25 Interesting Facts About Ecuador That A Traveler Should Know

Ever wondered what Ecuador is known for? There are so many facts about this country that will surprise and fascinate you. Here is a list of 25 interesting facts about Ecuador. 

Ecuador is located at the western corner of the top of South America. Its name originated from the word “equator.” The country is split by an imaginary line that separates the northern and southern hemispheres. 

However, most of the country comes under the southern part. The country was named the Republic of Equator, or República del Ecuador, in Spanish.

The country shares its borders with Colombia, Peru, and the Pacific Ocean, making it an amazing place to enjoy some of the most beautiful islands worldwide. It has a mountainous and tropical terrain, hosting one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. 

25 Interesting Facts About Ecuador – Historical Facts

1. Ecuador Is the First Country To Recognize the Rights of Nature

In 2008, Ecuador changed its constitution and added a chapter on the Rights of Nature. 

The chapter included details on how citizens must preserve nature. It also stated that nature should not be treated as owned property. Nature has the right to persist, exist, and regenerate its vital cycles. 

2. Galapagos Trip Sparked Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution

The theory of evolution by Charles Darwin was first proposed in 1859 as a result of his trip to the Galapagos. 

The main essence of his idea came from the finches that adapt to different environmental conditions. He compared this ability with humans and developed a theory to explain human evolution.

3. Ecuador Was Part of Gran Colombia

Under Simon Bolivar’s leadership, Ecuador gained freedom from Spain and allied with Colombia, Panama, and Venezuela. The alliance was called the Republic of Gran Colombia, which remained for around 11 years (1819 to 1830). 

4. Ecuadorians Speak More Than 20 Languages

There are more than 20 different languages spoken in different regions of Ecuador. Ethnologue lists 24 of them, to be precise. 

Most of the country speaks Spanish. However, other languages include 9 varieties of Quechua, Shuar, Siona, etc. 

5. Its First Female President Lasted Only Two Days

Rosalia Arteaga was the first female president of Ecuador. She was a social activist and a full-time writer. 

In 1997, she was elected as the first female president, but only 2 days after joining the office, political pressure made her resign. Rosalia left her seat on February 11, 1997. 

6. Ecuadorians Are the First Manufacturers of the Panama Hat 

Panama hats are made from toquilla plants grown in the Manabi province near the coast. Don’t be deceived by the name, as Ecuadorians are the original manufacturers of this famous hat. 

It is mainly called Panama hat because many manufacturers migrated to Panama in the 1700s and 1800s. 

7. Their Old Currency Was Called Sucre

Ecuador’s economy went through tough times. Their currency was called Sucre, which was replaced by the United States dollar in 2000 due to the financial crisis that started in early 1999. 

The government made this huge decision to reduce inflation and generate stability.

8. Galapagos Was Named After a Giant Tortoise

A bishop discovered Galapagos due to an accident. 

When Fray Bishop Tomas de Berlanga, bishop of Panama, reported his trip to Peru to the Queen of Spain, he said that his ship got out of control and was pushed by the current towards the west. 

He eventually found himself on an island, which he explored by following a giant tortoise with a shell resembling a saddle (galopago, in old Spanish). Thus, they started calling the island Galapagos.

Interesting Facts About Ecuador – Geographical Facts

9. Ecuador Is One of the Most Biodiverse Places on Earth 

Ecuador is not as big as most countries, but its biodiversity is incredible, with most species endemic to the Galapagos Islands and other parts of Ecuador. 

The country hosts 10% of the world’s amphibians, 8% of its mammals, and; 15% of its 1,600 bird species.

10. It is the Habitat of the Endangered Spectacled Bear

In the Andes, there is an endangered species called the spectacled bear, also known as the Andean bear. They are on the brink of extinction due to deforestation, farmer hunting, and habitat destruction. 

11. Ecuador’s Capital Is the Second-Highest in the World

Quito is a capital city that ranks second-highest in the world in terms of altitude, around 9,350 feet (2,850 meters). 

Being extremely close to the equator, the temperatures in the capital are quite different than most of us are used to. There are no winters or summers; only 2 different seasons called wet and dry. 

If you’re planning to travel to Ecuador, consider this place. Quito is safe to visit so you can enjoy your stay here.

12. Ecuador Is the Country Closest to the Sun

At its peak elevation of 20,548 ft (6,263 m), Mount Chimborazo is the closest to the sun. 

Although it is not the highest mountain in the world, its summit is still the closest due to its location with the Earth’s slight bulge at the equator. 

13. Ecuador Is Home to Five UNESCO World Heritage Sites 

When the UNESCO nominations came out, only 40 countries participated. Ecuador was one of the first few nations that signed the convention. That is why the Galapagos islands and Quito are still on the first list of World Heritage Sites. 

Other Ecuadorian landmarks include the historic city of Cuenca, the Qhapaq Ñan Inca Road System, and the Sangay National Park.

14. 10% of All the Earth’s Plant Species Are in Ecuador

The largest number can be found in the mountains of the Andes in the northwest, reputed to be home to more than 10,000 plant species. Around 8,200 plant species are in the Amazon region alone; 2,725 of these florae have been identified as orchids. 

Ecuador also has 25,000 species of trees. 

15. Ecuador is a Popular Base Among Expats

Latin America offers decent salaries and a relatively low unemployment rate, so people from all over the world love to stay here. 

In addition, the cost of living in Ecuador is much cheaper compared to other countries, with a deal meal costing only around $3 to $5. 

16. It Has Approximately 12 Hours of Daylight All Year Round

The equator affects not only the overall weather of the country but also the day and night time. The country receives almost 12 hours of day and night all year round. 

The 4 main regions in Ecuador include the coast, the Galapagos Islands, the Amazon jungle, and the Andes mountains. With only 373 miles (600 kilometers) of travel, you can move from a hot tropical environment to a cold, freezing winter. 

17. Ecuador Is the Smallest Andean Country 

The Andes mountain range connects 7 countries: Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Ecuador. 

Ecuador is the smallest of these Andean countries. 

18. One of the World’s Best Colonial Architecture Can Be Found in Ecuador

The architecture has improved greatly in major cities such as Quito. The areas, such as the old town, are very well constructed. That’s why staying in the old town area is one of the best areas to stay in Quito.

The old town is also Ecuador’s first protected site by UNESCO. The town has survived major earthquakes, still showing the quality and beauty of colonial architecture.

Ecuador Facts – Wildlife

19. The Variety of Animal Species in Ecuador is Astounding

In Ecuador, you can find around 3,800 vertebrate species, 350 reptiles, 1,550 mammals, 800 different freshwater fishes, 450 saltwater fishes, and 375 amphibians. 

20. Ecuador Is a Paradise for Bird Lovers

Ecuador is considered a paradise for people who love birds. Avid bird watchers can spot approximately 15% of all bird species in the world in Ecuador. 

The country also has a world record for the number of hummingbird species. 

21. The Country Has a Hands-Off Policy on Animals in Galapagos

Touching animals on Galapagos is strictly prohibited. Similar to nature, animals in Ecuador have their rights too. 

The strictest instructions are related to baby sea lions. If you touch them before they reach age 3, they will lose their odor, and their mother won’t recognize them. That means they won’t get any food anymore, and most of them won’t survive when this happens.

22. A New Species of Carnivorous Mammals Was Discovered in Ecuador

A new carnivorous mammal described by the Smithsonian as a cross between a teddy bear and a house cat was discovered in the cloud forest of Ecuador. The mammal is called olinguito, from the same Procyonidae family as raccoons and kinkajous. 

Rare for being the only mammal discovered in the order Carnivora in the 21st century, olinguitos are not exactly voracious carnivores since they are mainly fruit eaters that occasionally enjoy eating hummingbirds.

Interesting Ecuador Food Facts

23. The Country Is the World’s Fourth Largest Exporter of Bananas

Ecuador is known for its high-quality bananas. It exported over 360,714 tons of bananas in 2021 alone. 

The value of bananas exported in 2020 was $3.83 billion.

24. You Can Find One of the Best Chocolates in the World in Ecuador

Ecuador has some of the finest cacao beans worldwide. It produces around 63% of the beans that merit the world’s prestigious Fine Aroma label, representing only 5% of worldwide cacao production. 

Ecuador was only exporting cacao at first but soon shifted to chocolate production. Ecuador-based Pacari Chocolate has won several awards at prestigious world chocolate competitions.

25. Ecuadorians Enjoy Guinea Pigs as a Delicacy

In Ecuador and some parts of South America, guinea pigs are raised as livestock. It is enjoyed as a unique delicacy called cuy, a local dish in which the pig is served roasted. 

Ecuadorians consider it one of the most delicious dishes in the world. 

How To Stay Safe During Your Visit In Ecuador

Staying safe in Ecuador involves being mindful of your surroundings and taking precautions. Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. It’s advisable to stay informed about the local safety guidelines and to avoid isolated areas, particularly after dark.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Interesting Facts About Ecuador

What Makes Ecuador Unique From the Rest of the World?

Ecuador has unique regions, including the mountains, the Amazon, the coasts, and the Galapagos Islands. The variety of food, culture, and clothing in these regions makes the country unique.

What Is Ecuador Best Known For?

Ecuador is famous for its tourist destinations, particularly the Galapagos Islands, home of biodiverse flora and fauna. It is also known for exporting petroleum and bananas.

What Is the National Drink of Ecuador?

Pinol, a mainstay of Ecuadorian culture, is considered Ecuador’s national drink. Its ingredients include panela (unrefined sugar), ground toasted barley flour, milk, and mixed spices. 

What Are Some Food Facts About Ecuador?

Ecuador is quite famous for its chocolate called Pacari. It is also the fourth largest exporter of bananas in the world.

Conclusion – Interesting Facts about Ecuador

These are just a few fun and fascinating facts about Ecuador, a genuinely amazing destination that will satisfy all your senses and feed your soul. 

There is still more interesting information to know about the country, all waiting for your discovery. 

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