About Ecuador and Quito

Ecuador is located in the Northwest part of South America, straddling the equator and bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the west, Colombia to the north, and Peru to the south and east. It is approximately 270.000 km2 in size and although it is a small country, Ecuador is uniquely endowed with dramatic topography and it is one of the world’s most bio-diversified country in both flora and fauna.

It would be a challenge to find a greater variety of regions within such short distances of each other anywhere else in the world. It is naturally divided into four geographical regions, as follows:

• The Andean Highlands, with spectacular scenery, where perpetual snow peaks stand out.
• The Coast, with endless banana plantations and fishing villages and warm, beautiful beaches.
• The Amazon Rainforest , an almost wild region, a fascinating and exotic world of water and dense tropical forests.
• The world famous Galapagos Islands, where its unique flora and fauna with antediluvian reminiscences makes this region a sanctuary of magic splendor and a live laboratory.

The Sierra	The Coast	The Amazon	The Galapagos

Ecuador has a wide range of climates because of its varying altitudes. In general, the tropical lowlands have hot, humid weather ranging from 65-90° F (18-32ºC). The Andean plateau is noted for its year-round spring like weather; daily temperatures usually range from about 50-70° F (10-21ºC). Besides its exuberant diversity, Ecuador embraces an impressive variety of ethnic groups, including some untouched communities which still preserve traditional values and customs from ancient times.

Quito, Ecuador’s capital, stands at an altitude of 2850m (9350 feet) above sea level making it the world’s second highest capital city. It has a population of 2,000,000 inhabitants and is located in the Andean Highlands (Sierra). The city is set in a long valley at the foot of the volcano Pichincha. On a clear day, several snow-capped mountains are visible from the city.

It has a mild climate, despite of the fact that it is located only 22 km. south of the equator. The dry season in Quito is from May to October, and brief daily showers occur November through April. Nights are crisp, requiring a sweater or jacket, but the year round daily temperatures seldom vary from the upper 60s to the low 70°s F.

In addition to its gorgeous landscape, Quito is a jewel of Spanish colonial architecture, painting, sculpture and carvings. In 1987 the colonial city was declared a “World Cultural Heritage” site by the United Nations.

The charming old part of the city, dating from the 16th century, with its narrow steep streets, contrasts with the modern Quito, with its wide avenues and skyscrapers. There is an active Nightlifewith salsa clubs and many fine restaurants. As a modern capital, Quito offers almost unlimited opportunities for recreation, relaxation and learning.

From Quito it is easy for travellers to hike in the Andes, explore indigenous markets, bath in a hot spring gurgling from the base of a nearby volcano, take jaunts to jungle lodges, or cruise through the Galapagos Islands. In the same day one could go from the Andes to the shores of the Pacific Ocean. We invite you to join us and discover our very special country.

Travelling in Ecuador is easy and fun!

Some photos of Ecuador