Ecuador

Types of trips: Educational, Geographical, Adventure, Nature, Relaxation, Cultural

Best known for: Galapagos Islands, Football, Tuna/Plantain production

Why Go?: Ecuador is one of the smaller South American countries, but is an impressive variety of landscapes and wildlife. From the Andes mountain range and the Amazon rainforest to architecture and treasures from past cultures, this will be a destination to surprise people with how much is here and leave them with memories to last a lifetime. 

Fact File

Population: 15,500,000

Capital: Quito

Language(s): Spanish

Ties to the UK?: Generally good relationship, increasingly popular travel destination

Landscape: The Andes mountain range runs through the centre of Ecuador, with the fertile coastal region to the west and areas of the Amazon jungle and national parks to the east. 

Climate/Seasons: Although the country sits on the equator, Ecuador has quite a varied climate thanks to the different altitudes of each region. It is pleasant all year round in the mountain valleys and tropical in the coastal and rainforest areas. The wet season on the coast runs from January - May and has afternoon downpours but also the best beach weather, as the dry season is cooler and cloudier. June - September is the sunniest period in the highlands.

When to Go: You can visit Ecuador year round depending on the region - make sure to do your research!

Reasons to Visit: Geographical experiences, culture & history

How to Get There: There are a few international airports in the country you can travel to - make sure to check out which one is closest to your destination. 

Places to Go: La Capilla del Hombre, Old Cathedral of Cuenca, Vulqano Park

Famous People: Rafael Correa, Karina Galvez, Diego Serrano, Antonio Valencia

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Cotopaxi National Park, Rio Tomebamba & Calle Larga, Cajas National Park

History: Period of Spanish colonisation before independence was gained in 1820, with some unrest in the 19th century

Architecture: Quito Old Town, Church of the Society of Jesus, Basilica del Voto Nacional, Church and Convent of St. Louis,

Culture: Strong Hispanic culture, with some American, Indian and African influences

Sport: Football

Events: Peach Festival, Semana Santa, Carnival (in February), Fiestas de Mama Negra

Watch Out For: There is some risk of petty crime - make sure all valuables are safe and not visible, and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas. 

Medical Issues: There are some advised vaccines and boosters for travelling to Ecuador - check here for a good general overview but always talk to a doctor.