Overview of Ecuador

Profile

The Andes Mountains run north-south through the country, with fertile lowlands facing the Pacific and the world-famous ecosystem of the Galápagos Islands. Oil and agricultural exports support the economy, which has operated under dollarization since 2000. Indigenous culture blends with Spanish colonial heritage, offering rich cuisine, music, and festivals. Tourism highlights include the historic cities of Quito and Cuenca, the active Cotopaxi volcano, and Amazon ecotourism.

Official name: Republic of Ecuador
Common name: Ecuador
Numeric code: 218
Alpha-3 code: ECU
Alpha-2 code: EC
Population: 18 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 65 people/km2
Primary languages: Spanish, Kichwa, Shuar
Major religions: Christianity (Catholic)
National anthem: ¡Salve, Oh Patria!
Calling code: +593
Internet TLD: .ec

History

Separated from Gran Colombia in 1830. Followed by alternating liberal and conservative governments, military and civilian rule, leading to the current democratic system.

After Inca rule, Spain conquered the region in the 1530s and colonized it. In the 19th century, it became part of Simón Bolívar's Gran Colombia before establishing the Republic of Ecuador in 1830. Experienced cacao and banana booms and oil wealth, yet faced territorial disputes and economic crises. Hyperinflation ended with dollarization in 2000. The 21st century saw alternating left- and right-wing governments seeking a balance between social reform and market economics.

Geography & climate

Western tropical coastal plains, central "Avenue of the Volcanoes" Andean highlands, eastern Amazon rainforest, and offshore volcanic Galápagos Islands.

Tropical rainforest to high mountain climate varying with elevation

Area: South America / 283561 km²
Capital: Quito
Largest city: Guayaquil
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: Colombia, Peru

Natural resources

Oil, Hydropower, Timber, Gold, Silver, Copper, Seafood, Bananas, Cacao, Flowers, Balsa wood, Tourism resources

Politics

Government: Presidential republic (democracy, separation of powers)

Economy

Currency: United States Dollar (USD)

GDP (nominal): 118.9 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 226 billion international dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Spanish, Kichwa, Shuar

Time zone: ECT (mainland), GALT (Galápagos Islands)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Mestizo, Indigenous, White (Criollo), Afro-Ecuadorian, Montubio

Life expectancy

77.0 years

Literacy rate

93%

National sports

Soccer, Ecuavolley, Athletics, Cycling, Surfing, Boxing