Travel Planner

2010-2011

Travel Planner 2010-2011

Galpagos

Esmeraldas

Tulcn
S

Ibarra
Nueva Loja
Santo Domingo

Puerto
Baquerizo Moreno

Latacunga

Manta

Tena

Quevedo

Portoviejo

Ambato

Babahoyo

Santa Elena

Francisco de Orellana

Baeza

Baos

Guaranda

Pacific
Ocean

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Quito

Baha de Carquez
Puerto Ayora

Equator

Puyo
Riobamaba

Guayaquil

Macas
Azogues
Cuenca

Machala

GALPAGOS
ISLANDS

www.ecuador.travel
Loja

ECUADOR

Zamora
Out of proportion collage showing a topographic West - East section of Ecuador.

PACIFIC
OCEAN

ATRANTIC
OCEAN

galapagos

pacific coast

andes

amazon

Content
Life at its purest

Natural heritage

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Cultural heritage

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The renowned warmth and hospitality of the Ecuadorian people

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At the Middle of the World

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And where everything is at a short distance

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Ecuador and its four worlds

Galapagos Islands (Galapagos)
Pacific Coast (Costa)
Andes
Amazon Rainforest (Amazona)

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See Ecuador in 28 days

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Tourism in Ecuador
General Travel Circuits of Ecuador
Congresses, conventions and events
Quito
Guayaquil
Cuenca
Ecotourism and rural tourism
Best Managment Practices in Sustainable Tourism with Rainforest Alliance
Adventure and Special Interest Travel or Specialized Tourism
Surf
Scuba Diving
Paragliding

Mountain biking

Rock climbing

High mountain climbing and trekking

Rafting and kayaking
Motorcycling
Birding

Whale watching

Cultural Tourism

Hacienda tourism

Orchid tourism
Agritourism

Archaeological tourism

Travel and learn Spanish in Ecuador

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Important information on Ecuador

Traveling throughout Ecuador
Useful Contacts

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Lets do business together

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Life
at its purest
Ecuador is a real sustainable paradise. Its commitment
on protecting natural, cultural, and human mega-diversity
is the main goal of this country, which leads sustainable
tourism in Latin America. In fact, the Travel Industry
Association of America (TIA) together with National
Geographic Traveler magazine gave Ecuador the Gold
Odyssey Award in the category Travel to a better World
Awards for Ecuadors advertising focused on sustainable
tourism.
While only the size of the state of Nevada, Ecuador is
considered to be among the 17 most diverse countries
in the world, and its geographical, biological, and cultural
diversity is unparalleled. Here, visitors can admire the
snow-capped Andes mountains, explore the wonders
of the Amazon rainforest, surf the waves along the sun
soaked Pacific beaches, and visit the legendary Galapagos
Islands.

Located in a privileged part of the planet, in the northwest of

South America and on the Equator, Ecuador shares borders with
Colombia to the north, and Peru to the south and east. Ecuador is
divided into four different worlds, including the Galapagos Islands,
the Pacific Coast, the Highlands (Northern and Southern Andes),
and the Amazon. It contains 33 natural state-protected reserves
and extensive tropical forests that are home to approximately 1,640
species of birds; 4,500 species of butterflies, 345 species of reptiles,
358 species of amphibians, and 258 species of mammals, amongst
others. The Sangay and Galapagos National Parks, as well as the
Galapagos Marine Reserve, have been declared UNESCO World
Natural Heritage Sites.
Ecuador is also home to a diverse assortment of people hailing
from 27 different ethnic backgrounds, including 13 indigenous
groups, in addition to its majority mestizo population. Colorful fiestas,
fine handi-crafts, and delicious traditional cuisine also attest to the
rich diversity of the country.
A true example in sustainable tourism, Ecuador is committed to
protecting its natural, cultural, and human mega-diversity. Through
such initiatives as its Best Management Practices program,
established in partnership with the Rainforest Alliance, the country

has established a sustainable tourism infrastructure that works to

conserve its wildlife, environment, and protect its native cultures. In
its wildly different landscapes, small and large, unique and colorful
cities have grown. Situated in an Andean Mountain valley, Quito,
the capital of Ecuador, is two cities in one. Quitos old town is the
largest and best-preserved historic colonial center in Latin America,
and its model new city is a bustling business and cultural center
full of attractions. Cuenca, located in the Southern Andes, is home
to beautiful colonial architecture, and some of the countrys most
impressive art museums. It is also situated in close proximity to a
number of historical pre-Colombian archaeological sites.
Both Quito and Cuenca were declared UNESCO World Cultural
Heritage Sites for their beautiful colonial centers. Meanwhile,
Guayaquil, the countrys principal port, is a thriving metropolis in
which the flavor of the coast, tropical attractions, beaches, history,
and the archaeology of the most ancient peoples of the Americas
combine with the best urban avant-garde designs. Guayaquil has
been renowned by the UN as a model for urban development for
its innovative urban renewal projects which have restored many of
this citys historical neighborhoods, parks, avenues, transportation
systems, ports and squares.

Natural
Heritage
The most diverse

country in the world

Ecuador is the most diverse country in the world in proportion with its size.
With four very different worlds:
Galapagos, nature at its purest.
Pacific Coast, where the green beaches meet the sea.
Andes, he avenue of the volcanoes.
Amazon, from the Andean peaks to the jungle.
With large protected areas (18% of the countrys area).
With the uniqueness of the Galapagos National Park and its
Marine Biological Reserve, as well as the Sangay National Park,
natural heritage of humanity sites.
With the Sumaco, Yasuni, and Galapagos National Parks, declared Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO.
With the largest amount of flora and fauna per square kilometer
in the world:
Second in the world for endemic vertebrates.
Third in the world for amphibians.
Fourth in the world for bird species.
Fifth in the world for butterflies.
Home to 10% of the worlds plant species.
Home to 10.7% of all vertebrate animals on the planet.
And 35% of all species of humming birds...

...all this in 0.19% of the earths surface.

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Cultural
heritage
Multicultural country
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Quito, with its exceptional location on the Equator and at some

9,000 feet above sea level, was the first city in the world to be
declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1978. The
Historical Center of Quito, the largest and best conserved in the
whole of Latin America, is a true museum stretched out over
320 hectares (791 acres), and is considered a Shrine of Art in
America.

The beauty of Cuencas historical center, also declared a

UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, presents a particular type of
republican architecture that blends in with stunning geographi-cal
surroundings. Cuenca also has a rich cultural history, and is the site
of numerous traditional festivals throughout the year. Riobamba
and Loja are two other cities rich in history and which contain well
preserved colonial centers.
The pre-Colombian archaeological ruins of Ingapirca, the Temple
of the Sun, was used for the ceremonies and rituals of the Caari
and Inca cultures. This elliptical structure with carved stones is one
of the most important archaeological sites in the country.
The 13 indigenous groups that inhabit Ecuador have conserved
many of their ancient customs, including their languages, myths,
legends, rituals, and celebrations.
The vibrant Afro-Ecuadorian culture living in the Province of
Esmeraldas in the northwest of Ecuador, has origins dating back
to the sixteenth century when African slaves were brought by the
Spanish to work in the gold mines of Colombia. Many managed
to escape and fled to Ecuador, where they formed a populatation
of approximately 500,000 Afro-Ecuadorians. This coastal group
is famous for their dance and music, which they play from native
instruments like the marimba, bombo, and the guasa.
The indigenous groups of the Amazon are renowned for their skill
and ancestral knowledge in terms of traditional medicine. For the
Amazonian people, the rainforest provides shelter, food, medicinal
plants, and spiritual wealth. They are extremely respectful and
careful to preserve its ecological balance, and live in harmony with
nature, taking only what they need for survival.
Musical works, traditional folkloric ballets, and magnificent
plays portraying life in Ecuador can also be enjoyed in a variety of
venues throughout the country.

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The renowned
warmth
and hospitality

of the Ecuadorian people

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Ecuadorians are honest, warm and service-oriented people

who truly enjoy welcoming foreign visi-tors to their country. Their
friendly nature makes travelers feel safe and well looked after, as
they are treated like guests rather than tourists. Ecuadorians are
proud of their culture, passionate about conserving their way of
life and keen to sharing their traditions and rituals with foreigners.
Very close to lakes and lagoons, old colonial haciendas
conserve the atmosphere of the past and allow visitors to delight in
discovering the countrys mestizo roots. Visitors enjoy the aroma of
the flowers and delight in the aromas and flavors of cocoa, coffee,
banana, and sugarcane in the modern plantations.
Some indigenous communities in the Andes, and along the
Pacific coast, invite visitors into their homes to share their customs
and beliefs. In the Amazon region, there are as many as 40 ecotourism projects, lead by local groups, designed to provide travelers
a unique and educational experience in the Amazon. Perhaps most
rewarding for a visitor is the opportunity to be a participant, rather
than just an observer.

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At the Middle
of the World

latitude
0
Its location and climate

All it takes is a single step to pass from

the Northern Hemisphere to the Southern
Hemisphere. Here, in the Middle of the World, at
zero latitude, the shade vanishes with the vertical
midday sun.
The first inhabitants carefully followed the
course of the stars. The Incas were so fascinated
with this energy center that they incorporated it
into their empire.
In 1736, the Frenchman Charles-Marie de la
Condamine embarked on a scientific journey to
Spanish America to prove the width of the earth
in Ecuador. Today, the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of
the World) is one of the most visited, and largest
scientific, and cultural centers in the country.
Along the main entrance path, 13 statues of the
scientists from the French Geodesic Mission who
participated in measuring an arch of the meridian
of the earth have been erected. Due to its prime
location along the equator line, Ecuador is also the
country of eternal springtime. The countrys great
geographical diversity has produced a variety of
climates and microclimates, ideal environments
for the flourishing of flora and fauna.

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And where
everything
is at a short
distance

Due to its small size, visitors can easily travel to

each of Ecuadors four worlds. Only in Ecuador can
a traveler climb the tallest active volcano in the world,
kayak the rapids of the Amazon rainforest, crisscross
the Equatorial line on horseback, surf tropical Pacific
swells along a Pre-Incan archaeological site, and swim
with penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions and harmless
whale sharks all in one trip!
From Quito, the Amazon, Cuenca or Guayaquil
are just a thirty-minutes flight away from one world
to another. Because Ecuador is small and has a good
network of roads and highways, ground travel within
the country is also easy and quick, and is especially
recommended for travelers wanting to take in the
dramatic change in landscapes.

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Ecuador and
its four worlds
Located at zero latitude, Ecuador is united into
four distinct regions, where four seasons can occur
in a single day. Discover this land from the eternal
snow of the Andes, to the thick humid forests of
the Amazon, to the sunny beaches along the Pacific
coast and the fascinating Galapagos Islands.

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pacific coast
galapagos

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amazon

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Galpagos
Nature at its purest
Galapagos is one of the most important national parks in the world.
It has 13 main islands and dozens of islets and minor volcanic islands.
This archipelago, 97% of which is protected by the government, is located almost 620 miles from the Ecuadorian coast and is characterized by
its white-sand beaches, cactus forests, giant turtles, and colored birds
such as the blue-footed, red-footed and masked boobies, flamingos,
and penguins. The Islands are also home to finches, frigate birds, albatrosses, and pelicans.
The islands are a living laboratory of animal species that do not exist
anywhere else on the planet. The capital of the Galapagos Islands, Puerto
Baquerizo Moreno, is located on San Cristbal Island. Its attractions
include El Junco Lake, Len Dormido (Kicker Rock), Lobos Island, and
Cerro Tijeretas (Frigate Bird Hill).
On Santa Cruz Island, the Charles Darwin Research Station has
been working on various conservation projects for several decades.
There, you can see the ancient giant Galapagos tortoises, which live
for an average of 150 years. Floreana, Genovesa, Santiago, Espaola,
Seymour Norte, Plazas, Santa F, and Isabela islands are all home to a
large range of endemic species that live in this paradise.
The marine reserve, which like the archipelago was declared a
UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, features on the list of the seven
best places in the world to snorkel and scuba dive. During such trips,
visitors can swim with whales, rays, manta rays, swordfish, marine
turtles, sea lions, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and other
impressive species.

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Sample itinerary:

Galpagos 5 days
1st day: Quito / Guayaquil Galapagos (Baltra) Santa Cruz
Island
Flight from Quito or Guayaquil to the Galapagos; arrival and
transfer to boat.
Visit to Cerro Dragn (Dragon Hill) on Santa Cruz Island; walk
to a salt water lagoon frequented by flamingos and other bird
species. Optional hike to the top of the hill, from which there is
an excellent view of the bay and an iguana nesting site.
2nd day: Rbida Island Santiago Island
Santiago Island has outstanding white and black sand beaches.
Visitors to this island can see the Galapagos fur seals, lava rocks,
and volcanic lava landscapes. What is more, it is an excellent
place to see various species of herons and marine iguanas,
while watching small crabs run around. This is an excellent site
to swim and dive to observe marine life.
Rbida Island, located further out to sea from San Salvador
Island, has red beaches of volcanic origin and is frequented by
sea lions. It is often considered to be the geographical center
of the Galapagos due to its different volcanic rocks. Colonies of
flamingos, brown pelicans, boobies, and nine species of Darwin
finches can be seen here.
3rd day: Isabela Island Fernandina Island
Visit Tagus Cove on Isabela Island, the largest island of the
archipelago and home to the largest population of giant turtles.
Visitors can explore a cove by boat and see penguins, pelicans,
and other marine birds.
On Fernandina Island, home to the largest colony of marine
iguanas, a flat lava field serves as a nesting site for cormorants.
Sea lions stretch out on the beaches next to natural pools, while
Galapagos hawks keep a close eye on visitors.
4th day: Bartolom Island Santa Cruz Island
Visit Bartolom, a small island characterized by its beautiful
beaches and green mangroves in the lower part and its lunar
landscapes of volcanic formations in the upper part. Climb up
the wooden stairs that take you to the top, from where there
is an impressive view of the islands, including Roca Pinculo,
an eroded volcanic cone. Snorkel with penguins, marine turtles,
and white fin sharks. Sail to Santa Cruz Island.
5th day: Galapagos (Baltra) Quito / Guayaquil
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where national
and international scientists carry out biological research and
conservation projects. Here, you can also see giant tortoises and
their one-year-old offspring. Transfer to airport to catch flight to
Quito or Guayaquil.

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Pacific
Coast
Where the green beaches
meet the sea

Beautiful beaches are found from north to south on the

Ecuadorian Pacific Coast. Alongside ports, fishing villages, and
modern cities, dense protected forests grow with their gigantic and
moist terracotta roots. The tallest mangroves in the world (64 meters
/ 194 feet high) are found in the Majagual forest in the Cayapas-Mataje
Ecological Reserve. In Machalilla National Park, the sea, virgin beaches,
and forests combine with the history of pre-Incan cultures. The waters
around Isla de la Plata are a paradise of multicolored fish and the islands
fauna is similar to that found on the Galapagos Islands. From Puerto
Lpez, you can see the humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) that
arrive from the Antarctic waters to mate between June and October of
each year. The biggest refuge for marine birds in Ecuador is Santa Clara
Island off the southern coast.
Enjoy the sea breeze as you travel along the Ruta del Sol (Route of
the Sun), which takes in deserted beaches, picturesque fishing villages,
and beautiful and modern beaches, such as Salinas and the impressive
fishing and tourist port of Manta. Baha de Carquez, a beautiful eco-city
on the Pacific coast, is the departure point for visiting tropical dry forests
and archaeological sites.
In Esmeraldas, lush tropical landscapes combine with long beaches.
In Atacames, tourism blends with the happiness and hospitability of the
Ecuadorian people.

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Sample itinerary:

Coast 5 days

1st day: Tour of Guayaquil

Visit to the city of Guayaquil, one of the most important ports
of the Southern Pacific in South America. Walk along the new
and renovated riverfront promenade Malecn 2000, with a
beautiful view of the Guayas River. Along the promenade, there
are stores, restaurants, museums and an IMAX theater. Climb
up the stairs leading to the top of Santa Ana Hill through the
old and traditional neighborhood of Las Peas. From the Faro
(lighthouse) at the top, you can enjoy a great view of the city. In
the afternoon, visit the Historical Park, the Botanical Garden, or
the Cerro Blanco Nature Reserve. In the evening, enjoy a boat
trip along Guayas River and admire the colors of the city.
2nd day: Guayaquil Cocoa plantations Salinas
Early morning departure for the Ruta del Cacao (Cocoa Route)
in the southwest for a visit to one of the cocoa-producing
haciendas, where you will learn about the production process
and try delicious Ecuadorian chocolate. Later on, travel to
Salinas, a prosperous and modern city with an ideal beach for
practicing water sports, such as jet skiing, windsurfing, diving,
and sport fishing.
3rd day: Salinas Machalilla National Park
In the morning, travel along the coastal road via the beaches
of the Ruta del Sol. Here, you will pass through impressive
coastal landscapes and see fishing villages and places such
as Punta Carnero, ideal for amateur fishing, and Montaita,
internationally renowned for surfing. Visit the Salango Museum,
where the remains of pre-Colombian cultures are on display.
Arrival in Puerto Lpez, where you can stay in one of the
beachfront lodges or hotels at the entrance of Machalilla
National Park.
4th day: Isla de la Plata Machalilla National Park
Visit Isla de La Plata, where you will see species of bird and
fauna that are very similar to the ones found on the Galapagos
Islands. Due to this, the island is known as the mini Galapagos
and is also an ideal place for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Between June and October, you can see the humpback whales
(Megaptera novaeangliae) that arrive each year to mate. In the
afternoon, swim in the emerald-colored waters of los Frailes
beach before returning to your hotel.
5th day: Machalilla National Park Manta Guayaquil / Quito
/ Baha
Discover Montecristi, where Panama hats are made. Then visit
the beach in Manta, where you can stay in a good beachfront
hotel before catching a flight the next day to Quito or returning
to Guayaquil. From Manta, visitors can also extend their stay on
the coast and head north to the city of Baha de Carquez, the
ecological city of the Ecuadorian coast.

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Andes
Avenue of the volcanoes
In the mythical Andes mountains, there are volcanoes that are more
than 16,400 feet/5,000 meters high and are permanently covered
with snow and glaciers dating back to ancient times. The tallest
active volcano in the world, Cotopaxi (19,350 feet/5,897 meters above
sea level), is the perfect setting for charming villages and fertile valleys.
Chimborazo (20,702 feet/6,310 meters above sea level) has five summits
on flanks of rocks and an extensive Andean plateau. Cayambe (18,996
feet/5,790 meters above sea level) is the only snow-capped mountain
in the world that is located at zero latitude. Iliniza Norte (North) (16,784
feet/5,116 meters above sea level) and Iliniza Sur (South) (17,267
feet/5,305 meters above sea level) are considered by the indigenous
people to be a couple: male mountain and female mountain. The impressive Antisana (18,713 feet/5,704 meters above sea level) has two cones
joined together by a shallow ridge.
In the north, extensive forests of Polylepis, the original trees of the
area, are found next to flat plateaus of frailejones in El Angel Reserve.
Meanwhile, in the northwest, in the Mindo-Nambillo protective forest,
you will find the most important bird reserve in the world. Here, you can
see hummingbirds, parrots, horneros (ovenbirds), sparrowhawks, and
cock of the rocks, to name but a few. In the Andes, in the south of the
country, 18 miles from Cuenca, the Cajas National Park is spread out
over a protected area of more than 28,000 hectares (69,189 acres) and
contains some 232 glacial lakes.
Throughout the Andes mountain range, you will find impressive plateaus,
lakes, rivers, waterfalls, hot springs, cloud forests, valleys, indigenous
markets and picturesque villages, and historical as well as modern
colonial cities.
In addition to this enchanting panorama, a number of haciendas dating
back to colonial times can be found along the Avenue of the Volcanoes.

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Sample Itinerary:

Andes 5 days
1st day: Tour of Quito
Discover the enchanting contrast between Modern Quito, with its
tall buildings and wide streets, and the Historical Center, which
is brimming with impressive churches such as the Cathedral, El
Sagrario, La Compaa, and San Francisco, among others. Visit
other historical sites, including the Plaza Grande and the Palacio
de Gobierno (Government Palace). Look out over the colonial
city from Panecillo Hill, where you will find the only winged virgin
statue in South America.
In the afternoon, visit Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World),
where you can stand on the Equator line, or look out over the
entire city in a 15-minute cable ride up Pichincha Volcano at the
Telefrico de Quito.
2nd day: Quito Otavalo Cuicocha
Visit Caldern in the north of Quito, where craftsmen make
bread-dough figures. Enjoy the attractive Andean landscapes
before arriving at the indigenous market in Otavalo, home to the
world-famous Poncho Fair. In the afternoon, visit Cotacachi,
famous for the high-quality leather goods that are made there.
Cotacachi is on the road to Cuicocha, a turquoise lake found
within an ancient volcanic crater.
3rd day: Quito Cotopaxi National Park Riobamba
Travel from Quito to Cotopaxi National Park, home to the tallest
active volcano in the world (5,897 m / 19,350 feet above sea
level). Visit the archaeological center of El Salitre and take a
walk around Limpiopungo Lake. Later on, visit the parks
interpretation center. In the afternoon, head to Riobamba, an
interesting colonial city and the birthplace of Ecuadors first
Constitution in 1830.

5th day: Tour of Cuenca El Cajas National Park

Visit to one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Ecuador.
Walk through the cobblestone streets and admire the
charming wrought iron balconies and plazas brimming with
flowers. Visit the impressive new Cathedral on one side
and the fascinating old Cathedral on the other side. See the
colonial houses that line one of the four rivers of Cuenca: El
Tomebamba.
Visit a company that makes Panama hats. In the afternoon,
visit El Cajas National Park, its paper trees (Polylepis), and
some of the 232 different sized lakes among the steep
mountains.

4to da: Riobamba tren Ingapirca Cuenca

Travel along the Panamericana highway, passing though some
of the most picturesque indigenous areas of the Andes. Arrive
at the train station in Guamote or Alausi to experience the
adventure of traveling from the high Andes to the lowlands down
the Nariz del Diablo (Devils Nose), an engineering masterpiece.
Continue on to Ingapirca (3,100 m / 10,168 feet), one of the
most important archaeological sites in Ecuador, and then head
onwards to Cuenca.
IMPORTANT: The train normally runs on Wednesdays, Fridays,
and Sundays.

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Amazon
From the Andean peaks to
the Amazon Rainforest

Visitors will find that Ecuador offers the easiest access to the
Amazon. In just a few hours, visitors can travel from the Andean peaks to
the jungle. Volcanoes such as El Sangay and El Altar, with their numerous
and sharp peaks, can be seen from the exuberant and dense vegetation
of the Amazon. Reserves and national parks are home to hundreds of
bird and fish species. They are also home to tapirs, anacondas, boa
constrictors, turtles, lizards, armadillos, bears, monkeys, giant rodents
and infinite bird species. Ecuador is home to the largest diversity of
animals and plants per square kilometer in the world, and it is third in the
world for its variety of amphibians, and fifth for butterflies.
Tropical rainforests and immense lakes make up the Reserva de
Produccin Faunstica Cuyabeno (Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve), a unique
place that is home to reptiles and pink dolphins alike. In the Reserva
Biolgica Limoncocha (Limoncocha Biological Reserve) you will find
Limoncocha Lake, famous for being home to the black caiman. Another
natural beauty is Sumaco-Napo Galeras National Park, which, along
with the Yasun National Park, has been declared a Biosphere Reserve
by UNESCO. There, visitors walk along a path that passes through six
altitudinal ranges until reaching the Sumaco Volcano.
The hot springs of Papallacta, surrounded by the Andes mountains,
possess legendary curative powers. The Ecuadorian jungle, with its
numerous medicinal plants, has served as a natural pharmacy for
indigenous communities for centuries. The local indigenous communities
have proudly retained their social practices and ancestors beliefs,
traditions, and customs.

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Sample Itinerary:

Amazon 5 days
1st day: Quito Amazon
Following a short flight (30 minutes) from Quito, arrival at Puerto
Francisco de Orellana (El Coca).
Transfer to river ports for a fascinating canoe trip. Visit to the
lodge; introduction, information, and recommendations to take
into account. Nighttime walk to observe the wildlife that comes
to life when the sun goes down.
2nd day: Amazon Jungle excursions
Optional bird watching trip at dawn. After breakfast, the day
starts with a canoe trip along the Amazonian rivers to visit
indigenous communities and their mystical shamans. Great
opportunity to add to the adventure by swimming in a lake or
in one of the tropical jungle rivers. After dinner, a nighttime
excursion to see the glowing eyes of the caimans that inhabit
the riverbanks.
3rd day: Amazon Jungle excursions
Tour and excursions through the Amazon jungle. Visitors can
see beautiful orchids, huge fallen leaves, platanillos, bromelias,
etc., among other attractive species of outstanding flora. In
some cases, see different species of monkeys among the green
color tones of the Amazon jungle. Enjoy the songs and colorful
plumage of tropical birds, especially unique species such as
toucans and parrots.
4th day: Amazon Jungle excursions
Walks to indigenous communities to learn more closely about
their lifestyles, customs, and traditions, such as gold washing
on the banks of the Amazonian rivers. Options to buy interesting
handicrafts, as well as visits to indigenous museums or wild
animal rescue centers to see species of fauna from the zone:
reptiles (boas, anacondas) and mammals (capybaras, tapirs),
among others.
5th day: Amazon Jungle excursions
In the morning, a trip in a wooden canoe to take in for the last
time the majesty and diversity of the Amazon, arriving in the city
of Coca later on to continue on to Quito.

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See Ecuador
in 28 days
Sample Itinerary: 4 worlds
Galapagos
Day 01 Arrival in Quito / Guayaquil.
Day 02 Quito / Guayaquil Galpagos.
Day 03 Galpagos.
Day 04 Galpagos.
Day 05 Galpagos.

Pacific Coast
Day 06 Galpagos Guayaquil.
Day 07 Guayaquil City tour.
Day 08 Guayaquil Cocoa plantations Salinas.
Day 09 Salinas Machalilla National Park.
Day 10 Isla de la Plata (Machalilla N. P.).
Day 11 Machalilla National Park Manta.
Day 12 Manta Baha de Carquez.

Andes
Day 13 Baha de Carquez Quito.
Day 14 Quito City tour.
Day 15 Quito Otavalo Peguche Cotacachi.
Day 16 Cuicocha Cayambe Quito.
Day 17 Quito Rumiahui Volcano Cotopaxi National Park.
Day 18 Cotopaxi National Park Chimborazo Fauna Reserve.
Day 19 Chimborazo F. R. Riobamba.
Day 20 Riobamba train Ingapirca Cuenca.
Day 21 Cuenca City tour.
Day 22 Cuenca El Cajas Quito / Loja.

Amazon
Day 23 Quito / Loja Amazon.
Day 24 Amazon.
Day 25 Amazon.
Day 26 Amazon.
Day 27 Amazon Quito.
Day 28 International departure from Quito.

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Tourism in
Ecuador

Ecuador has worked to create strong tourism

infrastructure and services, which are designed
to provide a wide range of tourism products and
activities to its visitors. The most important
products and activities include:

40

In the descriptions of sample travel circuits in

the Four Worlds section, you can find general
travel circuits of Ecuador according to the following
list:
Galapagos circuit
Coastal circuit
Andes circuit
Amazon circuit
Ecuador travel circuit in 28 days

General Travel Circuits

of Ecuador

General travel circuits of Ecuador.

Congresses, conventions, and events.
Ecotourism and rural tourism.
Adventure and Special Interest Travel or
Specialized Tourism.

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Congresses,
conventions and
events

41

Ecuador is the ideal destination for international

companies looking to host congresses,
conventions, and events. Ecuador is the ideal
destination for international companies looking
to host congresses, conventions, and events.
In its four worlds Galapagos, Coast, Andes,
and Amazon Ecuador is proud to offer modern
infrastructure and technology.
Whether it be for large or small events, national
or international congresses, fairs or meetings,
Ecuador has a number of modern venues to choose
from, including convention centers, business
centers, stadiums, arenas, golf courses, yacht
clubs, amongst others.

Imagine the event that you have in mind being

held in one of the most unique settings in the
world:

Andes: Find meeting spaces in the

midst of towering Andean mountains,
in cultural heritage sites, with churches
and monasteries brimming with preColombian, Incan, and colonial art.

Amazon: Tourism complexes in the

magical setting of the Amazon tropical
rainforest are also available. Select a
venue along the banks of the Napo River,
one of the tributaries of the Amazon River,
surrounded by giant ceibo trees and rich
ancient cultures.

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Coast: Meeting planners can find excellent

hotel infrastructure in the areas top
maritime ports. Here, nearby beaches
offer relaxation and fun.

Galapagos: For a unique event, companies

can choose to hold their meetings on a
luxury yacht in the enchanting Galapagos
Islands, home to ancient giant turtles,
iguanas, red and blue footed boobies,
and sea lions. Facilities are complete with
conference rooms, audiovisual equipment,
restaurants, amongst other services.

Mix business with pleasure in any of

Ecuadors four worlds.
The worlds first city to be declared
UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site,
the highest active volcano in the world,
an orchid paradise, the most modern
riverfront promenades, untouched beaches
next to mangroves, the valley of longevity,
giant ceibo trees in the Amazon, ancient
cultures, and the only living laboratory the
Galapagos Islands await you.

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44

Quito
Imagine your meeting or business event being
held in a city at the middle of the world and
in the Andes. Quito is a city that combines preColombian and colonial architecture with modern
architecture. What is more, it is surrounded by
snow-capped volcanoes, hotel infrastructure, and
five-star tourism services, shopping malls, and
theatres, as in the best travel destinations in the
world.
Quito opens the doors of its colonial treasures,
the most avant-garde installations, museums,
cultural centers, and rural retreats to the world of
congresses, conventions, and events.
Quito is the ideal location for business meetings,
scientific conventions, specialized congresses,
seminars, and conferences as visitors will succumb
to the charm of this city that is Andean, colonial,
and modern, all at the same time.

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45

The Quito Conventions and Incentives Bureau

(BCIQ)
The BCIQ is an organization of private companies in
the meetings and incentives industry in Quito. The
Bureau is also part of the Quito Visitors Bureau,
an organization which oversees the citys tourism
promotion. With support from both the Ministry of
Tourism, and the Pichincha Chamber of Tourism,
the BCIQ is a member of the ICCA (International
Congress & Convention Association). The BCIQ
includes 50 members who are professionals
specialized in different service areas. The locations
listed below are willing to provide meeting planners
with the entire necessary infrastructure to carry
out large national and international events:
Cemexpo, Centro de Exposiciones Quito (Quito
Exhibition Center), Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana
(Ecuadorian Cultural Center), and the Plaza de las
Amricas. Besides, unique venues that will charm
events planners and guests that are full of history
are: Iglesia de La Compaa (La Compaa Church),
Refectory of Iglesia and Convento de la Merced (La
Merced Church and Convent), Capilla del Hombre
(El Hombre Chapel), Refectory of Convento de San
Francisco (San Francisco Convent), Centro Cultural
Metropolitano (Metropolitan Cultural Center),
Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum), Teatro Nacional
Sucre (Sucre National Theater), Teatro Bolvar
(Bolvar Theater), La Catedral (Cathedral), Antiguo
Hospital Eugenio Espejo (old Eugenio Espejo
Hospital), Iglesia and Convento de Gupulo (Gupulo
Church and Convent), Iglesia and Convento del Buen
Pastor (El Buen Pastor Church and Convent), Centro
Cultural Itchimba (Itchimba Cultural Center), Casa
de la Msica (House of Music), Telefrico (Cable
Car Complex), Plaza Belmonte (Belmonte Plaza),
Plaza de Toros Quito, Estadio Olmpico Atahualpa
(Atahualpa Olympic Stadium), and the Coliseo
General Rumiahui (General Rumiahui Arena).

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52

Guayaquil
Known as the Pearl of the Pacific, this city has
the entire infrastructure that is necessary for
your conference or business meeting. Following
the citys massive urban restoration initiative in
2000, today, Guayaquil is a modern international
center for business and conferences, as well as a
new colorful tourist destination.
Guayaquil has several ideal exhibition centers
for national and international events. Organizers
will be thrilled with the infrastructure, as well as
with the different activities that can be carried out
in and around the city. The places in which events
can be held, in addition to the fabulous five-star
hotels in the city, are:
Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace), Expoplaza,
Plaza Baquerizo Moreno (Baquerizo Moreno Plaza),
Museo Antropolgico y de Arte Contemporneo
(Museum of Anthropology and Contemporary Art),
Centro Empresarial Las Cmaras Corpocmaras
(The Chambers Business Center), Recinto Ferial
de Durn (Duran Fair Complex), Centro Cvico
(Civic Center), Parque Forestal (Forest Park), and
Puerto Santa Ana (Santa Ana Port), which is being
built at this time.

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56

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Cuenca
The second capital of the Inca Empire, located
in the south of the Ecuadorian Andean mountains,
Cuenca is a charming world heritage city that holds
unique colonial and republican treasures.
Reception rooms in five-star hotels, as well as
conference and meeting rooms, are the ideal
locations for your event or business meeting.
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58

Ecotourism and
Rural tourism

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Ecuadorian tourism responds to the challenge

of sustainability
Ecuador has taken great steps to establish itself as
a leader in sustainable tourism. In recent years, some
of the top Ecuadorian travel-related companies and
services have joined a number of sustainable tourism
networks to promote social and environmental
responsible practices in their businesses.
Ecuadors successes are due in large part to the
support of the international recognized Rainforest
Alliance, a leader in conservation and regional
sustainable development programs, and to the
financial support from the Multilateral Investments
Fund at the Inter-American Development Bank,
the Overbrook Foundation, United States Agency
for International Development (USAID), the World
Environment Fund/ The United Nations Program for
the Environment, the Citigroup Foundation, and the

Association of International Tour Operators of the

Galapagos. For its work in Ecuador, Rainforest Alliance
receives assistance from its two local partners: the
Ecuadorian Association of Ecotourism, Conservation,
and Development and its certifying program Smart
Voyager, as well as the local office of Conservation
International.
The Rainforest Alliance offers a training and
technical assistance program in sustainable tourism
for travel-related companies and services in Ecuador.
In order to join the program, business representatives
participate in workshops, use training manuals
to identify ways in which they might increase
sustainable practices and learn about sustainable
tourism certification programs in their area. At
the end of the workshops, participants receive an
evaluation with recommendations on how to improve
their management practices. Finally, participants sign
an agreement with Rainforest Alliance committing to
implement these changes.
Methodology
The process starts with training workshops
and seminars on management best practices,
Business Administration, Marketing, monitoring, and
evaluation practices. There is also the Guide on Good
Management Practices that was created as a tool for
further information. It also remarks the benefits that

can be obtained from applying these actions and how

to do so. The online version of this manual is available
with no cost at: www.rainforest-alliance.org/toolkit.
In addition, evaluations of the tourism operations
involved are carried out with there being the
opportunity of applying for co-financing in order for
the companies to implement their good practices
plan and, if the business so requires, to start up the
certification process. Up through november 2006,
fifty seven companies in Ecuador already had their
respective evaluation.
Benefits
Companies that are committed to sustainability
can become part of the communication and marketing
strategy jumpstarted by Rainforest Alliance. This
includes participation in international promotional
fairs and events, alliances with international operators
in order for them to promote the companies and
community projects, and tours with national and
international journalists interested in reporting on the
work carried out in relation to sustainable tourism and
certification.
In addition, an annual catalogue of certified tourism
companies in Latin America and the Caribbean is
produced. These companies are then entered in Eco
Index, a database of sustainable tourism businesses
in the region (www.eco-indextourism.org).

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Best Managment Practices in Sustainable

Tourism with Rainforest Alliance
Description of Pilot Programs

andes
Northwest Andes / Mindo Zone
Bellavista eco-lodge and reserve, located
in the Mindo Nambillo protective forest area,
where you can conduct ecotourism, support the
conservation of nature as well as learn from it.
www.bellavistacloudforest.com

Verdecocha private reserve,with accommodation for bird watchers, located at the start of
the ecological Paseo del Quinde (Quinde Route). The protection of natural resources in the area
is supported through tourism.
www.verdecocha.com

Santa Luca community project, which has

a reserve of 730 hectares (1,804 acres) of cloud
forest. Its objective is to conserve nature through
ecotourism and generate new income for the
community.
www.santaluciaecuador.com

Sachatamia, private reserve located in the

northwest of Quito. Through the conservation of
forests, important species have been recovered for
bird watching and practicing responsible tourism.
www.sachatamia.com

Sapos y Ranas, hotel located in a region

that is part of one of the strategic points in the
conservation of Mindos biodiversity, El Choc.
It promotes activities relating to ecotourism.
www.saposyranas.com

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Cabaas Armona and orchid garden, located

in Mindo; it was established ten years ago to offer a
family environment in a natural setting surrounded
by orchids, thus promoting the protection of flora
and fauna.
www.orchids-birding.com

Cascadas de Shishink lodge and remaining

reserve of El Choc. It reforests the banks of the
Culebritas River and recovers natural springs. It
organizes medical days for the well being of the
local community.
www.cascadazul.com

Mariposas de Mindo, hotel in Mindo; a

family business dedicated to sustainable tourism,
education, and the conservation of natural
resources, such as forests, birds, and butterflies in
the cloud forests ecosystem.
www.mariposasdemindo.com

Rancho Suamox, located in the northwest of

Pichincha. The operation is dedicated to conserving
nature. Visitors can enjoy the cloud forest, walks,
and bird watching under principles of conservation.

Northern Andes
Runa Tupari, indigenous community operation
located in the rural area of Cotacachi. It supports
the revaluation of local traditions, generating new
income for the communities thanks to the actions
of conservation and tourism.
www.runatupari.com

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Cusn, is a restored hacienda dating back to

the XVII Century. It is located in the Andean region
and promotes sustainability through training staff,
raising visitor awareness, and visits to indigenous
communities in the area.
www.haciendacusin.com

Hacienda Las Palmeras, located outside of the

town ofOtavalo. It promotes local development
through visits to communities, the promotion of
handicrafts and complementary activities in the
natural areas of the province.
www.laspalmerasinn.com

Polylepis Lodge, located in El Angel ecological

reserve. Thanks to ecotourism activities, 12
hectares (30 acres) of remaining polylepis forest
are protected. This forest dates back between two
million and four million years.
www.polylepislodge.com

Hacienda Manteles located 21 km from

Baos, between the Sangay and Llanganates
National Parks.
Tourism has allowed preserving a significant
part of Andean transition forest which is rich in
biodiversity.
www.haciendamanteles.com

Termas de Papallacta is located 64 km. from

Quito. It is a certified hotel and spa that generates
local jobs and supports a local foundation for the
conservation of the plateau.
www.termasdepapallacta.com

Hotel El Refugio, managed by the

community, is located close to the snow-capped
Chimborazo Volcano. The Hotel, has promoted
the development of tourism that conserves nature
and has encouraged close relations with the local
communities for 33 years.
www.salinerito.com

Andes Centro

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Hotel Patio Andaluz is a restored and rescued

building in the historical center of Quito. It provides
quality services based on permanent training for
its employees.
The hotel is strongly committed to increase its
sustainable policies.
www.hotelpatioandaluz.com

Ecovita, a hotel located two hours from

Guayaquil. It promotes the development of
ecotourism through projects geared towards
creating local abilities and raising awareness about
the conservation of natural resources.
www.vivecovita.com

Tambopaxi, located two hours away from Quito

in Cotopaxi National Park. It actively participates
in the development of sustainable tourism through
contributing to environmental conservation and the
well being of the community.
www.tambopaxi.com

Luna Runtn, hotel and spa located in Baos.

It has 63 hectares (156 acres) of forest in the
protected zone of Sangay National Park. Through
the Tungurahua Volcano Foundation, it promotes
environment conservation.
www.lunaruntun.com

Tierra del Volcn, a group of three haciendas

that operate in the area of Cotopaxi, the highest
active volcano in the world. It is committed to
conserving the environment and local culture
through sustainable processes.
www.tierradelvolcan.com

Hacienda Hato Verde, located in the province

of Cotopaxi. It promotes rural tourism and grows
organic product for its guests. It reforests around
10,000 trees each year, promoting the protection
of flora and fauna.
www.haciendahatoverde.com

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costa
Quilotoa Crter Lake Lodge, located in the
province of Cotopaxi. It was built preserving the
natural environment. Its management is committed
to the community by strengthening the economy
and the reforestation of the area of influence.
www.quilotoalodge.com

Hacienda Zuleta, located in the province of

Imbabura, promotes two projects through the
Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation: one geared towards
training women from the neighboring communities
and another aimed at the conservation of condors.
www.zuleta.com

Southern Andes

Saraguro Rikuy, a community initiative located

in the south of the country. It gathers indigenous
and rural communities that offer lodging in their
homes, an experience that supports the cultural
strengthening of Saraguro people.
www.kawsay.org

Hostera Alndaluz, is located in the area

of influence of the Machalilla National Park. In
the fifteen years that it has been running, it has
developed ecotourism, bioarchitecture, and organic
agriculture, contributing to the areas sustainability.
www.alandaluzhosteria.com

Mantaraya Lodge, located in the Machalilla

National Park area. Tourists can visit archaeological
sites, as well as Isla de la Plata. It promotes the
conservation of natural and cultural resources in
the area of influence.
www.mantarayalodge.com

Tsafiki, cabins located in the buffer zone of

Machalilla National Park. Its commitments to the
sustainable development of the community are the
generation of local jobs and responsible tourism.
www.tsafiki.com

Hostal Tuzco, located in the south of the

province of Manabi. It contributes to the local
communitys well being, provides jobs, and
teaches its staff and members of the neighboring
community how to conserve and use natural
resources.
www.puertolopez.net

Copalinga, cabins located in the province of

Zamora Chinchipe, in the southern Ecuadorian
Amazon, in the buffer zone of the Podocarpus
National Park. It supports the conservation of the
tropical rainforest and the protection of birds.
www.copalinga.com

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Ro Muchacho, an organic farm located north

of Baha de Carquez. It also offers the opportunity
to see rural Ecuador; an adventure that allows
tourists to interact with the natural environment
and the local culture.
www.riomuchacho.com

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amazon

Arajuno Jungle Logde located in the

province of Napo. It protects 88 hectares (217
acres) of tropical rainforest. It contributes to
the management of natural resources and is an
example of conservation of natural and cultural
wealth.
www.arajuno.com

Cotococha Amazon lodge built in accordance

with the architecture in the area, is located in the
province of Napo. The activities on offer include
visits to communities, thus promoting interaction
with the local community.
www.cotococha.com

Manatee Amazon Explorer, floating hotel

from where tourists can explore places such as
the Yasuni and Limoncocha protected areas. It
promotes conservation through visits respecting
the natural and cultural surroundings through
interaction with the community.
www.manateeamazonexplorer.com

Tanguntsa community project is located on

the banks of the Panintsa River. Ecotourism is
considered a way to maintain the social and natural
conditions of the Shiwiar culture.
www.ikiam.info

Yachana Lodge is located on the banks of

the Napo River, close to the small community of
Mondaa. It generates jobs for the people in the
area and is an incentive for raising awareness of
the importance of ecotourism.
www.yachana.com

Yarina Lodge is located in the Napo River area

and is also a biological reserve. Through organized
tours, it educates visitors and offers visits to
indigenous communities located on the banks of
the Napo River.
www.yarinalodge.com

Napo Wildlife Center is a community lodge

located in the largest national park on the continent,
Yasun. The community of Aangu is the co-owner,
providing 21,000 hectares (51,892 acres) of forest
for the ecotourism operation.
www.napowildlifecenter.com

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galapagos

Cabaas Miconia, on San Cristbal Island,

supports the conservation of the archipelago,
implementing good practices aimed at minimizing
negative impacts on the environment through
raising awareness among its visitors.
www.miconia.com

Other tour operators supporting the use of environmentally responsible

practices are:

Endless Expeditions www.endlessexpeditions.com

TerraDiversa travel & adventure www.terradiversa.com
TOPPSA www.toppsa.com
Tropic Journeys in Nature www.tropiceco.com
Explorandes www.explorandes.com.ec
Ecoventura www.ecoventura.com

So far, the companies certified by Smart Voyager are:

Casa Blanca, located on San Cristbal Island,

is part of an initiative to provide lodging in homes.
By doing so, it promotes the development of the
community in (eliminar the) Galapagos through
the diversification of local families econom. Hotel
Royal Palm, is located on Santa Cruz Island, it
is surrounded by tropical jungle. It is built and
designed in accordance with the setting, while
providing an international quality services.
www.royalpalmgalapagos.com

Galapagos
Ecoventura, with its ships Letty, Eric, Flamingo, and Sky Dancer www.ecoventura.com
Canodros, with its ship Galapagos Explorer www.canodros.com
Rolf Wittmer Turismo Galpagos, with its yachts Tip Top I, Tip Top III, and Tip Top IV
Daphne Cruises and its yacht Daphne www.daphnecruises.com
Metropolitan Touring and its hotel Finch Bay www.finchbayhotel.com
Pacific Coast
Hotel Oro Verde www.oroverdehotels.com
Amazon
Termas de Papallacta www.papallacta.com.ec
These pilot projects and certified companies exemplify Ecuadors efforts to ensure that the natural resources
that attract visitors to its country will stay as pristine and unspoiled as possible.

Hotel Royal Palm, is located on Santa Cruz

Island, it is surrounded by tropical jungle. It is built
and designed in accordance with the setting, while
providing an international quality services.
www.royalpalmgalapagos.com

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60

Adventure and
Special Interest
Travel or Specialized
Tourism
Despite being a small country, Ecuador offers
more than its fair share of adventures. Boasting a
wide diversity of ecosystems, the country is ideal
for rafting, kayaking the rapids of the Amazon
rainforest, horseback riding in the Andean paramos
(plateaus), bird watching in the lush cloud forests,
climbing the tallest active volcanoes in the world,
surfing along pristine coastal beaches, fishing,
orchid tours, and scuba diving in the company of
sea lions, rays, and penguins.
Besides, go to Baos, the adventure perfect
destination. The Spondylous Route, paragliding,
mountain biking, rock climbing, and trekking
make Ecuador an unrivalled destination for active
travelers.
Visitors can travel to some of the countrys major
archaeleogical sites, participate in agroturism
activities, learn or improve Spanish, and find out
more about Ecuadors diverse cultural traditions.
Ecuador is truly the best destination for adventure
and specialized tourism.

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Surf
Ecuador was the host of the World Surfing
Games, Salinas 2004 and the host of the 2009
Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championship.
In these events more than 27 international
delegations participated. Surfing is an activity
practiced in different parts of the Ecuadorian coast,
given the maritime conditions of the coasts, which
have perfect waves for this sport.
The surfing locations in Ecuador which include
the Galapagos Islands have been qualified as
international quality locations.

The main surfing locations in Ecuador include:

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Mompiche, in Esmeraldas.
Canoa, la Bellaca, el Murcilago, San
Mateo, la Tiosa, Puerto Cayo, Ro Chico,
Ayampe, and las Tunas, in Manab.
Montaita (Point Break, compared with
the famous wave of Velzyland in Hawaii),
Capaes, el Mansito, Chuyuipe, Castillo,
Salinero and Playero de Miramar, Paco
Illescas, Muelle de Ecuasal, Dead Point
(FAE), Shit Bay, la Chocolatera, Punta
Carnero, Anconcito, el Pelado, el Faro,
Shark Bay, and el Humboldt, in Guayas.
San Cristbal Island, Tongo Reef, la
Lobera, Angermeyer Point, Ratonera,
Bajo Bazan, Tortuga Bay, Cerro Gallina, las
Palmas, and el Paso at Galapagos.

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Paragliding
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Scuba Diving
Ecuador is characterized by the range of scuba
diving opportunities that it offers, given that it has
internationally renowned locations such as the
Galapagos and Machalilla National Park, where
numerous endemic underwater species thrive.
David Doubelet, well-known photographer from
the National Geographic, described the Wolf and
Darwin Islands in the Galapagos as one of the best
scuba diving locations in the world.
Galapagos is considered to be one of the seven
underwater wonders in the world and all of the dive

64

sites on the archipelago offer favorable conditions

all year round for new divers. For intermediate and
expert divers, the best time to dive is between June
and October, when the water temperature is low
(16C / 61F) and there is good visibility. There
may be thermal climates, for which it is necessary
to wear neoprene wetsuits of between 5mm and
7mm thick, with hoods also recommended.
Moreover, good visibility due to the low water
temperature is the ideal condition for observing
infinite marine species.
Make your dreams come true and dive in an
incredible underwater paradise!.

Discovering Ecuador from the air is a unique

privilege. The privilege of flying, feeling the
altitude, the sun, the wind, and discovering the
four worlds of this country, make Ecuador a year
round destination. The main sites for practicing
this sport are:
Coast: Las Palmas and Camarones in
Esmeraldas; Canoa, Crucita, Manta,
Puerto Cayo, and Puerto Lopez in Manabi;
Montaita, Olon, and Manglaralto in
Guayas.
Andes: Over Lake Yahuarcocha in Ibarra;
Juncal in the Cho ta Valley; over Lake San
Pablo; Cruz Loma in the Pichincha volcano;
the hills of Casitagua and Pasochoa;
Palama and the Niton hill outside of
Ambato; el Cajas and Tunshi in Azuay; and
around Vilcabamba in the province of Loja.

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Rock climbing

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Mountain Biking

Rock climbing in Ecuador, although it shares

some technical elements with mountain climbing,
is not limited to the Ecuadorian Andes Mountains.
It is an activity which is done even in Guayaquil,
where the Guayas climbing wall is one of the
largest artificial walls of its kind in South America.
As a sign of the increasing popularity of
this sport, in Quito there is a Rock Climbing and
Rockodrome Complex, for training in mountain
and rock climbing techniques. In addition, in the
Southern Andes there are excellent sites for sport
climbing such as Sayaus, El Cajas, Cariamanga,
Cojitambo, and others.

Mountain Biking in Ecuador certainly is not

for the timid! With descents up to 10,000 feet in
some areas of the Andes, there are a variety of
challenging rides for experienced mountain bikers,
as well as for those individuals looking for more
of a scenic ride. Bikers can find paths down the
Cotopaxi Volacano, and along the scenic waterfall
route from Baos to Puyo, close to the Amazon
rainforest. Bike rentals are available in Quito and
Baos, but for the extremely dedicated mountain
bikers, it may be advisable to bring their own bikes
for the challenging experience.

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High mountain climbing

and trekking
The Avenue of Volcanoes
The Andes Mountain Range traverses Ecuador
from north to south, offering a beautiful view
with 62 summits for experts as well as beginners
and a wealth of trekking paths. Mountains, snow
peaks and volcanoes like: Imbabura elev. 14,960
feet / 4,560 meters), Cotacachi (16,220 ft / 4,944
m), Cayambe (18,996 ft / 5,790 m), The Ilinizas
(17,627 ft / 5,263 m), El Altar (17,450 ft /5,319 m),
Sangay (17,158 ft / 5,230 m), Rumiahui (15,459
ft / 4,712 m), Sincholagua (16,069 ft / 4,898 m),
Corazon 15,708 ft / 4,788 m), Pichincha (15,337
ft / 4,675 m), Cotopaxi, at 19,350 feet / 5,897
meters known as the tallest active volcano in the
world, Chimborazo, one of South Americas tallest
peaks at 20,702 feet /6,310 meters, Carihuayrazo
(16,469 ft / 5,020 m), Antisana (18,713 ft / 5,704
m), Tungurahua volcano (16,456 ft / 5,016 m) and
many others, as well as small ancient volcano
peaks, make up the famous Avenue of Volcanoes
that stretches to Ecuadors southern border.
In all cases, it is advisable to contact tour
operators that hire certified guides who are
specialized in mountain climbing and trekking. In
addition, many of the slopes of the volcanoes and
mountains have shelters that can serve as a base
camp from which to set out for a climb or trek.

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Motorcycling

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Rafting and kayaking

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Thanks to the layout and strength of its

rivers, together with the organizational capacity
of its people, Ecuador was the host of the Fifth
World Rafting Championship in 2005. Over 25
international delegations attended this event.
Water sports enthusiasts, especially those
fond of canoeing and kayaking expeditions, will
find no shortage of options in Ecuador. Arguably
two of the most enjoyable ways to experience
Ecuadors ecosystems are the ca
noeing and
kayaking expeditions through the jungle rivers,
the whitewater rapids of the Andes, and the clear
ocean waters of the Coast and Galapagos.
Tena is known as the white-water rafting and
kayaking capital of Ecuador, and many of the
major jungle trips begin in this location. The more
experienced kayakers travel to this area for the
infamous Ro Misahualli (Class IV IV +) rapids.
Other popular rivers are the Ro Toachi (Class III
III +) and Ro Blanco (Class III); both of which
are located on the western slopes of the Andes,
near the town of Santo Domingo. For those visitors
more interested in exploring the Pacific waters,
sea kayaking can be found in Mompiche, Crucita,
Puerto Lpez, Salinas, and on the island of Santa
Cruz in the Galapagos, amongst others.

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The following kinds of motorcycling are

practiced in Ecuador: Motocross, hare scramble,
enduro, speed racing, supercross, supermoto,
motorcycle tourism and trials. There are a number
of different tracks in the country; the most
demanding are for supercross, speed racing and
motocross. These tracks are designed properly for
the different sports.
Ecuadors motorcycle tracks have been designed
under international standards, and have been
selected to host official international competitions.
The Ecuadorian Motorcycling Federation (FEM)
regulates and sponsors motorcycle sport activity
in the country.
Adrenaline, historical rides, contact with nature,
supply stops to enjoy spectacular views, good food
and a great place to rest, as well as motorcycling
from the middle of the world in the Andes mountains
to Bahia de Caraquez on the Coast or from the
Coast to the Amazon region to the Southern Andes,
make motorcycling in Ecuador an experience that
you will never forget.

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Birding
Ecuador is without a doubt a must-see
destination for bird-watchers. Currently, 1,640
distinct species of birds have been registered
(Heinzel and Hall, Ridgely and Greenfield 2001), in
an area the size of the United Kingdom. 80% of
the birds that exist in Brazil can be found in 3% of
Ecuadors territory. There are 95 kinds of antbirds,
compared to 22 in Costa Rica, and the best of all,
they can be seen year-round.
Only 70 km from Quito is the cloud forest
considered by BirdLife International to be the
most important area for birds in South America.
This subtropical zone is home to over 500 species
of birds, such as quetzals, caciques, toucans,
the Andean cock-of-the-rock, hummingbirds,
tanagers, and many others.
In Ecuador, one finds the smallest as well as the
largest birds in the world. Over the high Andes flies
the majestic Condor, the largest flying vulture bird
on Earth, as well as the Ecuadorian Hillstar, which
can be seen above 13,123 feet / 4,000 meters, and
which is the smallest bird on the planet.
The lowlands northeast of Choco and the
southeast lowlands of the Tumbesian Region on
the Ecuadorian coast, have the largest number of
native species according to studies carried out by
Birdlife International.
In the Amazon region, there are places where
one can sight up to 500 species in five days,
including papagayos, a variety of parrots, and
parakeets, among the most often seen. And
what more can be said about Galapagos, the bird
paradise that was the inspiration of Charles Darwin
and where there are 38 native species.
For all of these reasons, Ecuador is a mandatory
visit for any ornithologist or bird-lover.

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Whale watching
Ecuador is one of the most surprising and
impressive whale tourism destinations in the
World (Gregory Kaufman, Founder and President,
Pacific Whale Foundation).

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If anyone understands the value of life, it is

the humpback whale, which migrates over 7,000
kilometres each year from the cold Antarctic
waters of the South Pole, to Ecuador, only to give
birth and perform the mating ritual of its species.
The humpback whales, or ballenas jorobadas in
Spanish, have frequented the coast of Ecuador for
thousands years. In fact, ceramics and drawings
representing these enormous creatures have been
found, dating back to the early coastal civilizations.
In recent years, the Ecuadorian government has
made great progress in protecting these mammals,
and works with the Pacific Whale Foundation,
a non-profit organization, to create strict whale
watching regulations and educational programs
for local naturalist guides and children. According
to the Foundation, Ecuador is one of the most
amazing places in the world to observe whales.

The humpback whales are cherished visitors to

the coast. The warm waters are key to thegrowth
of their calves, that dont have the extra insulation
for cold waters. Truly majestic creatures,humpback
whales can measure up to 52 feet in length, and
weigh up to 60,000 pounds. Humpback whales are
often distinguished from one another by the unique
spots on their tail. These mammals are very social,
and tend to live and travel in groups. Known for
their love songs, the humpback male whales
often court their mates with long repertoires of
sounds that can last up to an hour. The nutrient rich
waters attract the humpback whales very close
to the shore, creating excellent whale watching
opportunities, especially in the coastal towns of
Sa, Baha de Carquez,Puerto Cayo, Perdernales,
Puerto Lpez, Machalilla National Park, Manta,
and Salinas. Several tour operators in both Quito
and Guayaquil can arrange whale watching tours,
or visitors can choose to book an excursion upon
arrival on the coast. Visitors may combine a whale
watchingtour near the Machalilla National Park,
with a trip to Isla de La Plata, known as the small
Galapagos because of its rich biodiversity, which
includes such unique species as blue-footed, red
and masked boobies, and frigate birds. These tours
are an incredible bargain to witness a beautiful
display of nature at its purest.

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Hacienda tourism

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Beautiful structures of great historical and

ecological value open their doors to tourists,
offering them the opportunity to go back in time and
learn about famous figures of Ecuadorian colonial
life. Tourists can visit haciendas in the Andes that
are located on the skirts of different volcanoes,
surrounding majestic Cotopaxi; haciendas that
bear witness to the Incan wisdom and close to
ancient cultures; and haciendas that grow banana
or cacao, this last one the raw material of the finest
chocolate in Europe. Each hacienda has its own
magic, its own ecosystem, and unique traditions.
Horseback riding, hill walking, walking, rappelling,
bird watching, cultural experiences such as rodeo,
and learning about the fruit extraction process are
just some of the wide range of activities that each
place has to offer.

The Ecuadorian Tourism Haciendas Association

is working jointly with the World Tourism
Organizations Professional Volunteers Program
(Tedqual Volunteers) to implement a concept
of efficient tourism management, involving the
private, public sectors, and civil society, above all
indigenous communities. The member haciendas of
this organization are: Antisana, Bomboli, Castalia,
Cusn, Chillo Jijn, Chorlav, Guachal, La Alegra,
La Andaluza, La Carriona, La Cinega, Hato Verde,
Hualilahua, Hacienda Zuleta, Haciendas Tierra
del Volcn, Zuleta, Yanahurco, Manteles, San
Agustn de Callo, Pinsaqu, Tambopaxi, Termas de
Papallacta, La Herrera, La Compaa, and Molino
San Juan.
Jambel, Las Caas, and El Castillo haciendas
on the coast and others in the Southern Andes
have future plans to join this interesting initiative,
which promotes tourism and the development of
the neighboring communities in these delightful
destinations.

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Cultural Tourism
Ecuador is a multiethnic and multicultural country,
which makes it a real gem for visitors attracted by
this diversity of people and customs.
The peoples heritage is in their culture,
architecture, arts, and folklore, all of which are
represented in drama, music, dance, ancestral
legacies, and colonial and modern architecture.
In all of the regions of Ecuador, colorful
indigenous markets and fiestas, such as La Mama
Negra, El Paseo del Chagra, and las Jumbadas,
among others, attract Ecuadorian and foreign
visitors. The famous markets of Otavalo and
Saquisil are a perfect combination of ancient
culture, traditions, exotic sounds, and Andean

flavors. There is always a market in every city,

bringing life and color to the setting. The most wellknow markets are:
Sunday: Santo Domingo de los Colorados,
Otavalo, and Parque El Ejido, in Quito.
Tuesday: Latacunga, Otavalo.
Wednesday: Pujil, Otavalo.
Thursday: Saquisil, Otavalo.
Saturday: Otavalo, Latacunga, Zumbahua,
and Parque El Ejido, in Quito.

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Orchid tourism

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More than 4,500 species of orchids further

reveal Ecuadors megadiversity. The Danish and
Swedish governments and the Missouri Botanical
Garden decided to compile and publish the
complete list of Ecuadorian flora, in which the most
numerous family belongs to orchids.
Orchids are found in all places in which flora
has not been cut down or burnt. They are found at
sea level, in the Amazon, and even in scrublands at
altitudes of more than 13,000 feet / 4,000 meters.
Traveling through Ecuador in search of orchids
in the different ecosystems is perhaps one of the
most interesting specialized tourism activities that
can be carried out and is something that is only
possible to do in Ecuador.
In addition, initiatives such as the Botanical
Gardens of Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca, as well
as the Pedagogical Ethnobotanical Park (Parque
Pedaggico Etnobotnico OMAERE) offer visitors a
close-up view of beautiful species of orchids and
other fascinating plants, constituting examples of
conservation through environmental education.

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Agritourism
Ecuador and its mega-diversity in species of
flora allow visitors to submerge in the fascinating
world of agriculture. Agritourism in Ecuador aims
to learn about the properties of medicinal plants,
the cultivation of exotic products, such as pitahaya,
wild grape, plantain, banana, naranjilla, passion
fruit, or plantations that grow the best cocoa in
the world (Cocoa Route), and an immense variety
of roses and tropical flowers, allowing visitors to
learn firsthand about the environment in which the
treasures of the Pacha Mama or Mother Earth have
flourished

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Archaeological tourism
The Ecuadorian coast was the homeland of one
of the oldest cultures, Las Vegas Culture, which is
one of the oldest in the Americas. In fact, Las Vegas
Culture dates back to 8,000 B.C. and was one of
the first cultures that worked in agriculture in the
continent.
The Venus of Valdivia, in the province of Manab,
is the oldest clay female figurine in the Americas.
According to studies performed by the Smithsonian
Institute in Washington D.C. and Ecuadorian
archaeologists, it is one of the oldest cultures that
worked with pottery in the Americas.

The archaeological sites of Agua Blanca, Japot

and Chirije in Baha de Carquez, the most important
site for the establishment of the Baha culture
(500 A.C.), and the Incan ruins of Rumicucho,
Cochasqu, and Ingapirca, among other unexplored
sites or undiscovered great treasures like the ones
hidden in one of the oldest sites of Ecuador in the
El Inga region, constitute a unique attraction for
archaeology lovers in their search to understand
how cultures manifested themselves in the past,
how they developed, and the legacy they left.

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Travel and learn

Spanish in Ecuador

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Ecuador is the ideal place to learn Spanish.

Nowadays, learning a foreign language and
traveling to other countries with different cultures
and languages is one of the fastest growing
activities in the whole world. What is more, Spanish
is one of the most spoken languages in a wide
range of countries in the world. Learning Spanish in
Ecuador is an opportunity to discover a fascinating
world of Hispanic and Andean culture. You can visit
this country all year round, given that any time of
year is right to learn Spanish, travel, and discover
this amazing destination. Once you have learned
Spanish, due to its geographic position.
Ecuador offers the possibility of traveling to
other Spanish speaking countries, such as Chile
in the south of the continent, or to Mexico, in the
north, also to Spain and its nearby islands. Thirty
thousand travelers / students visit Ecuador each
year to learn this language. As such, Ecuador is
undoubtedly the best place to learn Spanish.

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Important information on Ecuador

Ecuador, the country with the richest biodiversity per
square mile in the world, is located in the northwest
of South America. The Equator line (lnea Ecuatorial
in Spanish) crosses Ecuador, hence its name.
Full Name: Republic of Ecuador.
Capital: Quito
Area: 256.370 Km2
Population: 14.030.693 million inhabitants.
Official Language: Spanish; Quichua is spoken
in some indigenous communities. English is widely
spoken. In terms of tourism services, guides who
speak Spanish, English, German, French, and Italian
are available.
Currency: US$ Dlar
Religion: 82% aprox. Catholic
GNP: US$ 53.087 billion (Banco Central del
Ecuador, December 2008).
GDP per capita: US$ 3.808 (Banco Central del
Ecuador, December 2008).
Annual Inflation: 8,83% (Banco Central del
Ecuador, December 2008).
Time Zone: -5 GMT in mainland Ecuador (Eastern
Standard Time) & -6 GMT on the Galapagos Islands.
Country calling code: +593 + city code.
Electricity: 110/120 V. Plugs have two flat
prongs, as in the United States. Adapters can be
obtained easily..

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Airport Departure Taxes: US$ 40.80 in Quito and

US$ 25 in Guayaquil.
Tips: In spite of the 10% service charge in hotels
and restaurants, a tip is usually left depending on
the service received.
Communications: Telephone: Access code: 00
Direct international dialing available in hotels.
Local, international, and cell phone calls:
Andinatel, Pacifictel, Etapa, Movistar, and Porta
phone booths.

Internet: Internet cafes can be found almost all

over Ecuador. Average rate of US$ 1 per hour. Many
hotels and hostels provide free internet as a service
included in the cost of accommodation.
Post: National and international post available
almost all over Ecuador.

This is in spite of the fact that in October 2010,

the new airport will be opened in a duty-free zone,
constituting the most ambitious project to boost the
development of the city, country, and its inhabitants
in the next 30 years. For more information: www.
quiport.com

Guayaquil International Airport: In December

2003, the concession for Jos Joaqun de Olmedo
Airport in Guayaquil was granted for a period of
15 years. The new terminal for both national and
international flights has an area of 164,000 square
feet / 50,000 square meters and a capacity for more
than 5 million passengers. This airport currently
has modern facilities, telecommunication services,
VIP lounges, restaurants, and ATMs in a top-class
setting. This new terminal is divided into two levels:
Upper Level for Departures: National and
International
Lower Level for Arrivals: National and International
The old international terminal in Simn Bolvar
Airport in Guayaquil will be converted into
one of the best convention centers in Ecuador and
Latin America.

Press: Published in Spanish. The most important

newspapers are: El Comercio, Hoy, El Universo, El
Telgrafo, and El Mercurio. International magazines
can be bought in pharmacies, hotels, airports, and
some bookshops.

International Airlines: American Airlines,

Avianca, Continental, Copa, Delta Airlines, Ibera,
Air France-KLM, Lacsa, LAN, Santa Barbara, TACA,
Aircomet.

Safety: Ecuador is a safe country. It is

recommended to carry a copy of your passport for
all trips in Ecuador and to leave the original in your
place of lodging. In big cities it is necessary to take
precautions as done in any other city in the world.

Freight carriers: Air France, Arrow Air, Atlas Air,

Centurin Air Cargo, Cielos del Per, Florida West,
Gminis, Lan Chile Cargo (AECA), Lneas Areas
Sudamericanas, Martin Air, UPS, World Airways,
and Cubana.

Countries that do not need a visa to enter

Ecuador: Visa is not required to enter Ecuador.
Nevertheless, a six months valid passport will be
required. Tourism stays are allowed up to 90 days.

National Airlines:
TAME (www.tame.com.ec)
Aerogal (www.aerogal.com.ec)
VIP (www.vipec.com)
Icaro (www.icaro.aero)
Saereo (www.saereo.com)

Taxes: 12% VAT and 10% service in most hotels

and restaurants.

Airports: The countrys international airports are

located in Quito and Guayaquil, with flights to the
United States, Europe, and some parts of South
America. There are many airports for domestic
flights in different parts of the country.

Travelers Checks: American Express and Visa

(checks can be cashed in banks and are accepted
in some hotels and tour operators). Accepted credit
cards: Master Card, Visa, American Express, Diners.

Quito International Airport: In 2005, more

than $15 million were invested in restructuring and
renovating both the arrival and departure terminals
in Mariscal Antonio Jos de Sucre Airport in Quito.

Climate: Ecuador has a wide range of climates

depending on altitude, location, and, mainly, due to
the Andes mountain range and the impact of sea
currents.
Galapagos:
Hot season, warm and rainy climate: December
through May / dry season, windy and dry climate:

June through November. Temperatures of between

72F / 22C and 90F / 32C.
Coast:
Rainy season: December through May, mostly in
the evening.
Dry season: June through November.
Temperatures of between 73F / 23C and 91F
/ 33C.
Andes:
Rainy and cool climate: November through April.
Dry climate: May through October.
emperatures of between 55F / 13C and 64F
/18C.
Amazon:
Rainy and humid season: January through
September.
Dry season: October through December.
Temperatures range between 73F / 23C and
96F / 36C.

Holidays
January 1: New Years Day
Carnaval: February or March
Good Friday (Holy Week) Dates change
each year depending on Ash Wednesday
May 1: Labor Day
May 24: Battle of Pichincha
May 26: Corpus Christi
July 24: Simn Bolvars birthday
August 10: Independence Day
October 9: Guayaquil Independence Day
November 2: All Souls Day
November 3: Cuenca Independence Day
December 6: Founding of Quito
December 25: Christmas
December 31: New Years Eve
Traveling throughout Ecuador
Because Ecuador is small and has a good
network of roads and highways, ground travel
within the country is easy and quick. Following is
additional information:
Bus: As more roads are paved throughout the
country, buses are fast becoming a popular and
convenient means of transportation. It is also
a good and inexpensive option for travelers on a
budget. Most bus companies have modern, air
conditioned buses.

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Car rental: The main car rental companies are

located in Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca, Manta,
and Loja. Traveling through Ecuador in a rented
vehicle is an excellent way to arrive comfortably
at locations that are difficult to access or to travel
flexibly without a set itinerary. The major car rental
companies are: Avis, Bombuscaro, Budget, Carmax,
Colcar, Expo rent a car, Hertz, Internacional rent a
car, Jorsan, Localiza, Seretur, Sicorent, Simon Car
Rental, Super-Rent, and Team..
Taxi: Taxis in Ecuador are safe, clean, cheap, and
always available. Taxi drivers are friendly and many
of them speak at least a few words of English. This
type of transportation is an excellent option when
visiting the main cities.
Train: Another unique way to see the Ecuadorian
countryside is on the train from Quito to Riobamba
and down to Sibambe. The trip offers amazing
views of the Andes Mountains, forests, flora, and
fauna; and visitors may choose to ride on the trains

roof to enjoy the experience to its maximum. The

famous journey south along the Nariz del Diablo
(Devils Nose), a steep and narrow track, will
certainly provide travelers with a once in a lifetime
travel experience.
Boat: Boat travel is a popular means of
transportation on Ecuadors coast, Amazonian
regions as well as in the Galapagos Islands. From
dugout canoes to sail boats, catamarans, private
yachts, and cruiseships, Ecuador offers multiple
ways to enjoy the beauty of the country along its
ocean or on its rivers and lakes.
Useful Contacts
For further information about Ecuador and its
promotion offices abroad, please contact:
Ecuadors Tourism Promotion Board
Tel: (593 2) 2507560/ 555/ 559 Ext. 1312, 1313,
1314, 1315
Fax: (593 2) 2507565
E-Mail: promocin@turismo.gov.ec

Lets do business together

Tourism and travel associations are great options to get in contact with reliable and qualified tour
operators and service providers in Ecuador. Do not hesitate to contact the following institutions:

FENACAPTUR
National Federation for Tourism Chambers
Address: Av.Amazonas & Patria (Corner)

Cofiec Building, floor 3

Quito Ecuador
Phones: (593 2) 2545371 / 2231198/

2231199/ 2231201
Fax:
(593 2) 2507682
Web: www.visitecuador.travel
OPTUR
National Association of Ecuador Tour Operators
Web: www.optur.org
E-Mail: optur@optur.org
AHOTEC
Ecuadors Hotel Association
Address: Amrica N38-80 & Dibuja

Quito - Ecuador
Phones: (593 2) 245 3942 / 244 3425
Web: www.hotelesecuador.com
E-Mail: ahotec@interactive.net.ec

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ASEC
Ecuadorian Ecotourism Association
Address: Pedro Basn N35-86

& Maosca (Corner)
Phone: (5932) 2241893
Fax:
(5932) 2469089
Web: www.ecoturismo.org.ec
E-Mail: asecinfo@ecoturismo.org.ec
asec@ecoturismo.org.ec
ASOGAL
National Association of Tourism
Companies in Galapagos
Web: www.asogal.com.ec
E-Mail: asogal@uio.satnet.net
ECUADORS TOURISM CHAMBERS
AZUAY CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Sucre 827 & Luis Cordero

Banco del Fomento Bld, floor 2

Cuenca - Ecuador
Phone: (593 7) 2841139/ 28445657
Fax:
(593 7) 2846762
E-Mail: camturis@etapaonline.net.ec

BOLIVAR CHAMBER OF TOURISM

Address: 10 de Agosto 804 & 9 de abril

Guaranda - Ecuador
Phone: (5933) 2981526 / 2984325
Fax:
(5933 2982125 / 2580125
CAAR CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Rivera & 10 de Agosto (Corner)

Azoguez - Ecuador
Phone: (5937) 2244413
Fax:
(593 7) 2244919
E-Mail: capturca@yahoo.com
CARCHI CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Ayaguacho & Bolvar

Ed. Muoz. Piso 2. Oficina 204

Tulcn - Ecuador
Phone: (5936) 2986606
Fax:
(5936) 2986606
E-Mail: captur_carchi@hotmail.com
CHIMBORAZO CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Av. Daniel Len Borja & Pasaje

Municipal Centro de Arte & Cultura

Riobamba - Ecuador
Phone: (5933) 2969481
Fax:
(5933) 2960150
E-Mail: capturch@net.ec
COTOPAXI CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Av. Snchez de Orellana & Guayaquil

Latacunga - Ecuador
Phone: (5933) 2814968/ 2812043
Fax:
(5933) 2801112
E-Mail: capturcotopaxi@andinanet.net
EL ORO CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Junn entre Sucre & Olmedo.

Bravo Building

Machala - Ecuador
Phone: (5937) 2964898
Fax:
(5937) 2964898
E-Mail: eloroturistico@hotmail.com
ESMERALDAS
CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Bolvar 608 & 9 de Octubre

Esmeraldas - Ecuador
Phone: (5936) 2721820
Fax:
(5937) 2721820
E-Mail: capte689@interactive.net.ec
FRANCISCO DE ORELLANA
CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Av. Monseor Alejandro Labaka

El Coca Ecuador
Phone: (5936) 2881553
Fax:
(5936) 2881553
E-Mail: mainco40@yahoo.com

GALPAGOS
CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Av. Charles Darwin & Charles Binfor

Puerto Ayora

Isla Santa Cruz - Ecuador
Phone: (5935) 2526206
Fax:
(5935) 2526609
E-Mail: capte689@interactive.net.ec
GUAYAS CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Luque # 111. Edificio Bancopark, piso 14

Guayaquil - Ecuador
Phone: (5934) 2517622
Fax:
(5934) 2517622
Web:
www.turismoguayas.com
E-Mail: cturismo@turismoguayas.com
informativo@turismoguayas.com

IMBABURA CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Oviedo 739 & Bolvar

Mutualista Imbabura Bld.

Ibarra - Ecuador
Phone: (5936) 2642531
Fax:
(5936) 2956855
E-Mail: imbabura@ecnet.ec
LOJA CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Rocafuerte entre Bolvar & Sucre
Phone: (5937) 2571500
E-Mail: catuloja@loja.telconet.net
LOS RIOS CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Street 5 de Junio & Eloy Alfaro

Faytong Bld, floor 2
Phone: (5935) 2736502
Fax:
(5935) 2736502
E-Mail: gladyshm1@hotmail.com
MANAB CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Alejo Lascano 114 & Pedro Gual

Portoviejo Ecuador
Phone: (593 5) 2635253 / 2634122
Fax:
(593 2) 2635253
E-Mail: capturmanabi@yahoo.es
MORONA SANTIAGO CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Street Bolvar 286 & Soasl

Comercial del Valle Bld, floor 2
Phone: (5937) 2701606
Fax:
(5937) 2701606
NAPO CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Street Csar Augusto Rueda,

El Balneario Sector

Tena - Ecuador
Phone: (593 6) 2888795
Web: www.capturnapo.com
E-Mail: info@capturnapo.com

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PASTAZA CHAMBER OF TOURISM

Address: Csalo Marn & Atahualpa/ Sector la Y

Puyo - Ecuador
Phone: (5933) 2883681/ 2884534
Fax:
(5933) 2883681
PICHINCHA
CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Av. Gran Colombia N14-134,

Antiguo Hospital Eugenio Espejo PB

Quito - Ecuador
Phone: (593 2) 2993370
Web: www.captur.com
E-Mail: captur@captur.com

SUCUMBIOS
CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Av. Quito 168 & Pasaje Gonzanama

Nueva Loja
Phone: (593 6) 2832502/ 2830161
E-Mail: caturs@andinanet.net
TUNGURAHUA CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Montalvo 0310 & Rocafuerte

(Frente a Clnica Central)
Phone: (5933) 2822149
E-Mail: capturtun@andinanet.net
ZAMORA CHINCHIPE CHAMBER OF TOURISM
Address: Av. Alonso Mercadillo &

Fernando de Venavente
Phone: (5937) 2605789/ 2605430
Fax:
(5937) 2605789
E-Mail: capturtun@andinanet.net

Ministry of Tourism
MAIN OFFICE
Address: Eloy Alfaro N32-300 & Carlos Tobar

Quito Ecuador
Phone: (5932) 2507559/ 2507560/

2228 304/ 2228 305
Fax:
(5932) 2229330
Website: www.vivecuador.com
COAST AND GALAPAGOS REGIONAL OFFICE
Address: P. Ycaza 203 & Pichincha

Guayaquil - Ecuador
Phone: (593 4) 2568764 / 2560514
Fax:
(593 4) 2562544
SOUTHERN REGIONAL OFFICE
Address: Presidente Crdova & Benigno Malo

Edificio San Agustn

Cuenca - Ecuador
Phone: (593 7) 2830337, 2839338
Fax:
(593 7) 2831414

NORTHERN REGIONAL OFFICE

Address: Garca Moreno 744 &

Snchez y Cifuentes

Ibarra - Ecuador
Phone: (5936) 2958759 / 2958 547
CENTRAL ANDES REGIONAL OFFICE
Address: Av.Daniel Len Borja y Pasaje

Municipal, Centro de Arte y Cultura

Riobamba Ecuador
Phone: (593 3) 2941213
AMAZON REGIONAL OFFICE
Address: Street Csalo Marn & 9 de Octubre,

Ed. Center Shopping Carmelita

Puyo - Ecuador
Phone: (593 3) 2884655

Publication Credits

Photography Credits

Photography
Corporacin Metropolitana de Turismo (CMT)
Fondo Mixto de Promocin Turstica del Ecuador, Francisco
Caizapanta (FMPT-FC)
Fondo Mixto de Promocin Turstica del Ecuador, Satr
(FMPT-ST)
Fundacin Municipal Turismo para Cuenca (FTC)
Kleintours (KLT)
M. I. Municipalidad de Guayaquil (MIMG)
Ministerio de Turismo - Peter Lange - Ecoventura
Ministerio de Turismo - Freddy Rivadeneira (MT-FR)
Ministerio de Turismo - Michelle Cornejo
Ministerio de Turismo - Edgar Aulestia
Ministerio de Turismo - Sebastin Cruz
Ministerio de Turismo - Gyorgy Gutierres
Surtrek (SRT)
Cristina Castro (CC-FWF)
Miguel Dvila (MD)
Carlos Julio Gonzlez
Alexander Hirtz
Carlos Noel
Pablo Ochoa
Rodrigo Salas (RS)
Patricio Tamariz
Alfonso Tandazo (AT)
Harry Zelenko
Cuenca Tourism Bureau
Municipio San Cristobal
Red Mangrove Galapagos Lodges
Kapawi Ecolodge & Reserve

p. 8

Texts
Corporacin Metropolitana de Turismo
Corporacin Aeropuerto de Quito (CORPAQ)
Banco Central del Ecuador
Cmara de Turismo de Loja
Cmara Provincial de Turismo del Guayas
Fundacin Municipal Turismo para Cuenca
Mindo Cloudforest Foundation
Rainforest Alliance
Rodrigo Salas
Pedro Artieda
Nubia Jaramillo
Andrs Vsquez
Design
Ministerio de Turismo del Ecuador
Printed by

FMPT, 2010
Quito - Ecuador

1.
2.
3.
4.

Machalilla National Park, Photo: FMPT-FC

Bartolom Islands, Galapagos Islands.Photo: FMPT-ST
Cotopaxi Volcano, Cotopaxi National Park. Photo: MT-FR
Cuyabeno Fauna Reserve, Photo: SRT

p. 9
5.
6.

Mompiche Beach, Esmeraldas. Photo: FMPT-ST

Los Frailes Beach, Machalilla National Park. Photo: FMPTC-FC

p. 10
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.

Blue footed booby nesting. Photo: FMPT-ST

Wild Tigrillo of the Amazon (ocelot). MT
Rufous-tailed hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl). Photo: SRT
Chimborazo, Carihuayrazo, Sangay, and Altar. Photo: AT
Orchid (Odontoglossum hallii). Photo: RS
Greater Pink flamingo of the Galapagos

p. 11
13. Amazonian Amphibian. Photo: FMPT-ST
14. Parrot of the Amazon. Photo: MT-FR
15. Whale Watching: Photo: CC- PWT

p. 12
16. Amazon Shaman. Photo: FMPT-ST

p. 13
17. La Compaa de Jess Church, Quito. Photo: CMT
18. New Cathedral of Cuenca, Cuenca. Photo: CTB
19. Otavalo handicrafts market. Photo: FMPT-ST

p. 14
20. Mama Negra, Cultural Parade, Latacunga. Photo: MT-FR

p. 15
21. Young girl from Zuleta, Imbabura. Photo: FMPT-FC

p. 16
22. Panoramic view of the Middle of the World. Photo: FMPT-ST

p. 17
23. Catequilla Hill, ancestral ritual site related to solstices and
equinoxes
24. Equator Line Monument. Photo FMPT-FC

p. 18
25. City of Salinas. Photo: FMPT-ST
26. Tambopaxi. HosteriaTambopaxi, Cotopaxi National Park.
Photo: FMPT-RS
27. Ecofriendly Dock and Aquarium, San Cristbal. Photo: MTMSC

p. 19
28. Altar volcano seen from the Amazon. Photo: FMPT-ST

p. 20-21
29.
30.
31.
32.

Masked boobies, Galapagos Islands. Photo: KLT

Beach of Atacames. Photo: FMPT-FC
San Pablo Lake and Imbabura Volcano. Photo: CMT
Cuyabeno River. Photo: FMPT-ST

p. 22
33. Red Mangrove Galapagos Logdes, Isabela Island. Photo: MTRMGL

p. 23-24
34. Photo: Metropolitan Touring

p. 26
35 Same Beach, Esmeraldas. Photo: FMPT-FC

p. 29
36. Guayas Frigate at Malecon 2000, Guayaquil. Photo: FMPT-FC.

86

p. 30
37. Estrella del Chimborazo. Base Camp at Totorillas Valley. Photo:
FMPT-RS

p. 32-33
38. Indigenous dancers at Historical Ruins of Ingapirca. Photo:
MT.

p. 34
39. Experiencing a Secret Place in the Rain Forest. Photo: MTKER

p. 36-37

p. 67
69. Cuyuja Wall. Photo: MT- Sebastin Cruz
70. Photo: MT- Edgar Aulestia
71. Cajas National Park. Photo: MT- Sebastin Cruz

p. 68
72. Cayambe Volcano. Photo: SRT
73. Southern Illiniza Volcano. Photo: SRT

p. 69
74. Southern Illiniza Volcano. Photo: SRT
75. Horseback riding in the Andes. Photo: KLT
76. El Altar Volcano. Photo: KLT

40. Shuar Native. Photo: FMPT-FC

p. 42-43
41. Miss Universe Pageant 2004, Cemexpo-Quito: Photo Patricio
Calle & Moiss Valverde

p. 42
42. Leito Hacienda, Andes. Photo: SRT
43. Casa del Suizo Lodge, Amazonia. Photo: La Casa del Suizo

p. 44

p. 70
77. Kayaking in Galapagos. Photo: FMPT-FC
78. Rafting in the Amazon. Photo: SRT

p. 71
79. Nono sector. Photo: MT- Michelle Cornejo
80. Motorcycling Ecuador. Photo: MT- Michelle Cornejo

p. 72

44. Crystal Palace at Itchimbia Park, Quito. Photo: CMT

81. Birdwatchers after seeing the Jocotoco Antpitta (Grallaria

ridgelyi). Photo: SRT

p. 45

p. 73

45.
46.
47.
48.

The House of Music. Photo: RS

Indepence Square, Quito Downtown. Photo: FMPT-FC
City Museum. Photo: FMPT-ST
Plaza de las Americas (Americas Square). Photo: RS

49. The Crystal Palace at Malecn 2000. Photo: MIMG

50. Jos Joaqun de Olmedo International Airport. Photo: MIMG
51. City Hall Museum. Photo: MIMG

82. Choco Trogon (Trogon comptus) Choco endemic. Photo: SRT

83. Andean Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruviana). Photo: SRT
84. Pale mandibled Araari (Pteroglossus erythropygius). Photo:
SRT
85. Golden-headed Quetzal (Pharomachrus auriceps). Photo: SRT
86. Violet-tailed Sylph (Aglaiocercus coelestis) Choco endemic.
Photo: SRT
87. White Throated Toucan (Ramphastos tucanus). Photo: SRT
88. Hoatzin (Opisthocomus hoatzin). Photo: SRT

p. 47

p. 74

p. 46

p. 48

89. Humpback whales along the Ecuadorian Coast. Photo: CCPWF

90. Humpback whales competing for the females attention.
Photo: CC-PWF

54. Posada del Angel Hotel Boutique. Photo: FMPT- FC

55. Rafael M. Barriga Arzaga Street, Cuenca. Photo: FTC

p. 73

p. 49

91. Humpback whales are considered the most acrobatic whales

in the world. Photo: CC-PWF

56. Justice Court Building. Photo: FTC

57. Benigno Malo High School, built in 1906. Photo: FMPT-ST

p. 76

52. Civic Center at the Forestal Park. Photo: MIMG

53. Baquerizo Moreno Square. Photo: MIMG

58. Mindo cloudforest. Photo: FMPT-ST

92. Local dance on the Ecuadorian Coast. Photo: FMPT-FC

93. Pujil Dancers. Photo: FMPT-FC
94. Saraguro ritual. Photo: MT-FR

p. 61

p. 77

p. 50-51

60. Getting wet! Photo: MT- Gyorgy Gutierres

95. Chorlav Hacienda, Imabura Province. Photo: MD

96. La Victoria Hacienda, Guayas Province. Photo: FMPT-ST
97. San Agustn de Callo Hacienda, Cotopaxi Province. Photo:
FMPT-FC

p. 63

p. 78

59. Cocotales Beach, Cojimes-Esmeraldas. Photo: FMPT-FC

p. 62

p. 64

98. Masdevallia xanthina subs mandarina. Photo: Alexander Hirtz

99. Telipogon stinae. Photo: Alexander Hirtz
100. Cyrtochilum macranthum. Photo: Harry Zelenko
101. Psychopsis versteegiana. Photo: Alexander Hirtz

63. Diving in Galapagos. Photo: MT- Ecoventura, Peter Lange

64. Snorkelling in Galapagos. Photo: RS

p. 79

61. Montaita. Photo: Carlos Noel

62. Canoa Beach, Manab Province. Photo: FMPT-FC

65. Paragliding in Crucita. Photo: MT-FR

102. Yana Urco, Andes. Photo: FMPT-ST

103. Banana plantation, El Oro Province. Photo: FMPT-ST
104. Cocoa plantation, Guayas Province. Photo: FMPT-ST

p. 66

p. 80

p. 65

66. Pululahua Reserve. Photo:SRT

67. Jotococha. Photo: FMPT-FC
68. Runtn, Baos. Photos: FMPT-ST

105. Ayampe Archaeological pieces. Photo: FMPT-FC

106. Agua Blanca, Province of Manabi. Photo: FMPT-FC
107. Ritual sites in Tulipe, Pichincha Province. Photo: FMPT-FC

p. 81
108. Gupulo, Quito. Photo: CMT
109. Train trip in the Andes. Photo: SRT

Av. Eloy Alfaro N32-300 y Carlos Tobar.

Quito - Ecuador.
PBX: + 593 2 3999 333
promocion@turismo.gob.ec

www.ecuador.travel