Introduction to

The colors of Ecuador leap out from every corner of its diverse landscape, from fluttering rainbow-hued macaw wings in the Amazonian jungle to the calm, dazzling blue lakes of the Andean sierra and the fiery terracotta sands of the Galapagos Islands. Brooding snow-capped volcanoes provide a striking contrast to the roaring heat of the salsa-dancing coast. You'll gaze in wonder at the sparkling gold interior of 's baroque churches while walking in the footsteps of Spanish conquistadors and Incan warriors. Cities and Countryside

• Quito's 500-year-old buildings usher you through columned archways onto hidden courtyards, its baroque churches twinkling with gold leaf. • Catch a cooling river breeze as you stroll along Guayaquil's glitzy Malecón promenade, lined with shops and restaurants blaring hot salsa tunes. • Cuenca, the capital's World Heritage Site sibling, crowns layers of Cañari and Inca foundations with colonial-era architecture; beneath the streets lie the ruins of ancient temples and regal palaces. • In the Andes sierra, Ecuador's core, stunning turquoise lagoons nestle in extinct volcanic craters and riders on horseback traverse lush national parks and misty cloud forests. • Glide in a canoe to the music of tropical bird song as you visit indigenous communities in the Amazon rainforest in the east. • Small, undisturbed beaches and humpback-whale-filled waters on Ecuador's Pacific coast lead to the Galapagos Islands, where giant turtles, seals, penguins, iguanas and other native wildlife roam freely in a naturalist's paradise. Eating, Drinking and National Parks

Eating and Drinking • Filling fish soups topped with fresh tomato and onion, and raw seafood marinated in tangy lime juice -- the refreshing ceviche -- are popular dishes along the coast. The small and succulent cuy, roast guinea pig, is an Andean favorite, whether spit-roasted along rural highways or served in fine city restaurants. Wholesome thick cheese, hearty chicken and potato soups and braised meat stews help to counter Quito's thin, chilly air during leisurely Ecuadorean family lunches.

National Parks • A fresh-faced Darwin was mesmerized by the Galapagos Islands' vibrant native wildlife. You will be too, as you spy flamingo-dotted salt lagoons, sea lions beached on volcanic red sand, and swaggering marine iguanas or dive alongside penguins as falcons swoop overhead. • You can scale the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano or trot on horseback inside the Cotopaxi National Park. • As you canoe along the Amazonian jungle waterways of Yasuni, Ecuador's largest national park, look for multicolored macaws and pink river dolphins. Frommer’s Favorite Experiences

• Stepping Back in Time in Colonial Quito: Founded in 1534, Quito was the first city to be declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Its Old Town seems to have changed little over the centuries. • Straddling the Equator: The country isn't called Ecuador for nothing -- the Equator passes right through it. There are several popular tourist attractions and marked spots where you can straddle the equator. • Eating Cuy: You'll see them roasting on spits at little stands along the highways, or on sidewalks in cities and towns. You'll also find them on the menus of some of Ecuador's fanciest restaurants. The skin is served crisp and crackling, but when it's good, it's moist and flavorful. • Searching for the Fountain of Youth: The small and isolated village of Vilcabamba is said to have a disproportionately high number of centenarians. Most folks credit the clean water, air, and living. While it may not actually add years to your life, this is a great place to, with superb scenery. • Starting Off Your Day with a Glass of Tree-Tomato Juice: Don't be put off by the name, or think that it tastes anything like a traditional tomato. A tree tomato is a unique fruit served just about every which way in Ecuador. • Riding a Train Past the Devil's Nose: One section of the train from Quito to Guayaquil is also one of the most spectacular, a white-knuckle ride of sharp switchbacks and hairpin turns down the side of a steep rock mountain affectionately known as the Devil's Nose. • Buying a Panama Hat: Buy one of these stylish straw wonders, which are made in Ecuador, not Panama. Cuenca is currently the primary center for production of Panama hats • Drinking Chicha: Homebrewed liquor made from fermenting corn, potatoes, yuca, and just about anything else on hand • Visiting the Amazon Basin: the lowland rainforest rivers of eastern Ecuador form an important part of the Amazon basin. This area is loaded with wildlife, and it's home to traditional indigenous tribes. You'll get to interact with both on any trip here. Best Dining

• El Atrio (Quito): With an eclectic menu, elegant ambience, and wonderful setting overlooking the Plaza Foch, The menu here is equally rewarding at any meal.. • •Azuca Latin Bistro (Quito): Loud and lively most of the time, this new spot serves up excellent nuevo latino fare. Mojitos are the specialty drink, and there's quite a variety of them on the menu . • •Zazu (Quito): Quito's hippest new restaurant is also one of its most satisfying. The Peruvian-born chef uses his native sensibility, fresh local ingredients, and ample imagination to create a successful string of new and exciting dishes. Just about everything on the menu shines. • •Hacienda Rumiloma (Quito): It's worth the short taxi ride to this elegant and eclectic restaurant on the slopes of Volcán Pichincha. The menu is wonderfully executed. And the dining room features an excellent view of the city below. • •Hotel Ali Shungu (): Housed inside a popular hotel. The healthy and creative international cuisine is served in a cozy and inviting ambience. Locally grown organic produce is used wherever possible. This is a welcome treat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. • •Café Mariane (Baños): Treat yourself to an elegant French-Mediterranean meal at the best little restaurant in town. • •Villa Rosa (Cuenca): Excellent Ecuadorean cuisine is matched with an elegant setting and superb service in this Cuenca restaurant. Although traditional Ecuadorean dishes are the mainstay here, they often are given little twists that set them above what you'll find at other places. • •Lo Nuestro (Guayaquil): Elegant and relaxed, this is the best place in Guayaquil to enjoy classic Ecuadorean cooking in a refined setting. • •Sucre (Guayaquil): Guayaquil is experiencing a major boom in high-end dining, and this new fusion restaurant is leading the way. The decor is chic and the food hits all the right marks. • •Martinica (Manta): Creative and hip, this homey restaurant stands head and shoulders above the rest in Manta. The eclectic fusion menu is bolstered by a wide-ranging wine list. • •Sea Flower Restaurant (Manta): It's almost worth a trip to Ecuador's Pacific coast just to dine at this delightful spot. Presentations are eye-catching, and the food lives up to the fanfare. • •Red Sushi (Puerto Ayora) They serve up some excellent sushi. The setting is subdued and romantic, and the rest of the menu -- apart from the sushi -- is also wonderfully done. Best Historic Sites

• Iglesia de San Francisco (Old Town; Quito): Quito's first church, San Francisco remains one of its most impressive.. • La Compañía de Jesús (Old Town; Quito): There's so much gold and gold leaf adorning this unbelievably ornate 17th-century baroque church. In fact, the Jesuits who built this church incorporated several sun symbols, as a nod to the Incas The level of detail and artistry is unparalleled. • Museo Nacional del Banco Central del Ecuador (New Town; Quito): The anthropological and historical displays of the pre-Columbian inhabitants are beautifully displayed. There are also very good collections of colonial-era and religious art, and a fine representation of modern art. • Fundación Guayasamín (Bellavista, Quito): Oswaldo Guayasamín was Ecuador's greatest and most famous modern artist. His striking large paintings, murals, and sculptures had an impact on artists across Latin America and around the world. This extensive museum displays both his own work and pieces from his private collection. Catedral Nueva (Cuenca): This massive cathedral took over 80 years to complete. Its two towering blue domes dominate the skyline of Cuenca. Don't miss a chance to tour its beautiful inside, which has white marble floors, stained-glass windows, and a Renaissance-style main altar. • Museo del Banco Central (Cuenca): This modern museum features an excellent collection of archaeological finds and relics, ethnographic displays, and colonial-era figurative and religious art; it's also built right on top of a major Inca ceremonial site that has been semi-excavated. • Ingapirca (outside Cuenca): Ingapirca is the greatest surviving Inca ruin in Ecuador. Even before the Incas arrived, this spot was inhabited by the Cañari, and some of their original constructions are also on display. • La Tolita (North Pacific coast): This unique archaeological site is found on a small island outside San Lorenzo. It is believed that it was inhabited by one of the oldest pre-Columbian cultures, a people skilled at working with gold, silver, and even platinum. • Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo (Guayaquil): Large, modern, and well laid out, this is Guayaquil's best museum. There are extensive archaeological collections here from all over Ecuador, as well as a wonderful wing dedicated to contemporary Ecuadorean art. Best Shopping

• Olga Fisch Folklore (Quito; www.olgafisch.com): Olga Fisch was a pioneer in recognizing and promoting the artistry of Ecuador's artisans and craftspeople. Today her shop/gallery remains the top place to go for the best selection of high-end products. You'll find everything here, from clothing to ceramics to paintings. You can get chess sets with pieces carved from tagua nuts, or fine original silver and gemstone jewelry. • Tianguez (Quito; www.sinchisacha.org): Housed in a mazelike series of rooms that feel like catacombs under the San Francisco church, just about every corner and region of the country is represented here, with pieces from the various Amazon basin indigenous tribes, as well as primitive paintings from artisans of the central Sierra. You can buy trinkets for next to nothing, or fine works that will make a dent in your wallet. • Otavalo Market (Otavalo): This is the most famous market in Ecuador, and perhaps in all of South America. Indeed, it's the place to come for all sorts of locally made crafts, including alpaca sweaters, rugs, and wall hangings, as well as a wide range of wood work, primitive paintings, and jewelry. Musicians can pick up some pan pipes or a charango. • San Antonio de Ibarra: It seems as if everyone in this little town in is a woodcarver. Many of the works produced here are religious in theme, and often of monumental proportion. Still, you can get plenty of decorative and functional pieces, and some that are easy enough to carry home with you (the others can be shipped). • Cuenca: From Panama hats to locally produced handicrafts, fine art works to unique jewelry pieces, Cuenca holds its own against Quito and Otavalo as one of the top shopping cities in the country. Of particular interest are visits to the actual Panama-hat factories and the studio of renowned ceramic artist Eduardo Vega. • Galápagos Jewelry (Puerto Ayora; www.galapagosjewelry.com): These folks have excellent distinctive pieces, many in the shape and image of local flora and fauna. Cast silver is their strong suit, but they also work with stones and other metals. They also have a couple of outlets in Quito, and in Guayaquil and Cuenca. Tips on Shopping

• ILocal artisan traditions have been thriving here for thousands of years. Take a trip up to the market in Otavalo (one of the best local handicraft markets in all of South America), and you'll find an amazing array of hand-woven goods, including alpaca scarves, gloves, sweaters, colorful bags, tapestries, and ceramics. In the neighboring towns, you can buy leather goods and beautifully crafted hand-carved wood products. Keep in mind that Ecuadorians are not hagglers. At the markets, the prices are never fixed, but don't expect to spend hours negotiating. In the first few minutes, you can convince the seller to lower the price by a few dollars, but that's it. When vendors say that the price is final, it's usually not going to go any lower.

• Cuenca is the largest producer of Panama hats in the world. These aren't your typical Panama Jack hats -- these are stylish beauties worn by the likes of Julia Roberts and Queen Elizabeth. Ceramics are also a specialty in Cuenca.

• In Quito, you can find most everything from handcrafted silver jewelry to pre-Columbian masks. The Ecuadorian artists have done an excellent job of using traditional techniques to create products that appeal to modern-day tastes. Tips on Dining

• In major cities such as Quito, Cuenca, and Guayaquil, you'll find tons of Ecuadorean restaurants, as well as an excellent selection of international cuisines. In Quito, there is everything from cutting-edge fusion cuisine to Thai food and sushi. Throughout the country, you'll also be able to find authentic pizza joints, as well as Chinese restaurants, known as chifas.

• While you're in Ecuador, you should definitely try comida típica (typical food). Ceviche de camarones (shrimp marinated in a tangy lemon juice and served with onions and cilantro) is one of the most popular dishes in Ecuador -- you'll find it on almost every menu. Ceviche is often served with a side of salty popcorn, fried corn, and fried plantains. The salt complements the tart lemon flavor. Other local specialties include seco de chivo (goat stew in a wine sauce), empanadas de verde (turnovers made with fried green bananas and filled with cheese), tortillas de maíz (small round corn pastries, served with avocado), and humitas (a sweet corn mush mixed with eggs, served in a corn husk). In the Sierra, where it can get very cold, locals often have a soup called locro de papas (a creamy potato soup with cheese). In Cuenca, mote pillo con carne (huge potatolike pieces of corn, mixed with onions and eggs, served with a fried piece of meat and tortillas de papa -- the Ecuadorean version of potato pancakes) is one of the more popular local dishes.

• Fixed-price lunches (almuerzos del día) are also common in smaller restaurants. You will get soup, a main course, dessert, and fresh juice. Calendar of Events

• February - Carnaval, nationwide. Public concerts, parades, city fairs, and drinking are all part of the festivities. The city of Guaranda is particularly famous, as are Esmeraldas and Ambato. • April - Holy Week, nationwide. Religious processions are held in cities and towns throughout the country. Quito's Good Friday procession through Old Town is especially large and ornate, with large floats, thick clouds of incense, and numerous devotees, some of whom quite vigorously flagellate themselves. Week before Easter. • June - Inti Raymi, countrywide. The indigenous peoples of South America have always revered the sun. The Inca have left intact their celebration of the summer solstice, or Inti Raymi. It is celebrated nationwide, but especially throughout the northern Sierra, such as at Otavalo • July - Fiestas de Guayaquil, Guayaquil. The country's largest city throws a large party for itself each July. Wild street parties, concerts, fireworks, and festivities last for at least a week on and around the official holiday, • September 23& 24- Fiestas de Mama Negra, Latacunga. This sleepy central Sierra city comes alive during its celebrations of the Virgen de la Merced (Virgin of Mercy), better known locally as Mama Negra (Black Mama). People flock there for dancing,parades, fireworks and carnival rides. • October - (Guayaquil Independence Day), Guayaquil. Ecuador's largest city throws an appropriately large party to celebrate its independence day. Festivities include parades, rodeos, fireworks, and street parties, for several days on either side of the actual date of October 9. • November - Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), countrywide. Ecuadoreans honor their dead with flowers and remembrances. Many head to cemeteries, but are far from somber. November 2. • December - Fiestas de Quito, Quito. In early December to honor the city's founding. Celebrations last through the 1st and most of the 2nd week of December. Bullfights are held in the Plaza de Toros, with famous bullfighters coming from Spain and Mexico.December 6 is the official date. • Christmas Eve, Cuenca. the colonial city of Cuenca is famous for its Christmas Eve tradition of holding elaborate parades, with nativity scenes and other religious iconography on big floats • Años Viejos (Old Years), countrywide. New Year's Eve is marked by a tradition: Puppets and effigies symbolizing all that is bad or negative from the previous year are constructed. They are set on fire at the stroke of midnight, as part of the celebrations. December 31. Regions in Brief

The Republic of Ecuador sits near the northwestern corner of South America. It'sbordered by Colombia to the north, Peru to the south and east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The Galápagos Islands, which straddle the Equator, are located about 966km (600 miles) to the west, in the Pacific Ocean. The country covers an area of 272,046 sq. km (105,038 sq. miles), making it roughly the same size as Colorado.

• Situated at some 2,850m (9,350 ft.), Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world (after La Paz, Bolivia). Though it’s the capital of Ecuador, it's actually the second- most populous city in the country (after Guayaquil). Still, it's a major transportation hub, so most visitors begin and end their trips to Ecuador here. Quito is one of the more charming cities in South America, and there's plenty to see and do. Old Town, with its wonderfully preserved colonial-style buildings, was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1978 -- New Town is a lively cosmopolitan area, with all the modern amenities you would expect to find in a world class destination. Northern Sierra

• The Northern Sierra - Just north of Quito, the Equator cuts across Ecuador and forms the border that roughly defines the country's northern Sierra, or highlands. Imbabura is the first province you hit, and one of the country's prime tourism destinations. In Imbabura, you can explore the colorful artisans market of Otavalo, as well as nearby towns, where you'll find the workshops and homes of many of the artisans who supply this fabulous market. In addition, this region is one of high volcanic mountains and crater lakes. There are great hiking opportunities, especially at such beautiful spots as Cuicocha Lake and Mojanda Lakes. Farther north lie the province of Carchi and the small border town of Tulcán, a gateway, albeit a rather dangerous one, to Colombia. Central Sierra

• The central Sierra covers the area south of Quito. Cotopaxi National Park is a little more than an hour south of Quito, and it's one of the most popular attractions on mainland Ecuador. Active travelers can climb to the summit of the highest active volcano in Ecuador (and one of the highest in the world), while anybody can marvel at its imposing beauty from the high-altitude paramo all around the park. The central Sierra contains many isolated, colonial-era haciendas that have been converted into fabulous hotels and lodges. Most offer a variety of active tour options, with horseback riding often being the mainstay. Baños and Riobamba are the primary tourist towns of the central Sierra. Travelers head to Baños mainly for both relaxation and active adventures. The city, which is nestled at the bottom of active Volcán Tungurahua, offers great hiking and biking opportunities, as well as easy access to great white-water rafting. You can also take a soothing soak in one of the hot springs, or pamper yourself with spa treatments. Riobamba is more of an industrial city, and there's not much to do here besides catching the popular Nariz del Diablo (Devil's Nose) tourist train, which involves a spectacular journey along the winding switchbacks of a steep rock face, or setting out to summit Chimborazo, the country's highest peak, at 6,310 meters (20,702 feet). Cuenca and Southern Sierra

• Cuenca is the largest and most interesting city in the southern highlands. Like Quito, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Cuenca was the second- most important city in the Inca empire (after Cusco). • Nearby, you can explore Ingapirca, an archaeological site with both Inca and pre-Inca ruins. Cajas National Park is located only an hour outside Cuenca, and farther south lies the small city of Loja, one of the oldest cities in Ecuador. • South of Loja is the even-more-remote village of Vilcabamba, famed for the health andlongevity of its residents. Many come here seeking to sip from the town's fountain ofyouth; others use it as a jumping-off point to visit the wild Podocarpus National Park. Guayaquil and Southern Coast

• Guayaquil is Ecuador's largest city. Chiefly a port and industrial city, Guayaquil is reinventing itself at a dizzying pace. The city's attractive riverside walk, Malecón Simón Bolívar, has served as the anchor for a minirenaissance. Guayaquil boasts several excellent museums as well as top-notch hotels, restaurants, and bars. • To the west of Guayaquil lies the Ruta del Sol (Route of the Sun), a string of beach resorts, small fishing villages, and isolated stretches of sand. Surfers come here to find that endless wave, and sun worshippers can get the perfect tan. • At the north end of the Ruta del Sol is Machalilla National Park. The sleepy town of Puerto López, just outside the park, is a gateway to the park's mainland sections, as well as to Isla de la Plata, which is home to a rich variety of wildlife, and which is often called the "Poor Person's Galápagos." El Oriente

• The eastern region of Ecuador, known as El Oriente, is a vast area of lowland tropical rainforests and jungle rivers. It's considered part of the Amazon basin because the rivers here all feed and form the great Amazon River just a little farther downstream. • The wildlife and bird-watching here are phenomenal; visitors have a chance to see hundreds of bird species and over a dozen monkey species, as well as anaconda, caiman, and freshwater dolphins. For the most part, the indigenous people in this region escaped domination by both the Incas and the Spanish, so they have been able to maintain their ancient rituals and traditions. Most visitors explore this area by staying at one of many remote jungle lodges, some of which are surprisingly comfortable. English-speaking guides will take you to local villages, as well as show you the incredible diversity of wildlife here. Galapagos Islands

• The Galápagos Islands, located about 966km (600 miles) off the coast of Ecuador, are one of nature's most unique outdoor laboratories. The unusual wildlife here helped Charles Darwin formulate his theory of natural selection. Fortunately for modern- day visitors, not much has changed since Darwin's time, and the islands still offer visitors the chance to get up close and personal with a wide variety of unique and endemic species, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, penguins, sea lions, albatrosses, boobies, and flightless cormorants. The best way to explore the area is on a cruise ship or yacht. Note, however, that this isn't your typical cruise destination -- trips involve packed days of tours and activities, some of them strenuous. A more relaxing option would be to base yourself at a resort in Santa Cruz (the most populated island in the Galápagos) and take select day trips to the islands of your choice. Fast Facts

• ATM Networks/Cashpoints -- Ecuador has a well-developed network of ATMs. Just about every bank branch in the country, particularly in the major cities, towns, and tourist destinations, has an ATM or two. While many of Ecuador's ATMs will work fine with five- and six-digit PINs, some will only accept four-digit PINs. • Business Hours -- In general, business hours are weekdays from 9am to 1pm and 2:30 or 3 to 6:30pm. In Quito and Guayaquil, most banks stay from about 9am to 5pm, but some still close in the middle of the day, so it's best to take care of your banking needs early in the morning. Most banks, museums, and stores are open on Saturday from 10am to noon. Everything closes down on Sunday. • Drinking Laws -- The legal drinking age is 18, although it's almost never enforced. At discos, however, you often need to show a picture ID for admittance. • Drugstores -- A drugstore or pharmacy is called a farmacia in Spanish. Drugstores are quite common throughout the country. Those at hospitals and major clinics are often open 24 hours a day. • Electricity -- The majority of outlets in Ecuador are standard U.S.-style two- and three-prong electric outlets with 110-120V AC (60 Hz) current. • Embassies & Consulates -- The embassy of the United States in Quito is at the corner of Avenida 12 de Octubre and Avenida Patria, across from the Casa de la Cultura (tel. 02/2562-890, ext. 480); there is a U.S. Consulate in Guayaquil at Avenida 9 de Octubre and García Moreno (tel. 04/2323-570) Hospitals and Insurance

• Hospitals -- Hospital Vozandes (tel. 02/2262-142; www.hospitalvozandes.org; Villalengua 267 and 10 de Agosto) and Hospital Metropolitano (tel. 02/2261-520; www.hospitalmetropolitano.org; Mariana de Jesús and Occidental) are the two most modern and best equipped hospitals in Quito. Both have 24-hour emergency service and English-speaking doctors. • Insurance -- For foreign travel, most U.S. medical insurance plans (including Medicare and Medicaid) do not provide coverage, and the ones that do often require you to pay for services upfront and reimburse you only after you return home. • As a safety net, you may want to buy travel medical insurance, particularly if you're traveling to a remote or high-risk area where emergency evacuation might be necessary. • Canadians should check with their provincial health plan offices or call Health Canada (tel. 866/225-0709; www.hc-sc.gc.ca) to find out the extent of their coverage and what documentation and receipts they must take home in case they are treated overseas. • Travelers from the U.K. should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which replaced the E111 form as proof of entitlement to free/reduced-cost medical treatment abroad (tel. 0845/606-2030; www.ehic.org.uk). Note, however, that the EHIC only covers "necessary medical treatment“. Telephones, Time and Tipping

Telephones -- To call Ecuador: If you're calling Ecuador from abroad: • 1. Dial the international access code: 011 from the U.S.; 00 from the U.K., Ireland, or New Zealand; or 0011 from Australia. • 2. Dial the country code 593. • 3. Dial the one-digit area code; for Quito, the area code is 2. • 4. Dial the seven-digit number. The whole number you'd dial for a number in Quito, Ecuador, would be 011-593-2-0000-000. • To make calls within Ecuador: If you are calling within the same area code inside Ecuador, you simply dial the 7-digit number. However, if you are calling from one area code to another, you must dial "0" and then the area code. • To make international calls from Ecuador, first dial 00 and then the country code (U.S. or Canada 1, U.K. 44, Ireland 353, Australia 61, and New Zealand 64). Next, you dial the area code and number. For example, if you wanted to call Washington, D.C., you would dial 00-1-202-588-7800. • For directory assistance: Dial tel. 104. • For operator assistance: If you need operator assistance in making a call, dial tel. 105. Time -- Mainland Ecuador is on Eastern Standard Time, 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time. The Galápagos Islands are on Central Standard Time, 6 hours behind GMT. Tipping -- Restaurants in Ecuador add a 10% service charge to all checks. It's common to add 5% to 10% on top of this, especially if you feel the service merits it. Taxi drivers don't expect tips. Hotel porters are typically tipped 50¢ to $1 per bag. Currency and Credit Cards

• The official unit of currency in Ecuador has been the U.S. dollar. You can use American or Ecuadorean coins. Otherwise, all the currency is in the paper form of American dollars, in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100. It's very hard to make change, especially for any bill over $5, and especially in taxis. If you are retrieving money from an ATM, be sure to request a denomination ending in 1 or 5 so that you won't have to worry about breaking a large bill. If you are stuck with big bills, try to use them in restaurants to make change. • Small Change -- Before coming to Ecuador, and whenever you make a purchase, get some smaller bills and coins. Petty cash will come in handy for tipping, etc. • Credit cards are another safe way to carry money. They also generally offer relatively good exchange rates. You can also withdraw cash advances from your credit cards at banks or ATMs, provided you know your PIN. If you don't know yours, call the number on the back of your credit card and ask the bank to send it to you. It usually takes 5 to 7 business days, though some banks will provide the number over the phone if you provide some personal information. Keep in mind that many banks now assess a 1% to 3% "transaction fee" on all charges you incur abroad (whether you're using the local currency or U.S. dollars). All major credit cards are accepted in Ecuador, although MasterCard and Visa will give you the greatest coverage, while American Express and Diners Club are slightly less widely used and accepted. • Because credit card purchases are dependent upon phone verifications, some hotels and restaurants in more remote destinations, such as the Amazon basin and Galápagos Islands, do not accept them and some add on a 5% to 10% surcharge for credit card payments. Always check in advance if you're heading to a more remote corner of Ecuador. When to Go & Weather

• The peak seasons for travelers to Ecuador last from mid-June to early September and from late December through early January, because most American and European visitors have vacation time then. Cruises in the Galápagos are booked solid during these times of year. Bur Ecuador is great throughout the year.

• In the Galápagos, from June - September the air and water are chilly and the winds can be a bit rough. October - May, the air and water is warmer, but you can expect periodic light rain almost daily. • On the coast, the rainy season lasts from December - May; with hot weather and high humidity. The cooler air temperature from June - September attracts whales and dolphins to the waters off the coast. Oddly enough, it's actually much sunnier during the rainy season, with a pattern of sunny mornings and early afternoons, followed by distinct and heavy showers or storms in the late afternoons. The dry season is often characterized by dense and heavy overcast skies. • In Quito and the highlands, the weather is coolest June - September (the dry season), but only a few degrees colder than during the rest of the year. Although Quito is practically on the Equator, the temperature can get cool because of it's high altitude. The city has an average high of 19°C (66°F) and an average low of 10°C (50°F). In the rest of the highlands, the temperature is similarly consistent, with averages mostly determined by the altitude. • In the El Oriente it rains year-round, but the rain is especially hard from late December through April. The driest period is October - December. The temperature in the jungle can reach 27° to 32°C (81°-90°F) during the day; it's a bit cooler at night Entry Requirements and Customs

• A valid passport is required to enter and depart Ecuador, valid for 6 months after you are supposed to depart the country . For an up-to-date, country-by-country listing of passport requirements around the world, go to the "Foreign Entry Requirement" Web page of the U.S. Department of State at http://travel.state.gov. • Ecuadorean visas are not required for citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, France, Germany, and Switzerland. Upon entry, you will automatically be granted permission to stay for up to 90 days. Technically, to enter the country you need a passport that is valid for more than 6 months beyond the date of entry, a return ticket, and proof of how you plan to support yourself while you're in Ecuador. If you plan on spending more than 90 days here, you will need to apply for a visa at your local embassy. Requirements include a passport valid for more than 6 months, a police certificate with criminal record from the state or province in which you currently live, a medical certificate, a return ticket, and two photographs. • No specific shots or vaccines are necessary for travelers to Ecuador, although vaccinations against Hepatitis A are always a good idea. In addition, some countries, require proof of a yellow fever vaccine for tourists who have visited Ecuador. • What You Can Bring into Ecuador -- Visitors to Ecuador are legally permitted to bring in up to $1,250 worth of items for personal use, including cameras, portable typewriters, video cameras and accessories, tape recorders, personal computers, and CD players. You can also bring in up to 2 liters of alcoholic beverages and 200 cigarettes (1 carton). • What You Can Take Home from Ecuador -- It is illegal to bring out any pre-Columbian artifact from Ecuador, whether you bought it, you discovered it, or it was given to you. Ecological Diversity

• The amazing biodiversity throughout the nation's various regions means that there are thousands of unique species of flora and fauna in Ecuador. Ecuador is home to ten percent of the world's plant species, the majority of which grow in the northeastern Amazon, where an estimated 10,000 species thrive. • The diversity of the climate here has given rise to more than 25,000 species of trees. Moreover, the Andes is home to an estimated 8,200 plant and vegetable species. In the orchid family alone, 2,725 species have been identified in the area. In the Galapagos, there are about 600 native species and 250 more which were introduced by man. Three of the twelve key biodiversity zones can be found on the mainland. • Ecuador is home to 8 percent of the world's animal species and 18 percent of the planet's birds. Around 3,800 species of vertebrates have been identified in Ecuador as well as 1,550 species of mammals, 350 reptile species, 375 species of amphibians, 800 fresh water fish species, and 450 salt water fish species. Ecuador is also home to 15 percent of the world's endemic bird species. There are more than a million species of insects and 4,500 species of butterflies that live in Ecuador. • The ecosystems which exist in the country go from sea level to an altitude of around 6400 metres. Its total area is 14,583,227 hectares, including the highlands, the coast and the Amazon region. There are 46 ecosystems which are made up of paramo, woods, valleys and the Pacific Ocean, located in different climate zones. • There are 10 national parks, 14 natural reserves, a wild life refuge and a recreation area which are considered natural heritage and protected by the State. They cover an area of around 4,669,871 hectares of land and 14,110,000 of water. Cultural Diversity

• With a population of approximately 14,573,100, Ecuador possesses an astounding level of cultural and social diversity within its borders. Currently, Ecuador has a population consisting of 65% mestizo, 25% Indigenous, 10% Caucasian, 7% African, and 3% Black. • Ecuador is located in the area which formed the northern Incan Empire prior to Spanish conquest in 1533. The region's indigenous roots and the influences of various pre-Incan civilizations remain evident in present-day society in food, religious customs, music and dress. The mixtures of cultures has also been influenced by later immigration, such as the Afro-Ecuadoreans, descendants of African slaves brought in the 16 th century. Numbering approximately 500,00, they exert a strong cultural influence over greater Ecuadorian society. • By far the largest ethnic group in Ecuador is the Andean Quechua, estimated at around 2 million. The Quechua have preserved their language and cultural traditions to a remarkable degree, and continue to represent a powerful political and social force within broader Ecuadorian society. Smaller Andean ethnic groups include the Saraguro, Cayambi, Pichincha, Panzaleo, Chimbuelo, Salasacan, Tungurahua, Waranka, Puruhá and the Cañari. • Although the Amazon basin indigenous groups are much smaller and more dispersed than those of the highlands, they nonetheless represent a rich variety of distinctive cultural traditions and languages. These groups generally share a shamanistic belief-system and a traditional hunter gatherer subsistence lifestyle, but their specific customs are varied and unique. All of these groups are facing pressures from the outside world, but have managed to preserve their territories and they retain their traditional lifestyles to a remarkable degree. These groups include the Huaorani, Cofan, Shuar, Achuar, Siona, and Secoya. History

• Ecuador's first inhabitants settled along the coast and central highlands. Human presence in Ecuador existed as far back as 20,000 BC, with hunter-gatherer populations living along the Pacific around 10,000 BC. Permanent agrarian cultures established fixed settlements, developed metallurgy and navigation, as well as distinct art and religion, and relied on maritime trade, which reached as far north as Central America. • The Inca arrived in Ecuador in the mid-15th century and imposed their culture. In 1460, Inca ruler Tupac Yupanqui, based in Peru, attacked. The Inca met with resistance from indigenous tribes, and it was several years before the Inca, led by Huayna Capac, defeated them. The Inca introduced their language, Quechua. They also introduced new crops, agriculturual methods.They built cities and a network of roads. • The Spanish fought and defeated the Inca, taking control of Ecuadorian territory. In 1532, Francisco Pizarro and his men came to Ecuador, seeking to conquer the territory. Atahualpa was captured by the Spanish and was held for ransom. He was executed in 1533. Fighting between the Inca and Spanish continued. In 1534, The Inca, led by Rumiñahui, destroyed Quito rather than let it fall to the Spanish. The Spanish capture and killed Rumiñahui, and Quito was refounded. The Spanish based themselves in Lima, Peru, and later, Colombia, governing from Cali, Colombia to Paita, Peru. In 1563, the Spanish named their conquered territory the Audencia de Quito and it was governed by Pizarro's brother. History, Continued

• The Spanish influence was both positive and negative. The Spanish introduced their language, cattle, crops and Roman Catholicism; architecture became a blend of colonial and indigenous artistic influences. The indigenous people were subjected into a forced labor system, and illnesses brought by the Spanish ravaged the population. African slaves were brought to Ecuador to work on cocoa and sugar plantations in the coastal province of Esmeraldas. • The Spanish were eventually deposed. On May 24,1822, Antonio José de Sucre defeated Spanish royalists on the flanks of Pichincha Volcano, in the Battle of Pichincha. Ecuador briefly joined Simón Bolívar's Gran Colombia with Colombia and Venezuela before achieving complete independence in 1830, when it became the Republic of Ecuador, with Quito as the capital. • Since independence, Ecuador has experienced a great deal of political conflict. Apart from territorial disputes with Peru, Ecuador has been free of international conflict. Politically, Ecuador has been marked by political instability and violence. Ecuador was governed by provisional governments and military juntas throughout the 20th century; democratic rule was restored in 1979. Ecuador's current leader, Rafael Correa, re-elected in 2009, is the 12th president to serve since democratic rule was restored in 1979 Company Info

www.amazonadventures.com [email protected] www.facebook.com/AmazonADV www.twitter.com/Amazon_ADV 1-512-443-5393 or 1-800-232-5658 in the U.S. Stay Healthy

• Altitude sickness affects different people in completely different ways: reactions can range from mild difficulty breathing during strenuous activities to intense headaches, shortness of breath and nausea. Symptoms are headaches, drowsiness, confusion, dry cough and breathlessness. It is advised to stay at the same altitude or lower for the first two days and to drink plenty of liquids. • Altitude sickness is common in the cities that sit above 2500 meters, such as Quito, Cuenca and Riobamba. Mountain climbers are particularly at risk, and it is recommended to acclimatize for at least two days, doing short hikes. This improves the body’s readiness and circulation. • Natural treatments for altitude sickness include coca leaf tea, dark chocolate and gingko. Your doctor can also prescribe medication for altitude sickness, which must be taken before arrival. • Mosquitos, ticks and sand flies can be carriers of serious diseases. If you are going to be hiking or spending any time in the jungle, make sure you bring along a bug repellant that contains deet. Wear long pants and long-sleeve shirts and make sure to check for ticks after hiking. • Diabetes Type A is a common illness in Ecuadorians- in the food itself there is often a lot of sugar. If you have a problem with glucose levels, you should be sure to carry the medication that the doctor gave you before your trip,. • Sunburn - Ecuador is named as such because it is located on the Equator line. As such, even at high altitudes, the sun is incredibly strong. Apply sunscreen with factors of SPF 50 or higher, especially if you plan on being out and about in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sun can be a particular issue in Quito, Otavalo and the Cotopaxi National Park where there is a lot of exposed open area with less protection from the sun. The sun can burn in less than 20 minutes • Eating -Although various street foods can be tempting, use caution, because it is difficult to keep food fresh in the Ecuadorian sun, and tourists often get sick from eating food from street vendors. Even in restaurants, avoid salads or check carefully, and try to eat vegetables and fruits that are either cooked or that you peel yourself. Don’t drink tap water (unless it has been boiled) and avoid drinks with ice, as many restaurants use tap water to make ice. Bottled water and other drinks are available cheaply almost everywhere in the country. If you develop traveller’s diarrhea, make sure you drink lots of fluids and an oral rehydration solution with salt and sugar. If conditions persist for more than 72 hours, visit a doctor or hospital. Staying Safe

• It is true that crime rates in Ecuador are high, and personal safety is something you need to think about while traveling here. However, most crimes involve petty theft, and the likelihood of being a victim of a physical or sexual assault is lower than in many American cities. You can avoid being a target by being aware of the risks, and acting accordingly. • Plan Ahead • - Notify your embassy in Ecuador and sign-up for email updates if available (you will get news of any risks while you are here). • - Try to have a contact (ideally in Ecuador, but at home is okay too) who you arrange to contact on a regular basis. This person will know to contact authorities if they don’t hear from you. • - Avoid traveling by bus or car near the borders with Peru and Colombia – they are high-risk areas, especially after dark. Only use taxis that are registered and ask police officers or customs officials for advice about secure taxi services. • - Ask the concierge/owner at your hotel or hostel about the city or town where you are staying – safe & unsafe areas, where you can safely go after dark, etc. • Communicate Confidence: • - Plan out where you are going before you go out for the day. Taking your map out on the street makes you a beacon for theft. If you get lost, stop in a restaurant or store to get directions or read your map. • - Walk with purpose (even if you don’t have one) and respond politely to greetings. Always take care with well dressed people in the street who want to interview you but who do not have the normal local accent. They work in groups and have different scams such as giving you money or asking for your documents. They are focused in your wallet, credit or debit cards, cash, digital camera or laptop. • - Prepare for your trip by brushing up on Spanish – you will be more capable to handle yourself in various situations. More Safety

• You will need cash (not cards) to pay for almost everything you do or buy in Ecuador. Plan out how much cash you will need when you go out each day, & bring only what you need. If you need to withdraw money from ATMs do it in malls and banks and do not do it alone. Always check for people behind you.. Always get money in the morning and carry just enough for the day ahead. • - Don’t carry big purses or bags, especially if you’ll be using public transit. Keep your money close to your body (avoid back pockets) and stash bills in various spots. • - When you go out, don’t take anything that you are not willing to lose. Consider switching to a cheap watch for your trip, and bringing a small camera instead of a big SLR when you are touring around major cities. • - Always carry a copy of your passport with you • - While riding in cars or taxis, keep purses and bags on the floor and out of sight, and keep windows rolled up when stopped. • - Only use yellow taxis with company names and meters activated. The Ecuadorian taxi industry always tries to fool travelers. To get around this, always tell them “Por favor prenda el taximetro” (Turn on the taximeter please). Almost 90% of taxis in Quito use these during the day, but at night (usually 8 p.m.) they turn it off. At these times ask the hotel to call you a metered taxi. • In Guayaquil the taxis usually do not use taximeters so you need to negotiate the fee with the driver, Cuenca works in the same way as Quito. In 2009 private car without yellow color and marks were made legal, but 90% of them are just people using the family car, so take care. • - Avoid walking alone after dark. • - If you are a woman traveler, know that machismo is a reality here. Be aware that Ecuadorean men may assume that you’re promiscuous just because you are a foreigner. Be clear about your intentions when chatting with men. • - If someone asks for your money, or anything else – give it to them. Resistance can lead to violence, and nothing you own is worth your life (or anyone else’s). - If you are the victim of any crime, contact your embassy immediately. Doctors and Hospitals

• In case of illness, try to get to a major city (Quito, Cuenca, Manta or Guayaquil) for the best care. You can find a comprehensive list of practitioners in Quito through the American Embassy in Quito, at: http://ecuador.usembassy.gov/root/pdfs/medical-assistance.html/list-of-physicians-and- facilities.pdf. A similar list for Guayaquil can be found at: http://guayaquil.usconsulate.gov/media/pdf/specialists--facilities-2008-guayaquil.pdf • It is important to know that hospitals and doctors that speak English are not usually a cheap option , so be prepared for the bill. • Always try travel to Ecuador with travel insurance that provides coverage in case of accident or illness. • Many companies can offer travel insurance in your home country, and travel operators can also sell you it before you travel. Under Ecuadorian law, the private and public healthcare system must receive any patient in case of an emergency. However, in reality this does not always happen with the private hospitals, so you may need a credit card to get treatment (Visa, MasterCard, AMEX). Alternatively you can try to get cash before treatment. If you are unable to access money in case of an emergency, contact your embassy or tour operator for support. • A night in a normal room in a private hospital ranges from $250 to $1000, depending on the illness and type of treatment required. • Since 2007, Ecuador has been working on turning around its public healthcare system. In the 20 years prior to that, public healthcare was not good. Over the past few years there have been improvements in the facilities, medical equipment and professionals available, increasing the quality of service and the skills to fight diseases and deal with emergencies. • Because there has been an improvement in facilities and medical professional training, demand for healthcare has also increased. However, public healthcare might be an option for the first stages of an emergency. There are a few medics who speak English in these public hospitals and clinics in Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca. Once the initial emergency is over, you might request a transfer to a private hospital.