Know Before You Go – Ecuador

Elevation

The first and foremost thing to know before you go to Ecuador is that the elevation may affect your arrival or other travel plans. If arriving by plane, chances are you’ll fly into Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO). Quito is the highest official capital city in the world. While La Paz, Bolivia is higher, and is the seat of government in the country, Sucre is actually Bolivia’s constitutional capital.

Chew on some coca leaves to alleviate the altitude sickness (don’t try to bring them home, though – the dogs will sniff them out!). Wait until you’ve acclimatized before attempting to hike any of the nearby volcanoes!

Climate

Wondering when to go or what to pack? Ecuador is split into a rainy and dry season that alternate in the highlands, the coastal region, the Galapagos Islands, and the Amazon basin. With four different microclimates, be sure you bring layers!

What you pack and when to go completely depends on the area you’re visiting. Know before you go – Ecuador is a relatively small country, so checking off different regions in one trip is doable if you’ve got the time! Remember – layer, layer, layer!

Currency Tips for Ecuador

Good news for American travelers: Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar, so no exchange rate math headaches here—just swipe, spend, and enjoy. But heads up: Ecuador has its own dollar and half-dollar coins that aren’t accepted back in the States, so be sure to spend them before you fly home (or you’ll be stuck with some very patriotic souvenirs).

Beware of Counterfeit Cash

Whenever possible, withdraw cash before your trip. While using ATMs in Ecuador is common, there have been cases of counterfeit bills making their way into circulation through machines. I didn’t have any issues myself, but it’s a known risk—so better safe than stuck with Monopoly money.

Making Change Is an Art Form

Big bills are basically useless. Even a $20 might get you some serious side-eye, especially from taxi drivers and small vendors. Always carry small denominations, and try to break larger bills at big grocery stores or banks. I once had to stand in line at a bank just to get change—yes, really. Exact change is the unofficial national currency here.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Ecuador is insanely cheap. We’re talking 25 cents for a city bus ride cheap. Even Ubers and taxis rarely cost more than $3—so unless you’re really pinching pennies, you might just ride in style everywhere like I did.

Inter-City Bus Travel

Need to get from one town to the next? Buses are your best friend. Just budget about $1 per hour of travel (yes, really). A 3-hour trip will set you back a grand total of $3. The main stations in Quito, like La Ofelia, are a bit outside the city center—expect to pay around $25 for an Uber if you’re starting from the historic district.

Uber > Taxi

While both are cheap, Uber wins for one big reason: no need for exact change. Taxis practically demand it, and guessing the fare or haggling over a price with zero small bills is just… not it. Uber also cuts down your odds of getting “gringo-priced.”

Water Warning

Don’t drink the tap water unless you really want to bond with the local hospital staff. While locals are used to it, your stomach probably isn’t. Bring a purifying water bottle to be safe—unless you’re in Mindo, where the water is famously clean and crisp. Still, better to filter and be sure than to gamble with your gut.

Vaccines

Different parts of Ecuador require different vaccines. Don’t wait until the last minute—some shots (like yellow fever) aren’t available everywhere and can take time to schedule. Be a responsible traveler and check the CDC’s recommendations ahead of time. Seriously—no one wants to share a jungle bungalow with Typhoid Guy.

Haggling

Feel weird haggling? Same. But in Ecuador, negotiating is part of the culture—and oddly enough, not doing it can actually make vendors trust you less. Skip the cringe, and you’ll likely pay the “foreigner tax.” Take a deep breath, channel your inner bargain hunter, and give it a go.

Pickpockets

Safety First (and Always)

Let’s be real—safety is one of the top concerns for anyone heading to Ecuador, and a few key precautions can make a big difference. Everyone’s experience varies, but staying alert and trusting your instincts will go a long way.

If you’re snapping photos, grip your phone like it’s your passport. Drive-by thefts from mopeds or motorcycles are a thing—yes, even in broad daylight. On long bus rides, keep your bag in your lap, not at your feet. Pickpockets have been known to slash bags from behind without you even noticing.

And as much as that “friendly stranger” might seem helpful, unsolicited assistance is a red flag. One distracts, the other snatches—it’s a classic scam. This includes so-called bus staff offering to store your bags. Thanks, but no thanks. Keep it with you and keep it close.

Equatorial Sun!

Don’t let the breezy mountain air fool you—Ecuador’s equatorial sun is savage. I wore SPF 30 all day while hiking around El Parque Nacional Cajas and still ended up cooked to a crisp. On the ride back to Cuenca, I had to twist myself into a human pretzel just to avoid more sun exposure. Pro tip: pair your sunscreen with light, breathable clothing. SPF alone won’t save you.

The “Real” Middle of the World

Sure, Ecuador is named after the equator, but if you think Mitad del Mundo is the real equator, think again. That famous monument? Cute for pics, but not actually on the equator. The true line is a bit off the beaten path—and even that location is debated. Want to straddle the Earth’s waistline and balance an egg like a pro? Do your research before you go.

Toilet Paper

Yes, you read that right. Many public restrooms—especially around bus stations—don’t stock toilet paper. You may even be charged a few cents to use the facilities, and extra if you want TP. The smart move? Keep tissues or a small pack of wipes in your bag and avoid the awkward drip-dry dance.

Massive Empanadas

Food lovers, listen up: Ecuador takes snack portions to a whole new level. I ordered two $1 empanadas in Quito, assuming they’d be snack-sized. Spoiler alert: they were the size of my face. Delicious? Absolutely. Necessary? Probably not. If you’re hangry and eyeing the menu, maybe start with one and go from there.

Ecuadorian food may be cheap, but don’t let the prices fool you—the portions are no joke. I made the rookie mistake of ordering more than I could handle and sat there defeated, locking eyes with my server in silent, mutual understanding. She smiled like, “Yeah… we’ve all been there.” Lesson learned: your stomach will tap out long before your wallet does.

Chocolate

If chocolate is your love language, Ecuador is your soulmate. It’s one of the top cacao producers in the world, right up there with Switzerland and Belgium. Want the full bean-to-bar experience? Head to Mindo, a cloud forest chocolate paradise just a few hours from Quito. Can’t make the trip? Hit up Chez Tiff in Cuenca, where a Swiss-Ecuadorian couple makes magic. Free demos, all the samples you can handle, and mind-blowing flavors like chili and passion fruit.

Language Barriers

Don’t assume you can skate by on English—it’s rude and impractical. Most locals, especially older generations, don’t speak it. Learn a few basic Spanish phrases; it’ll go a long way and earn you serious respect. Try Duolingo before you go, and download a translator app for those unexpected vocabulary curveballs (like “tripe” or “guinea pig”).

Ceviche: Ecuadorian Style

After a brutal hike and sunburn from El Cajas, I landed at Restaurante Raymipampa in Cuenca and ordered ceviche, expecting something familiar. What I got was a plate of tostado—aka crunchy corn nuts—and confusion. Turns out, they go in the ceviche. I googled it at the table like the true gringa I am. Verdict: tasty either way, but I preferred mine solo, with a generous helping of aji (hot sauce). Don’t knock it ’til you try it!

Cuy: A Delicacy… or Your Childhood Pet

Cuy (yes, guinea pig) is a traditional Andean dish, typically roasted whole and served with its tiny little face intact. I didn’t see it during my trip, but maybe I just wasn’t looking hard enough—probably on purpose. Word on the street is it’s gamey, a little greasy, and tastes like dark meat chicken meets quail. If you’ve ever owned a guinea pig, maybe… just skip this one. Or don’t. No judgment—just let me know how it was.

Aji

Ecuadorian food checks all the boxes for fresh, local, and often organic—but if you’re a spice lover or flavor junkie, you will notice something missing. That’s where aji comes in. This magical table condiment is Ecuador’s answer to ketchup or mayo—except way better. It’s made with tree tomatoes, chilies, cilantro, onions, and whatever secret twist the cook throws in. The best aji I had was from my new buddy Angel at Uku Pacha in Quito. He’s since moved on, but you can still slather your food in the glorious fire of their house blend.

Almuerzos & Desayunos: The Real MVPs

If you’re ballin’ on a budget, you’re in luck—almuerzos (lunches) and desayunos (breakfasts) are filling, delicious, and cheap as hell. We’re talking multi-course meals for around $2. Think rice or potatoes, a little salad, some meat, soup, juice, and dessert. In Cuenca, I lived for my mornings at Café Fractal near Parque Calderón—massive breakfasts, fresh fruit, fresh-squeezed juice, and uninterrupted laptop time for a few bucks. Peak travel bliss.

Corn Is a Food Group

In Ecuador, corn isn’t just a side dish—it’s a way of life. You’ll find it in everything. Tostado with your ceviche? Check. Corn masa for breakfast? Yep. Whole kernels in soup? Of course. Just accept that if you’re eating in Ecuador, you’re also eating corn—probably in five forms on the same plate.

Expats Are Everywhere

Ecuador has a thriving expat scene, especially in places like Cuenca and Mindo. Quito has its share too, but the smaller cities tend to draw the long-term crowd. Whether it’s the low cost of living, easy pace, or dreamy mountain views, it’s not hard to see why so many folks decide to stay way past vacation.

It’s not just the empanadas and epic landscapes—Ecuador is a legit hotspot for expats thanks to its low cost of living, surprisingly good healthcare, and overall high quality of life. Locals are warm, welcoming, and often eager to help (especially if you attempt some Spanish). The only recurring gripe I heard from expats? Spotty internet, particularly along the coast. That said, I had zero issues streaming, Zooming, or WiFi-hogging in the cities I visited—so maybe it’s a beach-town problem. Either way, it’s a small trade-off for living in paradise on a budget.

Medical Tourism in Ecuador? Oh Yes.

One of the most surprising (and frankly, mind-blowing) things I learned in Ecuador was just how affordable and high-quality the healthcare system is. As an American—aka someone used to hemorrhaging money for even basic care—this felt like discovering a hidden portal to sanity. I met multiple expats who said they originally came for dental work, surgeries, or diagnostics… and just never left. And we’re not talking sketchy, back-alley procedures either. Think clean, modern facilities and well-trained professionals. Like, you can get an MRI for $150 without insurance. I repeat: $150. For. An. MRI. (More on this soon, because yes, it deserves its own deep dive.)

Indigenous Ecuadorians

I happened to visit Ecuador not long after the massive protests of October 2019—an 11-day nationwide upheaval that made international headlines. What sparked it? A fuel price hike tied to an IMF austerity package. What ended it? The sheer collective force of Ecuador’s Indigenous communities.

My guide (and now friend) Marc explained how one member from nearly every Indigenous family in the country came down from the highlands and jungles to protest in Quito. Thousands gathered. Seven people died. And the president? He backed down. Lenín Moreno scrapped the plan entirely after sitting down with Indigenous leaders. Moral of the story: Indigenous Ecuadorians hold serious political and social power—and they’re not afraid to use it.

Panama Hats? Made in Ecuador.

Despite the name, Panama hats aren’t from Panama. They’re Ecuadorian through and through. The mix-up happened because Ecuador was exporting these hats through Panama during the 19th-century canal construction boom. Then came Teddy Roosevelt, rocking one during his visit to the canal—and boom, the name stuck. But make no mistake: if you’re picking up a Panama hat in Ecuador, you’re getting the real deal from the real source.

Street Dogs: The Unofficial City Mascot

It’s heartbreaking, but you’ll see street dogs in just about every city in Ecuador. Lots of them. While most locals leave them be and they’re often surprisingly well-behaved, it’s still tough to witness. Just know: it’s a part of life here. (And no, sadly, you can’t rescue them all.)

Proof of Onward Travel (Don’t Get Stuck at the Airport)

Heads up if you’re arriving in Ecuador on a one-way ticket: you’ll likely be asked for proof of onward travel. This is usually enforced by airlines at check-in—not customs—so they won’t let you board without documentation showing you’re leaving the country. If you’re unsure when or how you’ll depart, services exist that generate temporary/fake flight bookings for just this purpose. I haven’t used one personally, but many travelers I met swear by them. Moral of the story: have your exit plan—real or rented—ready to show.

Tipping in Ecuador

Dining out? Your bill will usually include a 10% service charge. If the service was stellar, it’s appreciated to leave a bit more—maybe another 5–10%. If there’s no gratuity listed on the bill, leaving a tip is a nice gesture. As for taxis? No tip expected. Just round up or offer a “gracias” and you’re good to go.

Land of Dirt Cheap Roses

File this under “delightful surprises”—Ecuador is the world’s third-largest exporter of cut flowers, and it shows. You can score two dozen long-stemmed roses for under $5. Yes, really. Strolling through the daily flower market in Cuenca is a sensory treat: the air practically bursts with the scent of fresh blooms in every color imaginable. Treat yourself.

Shrunken Heads

Feeling a little morbid? Head over to Museo Pumapungo in Cuenca, where you can lay eyes on real, honest-to-goodness shrunken heads. This unnerving tradition was once practiced by the Jivaro people of the Ecuador-Peru region. Creepy? Absolutely. Fascinating? Also yes.

Voting: Not Optional

In Ecuador, voting is mandatory. Citizens between the ages of 18 and 65 must vote—unless they’re illiterate. It’s a Latin American thing (see also: Brazil, Uruguay), and taken quite seriously. So if you’re planning to become a citizen, prepare to bring your ballot game.

Colonial Capital of South America

Quito was the first city to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the best-preserved example of Spanish Colonial influence in South America.

Voltage

The standard voltage is 120 V and the frequency is 60 Hz in Ecuador – so if you’re from the Americas, you’re probably good. Grab an adapter if you’re coming from elsewhere.

Last-minute Galapagos Deals

Dreaming of those iconic islands that helped Darwin blow everyone’s minds, but your wallet’s screaming “Absolutely not”? Here’s the trick: last-minute Galápagos cruises can be way cheaper. Captains often drop prices to fill those final spots. But if you’re a hyper-organized, spreadsheet-loving, type-A traveler (hi, same), this approach might make you break out in hives. Adventure isn’t always perfectly planned!

Isla de la Plata

Can’t swing a Galápagos trip but still dying to check “Blue-Footed Boobies” off your bucket list? Say hello to Isla de la Plata—aka the “Poor Man’s Galápagos.” Just off the coast of Puerto López, this little island offers up a surprisingly similar wildlife experience (think humpback whales, manta rays, and sea turtles) for a fraction of the cost. Just remember: nature runs on her own schedule. Mating seasons, migrations, and hatchings all depend on when you go—so plan accordingly if there’s something specific you want to see!

Ring of Fire

Ecuador sits smack-dab in the Ring of Fire, which means earthquakes happen more often than you’d like to think. I even found out there had been a couple this week while I was fact-checking. While most tremors are minor, they can still make your heart race. If you’ve never experienced one, it’s basically nature reminding you she’s the boss.

Street Art for Days

Ecuador’s street art scene? Chef’s kiss. From Cuenca to Quito, the murals and political pieces are both gorgeous and thought-provoking. I’m street-art obsessed, especially while traveling (you’ve probably noticed that from the photos on here). One of these days, I’ll finally publish a post rounding up my favorite pieces from around the world. Until then—scroll and swoon!

Protests

It’s no secret that the world is in protest right now – it’s not just South America. I stumbled across two protests on the same day during my first trip to Ecuador.

The first was the now-famous Chilean protest against femicide and rape ‘El Violador Eres Tu.’ At the time, I didn’t know what I was watching. While I can order food and make purchases, that’s about the extent of my language capabilities in Spanish.

I saw these women gather in Cuenca one morning as I wandered around the city. I didn’t know what they were saying, or why they were blindfolded, or why it was only women. Still, my eyes welled up with tears as I witnessed this solidarity and passion. I had to pull my sunglasses down to cover my eyes (I’m sensitive, what can I say?). I found out later that day what the protest was about and had a good cry. If you haven’t heard of it, here’s what it’s all about.

That same night, I was walking back to my AirBnb after dinner when seemingly out of nowhere, a group formed around Parque Calderón. An activist at heart, I stuck around to see what it was all about (I never did find out the precise reason for the protest – the sign in the background in the photo below said something along the lines of ‘the power is with the people, NOT the government.’

While the chances of running into a protest may be high anywhere – not just in Ecuador – be aware of your surroundings and any possible exit strategies. There was police presence, but no violence. Both of the protests I witnessed in Cuenca were nothing but peaceful. Still, some protests can be extremely dangerous (such as the uprisings in October 2019) – be mindful of your surroundings ALWAYS.

Incredible Architecture

Quito’s historic center is dripping with Spanish colonial vibes—those stunning old buildings are definitely worth a look. But if Quito manages to impress you, just wait until you get your butt to Cuenca. Seriously, Cuenca’s architecture could give some of Europe’s most beautiful cities a run for their money, and all without the sky-high price tag. I thought Cuenca would be pretty, but it straight-up blew me away.

No Need to go to the Galapagos for Epic Nature

Ecuador’s natural beauty is bonkers. I haven’t even scratched the surface, and I probably never will because there’s just too much to see. From active volcanoes and sprawling national parks to the wild Amazon, dreamy Pacific beaches, lush cloud forests, and yes, even judgmental alpacas everywhere you look—this place is a nature lover’s jackpot.

There you have it — the most extensive, no-BS guide I could put together for Ecuador. Got questions or want to add something? Hit me up!