Ecuador is situated along the northwestern coast of South America, and borders the countries of Peru and Columbia. It proves itself to be a great jumping off point for trellers in South America as it hosts a great range of aco/adventure activities, it´s safe, and cheap, and backpacker friendly. Ecuador happens to be one of the world’s most environmentally diverse places and its many destinations offer travelers a range of attractions to explore.

A unique landscape awaits visitors as Ecuador hosts warm sunny beaches of the Pacific, impressive mountain villages in the Andes, Amazon rain forests, and the world’s ecological wonder - the Galapagos Islands.

Ecuador is the South American capital of Spanish study. Ecuadorians use much less slang than many South and Central American countries. It has a very low cost of living and is therefore a very affordable location for education and tourism. It is steeped in cultural and geographical richness and diversity.

Just a 1-hour flight to the West of the mainland lies the most beautiful group of islands: the Galapagos Islands, an untouched natural paradise. Visitors can here swim with dolphins and sea lions or admire giant turtles at the beach.

The first thing to realize about Ecuadorian culture is that it is not one single culture. Instead it is a whole range of cultures mingled together, representing every level of this very diverse community.

Ecuador is an adventure traveler’s dream vacation. Where else on earth can you see:

first-hand prehistoric creatures roaming their indigenous habitats,
see giant marine tortoises and marine iguanas,
trek alongside active volcanoes, immerse yourself in the ancient culture of the Inca civilization,
visit a world capital city standing only 15 miles from the Equator and situated at 2850 meters (9,000 feet) with over a million inhabitants!

Travelers do not require an entry visa to visit Ecuador as a tourist for up to three months. Check with the nearest Ecuadorian Embassy or Consulate in your area to get details. If you wish to study for more than three months, the School can assist you in obtaining a student visa.

Immunizations

Traveling here is very safe, but you should obtain a few travel vaccinations based upon the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control (CDC)

Ecuador has switched to the US dollar, so for North Americans its great because it saves you the hassle of currency conversion. Atms are everywhere, as are banks. Budget travelers should plan to spend about 15$ per day. A meal here in Montanita costs anywhere from $1.50 to 12$ but average about 4$(of course, it is always dirt cheap to self cater). A beer costs about 1$ in the shop and $1.50 in the bar You can see more about hotel costs in the Accommodation section

It is probably easiest to fly to Guayquil. From there we can arrange pickups or you can go on your own with the buses. Fly into Quito and you will either have to bus or fly down to Guayquil and then take a bus or shuttle to Montanita. We suggest checking on www.orbitz.com for the very cheapest flights available. A one way flight from Quito to Guayquil costs about $55 with taxes and can be acquired from any travel agent in Quito.

AIRPORT PICKUPS

Our students can be picked up at the airport by school personal and taken to Montanita in a secure and comfortable taxi. Please contact us for more info.

In case of flight delay or cancellation, our team should be informed so we can arrange to meet you at the airport. Our 24-hour emergency number is +593.95871068 or 593-04-2060001 you can contact us by e-mail at: info@ecuador-spanishschool.com

Buses

Quito to Guayquil: Buses leave from the Terminal Terrestre all throughout the day and night every hour, 24 hours a day. So don't worry about space unless you are traveling during holidays. These exacutive buses are comfy and safe, they takes about 8-9 hours to arrive and costs about $9 one way.

Guayaquil to Montanita: whether you fly or bus into Guayaquil, you must make the transfer by bus or shuttle to Montanita. You can take a direct bus from Guayaquil to Montanita on the CLP lines. There are regular services between 5 a.m. till 7 p.m. at night and will cost about $5.50. Travel time is about 4 hours.

ECUADOR

Immunizations

AIRPORT PICKUPS

Buses