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.
Basic Facts:
Population:
13.2 million
Area:
256,370 square kilometers (including Galapagos)
Currency: US
dollar
Electricity:
110V 60Hz
| Yanapuma has formed a partnership with a new travel agency, Eos Ecuador, that is working to promote responsible travel and community-run tourism that will benefit rural and marginalized communities directly. Profits from the agency fund specific development projects undertaken by Yanapuma. We will be delighted to help you with your travel plans, and to book tours to the Galapagos, Amazon, sierra, adventure tours, etc. For more information check out the Eos website: http://www.eosecuador.com |
Click here to read about SAFETY IN ECUADOR
Click
here to go to our directory of Community-based tourism projects
Click
here to go to our page of interesting links |
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