about ecuador

Ecuador is a remarkable country, for its natural riches, its cultural diversity and history, and its peoples and traditions. Every corner of the country can offer something different for the traveler, from the spectacular tropical coastline with its populations of African origin to the Amazon and its variety of indigenous peoples and its amazing biodiversity. In between the two regions is the Sierra, which includes some of South America’s highest mountain peaks. With this diversity of terrain Ecuador offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, from mountain climbing, trekking, and mountain biking to rafting, swimming, and just relaxing in the great outdoors.

Ecuador’s history began 15 to 20 thousand years ago with the rise of indigenous societies in the region. These populations were well developed, and archeological sites throughout the country provide evidence of their existence. Prior to the Spanish conquest, Ecuador formed part of the northern Inca Empire. Today, Ecuador has a wide diversity of indigenous populations descended from these early inhabitants.

Today, Ecuador has a population of close to 13 million people. Most of these live in the Sierra or the Coastal regions. The country has more than 14 indigenous groups, with most maintaining their traditions and way of life. Spanish is the primary language, but there are several indigenous languages still spoken in some areas of the country. The predominant religion is Catholicism, but in some areas, traditional worship of the earth, sun and mountains is still preserved.

Ecuador is one of the top 17 nations of the world with respect to biodiversity. This relatively small country has over 1600 species of birds, 4500 species of butterflies, about 350 species of both reptiles and amphibians, and over 350 species of mammals. Nearly 25,000 species of trees and 10,000 species of plants live in the Amazon. There are 24 national parks and reserves, and although protection of these areas is weak, nearly all offer amazing landscapes unlike others to be found anywhere. Some of these protected areas are very difficult to access, allowing serious hikers access to places that are nearly pristine. Ecuador also includes the Galapagos Islands, a small area with about 600 native species, famous for its unique biodiversity and its remarkable marine life.

Further, the variation in terrain and climates of the country means that each area is unique, offering the visitor plenty to explore. Altitudes range from sea level to 6,310 meters at the peak of Chimborazo—the point on the globe furthest away from the center of the earth. There are several peaks of 5,000 meters or more in the country.

Climate varies as much as the terrain, ranging to the generally dry climate of Quito to the rainforests of the Amazon. Rainy seasons vary from one area to another; the coast has its wet season from December to May and the Amazon from January to September. The highlands, including Quito, receive the most rain between November and April. Temperatures at the coast range from 23 to 26 degrees, with the warmest temperatures during the wet season. In the Amazon, temperatures range from 23 to 36 degrees. The highlands have a moderately cool climate, with temperatures between 13 and 18 degrees, although this can vary greatly with altitude.

Ecuador is a relatively poor country economically, but has vast riches in its resources. Currently, Ecuador’s economy is sustained by exports of these resources, including oil and timber. The country also exports bananas, coffee, cocoa, shrimp, tuna, and flowers. Other exports include some fruits and vegetables as well as products of small industries such as handicrafts. Agriculture is a primary activity in most of rural Ecuador, providing the livelihood for most of its people.