Ecuador might be small, but this country packs a punch with its incredible biodiversity, towering Andes, lush Amazon rainforest, and stunning beaches. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Quito or hanging out with giant tortoises in the Galápagos, Ecuador is full of surprises!
Discover Fun Facts About Ecuador
Ecuador Has Four Worlds in One Country
Ecuador is like four vacations wrapped into one! You’ve got the towering Andes mountains, the steamy Amazon rainforest, the Pacific coastline, and the legendary Galápagos Islands, all packed into a country that’s smaller than Nevada. You could literally wake up in the jungle, have lunch on a volcano, and finish your day with a sunset at the beach. Talk about a travel jackpot!
The Middle of the World Isn’t Exactly in the Middle
Ecuador’s famous “Mitad del Mundo” (Middle of the World) monument proudly marks the equator, where you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere. But here’s the kicker—the real equator is actually about 240 meters away. Whoops! Still, you’ll find plenty of tourists balancing eggs on nails and doing gravity experiments here, so it’s worth the stop.
Galápagos Islands: The OG Home of Weird Animals
The Galápagos Islands are like nature’s version of a science fiction movie. Giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas that look like mini-dragons roam freely here. Charles Darwin’s visit to these islands helped inspire his theory of evolution, so if you visit, you might just feel a little smarter by osmosis.
Guinea Pig: It’s What’s for Dinner
In Ecuador, guinea pigs (called “cuy”) aren’t just cute pets—they’re a traditional dish! Don’t be surprised if you see one roasted and served whole at local markets and festivals. Ecuadorians love their cuy, and while it might not be for everyone, they swear by its taste (which some say is similar to rabbit). Just keep an open mind and a fork handy.
Ecuador Uses the U.S. Dollar… But the Coins Are Different!
Since 2000, Ecuador has used the U.S. dollar as its official currency. So yes, you can pay for your ceviche with George Washington’s face. But Ecuador also mints its own coins, which are only accepted in Ecuador. So don’t be confused if you get change with a coin you’ve never seen before—just consider it a tiny souvenir!
The Amazon Rainforest Is Ecuador’s Wild Heart
A big chunk of the Amazon rainforest lies in Ecuador, and it’s teeming with wildlife. Jaguars, pink river dolphins, and more species of plants than you can count call this place home. Ecuadorians are super proud of their role as protectors of the Amazon, and eco-tourism is a big deal here. Just watch out for those tree-climbing anacondas!
Ecuadorians Really Love Their Bananas
Ecuador isn’t just about tropical vacations and volcanoes—it’s the world’s largest exporter of bananas! Yes, that banana in your smoothie probably started its life in Ecuador. The country’s banana plantations are legendary, and Ecuadorians take their banana business seriously, offering dozens of varieties that you’ve probably never heard of.
Quito Is the Second Highest Capital in the World
At 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, right after La Paz, Bolivia. If you’re visiting, don’t be surprised if you feel a little light-headed—Quito’s thin air takes some getting used to. But the views of the surrounding volcanoes will totally take your breath away (literally and figuratively).
Ecuador’s National Dish? It’s a Soup Called “Locro”
Forget fancy meals—Ecuadorians are all about comfort food, and their national dish is a hearty potato soup called “locro.” Made with potatoes, cheese, avocado, and sometimes corn, it’s the perfect dish for a chilly day in the Andes. Locro is so beloved that you’ll find it on almost every menu in the highlands. Pro tip: Add extra cheese for maximum coziness.
Ecuador Celebrates New Year’s by Burning Giant Dolls
Ecuadorians know how to ring in the New Year—with fire! On New Year’s Eve, they burn giant effigies called “años viejos” (old years) to symbolize getting rid of the past and welcoming a fresh start. These paper-mâché dolls are often made to look like politicians, celebrities, or even cartoon characters. And the bigger the doll, the better the celebration!
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.
