Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Ecuador depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for EcuadorEmergency Numbers
- General
- 911
Currency
- Name
- US Dollar
- Code
- USD
- Symbol
- $
Ecuador uses the US Dollar — no conversion needed for USD travellers. Small denominations are essential; $50 and $100 bills are often refused. Cards accepted in cities; cash essential in rural areas and the Galápagos.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type A, Type B
- Voltage
- 120V
- Frequency
- 60Hz
Time Zone
ECT (UTC−5) — Galápagos Islands: GALT (UTC−6). No daylight saving.
Best Time to Visit
June–September is the best time for the Galápagos (cool, clear water, abundant wildlife including penguins and sea lions). The Amazon is drier June–November. Andean cities (Quito, Cuenca) are pleasant year-round — wettest months are October–April.
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% | Check if already included — some upmarket restaurants add it automatically |
| Taxis | Round up | Agree fare before getting in — meters are rarely used outside Quito |
| Galápagos guides | $10–15 USD per day | Guides are certified naturalists — tips are well earned |
| Hotels | $1–2 per bag | — |
Dress Code
- Very casual — light, practical clothing for jungle and coast
- Layer up for Quito and the Andes — altitude makes it cooler than expected
- Modest dress in churches and indigenous communities
- Sun protection is critical near the equator — UV levels are extremely high
Social Etiquette
- A kiss on the right cheek is the standard greeting between friends
- Indigenous communities in the Amazon and Andes have rich traditions — engage with respect and always ask before photographing
- Ecuador straddles the equator — sunrise and sunset are at 6am/6pm year-round
- Volunteering or giving money directly to children in tourist areas is discouraged
- The Galápagos is a UNESCO World Heritage site — strict rules apply; never leave the marked paths
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Galápagos rules are enforced — no touching wildlife, no going off-path, no removing any natural material
- Drugs carry severe penalties
- LGBTQ+ couples have legal rights in Ecuador — it was the first Andean country to recognise same-sex unions (2019 for civil unions, 2023 for full marriage)
- Photographing the presidential palace and military installations is prohibited
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Hola | OH-lah |
| Thank you | Gracias | GRAH-syahs |
| You're welcome | De nada | deh NAH-dah |
| How much? | ¿Cuánto cuesta? | KWAHN-toh KWES-tah |
| Where is…? | ¿Dónde queda…? | DOHN-deh KAY-dah |
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