Why visit
Ecuador is Quito's old town at altitude, Otavalo markets, the Galápagos Islands, Amazon basin lodges, and Cuenca's colonial streets. All compact enough for one trip.
Country - South America
Ecuador
natureadventureculture
How to use this result
Use it as a country shortlist
Ecuador works best as a first-pass travel idea. Start with the region, season, and themes on this page, then compare flights, entry rules, safety guidance, and local transport before treating it as a real option.
Compare the capital and side trips
Use Quito as the administrative starting point, then check whether the strongest trip idea is actually the capital, a coastal area, a nature route, or another city in Ecuador.
At a glance
Location
-2.0°, -77.5°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
276,841 km²
106,889 mi²
Country population
18.2 million
66/km²
Subregion
South America
Currency
United States dollar ($)
USD
Dial
+593
Language
Spanish
Demonym
Ecuadorean
Internet
.ec
UN
Member state
ISO code
EC / ECU
Where in the world
-2.0° - -77.5°
Ecuador
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Ecuador's Galápagos Islands inspired Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection: the islands are home to 9,000+ species found nowhere else.
- The equator runs through the country: the "Middle of the World" monument stands 26 km north of Quito.
- Chimborazo, Ecuador's tallest mountain at 6,263 m, is the point on earth furthest from the center of the planet due to equatorial bulge.
Bordering Ecuador
Traveler notes
- Galápagos requires advance planning and a park fee
- Visa-free for most for 90 days
- Use the country as a warm-up before Galápagos
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Quito, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Bring layered clothing and verify trail/park access before arrival.
Signature travel cities in Ecuador
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Ecuador
What is the capital of Ecuador?
Quito is the capital of Ecuador.
What currency does Ecuador use?
Ecuador uses the United States dollar ($), ISO code USD.
What languages are spoken in Ecuador?
The primary language is Spanish.
Is Ecuador landlocked?
No, Ecuador has a coastline.
What countries border Ecuador?
Ecuador borders Colombia, Peru.
What is the international calling code for Ecuador?
The calling code is +593.
When is the best time to visit Ecuador?
Jun–Sep. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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