Ecuador Study Abroad

Ecuador is a country in South America, which shares borders with Peru and Columbia, as well as a length of coastline along the Pacific Ocean. It is approximately the size of the US state of Colorado. Ecuador’s official language is Spanish, although Quichua is also spoken, mostly in rural areas. Its capital is Quito, which happens to be the second highest capital in the world. The United States Dollar (USD) is it’s currency, but Ecuadorian coins, which are similar in shape and weight, are also used. Americans with a passport are not required to have a visa to visit the country for visits lasting less than 90 days.

Climate & Topography

Ecuador’s topography can be divided into four regions. From east to west, they are the Amazon rain forest, the Andean highlands or La Sierra, the Coastal lowlands, on the western coast and the Galapagos Islands off shore. Most of the year, the climate is tropical, very warm and humid. At higher elevations, in la Sierra, it is generally cooler.  The Galapagos Islands and coastal areas of Ecuador experience a dry season each year from October to December, but visitors should generally expect a very warm, humid climate.

Attractions

Ecuador has an abundant array of natural wonders to behold, as well as a rich cultural life to experience.

View over Quito, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands, officially called the Archipiélago de Colón, are one of Ecuador’s best-known features. This chain of volcanic islands is found approximately 500 miles from the shores of Ecuador. It is famous for its diverse, colorful and plentiful wildlife. As a result of the varying species of wildlife found on each island, Charles Darwin developed his theory of evolution in the Galapagos.

Ecuador is home to Cotopaxi, the world’s largest active volcano. The National Park surrounding it, Parque Nationale Cotopaxi, offers camping, hiking, biking as well as horseback riding.

In March or April, just before the Christian Lent, Carnaval is celebrated throughout Ecuador with water fights and parades. On December 6^th in Quito, celebrations are held in honor of the city’s fundacion with bullfights, street dances and abundant food and drink. October 9^th starts a similar multi-day celebration in Guayaquil also.

Eating

Food in Ecuador is quite reasonably priced, even for dining out.  A full meal can be found for two dollars at the lowest end,  a plate piled high with Chinese style fried rice and meat, or a lobster dinner on the coast for fifteen dollars.  When dining at a restaurant, it is customary to request the check (la cuerta) from the waiter when you have finished. For a meal suggestion, taste “locro de papa”, Ecuadorian soup with avocados, potatoes and cheese. See the section on Travel Precautions for information about food safety.

Transportation

Most visitors arrive in Ecuador by air or sea. Road passages exist, but are not advisable. The major airports serving mainland Ecuador are Quito and Guayaquil.  Both airports will charge an international departure tax when you leave.  In Quito, the fee is $40.80, and in Guayaquil the tax is $26.00. The tax is not usually included in the flight.

Travel throughout Ecuador is incredibly affordable. Buses will charge about $0.25 for travel within the city, and about $1.00 per hour for longer journeys.  For long bus rides, you can request an ejecutivo seat for a higher fare, which will be more comfortable. Taxi fares should be decided on before entering the cab. Taxis are generally safe, but it is advisable to ask your hotel, hostel or a trusted local for reliable taxi companies in your area.

Study in Ecuador

To study in Ecuador is a great way to truly learn the culture. Among Ecuador’s universities that are welcoming to international students are Universidad San Francisco and Catholic University.

Travel Precautions & Immunizations

Visitors to Ecuador should take special precautions before and during their trip to stay healthy and safe.

You should visit a Travel Medicine Clinic or doctor for medical advice specific to your itinerary, as immunizations and cautions may be required.  You can request an “immunization passport” from your doctor, which is pocket-sized and contains information about the immunization you have received. If you plan to explore the mountains on foot, or travel over them by bus, be aware of the effects of rapid altitude changes on your body. Ask your doctor before leaving about medicines for altitude sickness and symptoms. Throughout Ecuador, and in particular in the tropical lowlands, be wary of mosquitoes, which carry malaria and dengue. Pack an insect repellent with a high percentage of Deet, between 30 and 50 percent. Only drink bottled water, which available in many areas, and comes “con gas” or “sin gas”, with or without bubbles. Avoiding seafood and eat only well-cooked meats. Don’t eat food from vendors on the street.

The US Department of State recommends registering with them before traveling to Ecuador, and taking safety precautions in public areas. Their site on Ecuador provides the most up to date safety information on travel in the country.

Stephanie Murdock holds a BA from SUNY Geneseo. She spent three of her eight semesters abroad, and post-graduation volunteered at the Floran Tristan School in Arequipa, Peru.