You may be questioning why you should add a visit to Ecuador to your bucket list of dream adventures. From helping to support many of the struggling minority tribes to learning about the Ecuadorian lifestyle and its history, there are endless reasons why such a trip will enhance anyone’s travel experience.
Get to Know Ecuador
The Republic of Ecuador is 109,483 square miles and is located in the western part of South America. Its capital is Quito, and the country averages 16,498,502 inhabitants. The U.S. dollar is its only currency and the languages spoken in Ecuador are Spanish and Quechua. Ecuador is known for its national sport, soccer, as well as the high Andes Mountains and the highest and most active volcano, Cotopaxi.
The coast of Ecuador connects to snow-capped volcanoes that join the Amazon jungle. It shares a border with Peru, Colombia, and the Pacific Ocean. Its four regions are the western coastal lowlands, the central Andean highlands, the eastern jungles of the Amazon basin, and the Galapagos Islands.
The inspiration behind the country’s name comes from the equator, which runs through the middle of the country, splitting it in two. With its proximity to the Galapagos Islands, less than 600 miles, Ecuador offers a diverse natural home for flora and fauna. It is home to nine national parks.
People and Culture of Ecuador
Known for having the world’s first UNESCO World Heritage Sites, its colorful hand-woven tapestries, and being the closest country to space, Ecuador is a country with diverse cultures, unique customs, and various terrain, making it an ideal holiday destination for anyone in search of outdoor activities and a memorable experience.
A high percentage of the inhabitants in Ecuador are of mixed ethnicity. Only about 10 percent of the population is of European descent, leaving roughly 25 percent of individuals as indigenous people, a lot of whom are farmers.
The Inca Empire was a large part of Ecuador’s history until it was claimed as a Spanish colony when the Spanish arrived. The country remained under Spanish rule for 300 years, becoming independent of Spain in 1822.
Indigenous Tribes
There are 14 tribes living in Ecuador. The Awa, Cofán, Shuar, Epera, Achuar, Siona, Secoya, Chachi, Quichua, Andoa y Waorani, Zápara, Afro-Ecuadorians, Shiwiar, and Tsáchila make up the 7.2 percent of minority and indigenous groups in the country. Languages between tribes vary from Castilian Spanish, Quichua, and Shuar. Indigenous communities also differ in religion, with Christianity, Roman Catholicism, and Evangelical Protestantism making up the majority of religions.
For many of these groups, tourism provides salvation. Many of the lodges and tours are owned and run by members of tribes. Those who stay and use these businesses help to keep threatened societies and their environments alive. They also offer the opportunity for great insight into aboriginal peoples and the traditions that have existed for centuries.
Meeting Native Ecuadorians
Being exposed to different cultures around the globe is exciting and brings a lot of perspectives to travelers. There’s something truly special about encountering an indigenous Amazonian tribe. It’s one of the great things about visiting Ecuador.
An easy way to meet indigenous tribes and experience their unique world is via the endless volunteer opportunities offered throughout the Ecuadorian Amazonian communities. Help is always needed at animal sanctuaries, construction sites, educational institutions, or conservation organizations.
If you’re short on vacation time, you can book a day trip from one of the Amazon region entrances of Baños, Misahualli, Tena, and Puyo. The tours offer a brief encounter of indigenous people and their lives, including a traditional dance performance and some local beverage, chicha, to drink.
Conservation and Travel
Ecuador’s native cultures have struggled with conquest, environmental disasters, and intrusion by the modern world for hundreds of years. Compassion and empathy are ways to help conserve their way of life. Many tribes rely on fund raising and forming organizations that aid in their protection.
Getting a glimpse of an aboriginal tribe in Ecuador is an honor bestowed upon travelers around the world. Due to the endangered nature of tribes’ traditions, it’s important to always practice sensitivity and responsibility. Some of the indigenous communities prefer to not be gawked at by tourists and tend to live on untouched land in the depths of the Amazon.
Aside from being one of the most diverse places on earth, an eco-friendly and sustainable-focused country, Ecuador brings to light new perspectives and opportunities for cultural connections. More and more, Ecuador is becoming a sought-after destination for families, couples, and individuals.