How to plan an Ecuador trip

Plan your Ecuador trip by focusing on two specific regions—the Andes or the coast—rather than trying to see the whole country in one go. You will need 10 days to see the highlights, and you should use Quito as your primary base for arrivals and departures.

1. Decide on your route. Ecuador is diverse. Choose between the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes' (Andes), the Amazon Basin, or the Pacific Coast. Trying to combine all three in under 14 days leads to excessive time in transit.
2. Arrange internal transport. Domestic flights are cheap (approx. $50–$80) and save you 8-10 hours of bus time. Use local bus lines like Cooperativa Panamericana for mountain routes if you have a tight budget.
3. Acclimate to the altitude. Quito sits at 2,850 meters. Spend your first 48 hours in the city drinking plenty of water and taking it slow to avoid altitude sickness before heading into more strenuous trekking.
4. Book your Galapagos connection early. If you plan to visit the Galapagos, book your flight from Quito or Guayaquil at least 3 months in advance. You must also pay a $20 transit control card fee at the airport before departure.

Is Ecuador safe for solo travelers?

Yes, if you stick to main tourist routes and avoid walking in isolated areas after dark. Keep your phone tucked away in crowded markets.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

In major tourist hubs, basic English is spoken. However, learning 20-30 basic Spanish phrases will significantly improve your experience in local markets and rural areas.