Introducing Quito, Ecuador

One of the most beautiful cities in South America, Quito, Ecuador's capital city, lies in a valley high in the northern Andes Mountains of Ecuador.  Situated at an altitude of 2,850 meters (9,470 feet), Quito experiences a very mild, spring-like climate, with temperatures typically ranging anywhere from 7º C (45º F) at night to 26º C (79 ºF) at midday.  Quito’s location, climate and spectacular scenery make it an excellent starting point for travelers to Ecuador, and one of the best destinations in South America for both students and tourists alike.

The City of Quito harbors a broad selection of interesting cultural attractions, from its churches with their centuries-old colonial architecture to its museums, which include the Casa de la Cultura with its impressive collection of artwork from Ecuador’s best artists.

Quito has a wide range of restaurants, bars, and hotels to satisfy the needs of both wealthy travelers and budget-conscious students. Quito's restaurants feature a variety of international foods that are guaranteed to satisfy even the most discriminating palate.  Ecuadorian, Thai, Indian, Mexican and Italian are among the many types of food you will find in this surprisingly international city.

At night, you can check out the nightlife at Quito's many bars and clubs, which feature anything from quiet conversation or karaoke to a wild night of salsa dancing and tequila.  Finally, you can check into any of Quito's many accommodations, ranging from humble hostels to expensive luxury hotels.

Ecuadorians are known for their friendliness, hospitality, and helpfulness to others.  In fact, some of the friendliest people in Latin America live in Ecuador.   You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the way acquaintances take the time both to greet and talk to you with the kind of warmth and affection that can only be found in this part of the world.

The range of climates and topography that you’ll find within only a few hours of Quito will surprise you on every excursion that takes you outside of town.  To the west, you’ll find the coastal region with its very warm yet breezy climate, and beautiful beaches.  To the east, you`ll find the upper Amazon jungle with its hot, humid climate, and spectacular diversity of both flora and fauna.

More fascinating still is the westernmost region of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands.  The Galapagos are a chain of 13 larger and 61 smaller islands located in the Pacific Ocean 960 km (1536 miles) off the coast of mainland Ecuador.  The inspiration for Charles Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection, these islands offer the eco-tourist the opportunity to view a variety of species which are endemic only to the Galapagos themselves.  Species of animals such as the Marine Iguana, Green Turtle, Blue-footed Boobie, Galapagos Penguin, and the Flightless Cormorant can be found along the shores of these magnificent, volcanically-formed islands.

For a nation of its size, Ecuador offers a diversity of climate, topography, and wildlife that is unparalleled in the entire world.  Whether you’re staying as a student or a visiting tourist, exploring this surprising and diverse country is an experience you won’t want to miss!