Local: 1.604.731.2442 | Canada & US Toll: 1.888.805.0061 | UK: 0808.2341403 | Email: info@bikehike.com
Untamed wilderness and natural beauty await us in Ecuador. As one of the most ecologically diverse countries on earth, Ecuador has limitless wonders to offer the adventure traveler. The rich jungles echo with the cries of playful monkey's, tropical birds, and countless other exotic animals. The snowy peaks of active volcanoes and the Andean backbone thrust proudly into thin air, and the local people extend warm greetings with infectious smiles. For those in search of rugged adventure amidst unspoiled natural splendor, Ecuador is sure to exceed expectations in every regard.
Official Name: Republic of Ecuador
Population: 12 million
Capital City: Quito, pop. 2 million
People: 40% Mestizo, 40% Indian, 15% Spanish descent, and 5% African descent
Languages: Spanish, Quechua, and Quichua
Religion: 90% Roman Catholic, 10% other including other Christian denominations
Currency: American Dollar and Ecuadorian Sucre coins
Time: GMT minus 5 hours and Galapagos Islands time is GMT minus 6 hours
Electricity: 110V 60Hz (http://www.kropla.com)
Major Industries: Oil, bananas, shrimp, fish, coffee, tourism
Airport Departure Tax: $25 from Quito & $27.15 from Guayaquil (subject to change)
A valid passport is required for Canadian and American citizens travelling to Ecuador. There are no visas required for people with a Canadian or U.S passport. For citizens of other countries please check your local embassy for updated information on entry requirements. We suggest that you carry a photocopy of your passport separately and leave a copy with friends or family at home. (Note: please make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival in Ecuador or you may be refused entry).
Even though Quito and the central highlands are on or near the equator, the altitude is between 7,000 and 10,000 ft. (2,100 and 3,000 meters) and the weather is surprisingly comfortable year round. Temperatures are usually in the 70's F (mid 20's C) during the day, and in the 50's F (around 12C.) when the sun goes down. The rainy and dry seasons vary depending on your location. This trip covers two distinct zones, the Western Cordillera and the Eastern Cordillera. This means that you will encounter a wet and dry season on your adventure regardless of the time you travel. Be sure to come prepared for all climatic situations.
On the coast the average temperature is 83F (28C), with the hot rainy season from November to May. The dry season is from June to September.
In the jungle, tropical temperatures average around 82F (28C). Rainfall is common year round, especially from June to November. However at this time the jungle is at its luxurious best and most of the rivers are navigable.
When choosing restaurants to dine at, please exercise caution with street stalls. Sometimes the food can sit out for long periods of time in the heat and is not the most hygienic. Some must tries when in Ecuador include Cuy – the local delicacy of guinea pig, Ceviche – seafood marinated in lemon, onions, and spices, and Llapingachos – fried mashed potato and cheese pancakes.
While in Ecuador, it is best to drink only bottled water or treated tap water. This also pertains to brushing your teeth. Fruit drinks, soft drinks, coffee and tea are all widely available and safe to drink.
The health risks in Ecuador are not considered high, however The Toronto Hospital Tropical Disease Clinic advises travellers to have anti-hepatitis, yellow fever, typhoid and tetanus shots current. We advise you to contact your nearest travel clinic for information on health requirements, as this information can and does change frequently. A good website for current information is The Centre for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov/travel/.
Climbing and Hiking in Ecuador - by Rob Rachowiecki
Lonely Planet Ecuador Culture Shock! Ecuador - by Nicholas B. Crowder
Costume and Identity in Highland Ecuador - by Ann Pollard Rowe
The Old Man Who Read Love Stories - by Luis Sepulveda
Through the Gates of Splendor – by Elisabeth Elliot
Savages – by Joe Kane
Aggression and History: the Case of Ecuador and Peru – by Bryce Wood
Amazon Worlds: Peoples and Cultures of Ecuador's Amazon Region - by Noemi Paymal and Catalina Sosa
CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE |
|
| 1 | The Andes to the Amazon Mountain Bike, Hike, Raft, and Horseback Ride (10 Days) |
| 2 | Galapagos Multi-Sport Mountain Bike, Hike, Sea Kayak, Snorkel & Horseback Ride (9 Days) |
| 3 | Adventure with a Purpose Mountain Bike, Hike, Raft, Sea Kayak and Volunteer (11 Days) |
| 4 | Volcanoes and Jungles Biking, Hiking, Whitewater Rafting, Horseback Riding and Zip-Lining (10 Days) |
| 5 | Luxury Galapagos Multi-sport Kayaking, Mountain Biking, Hiking, Snorkeling & Horseback Riding (9 Days) |