Ecuador holidays : introduction

The charms of Ecuador are often overlooked by those heading straight for the Galapagos. Straddling the Equator, from which it derives its name, this is one of the smallest and most accessible South American countries, with well-preserved colonial cities, beautiful haciendas, and a range of scenery from towering volcanoes to steamy jungle. The highlands are formed by two distinct cordilleras, with a fertile valley between them, which Alexander von Humboldt aptly named the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes'.

With enough time it makes good sense to combine a visit to Ecuador with Peru, for the Inca ruins, or Venezuela, for the Caribbean coast and the contrasting wildlife of the Llanos.

Climate and when to go

Daytime temperatures in the highlands vary according to altitude and time of day, and range between 6 and 23ºC. The coast has a hot rainy season from January to May. The northern highlands have a wet season during the same period, although with less rainfall, and it is wet from June to August around Baños. The wettest months in the Amazon are from April to September.

 

“We both agreed this was one of the best holidays we have ever had!” - RB