Ecuador FAQ’s
Do I need a visa?
Travelers with a US or Canadian passport do not need a visa to enter Ecuador for up to 90 days for tourism or business. For those traveling with a passport from a country other than the US or Canada, visit projectvisa.com for more information.Is my passport valid?
Your passport must be valid at least 6 months following the end of your trip for entry into Ecuador. If it expires sooner, you must get a renewal.Do I need any shots?
No vaccinations are required for travel to Ecuador from the USA. Call the CDC Travelers’ Hot Line at 888-232-3228 or visit the website (www.cdc.gov/travel). Most travelers take Hepatitis A, Typhoid Fever and Tetanus. If traveling to the Amazon region consider Yellow Fever and Malaria prophylaxis.When can I expect more details on my trip?
You will receive two sets of information by email: 1. Pre-departure materials once your trip is guaranteed, typically a few months prior to your departure; and 2. Final Documents sent two weeks before you leave.When is my balance due?
Your land balance is due 90 days prior to departure for Signature Trips and generally due at 120 days for Custom Trips. An invoice indicating your balance due will be sent with your pre-departure information.Will I be met at the airport?
Yes, if you arrive according to schedule or have arranged extra transfers through our office. Meeting instructions and local contact information will be provided with your Final Documents.How much money should I bring?
Depending on the length of your trip, plan to bring $300-600 per person for spending money, tips, taxi rides, additional visits and those meals not included in the itinerary. Cash is the easiest to carry as Ecuador uses the US dollar for local currency.Are ATM machines available?
Yes. There are ATM machines in the main cities such as Quito and Guayaquil. We recommend using the ones located inside certain hotels, stores, restaurants or banks. Be cautious as some thieves may watch these machines and target tourists and others who take out large amounts of cash. Consult with your guide for safety recommendations on ATM’s.Are meals included?
All meals when outside the main cities are included and most meals in the cities are included.Is Ecuador safe?
We consider Ecuador a safe destination. In more than 25 years of operating trips to Ecuador, no one traveling with a Southwind group has ever had problems with safety whether in the cities or in Galápagos. Since 2000, the political situation on the mainland has been stable. Political demonstrations occur sporadically and are usually in protest of the government’s handling of the economy. Rural highways are sometimes blocked by protesters. Typically strikes like these last 2-3 days or up to a week in length and are often announced with short notice. These strikes do not happen frequently and are not targeted towards tourists, and typically do not pose a threat unless someone insists upon crossing a barricade. Your local guides are capable and experienced at handling any changes that could occur due to a local strike. You can find updates on the US State Deparment’s Ecuador information.What about thievery?
Petty thievery in Ecuador’s cities is not much higher than in any large city in the US. Common sense is important. Use the safety deposit box at your hotel for your passport and extra money (carry only as much as you might spend each day) and leave jewelry and expensive watches at home.What will the weather be like?
Overall, its equatorial location gives Ecuador a mild climate, with temperatures varying more by altitude than by season. The country does not experience the “four seasons” as we know them, but has a “wet” and a “dry” period which varies from region to region. Bear in mind that its tropical latitude means rain should be expected year-round.- Quito and the Andean Highlands: Temperatures in Quito, the Lake District and the Avenue of the Volcanoes range from the low 40’s at night to the low or mid 70’s during the day. One can expect variable weather patterns, although there is generally a build-up of clouds and short rain showers in the afternoon, especially during the “wet” season (December to June). Ecuadorians are proud to point out that in the highlands you can experience all four seasons in a single day. See more info on Quito weather.
- Ecuador’s Amazon Region: Temperature in the Amazon region are warm and humid, usually reaching the upper 80’s or lower 90’s during the day. The wet season is from March to September and the dry season is from October to February. In fact, from December to February, the Ecuadorian Amazon offers drier weather than the Peruvian Amazon. Check current Ecuadorian Amazon weather.
- The Galápagos Islands: Weather in the Galápagos varies based on trade winds and ocean currents, but offers an enjoyable climate year-round. Ideal months for Galápagos travel are from December to June, which is considered the “warm season” with air temperatures in the mid 80’s and water temperatures in the mid 70’s. Seas are calmer and skies are clearer, with some sporadic showers. From July to November, the Galápagos experience their “garua” season of slightly cooler temperatures, more mist, and cooler sea temperatures. See more info on Galápagos weather.
How do I train for my trip?
If you lead an active lifestyle (walking, cycling, swimming, tennis, etc. on a regular basis) you will do fine on a Grade I or II trip. For Grade III trips you should plan to jog or stair climb for at least 45 minutes 4-5 times per week (more frequency for a Grade IV trip). View more details on Trip Ratings.How do I adjust to the altitude?
Gradual exposure to higher elevations and time are the best ways to acclimatize. If possible, try to arrive to Quito (elevation 9,350′) a day early. Drink plenty of water, eat lightly and avoid alcoholic beverages for the first day or two.What about an emergency while traveling?
Southwind has never had a life-threatening emergency for a traveler in more than 25 years of operations. Our guides are trained in mountain/wilderness first-aid. Depending on the circumstances, a vehicle, horse or helicopter may take an injured or ill person to the nearest medical facility. English-speaking doctors and clinics are available in all major cities (Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca, etc).Who will be my guide?
We work with the most respected and experienced local guides, many of whom have advanced degrees in tourism, biology, Andean culture or other specialties. All speak fluent English and are knowledgeable, patient and fun to be around. Your Final Documents will provide guide details. See a list of some Southwind guides in Ecuador.Continue to Galápagos FAQ’s