¡Qué chévere! That is an exclamation that you hear everywhere in Ecuador. It expresses how beautiful something is and sounds on many occasions. Because Ecuadorians love life and it is precisely this joie de vivre that you can feel on a trip through the small country on the equator. Whether on a ride through the Andes plateau, visiting the old town of Cuenca or on a snorkeling excursion in the waters of the famous Galápagos Islands. In the multi-faceted country you can find hospitality in lively cities as well as seclusion in incredible nature.
Ecuador is everything – just not boring
Ecuador is not only the land of alpacas, but also offers evergreen rainforests and beautiful beaches on the coastal areas. Ecuador combines many different landscapes and is rich in culture due to its long history. Explore Ecuador as an individual traveler, with the family or in a group. We would be happy to organize cheap departure options throughout the DACH region, for example from Basel. On a trip to Ecuador with us, let yourself be enchanted by one of the most diverse countries in the world in a small space!
Travel information in brief
Travel time
There are only two seasons in Ecuador – the dry season and the rainy season. The temperatures are, however, largely determined by the altitude. In the highlands it is dry all year round, on the coast the rainy season lasts from January to May, although there is usually only a heavy rain shower in the afternoon. If you are prone to seasickness, you shouldn’t take a boat to the Galápagos Islands from July to October.
Currency / money
In Ecuador you pay with US dollars. Restaurants and hotels often accept credit card payments as well. However, you should always carry a few US $ bills with you, as there are hardly any ATMs to be found, especially in rural areas. It is also important to have small US dollar bills, as the population does not accept large bills such as 50 or US $ 100 due to the high level of counterfeit money in circulation.
Vaccinations
As a tour operator, we are not allowed to give any vaccination recommendations. From our own experience, however, vaccinations against hepatitis A for shorter stays and protection against typhoid, rabies and hepatitis B for longer stays have proven to be effective. Please inform yourself in good time at the Federal Foreign Office and seek advice from your doctor so that you can have your vaccinations in good time before your trip.
Visa / entry
For tourist stays of up to 90 days a year you do not need a visa to enter the country, only a passport that is valid for at least 6 months at the time of entry. For current entry requirements, please contact the relevant embassy. In the case of a transit flight via the USA, please inquire at the US embassy which documents / passports are required for the transit.
Ecuador – small but “powerful”
When you think of Ecuador, you often lack a suitable image. We want to show that the small country of Ecuador does not have to stand in the shadow of Brazil or Argentina, but rather shines itself with a diverse range of sights. Because Ecuador, that is:
- Relaxation
Here you can immerse yourself in special thermal baths typical of the country, relax your muscles after a long day in one of the pools with hot, sulphurous springs below the Cascada de la Caballera de la Virgen waterfall and enjoy the peace and quiet there. - the Cotopaxi
This impressive, snow-covered volcano in the middle of a barren yet beautiful landscape should not be missing on any trip to Ecuador. The best way to explore it from a distance is on a horseback ride, or climb the 5,897-meter-high summit at midnight to get a unique view of the surrounding Andean highlands at sunrise. - Indescribably beautiful
In Ecuador there are indescribably beautiful landscapes that have everything to offer from mountains to rainforests to beautiful beaches. Every traveler gets their money’s worth here. - the Andean region
This region of the country is particularly home to the alpacas that are typical of the country. But you can also come across many other animal species that have their home in the Andean highlands. If you keep your eyes open, it is possible to observe a condor, mountain tapire or even puma in one of the most biodiverse countries on earth. - Dynamism
The South American country is known for its dynamic lifestyle. There is always something going on, especially in the big cities, and the local population often doesn’t need a reason to celebrate and dance. It doesn’t get boring here. - Otavalo
A city that is known for its large and colorful Indian market, framed by the breathtaking backdrop of three volcanoes. Otavalo also acts as a central starting point for numerous excursions. - the giant tortoise
Galápagos is known for its giant tortoises, which gave the island its name. But not only the leisurely turtles can be observed on an excursion to the Galápagos Archipelago, sea lions, marine iguanas and penguins, as well as a wonderful underwater world can also be discovered here.
