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-More Quiteños than canelazo at Quito parties-
Why Visit Ecuador?
Discover Ecuador, the heart of the world! 🌍✨
We invite you to get to know our beloved country, a magical destination in the world's center. Ecuador has been recognized as the best tourist destination in South America and is famous for its incredible diversity. From the Andes to the Amazon, passing through the Pacific Coast and the majestic Galapagos Islands, you will find endless landscapes, culture, and unique experiences here. Come and live the magic of the four worlds in one country! 🏔️🌿🏝️🌊
Learn more about Ecuador, the country of the four worlds!
🌍 Origin of its name
Our beautiful country bears the name Ecuador thanks to the equinoctial line, the maximum parallel of the Earth that crosses it from east to west, placing it in the center of the world.
📜 History
Our history is divided into four major stages:
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🔹 Pre-Hispanic Stage: It begins with the original ethnic groups until the arrival of the Inca Empire, one of the largest civilizations in Latin America.
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🔹 Hispanic Stage: Marked by the arrival of the Spaniards and the Conquest. With the foundation of San Francisco de Quito, the colonial era begins.
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🔹 Independence Stage: After years of struggle, Ecuador joins Simon Bolivar's Gran Colombia before becoming an independent nation.
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🔹 Republican Stage: With the separation from Gran Colombia, the current Republic of Ecuador was born in 1830.
🗣️ Official Language
Ecuador is a plurinational country with an impressive cultural and linguistic wealth. Although Spanish is the official language, there are still 14 indigenous languages, many of them at risk of disappearing.
⛪ Religion.
Although Ecuador is a secular country, the predominant religion is Catholicism. However, there are also evangelical communities, Adventists, Jehovah's Witnesses and other beliefs.
🎉 Holidays
Throughout the year, Ecuador celebrates various national and regional holidays. During these days, Ecuadorians take the opportunity to travel and discover the magical corners of their country.
💰 Currency
Since January 9, 2000, Ecuador adopted the U.S. dollar as its official currency, leaving behind the sucre. Currently, bills of 1, 5, 10, 20, 20, 5,0 and 100 dollars are in circulation, in addition to fractional coins, including Ecuadorian versions with historical characters that are only valid within the country.
🏔️🌴 The country of 4 worlds
Ecuador has everything to make your trip an unforgettable experience. From expeditions and adventure tourism to relaxation and unique gastronomy. In a single country you can enjoy:
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🌊 The Pacific Coast: Paradise beaches and a vibrant culture.
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🏔️ The Andes: Majestic mountains, volcanoes and dreamlike landscapes.
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🌿 The Amazon: Lush jungle and incomparable biodiversity.
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🐢 The Galapagos Islands: A unique natural paradise in the world.
Come and discover the magic of Ecuador! 🚀🌎
Recommendations to Visit Ecuador
Before traveling to Ecuador, take into account these recommendations to make the most of your adventure! 🇪🇨✨
📌 Documentation.
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✈️ All travelers need a valid passport to enter Ecuador, as well as proof of return or onward travel.
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🛂 Always carry your passport with you or at least an official photocopy while touring the country.
💵 Money and payments.
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💲 Avoid carrying $100 bills, as almost no one accepts them.It is best to bring $20 and $10 bills.
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🚻 Most public restrooms charge a small fee of about $0.10.
🚌 Transportation.
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🚌 If traveling by bus between cities, arrive early at the terminal to ensure a seat on the first available bus.
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🚖 Taxis in Ecuador are yellow and tend to actively seek out customers. Don't be surprised if they honk at you or flash their lights when they see you with a backpack, it's their way of offering you service!
🍽️ Local food
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🍛 If you want to eat well and at a good price, look for places that offer Almuerzos (daily menu with soup, main course, juice, and dessert for about $3).
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🌙 For dinner, the same type of menu is called Merienda and is also a delicious and inexpensive option.
🌞 Climate and care
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☀️ The sun in Ecuador is intense due to its location on the equator, so wear high-factor sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher).
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🌦️ The weather can change quickly, so always carry a jacket or rain jacket with you, you can experience all seasons in one day!
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💉 If you plan to visit the Amazon, it is advisable to get vaccinated against yellow fever.
🛒 Taxes and shopping
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🛍️ IVA in Ecuador is 15%. Keep your invoices for purchases and lodging, as you can apply for a VAT refund when leaving the country.
🔌 Electricity and plugs
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⚡ Ecuador uses 110V and 60Hz alternating current. If you are coming from Europe or other places with different voltage, bring an adapter or buy it at a local hardware store.
Now that you know these tips, get ready to discover the magic of Ecuador's four worlds!
🌿🏔️🏝️🐢