Climate
Since Ecuador lies on the equator, the climate varies with altitude rather than latitude. There are two seasons, wet and dry. The dry season in the highlands lasts from June to September, and on the coast from May to December. The coast is especially hot, wet and humid from January to April. It can rain at any time in the jungle but April through to June are the wettest months. Temperatures in the upland areas are spring-like and nights can be cold. In the lowlands, temperatures of 30oC are not uncommon.
Holidays and Fiestas
Many of the country’s festivals are associated with the Roman Catholic calendar, such as Holy Week. They are celebrated with processions and pageantry, often including pre-Christian elements. Most villages have saint’s day festivals with music, dance, bullfights, markets and drinking. The most important festival is carnival, leading up to Ash Wednesday, and is characterised with indiscriminate and energetic water fights.
Currency
US dollar. See www.oanda.com for exchange rates.
Visas
British citizens can find up-to-date travel advice on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website. Citizens of other countries can find visa information here.
Vaccinations
See www.MASTA.org for up-to-date health advice for travellers.