Ecuador travel tips

Much of Ecuador is at high altitude, including Quito, which is at around 2,800m. As most tourists fly into Quito, this could leave you feeling rough for the first few days of your holiday – although this will acclimatise you for further ascents into the highlands.

Don't attempt high altitude hikes or climbing any of the volcanoes until you’ve had several days to acclimatise. Fitness has little impact on altitude sickness so acclimatisation is the only way to prepare. You should also keep well hydrated and avoid alcohol, which makes the symptoms much worse.

Seasickness is a real possibility during Galápagos cruises. December to May tend to bring calmer seas, but you’re still out in the open water – so bring medication. Ginger can also ease nausea.

Tap water is not safe to drink, but bottled water is readily available and cheap. Ask for juices made with mineral water, and served without ice.

Food is generally of high quality and food poisoning is uncommon. However, if travelling to remote areas it’s bring medication for mild stomach upsets, just in case, as medical facilities will be limited.

Visit your GP at least 6-8 weeks before travel to ensure you have the necessary vaccinations. You may also need antimalarial medication if travelling to the Amazon or coastal rainforests; the highlands are malaria-free.

Wear long sleeved shirts and long trousers in the jungle, and use insect repellent. The coastal rainforests and mangroves are far worse than the Amazon for mosquito bites. Mosquito nets should be provided when necessary.

Good healthcare is available in major cities. Ensure your travel insurance covers any adventure activities you may be undertaking (including boat travel and high altitude hiking) as well as emergency repatriation.

Ecuador is at risk of Zika virus transmission. If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant, consult your GP or travel clinic to understand the safety risks to the foetus. Zika does not generally pose a high risk to other travellers.

Beware it’s a pretty active holiday. But that’s why I went. Lots to do each day, not much lounging around. But to be fair it wasn’t over the top - and there was even a 76-year-old grandma on the trip who managed to do everything. So don’t be put off. - John Farmer

Take lots of small bills in cash - even $20 bills are hard to change. - Cara Roberts

Worth doing a bit of background reading into Galapagos before travelling (or on the flight!). The guides are brilliant, but there is so much information, it helps to have a bit of prior knowledge! - Richard Mayon-White

Take a little notebook to write down your spottings - I am not a twitcher but you cannot help becoming interested and noting the birds and animals down is infectious as it allows you to learn even more back at the lodge. -Linda Johnstone

It gets cold up in Andes at night. Ensure you have long trousers and a couple of fleeces plus a warm jacket – you will need them. Otherwise go with an open mind and just enjoy everything on offer. - Jane Rawson

Even when things went ostensibly "wrong" we ended up by having an even better or more interesting time than expected!!! Travelling in Latin America is always best with an open mind and flexible attitude anyway! - Alison Pelikan

Although the children loved every minute, the equatorial sun was difficult to escape and we had to really keep on top of their hydration. There was a lot of travelling, on road, by boat and plane so it's a good idea for the kids to have books and things to play and make. - Vimty Muir