Find Cheap Flights to Ecuador and Discover Unmissable Flight Deals

Enjoy summer on the Coast and the dry season in the Galapagos. This is the high season, so book your Ecuador air tickets well in advance.

Transition of seasons. The highlands become wetter, but the Amazon is accessible. Look for Ecuador flight deals before the European high season.

Dry season in the highlands, ideal for hiking and mountaineering. On the coast, it is the coolest and cloudiest time. Book cheap flights to Ecuador in advance.

Transition season, with fewer tourists and lower prices. This is the best time to buy promotional Ecuador air tickets. The weather is varied.

Portuguese citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays in Ecuador for up to 90 days within a 12-month period. You must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry and a return or onward ticket. Although not strictly mandatory, it is always wise to have proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for the trip, in case immigration authorities request them. Always check the latest rules before traveling, as immigration laws can change. For longer stays or other purposes (work, study), you will need to apply for the appropriate visa before traveling. Ecuador is a welcoming country, but documentation must always be in order to avoid problems upon arrival. Plan ahead, especially if your trip includes the Galapagos Islands, which have additional entry requirements and specific environmental fees. Keeping digital copies of your important documents is a recommended practice.

Ecuador has a very efficient and economical public transport network. Between cities, intercity buses are the most common and cheapest option, connecting almost every point in the country. Domestic plane tickets are recommended for long distances, such as cheap flights to Guayaquil or the Galapagos Islands. In cities, use registered taxis or transport apps like Uber (available in Quito and Guayaquil). Taxis should use a meter; if they don't, agree on the price before getting in. Compared to Portugal, urban public transport is more basic but covers metropolitan areas well. To explore nature, you will often have to hire excursions or use taxis to reach national parks. Remember that roads in the highlands can be winding, making bus journeys slower than expected. Also consider the tourist trains, which offer scenic routes, although they are more expensive.

Ecuador offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels (albergues) to luxury hotels. In Quito and Guayaquil, you will find high-quality international hotels. In rural and Andean areas, look for 'haciendas,' old farms converted into charming hotels that offer a unique cultural experience. Prices are generally lower than in Portugal. If you are looking for cheap air tickets to Ecuador, consider saving on accommodation by opting for hostels or Airbnbs outside the central tourist areas. Book in advance, especially if traveling during the high season (June to September and December to January) or holidays like Carnival and Easter. In the Galapagos, accommodation is more expensive due to environmental protection. In general, look for safe and well-connected neighborhoods, such as La Mariscal in Quito. Always check safety and cleanliness reviews before booking, especially in larger cities.

Safety in Ecuador requires attention, especially in large cities like Guayaquil and Quito. Avoid displaying valuables, such as expensive jewelry or high-end mobile phones, in public. Wear backpacks on your front on public transport and in markets. It is crucial to use registered taxis or transport apps and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Regarding customs, Ecuadorians are hospitable and formal. Greet with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek (between women and between man and woman). Punctuality is more relaxed than in Portugal. When negotiating prices, only do so in markets, not in stores. Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in restaurants (about 10%). Do not be offended if they call you 'gringo'; it is a neutral term for foreigners. Respecting local traditions, especially in indigenous communities, is fundamental. Learning a few phrases in Spanish will make a big difference in interacting with locals.

Ecuadorian cuisine is rich and varies greatly depending on the region. On the coast, seafood is king: try 'encebollado' (fish soup with onion) and 'ceviche'. In the Andean highlands, the diet is based on corn, potatoes, and pork; 'hornado' (roasted pork) and 'locro de papa' (potato and cheese soup) are must-try dishes. Be sure to try 'ají', a spicy sauce served separately. Exotic fruits are abundant and delicious. Compared to Portuguese cuisine, Ecuadorian uses less olive oil and more spices and corn. To drink, try 'canelazo' (a hot drink of cinnamon and aguardiente) in the highlands. For those looking for cheap air tickets, eating at 'almuerzos' (lunch menus) is an economical and authentic way to taste local food. Always drink bottled water to avoid health problems. Street food is tempting, but choose places with high traffic and good hygiene.

Ecuador is small but diverse. A two-week itinerary can include the capital, Quito (a UNESCO heritage site), the coastal city of Guayaquil, and the Andean region, with the Chimborazo volcano and the colonial city of Cuenca. If you can, reserve at least five days for the Galapagos Islands, the highlight of biodiversity. For those looking for cheap flights to Quito, the capital is an excellent starting point. Consider the Mitad del Mundo (Equator line) near Quito. For a cultural immersion, visit Otavalo and its famous indigenous market. If you like adventure, explore the Ecuadorian Amazon. Planning must take into account the high altitudes of cities like Quito (2,850m), which may require acclimatization. Don't try to do everything at once; focus on two or three regions to make the most of the trip. Ecuador is a country of contrasts, offering mountains, beaches, and jungle just a few hours away.