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito and José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) in Guayaquil.
UIOMariscal Sucre
GYEJosé Joaquín de Olmedo
Bus Travel
Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel between cities, with extensive networks throughout the country.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available in urban areas and are a convenient way to get around cities.
Domestic Flights
For reaching remote areas or the Galápagos Islands, domestic flights are commonly used.
Bicycle Rentals
In some cities, bicycle rentals are available for exploring at a leisurely pace.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Ecuador uses Type A and B plugs, with a standard voltage of 120V.
Cash
The US dollar is the official currency, and cash is widely accepted.
Tipping
Tipping is customary, typically around 10% in restaurants.
Language
Spanish is the official language, but indigenous languages are also spoken.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A 10 to 14-day trip is ideal to explore the main attractions.