Tourist Attractions & Monuments Ecuador

Timetable

Museums and other tourist attractions are generally open from 9am to 5pm, sometimes with a break for lunch.

To be booked

It's a good idea to book your Galapagos holiday and excursions in advance, because once you're there, it can be hard to find space. Don't hesitate to check the websites of tour operators, who often publish special offers.

Budget & Tips

Ecuador is not an expensive destination if you live like a local:almuerzos (daily menu) for around US$3.50 everywhere, cabs for US$1 or 2 in the city center.

Discounts are available on many public services (museums, transport, etc.) up to age 12 and from age 60.

For your visits and tours, don't hesitate to check the operators' websites, which often offer great last-minute promotions.

Main events

The most important event in the Andes is undoubtedly Inti Raymi, the festival of the sun that celebrates the southern hemisphere's winter solstice on March 21 or 22. Carnival, as in all Latin America, is the occasion for superb parades throughout the country, making it an excellent time to visit and bring back some superb photos of the vibrant colors!

Guided tours

One transport company, Wanderbus (www.wanderbusecuador.com), stands out from the rest by offering a tour of the country in stages for a package that allows you to stop over for one or more days at each stage of the tour. It's a great way to discover the country in stages, without the need to hire a car, and without the drawbacks of a traditional coach (luggage secured at stops, local guides on board to accompany you at stops if you wish).

There are also many professional guides in Ecuador, some of whom speak very good French and will be able to advise you during your trip, but for the time being, the country's legislation obliges you to use a travel agency to contract their services.

In the Galapagos, all visits to the national park, which covers 97% of the islands, are supervised by an official guide.

Smokers

The situation for smokers is comparable to that in France. Smoking is permitted outdoors.

Tourist traps

Official guides must be contracted through the services of an approved travel agency. This rule is evolving, however, as some guides have set up their own structures, sometimes with their own vehicles. You can consult the official guides' association, the CGTE, to make sure that the guide you choose is in good standing (https://www.facebook.com/corporacionguiasturismo).

What's very local

The country's major markets, such as Otavalo and Gualaceo to name but a few, are where many locals gather for a chat, a drink and even a bite to eat. Don't miss the particularly local animal show!