PlaneJourney finds and compares airfares to Ecuador from 1093 airlines from around the world. You can’t buy airline tickets on our site, but you can find the lowest prices and special offers with no extra fees or surcharges. Find the cheapest tickets to Ecuador with PlaneJourney. Ecuador has a population of approximately 17 million people.
Major cities and airports in Ecuador
- Quito – Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO)
- Guayaquil – José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE)
- Cuenca – Mariscal Lamar International Airport (CUE)
- Manta – Eloy Alfaro International Airport (MEC)
- Galápagos Islands – Seymour Airport (GPS)
- Ambato – Chachoán Airport (ATF)
- Esmeraldas – General Rivadeneira Airport (ESM)
- Latacunga – Cotopaxi International Airport (LTX)
- Machala – General Manuel Serrano Airport (MCH)
- Tulcán – Coronel E Carvajal Airport (TUA)
Time and Communication
Ecuador is in the GMT-5 time zone, and there is no switch to daylight saving time. Mobile operators in Ecuador include Claro, Movistar, and CNT. The call quality is generally good in urban areas, but it may be limited in rural regions. Cell phone coverage is available in most of the country, but coverage may be spotty in remote areas.
Money and Shopping
The local currency in Ecuador is the United States dollar (USD), and its exchange rate is approximately 1 USD to 1 USD. Most businesses in Ecuador accept payment in USD, but it is best to have local currency on hand for smaller purchases. Payment by bank cards is becoming increasingly common in Ecuador, but some businesses may not accept certain types of cards. Currency exchange offices typically operate during regular business hours, which are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Transportation
The most common transportation options for travelers in Ecuador include buses, taxis, and rental cars. Buses are the most affordable option, and they operate throughout the country. Taxis are also readily available, but it is important to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi. Rental cars are available in major cities and airports, but they can be expensive, and driving in Ecuador can be challenging due to the mountainous terrain and narrow roads.
Touristic Attractions
- Galápagos Islands – This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to unique wildlife and stunning natural landscapes.
- Quito’s Historic Center – This colonial-era center is one of the best-preserved in South America and is a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Cuenca – This charming colonial city is known for its beautiful architecture and art scene.
- Banos – This small town is a popular destination for adventure travelers, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and white-water rafting.
- The Amazon Rainforest – Ecuador is home to a portion of the Amazon Rainforest, which offers unique opportunities for eco-tourism and wildlife viewing.