Ecuador has four major regions: The Coast, the Highlands, the Jungle and the Galapagos Islands.

Quito is the capital of Ecuador and its 2.850m. above sea level. Guayaquil is the main harbor and Cuenca is the cultural city, all being among the most important cities.

Despite being the smallest country in the Andean Highlands, Ecuador is one of the world's most bio-diverse destinations. Visitors will experience dramatic changes in altitude, scenery and temperature while journeying between Pacific Coast beaches, the sweltering rainforest, the ice-covered volcanoes surrounding Quito and the windswept highlands of the Andes Mountains. They will also encounter an astounding variety of birds, wildlife, and vegetation in these contrasting climatic zones.

Currency. The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency in Ecuador. It is recommended that travelers bring US dollar notes as other foreign currencies are difficult to exchange outside of Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. Small denominations in good condition are the easiest to exchange outside of the main cities.

Electricity. Electrical current is 110 volts / 60 AC. Two-pin, flat prong plugs are standard.

Language: Spanish is the official language, but many speak an Amerindian language called Quichua.

Climate. In Quito, Cuenca and other highland cities, the weather is mild, with temperatures between 46 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit (8 and 23 degrees Celsius). It is recommended to use light clothing during the day, and sweaters or jackets during the night.

The Coast, including the Galapagos Islands, has warm weather. The average temperature is around 87 degrees Fahrenheit or 28 – 30 degrees Celsius. We recommend using light clothing (cotton), comfortable and resistant shoes and a sweater or jacket for some cold nights. It is also recommended to bring sunglasses, a hat, bug repellent and sun block.

The Jungle has a very tropical climate. The temperature is around 82 degrees Fahrenheit or 28 degrees Celsius. The use of soft clothes, long pants, shirts, comfortable and resistant shoes, or boots (for walks throughout the jungle), hat and sunglasses (are required), repellent and sun protector.