What if we were to tell you that there is much more to discover in Ecuador than the Galapagos? Let’s take you on a journey that goes far beyond Darwin’s islands.
Culture of Ecuador & Galápagos
Discover the culture of Ecuador and what to expect on your vacation.
Ecuador’s population is dominated by mestizo, a mix of Spanish with native indigenous people. During your Ecuador and Galapagos tour, you will find that sharp regional differences exist, namely between the people of the coast (costeños) and people from the Andes or serranos (sierras). This regional difference can be seen in the way people dress, physical appearance, food, accent, politics and other cultural nuances.
Traditions and culture of Ecuador
Indigenous influence can be seen in modern Ecuador almost everywhere but especially in small towns like Otavalo where the local women create beautiful artisanal goods and dress in traditional clothing. The Amazon regions also are still home to aboriginal communities, some in particular, were granted to be intangible respecting their desire to live far from civilization.
The chagra is an important cultural figure left over from the Spanish colonialism and hacienda system. You can still find vestiges of the chagra culture in present-day working haciendas and rural communities in the Sierras.
Ecuadorians are traditionally optimistic, warm and respectful people. Often times they are indirect communicators who speak with a great deal of courtesy and tend to avoid bluntness or conflict, often going out of their way to say to avoid having to say no.
Despite the name, the ‘panama hat‘ is of Ecuadorian origin and can be found in local markets across the country. Most notable are the colorful, handmade artisan ‘panama hat’ of Cuenca. Hand-woven textiles such as shawls and ponchos are another principle handicraft as well as intricately beautiful silver filigree jewelry. You will find charming roses everywhere in the mainland during your Ecuador and Galapagos tour. Ecuador is famed for producing long-stemmed roses of exceptional quality and diversity and is the chief exporter of high-quality roses to the world.
From the Blog
Looking to explore truly enchanting places on your customized South America tours? An archipelago of volcanic islands distributed on either side of the Equator in the Pacific Ocean and west of continental Ecuador, we provide our top 10 reasons to visit the Galapagos Islands.
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Popular Trips to Ecuador & Galapagos
8 Days
from
$5,690 USD
/ person
Retrace the footsteps of the great scientist Charles Darwin on this exciting journey through the Galapagos. Head out on land and sea excursions and come face to face with the most fascinating creatures. Feel the adrenaline rush when you snorkel with sea turtles, sea lions, fishes and even, sharks! An exhilarating yet safe adventure. Cruise…
15 Days
from
$10,390 USD
/ person
This Ecuador tour offers unique experiences in diverse landscapes – from the breathtaking UNESCO Yasuni Biosphere Reserve to the scenic volcano region of Cotopaxi and Riobamba. Also, unearth the charms of Quito, the most visited city of South America, and the colonial and Inca heritage of Cuenca. End your vacation on the high seas, cruising the…
11 Days
from
$5,590 USD
/ person
Unearth natural and cultural delights on your Ecuador trip! Highlights of your tour include a blissful stay deep in the heart of the wild Amazon, a spectacular train ride to the Devil’s Nose surrounded by towering volcanic peaks, and deep insights into the regions Inca and Spanish colonial heritage at UNESCO World Heritage site Cuenca.
14 Days
from
$6,690 USD
/ person
Discover rich cultural heritage as you travel through the colonial cities of Ecuador and Colombia, right from Quito in the Andean highlands to colorful Otavalo, and bustling Bogota to timeless Cartagena. Highlights of your tour include a visit to the incredibly biodiverse Yasuni National Park in the Amazon as well as a brief sojourn in…
12 Days
from
$10,090 USD
/ person
Follow in Darwin’s footsteps! Discover the unique flora and fauna of the secluded island paradise from the comfort of the some of the world’s most luxurious tents, during your Galapagos tour. An adventure awaits!
14 Days
from
$9,190 USD
/ person
Indulge in an authentic Ecuadorial experience whilst staying in beautiful and opulent haciendas (ranches). Cruise the Galapagos islands and travel in luxury!
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Best Places To Visit
History
Ecuador boasts a long and colorful history, from ancient Inca conquests to Spanish colonization, independence and social reform. Discover Ecuador through its history!
Cuisine
Prepare for a feast during your Ecuador and Galapagos tour. Often overlooked due to neighboring Peru’s culinary fame, the country’s cuisine is sure to most delightfully surprises visitors.
Best Time To Visit
There are several different climate zones in Ecuador and Galapagos, often close to each other. It is possible to experience several different types of climate on any given day during your trip. Discover the best time to travel to Ecuador and Galapagos.
