Why Travel to Ecuador with Gondwana Ecotours?

Ecuador Travel FAQ

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A committed and capable staff of travel professionals: With our travel team of 30 members strong — including native speakers of five different languages — our local partners offer a host of opportunities to get our clients “off the beaten path,” taking them to places where travelers are still rare, yet without compromising on their comfort or style. Members of this passionate team of travel experts organize what we consider dream vacations across South America, including experiences in the Galapagos Islands and mainland Ecuador.

Customizable Journeys

In planning, organizing and executing travel experiences for our clients, we at Gondwana work with each client to develop a customized itinerary specifically suited to them and their specific interests – whether a traveler is looking to hike the Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu, take a luxury cruise in the Galapagos Islands, or explore the mysteries of the Amazon rainforest in search of exotic and endangered wildlife species.

Responsible Travel

Whatever the destination a client might choose, Gondwana works to ensure that their visit makes only a positive impact on the local environment, community and the area economy. Our commitment to sustainable tourism compels us to contract with local actors in providing high-quality transportation, accommodations, entertainment, recreation, dining and shopping services. In this same vein, our partners – including local hotels and service providers – are not only the best in each destination, but most are certified in responsible tourism.

Q: When is the best time to go to Ecuador?

A: Travelers can visit Ecuador any time of year. Because Ecuador is located on the Equator, there is little seasonal variability. Ecuadorians will often tell you that you can expect four seasons in one day. Although there is a slightly wetter and slightly drier season, these variations are unpredictable and the months vary depending upon where in Ecuador you are. Quito and the highlands are comfortable year-round, with temperatures usually in the 60s (Fahrenheit) during the day and occasional light showers. The Amazon regions are hot, humid, and wet year-round with a slightly wetter season from April to June. Even the rains can be a refreshing break from the heat and humidity so any time of year can be a fine choice. School holidays are particularly popular so travelers should plan ahead (ideally 6-9 months in advance) for these times.

Q: What are the accommodations like?

A: In Ecuador, we use charming accommodations that are locally owned and characteristic of the area. They can best be compared to small, family run bed and breakfasts rather than international chain hotels. All of our Ecuadorian hotels have private baths, hot water and clean, comfortable rooms. They are located within walking distance of the town center and the reception generally speaks English. Historic haciendas dot the Ecuadorian countryside and provide comfortable accommodations complete with walking or horseback riding trails that wind through nearby orchards or forests.

Q: Are meals included?

A: We balance flexibility and convenience regarding meal options. For this reason, we include meals on any of our tour days when you are traveling off the beaten path where restaurant choices are limited. For example, meals are usually included on all of the rainforest and Galapagos segments of our Ecuadorian tours. In the major cities, where there are a wide variety of restaurants, meals are not typically included to allow our travelers the flexibility of choosing their own food preferences. Your tour leader or hotel staff can recommend great restaurant options upon request. Your hotel will also provide a light continental breakfast on these days.

Q: What currency is used in Ecuador?

Q: Do you have any tips on handling money?

A: ATMs are found in most major cities and in many towns (where there is at least a bank). All US dollar bills and coins are accepted (including the Sacagawea dollar coin), but there are also local 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cent coins (these are conversely not accepted anywhere else but in Ecuador). Most stores are fetching for “change” (sueltos), so consider bringing enough coins and one dollar bills—or exchange when you can—because 50 or 100 dollar bills can be refused in certain places, especially rural towns.

Q: How common is English in Ecuador?

Q: What should I wear in Ecuador?

A: Ecuador is home to four major climate zones (and lots of micro climates), so it all depends on your itinerary and the season you’re visiting. As a general rule, the highlands get chilly, especially at night (if you’re visiting the Amazon, you still have at least an overnight in Quito, so come prepared). The Amazon is warm and humid, but strong breezes and rain are common, so bring a light sweater and a raincoat. Upon booking, we will provide you with a complete packing list tailored to your itinerary.

Q: What are the people like? Is it safe?

Q: What about the visa requirements?

Q: What are the tour leaders like?

Q: What type of transportation is used?

Q: What type of food is typical of Ecuador?

A: Popular Ecuadorian staples include meat, potatoes, corn, seafood, and rice. Soups and stews are served as a main dish or appetizer. Ceviche, a local favorite, is a cold seafood dish where fresh fish is cured in lemon juice and seasoning. Roast pork, fried corn or potato pancakes, and grilled steak are also common. Vegetarians can find plenty to eat, but will generally have less variety to choose from than meat eaters.
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Photo gallery:
Ceviche
Gourmet fusion dish
Tourist in traditional dress w/ bowl of soup
Coastal raw food – whole fish….

Q: Are these trips suitable for kids?

Q: Do tour rates include international flights?

A: Tour rates do not include international flights. We find that it’s usually less expensive for travelers to book these separately and this also allows you the flexibility to choose the schedule and routing that is most convenient for you. You can purchase international flights on your own, or we can certainly help you arrange these flights with an airfare consolidator who specializes in South America flights.

Q: How do I get to the hotel from the airport when I arrive?

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