Ecuador

Questions you might have

1. Which SIM card should I get in Ecuador?

   Claro has the best overall coverage in Ecuador, so it would be my pick if you are travelling beyond the main cities.

2. Is tap water safe to drink in Ecuador?

   Tap water isn’t reliable to drink across Ecuador, so I would stick to bottled or filtered water. This is especially important in the Galápagos, where tap water is generally not recommended for drinking.

3. How should I prepare for the altitude in Ecuador?

   Quito is already around 2,850 metres (9,350 feet) above sea level, so you may feel the altitude as soon as you arrive. Give yourself a day or two to acclimatise before doing anything strenuous, especially if you are heading higher into the Andes.

4. Is Ecuador mostly cash or card?

   It’s a mix, but I would always carry cash. Cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants and larger businesses, while markets, buses and smaller places often still prefer cash. Cash is more commonly used around the Galápagos Islands.

5. Which ATMs have the lowest fees in Ecuador?

   I would try Banco Internacional first, as it is often one of the better options for foreign cards. Banco Guayaquil is another decent option, but fees can vary depending on the ATM and your card.

6. Is Ecuador safe to travel?

   Big cities like Quito and Guayaquil aren’t always the safest, especially at night. If you are travelling by overnight bus, make sure you always keep your belongings with you, as theft can occur. Places like the Galápagos Islands are considerably safer.

7. Do I need to tip in Ecuador?

   I definitely recommend tipping in Ecuador, especially at the end of a tour, when eating at local restaurants, staying in guesthouses or catching a taxi.

8. What currency is used in Ecuador?

   Ecuador uses the US dollar, so you do not need to exchange money into a separate local currency. Try to carry smaller notes, as markets, taxis and smaller businesses can sometimes struggle to change larger notes.