Ecuador flights and travel guide

Language

Spanish is the official language, but Quechua is the main language spoken among the indigenous people.

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Communications

The international access code for Ecuador is +593. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). The city code for Quito is (0)2. Calls made from hotel rooms can be very expensive, but public telephones can be found in most public buildings in the main cities; the mostcost-effective way to telephone internationally is from call centres, which are located in most towns and cities. They also offers fax services and sometimes Internet connections, but Internet cafes are available in the main towns. The local GSM cell phone network does not have roaming agreements with internationaloperators; European, Australian and other phones from non-GSM cell phone networks will not work, but cell phones can be rented at the international airports or at cellular phone shops.

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Tipping

A 10 per cent charge is usually added to good quality hotel and restaurant bills. Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped. Tour guides usually receive a discretionary tip from the group.

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Safety

Ecuador is generally a safe country to travel to but visitors should be vigilant with their belongings as most crime is opportunistic. Travelers are warned not to store belongings in the overhead lockers or under seats on public buses and trains. Due to a risk of kidnapping and armed crime, travel to the north-eastern areas bordering Colombia is not advisable, and travel to the northern provinces of Sucumbios and Orellana should be avoided. Ecuador has many active volcanoes.

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Health

A yellow fever certificate is required from those arriving from infected areas, and is recommended for everyone entering Ecuador. There is risk of malaria and dengue fever in areas below 1,500m (5,000ft). There has been a dramatic increase in the number of reported cases of dengue fever primarily in coastal and Amazon regions. The best prevention is to cover up and use mosquito repellent. Tap water should not be consumed; bottled water is available. Milk is unpasteurised so it is best to avoid dairy products. High altitude can affect some people's health so those visiting Quito (2800m/6500ft) are advised to take it easy for the first few days. Medical facilities are inadequate and medical insurance is highly recommended.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Flat two-pin plugs are standard.

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