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POPULATION
2 million
OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
Spanish is the official language of Ecuador, although you may well hear the native dialects of the Andean highlands, Kichwa, as well as languages from the Amazon such as Cofán and Shuar. English is not widely spoken, but is more common among the younger generation and in cities.
CURRENCY
Ecuador uses the American Dollar (USD). Notes and coins issued by the US are common tender, although Ecuador produces some of its own coins (such as the novel $1 coin, but also 5 cent, 25 cents and 50 cents coins).
ALTITUDE
Quito is 2.800 metres above sea level (around 10,000 feet). Please take it slowly, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and drink plenty of water upon arrival and over your first days in the capital.
CLIMATE
Due to its position on the equator and its altitude, Quito’s temperature varies greatly between night and day. Daytime temperatures average 23-25ºC (73-77ºF), while at night temperatures drop to around 10ºC (10ºF). In general, days are clear in the morning and cloud over in the afternoon, with rain common in the afternoon.
The drier season runs from the end of May to the end September, with another brief summertime in early December (which coincides nicely with the city’s fiestas for its founding).
It’s best to come prepared for all eventualities in Quito, so when starting the day in blazing sunshine, always pack a light sweater and an umbrella/rain-coat for the afternoon – just in case!
BASICS
Money
You can cash travellers’ cheques and change money at most banks and casas de cambio (moneychangers), and the rates aren’t significantly different. Most banks are open between 9 am and 4 or 5 pm on weekdays. The only ones open later or at weekends are located inside shopping malls. Moneychangers are usually open until about 6 pm. Some major hotels will cash travellers’ cheques for non-residents, which can be very helpful if you are strapped for cash on a weekend, but usually not very cost-effective.
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are common throughout Quito. They are about the most economical way of using cash abroad. For Visa, head to Banco de Guayaquil or Banco Pichincha, and for Mastercard to Banco del Pacífico. Check with your home bank before leaving about any charges you might incur. Our advice is to bring a mix of dollars cash, traveller’s cheques and various Visa or Mastercards.
If you’re bringing dollars in cash (or changing traveller’s cheques), make sure you ask for small denominations (no bills larger than $20). Many stores and small businesses won’t accept US$100 or US$50 bills, and it can be frustrating attempting to get them changed.
Time
Ecuador is five hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), two hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Electricity
Ecuador operates on 110 volts (60-cycle), and uses standard United States flat, parallel two-prong plugs. If you’re travelling from a country not compatible with this shape, purchase an adapter before you leave. Some jungle lodges may use their own generators, in which case you should check with the managers before plugging in an appliance.
Water
Avoid drinking tap water in Ecuador, and stick to bottled water which is widely available. Three-star and up hotels provide jugs of mineral water and ice, and most hotels will supply them on request. Water from taps (faucets) is fine for teeth brushing, however. |
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