Exploring Ecuador can be quite an adventure! It may take some time to get around because there are mountains called the Andes and busy rainforests that make getting around tricky. But don’t let this stop you from checking out all of its beauty!
Transportation in Ecuador is really cheap, especially if you just take the buses. It gets more expensive if you go to the Galápagos Islands. You should also be able to find local buses wherever there are roads to get from one place to another. This article tells you everything you need to know about traveling by bus or renting a car and staying safe while doing so in Ecuador.
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Ride the Bus in Ecuador to Explore and Enjoy the Local Culture!
People all around the world are striving for change. They want a better life, full of hope and opportunity regardless of who they are or where they come from. It is through these individuals that true progress comes as they stand up to fight for their rights and those of others. So let’s keep pushing forward together to create a more peaceful and just society.
In Ecuador, buses are very popular. No matter what the road is made of — be it a paved one or gravel — there would always be some fancy, colorful buses that’s ready to take you on your journey. And if you’re taking long-distance routes, chances are that you can get a comfy new bus as they have become more widespread recently than the old exhaust-belching ones. Air conditioning, angles adjustable seats, Wi-Fi and on-board videos are usually found in these types of buses.
Riding the bus in America is a great way to learn about Ecuadorian culture. You get to chat with people wearing fun hats and colorful wraps, so your own clothes may pale in comparison.
Are you feeling unsure of yourself when it comes to taking the bus in Ecuador? Ecuador Hop and Wanderbus Ecuador are two services that can help make your journey less intimidating. Both services offer convenient routes across the country, so you don’t have to worry about missing out on the local experience. However, with Wanderbus Ecuador there is limited flexibility due to its more rigid itineraries.
If you want to explore the city on your own, get your Spanish phrasebook and head over to the closest public bus station. The terminal – known as Terminal Terrestre – which can be mostly found at the edge of town, has buses that take you wherever you need to go. If you prefer a bit more comfort when traveling, pick an “autos de lujo” which is a luxury coach with lots of cool features. Quito also has roads connecting it to places all around the country!
“Live an Adventure on the Pan-American Highway in Ecuador!”
Do you like going on adventures with your car? You can do that in Ecuador too! All it takes is a valid home driver’s license and passport to rent a car there. But, it’ll be better if you get an international driver’s licence as well – so you won’t have any problems when speaking to the police.
The streets and highways across Ecuador are connected by the Pan-American Highway that follows a particularly beautiful chain of eight volcanoes with snow on their tops. Be sure to keep your focus on driving even while enjoying the incredible view!
The main roads are in good shape, but other roads are not. It’s best to get a car with 4-wheel-drive. You can usually rent these cars at the airport or downtown in big cities. Gas is cheaper than what some other countries charge, but you may need to pay a toll when driving on some roads.
In Ecuador, the weather can suddenly change and lots of landslides can happen during heavy rains, so make sure to check the forecast before traveling. Local bus drivers and truck drivers don’t follow the rules of the road very well, which is why Ecuador has some of the highest rates of accidents in Latin America. Motorcycle driving is dangerous and should only be attempted by those with courage and lots of experience.
“Experience the Amazon from Above and Below with Taxis and Buses!”
Traveling from city to city using buses will be much easier and convenient compared to traveling in taxis. However, these yellow-colored taxis can still be useful for exploring small towns and cities or for trips to attractions outside of town. Most of the time, taxi drivers are honest but it’s best practice to agree on a price with them before you begin your journey.
The Amazon looks super awesome both when you look at it from the ground and when you fly over it.
“See the Spectacular Ecuador from High Above
From way up high, Ecuador looks really cool. The Andes mountains are spotted with volcanoes that go all the way down to tropical forests – and if the sky is clear, you can totally get a great view! Flying around here has its advantages … but if you’re worried about climate change, taking the bus instead might be better since you can see the melting glaciers from up there too.
If you want to get to the Galápagos Islands or Amazon rainforest, then flying is your best option unless you have lots of time and money. LATAM and Avianca are two airline companies that will take you there. You might also be able to take a long-distance bus in some areas.
Make Travel Easier for People with Disabilities in Ecuador with Latin America For All!
In Ecuador (like many other South American countries), it’s difficult for people with disabilities to get around. The sidewalks aren’t even and don’t have ramps, and most buildings and hotels have steps leading to their entrances. Buses that can be used by wheelchairs are rare and it may be hard to travel on the roads – so flying might be a better option for getting around the country.
If you’re disabled, you can ride long-distance buses for free in Ecuador and can get discounts on internal air travel. To make it easier to travel around Ecuador, you can go on an accessible tour with a company like Latin America For All. If you want more information, check out Lonely Planet’s Accessible Travel Resources.