Business hours are usually Mon-Fri 0830-1630, with some businesses closing during lunch.

Ecuador exists on the equator, but because of varying elevations, the climates are very different throughout the country. The hottest temperatures are in the humid eastern jungle, coming close to 100 °F (37.8 °C). In the mountains, the average annual temperature is a cool 55 °F (12.8 °C). The coast has temperatures between 45-70 °F (7 °-12 °C).

Public phone boxes are scarce at present, but telephone offices can be found everywhere and are cheaper. Also, cellular public phones can be used with a pre-paid card. Mobile phone service is provided by three private companies and coverage is variable.

Ecuador is compact country with good infrastructure and is small enough to be travelled around easily. It has extraordinary geographical and biological diversity ranging from the jungle of the Amazon, windswept highlands, a range of volcanoes to palm fringed beaches. Visitors can see colonial architecture, colourful indigenous markets, traditional feasts and archaeological sites, all part of the rich history of the country. They can experience nature tours, marvel at the bird life, snorkel and dive, trek or take breathtaking climbs amongst the many activities on offer. Since oil was discovered in Ecuador in the 1970s, it has become an increasingly important part of the Ecuadorian economy. The country has 2.1 billion barrels of proven oil reserves, and production in 1999 averaged 379,600 barrels per day (bbl/d). Of this, 152,000 bbl/d were consumed domestically, with the remaining 227,600 bbl/d being exported. The current in Ecuador is 120v, 60Hz. The flat two pin plug is the same as used in U.S.

Taxis are widely available, particularly in larger cities and towns. Fares tend to be low but should be negotiated in advance. Increasingly popular, cycling is a good, if somewhat strenuous way of seeing Ecuador. Ecuador’s bus and coach service is extensive and affordable. The road quality can be poor due to pot holes and a lack of signage.