About Ecuador
Ecuador is in South America. Its capital is Quito, the main language is Spanish and the currency is the United States dollar (USD). Our guides cover 2 destinations across Ecuador, including Quito and Galapagos Islands. The most comfortable time to visit is generally June to December.
Must-see sights in Ecuador
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Church of La Compañía
Religious · QuitoA Jesuit church with an interior almost entirely covered in gold leaf, a masterpiece of Baroque art. Photography is not allowed inside, so take your time to look.
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Charles Darwin Research Station
Landmark · Galapagos IslandsThe main scientific base on the islands, where you can see giant tortoises from its breeding program up close. It sits at the edge of Puerto Ayora, so walk there in the cooler early morning.
Best time to visit Ecuador
Based on recent weather records across 2 destinations, the most comfortable months for sightseeing in Ecuador are June to December. Conditions vary by region, so open a city guide for monthly temperatures, rainfall and a 7-day forecast.
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- Spanish
- Capital
- Quito
- Calling code
- +593
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zones
- Pacific/Galapagos, America/Guayaquil
Upcoming public holidays in Ecuador
- Christmas DayDía de Navidad
- New Year's DayAño Nuevo
- CarnivalCarnaval
- CarnivalCarnaval
- Good FridayViernes Santo
- International Workers' DayDía del Trabajo
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Check visa requirementsGetting to Ecuador
The closest airports to the most popular destinations in Ecuador.
- UIO Mariscal Sucre International Airport13 mi from Quito
- GPS Seymour Airport25 mi from Galapagos Islands
Ecuador travel FAQ
What are the best places to visit in Ecuador?
Popular destinations in Ecuador include Quito and Galapagos Islands. Our Ecuador travel guides cover 2 cities and regions, with places to visit, things to do, where to stay and the best time to go.
When is the best time to visit Ecuador?
Across our Ecuador destinations, the most comfortable months to visit are June to December. Weather varies by region, so check each city guide for local temperatures and rainfall.
Which airports should I fly into for Ecuador?
Main airports for popular Ecuador destinations include Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) for Quito and Seymour Airport (GPS) for Galapagos Islands.
What are the must-see sights in Ecuador?
Highlights include Church of La Compañía in Quito and Charles Darwin Research Station in Galapagos Islands.
How many hotels can I book in Ecuador?
Destina Holidays lists 147 properties across our Ecuador destinations, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
What currency is used in Ecuador?
Ecuador uses the United States dollar (USD).
What language is spoken in Ecuador?
The official language of Ecuador is Spanish.
What is the capital of Ecuador?
The capital of Ecuador is Quito.
What time zone is Ecuador in?
Our Ecuador destinations span 2 time zones, including Pacific/Galapagos (UTC−6) and America/Guayaquil (UTC−5).
Which side of the road do they drive on in Ecuador?
Traffic in Ecuador drives on the right. The international calling code is +593.
What are the upcoming public holidays in Ecuador?
Upcoming public holidays include Christmas Day on 25 December 2026, New Year's Day on 1 January 2027 and Carnival on 8 February 2027. Flights and hotels often fill up early around holidays.
Do I need a visa to visit Ecuador?
Visa rules for Ecuador depend on your nationality, passport and the length and purpose of your trip. Check our visa requirements page or contact our travel experts before you book.