Learn About the Countries: Ecuador
The smallest country in the rugged Andean highlands, Ecuador is among the most rewarding travel destinations in South America. With its array of vibrant indigenous cultures, well preserved colonial architecture, otherworldly volcanic landscapes and dense rainforest, it packs its perimeters with more points of interest than many countries twice its size. Touch down in its picture-perfect capital, Quito, and you are no more than a day's drive from a slog through all-swallowing Amazonian jungle, a snow swept ascent of an active volcano, or a welcome wallow on a tropical beach. All that in a nation no bigger than the US state of Nevada.
Country Officers
Tony & Veronica Witkowski
Places of Interest in Ecuador
- Quito - The capital of Ecuador is arguably the most beautiful city in South America. Located 2850m (9350ft) above sea level and just 22km (14mi) south of the equator, it boasts a wonderful springlike climate in a spectacular setting.
- Avenue of Volcanoes - The long valley south of Quito, leading to Cuenca, is flanked by two parallel mountain ranges containing some of the country's wildest scenery and nine of its 10 highest peaks.
- Oriente Province - This large region in the lowlands of the Amazon basin has huge areas of rainforest and lures visitors interested in natural history, ecology, tropical habitats, indigenous tribes, birdwatching and jungle treks.
Interesting Facts about Ecuador
- Area: 283,520 sq km (175,780 sq mi)
- Population: 12,920,092 (growth rate: 2.1%)
- Capital city: Quito (pop 1.5 million)
- People: 40% mestizo, 40% Indian, 15% Spanish descent, 5% African descent
- Language: Spanish, Quechua, Quichua, other indigenous languages
Ecuador Links of Interest
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