Ecuador

Bisected by the equator; one part lying in the southern hemisphere and the other in the northern, Ecuador is a land divided into three distinct geological regions; the sierra, oriente, and costa. These regions seem like tree different planets squeezed into one country. In addition Ecuador controls the Galapagos Islands which are even more like a distant universe.

Faces Facts

Climate: Weather varies greatly depending on the altitude. The coastal and Amazonian lowlands have a wet equatorial climate. The higher you go the colder it becomes. Most large cities are located in a fairly comfortable subtropical zone, although it can be very chilly at night in Quito.

Best time to dive: it is possible to dive year round

What you can see: red mouthed bat fish, sea lions, seahorse, penguins, dolphins, sea iguanas, whale sharks, manta rays, the list goes on…. Not forgetting the giant tortoises and the blue- footed booby

Visibility: 20-25m (65-82ft.)

Water Temperature: 16-20°C (60-68°F) south of the Equator, 24-28°C (75-83°F) north of the Equator

Languages Spoken: English and Spanish

Currency: United States Dollar (USD)

ATM’s and Banks: ATM’s available at most banks and urban areas. On the Galapagos Islands only accept MC.

Time Zone: UTC-5

Voltage: 110V/220V/60HZ

Health Regulations: Please consult your doctor or nearest health authorities for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure.

Visa Requirements: British, Australian, Canadian, American and other EU nationals are not required to have a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Nationals not referred to above are advised to contact the embassy/high commission to check visa requirements. For more up to date information on visa requirements check www.vivecuador.com

Top Tip

Be sure to visit lonesome George the oldest giant tortoise in the Galapagos. Learn all about the different species of giant tortoise and the continued struggle to preserve numbers. Not far from Quito be sure to visit the Equator line, take a look at which the water runs on either side.