When most people think of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands often come to mind. But despite its small size, Ecuador has so much more to offer. Alongside the iconic Galapagos, it boasts the dramatic mountain landscapes of the Andes, fascinating historic cities, and the untamed wilderness of the Amazon rainforest. Read more about traveling to Ecuador below.

Ecuador Travel Requirements

Before visiting any country, it’s important to understand the visa and travel requirements. If you’re an American, Canadian, or British citizen, you won’t need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 12-month period in Ecuador. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months upon entry.

Official Language Of Ecuador

Spanish is the primary language spoken in Ecuador, but there are also 13 recognized indigenous languages, which are more commonly heard as you get closer to the Amazon region. English is widely spoken in tourist areas like the Galapagos, and by tour guides in cities like Quito, Cuenca, and even in Baños due to its popularity with visitors. However, in rural areas or less touristy locations, knowing some Spanish will be very helpful.

Ecuador’s Money Situation

Ecuador’s official currency is the US dollar, which has been in use since 2000, making currency exchange straightforward. If you’re coming from the U.S., it’s a good idea to bring some cash with you.

One important thing to know before visiting Ecuador is the limited use of credit cards. In popular tourist areas like the Galapagos, credit cards are becoming more accepted in restaurants and hotels, but you shouldn’t rely on them everywhere. We found that cash was still essential for many places, including restaurants, grocery stores, and shops. Even when entering the Galapagos National Park, you’ll need to pay the entrance fee in cash!

Is Ecuador Safe?

Safety is a key consideration when visiting any country, and Ecuador is generally quite safe—often safer than many cities in the U.S. We felt secure for the most part, especially during the daytime. The Galapagos Islands felt safe both day and night. However, in Quito, locals frequently advised us to avoid going out after dark and to keep our valuables close. Taking their advice to heart, we spent most evenings in our Airbnb. When we did have dinner reservations, we always opted for a taxi or Uber after dark.

Water Safety

The tap water in Ecuador is not safe to drink, so it’s best to stick to bottled water while visiting. I’ve heard that Cuenca has the best water quality, but I can’t confirm whether it’s safe to drink. When in doubt, always choose bottled water. 

Recommended Vaccinations

Before visiting Ecuador, it’s important to know about any necessary vaccinations or medications to prevent diseases. While there are no mandatory vaccinations for Ecuador, if you’re traveling to the Amazon region, it’s recommended to take malaria pills and get vaccinated for Yellow Fever. Since I’m not a health authority, please consult the CDC for the most current information.

For more information regarding facts you need to know before visiting, check out this blog: 9 Important Things To Know Before Visiting Ecuador