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Weather There are four different ecosystems: the "Costa" (rugged coastal shoreline), the "Oriente" (Amazon region--tropical rainforest), and the "Sierra" (Andes Mountains and highland areas, which make up the majority of Ecuador), and the Galapagos Islands (which lie 600 miles off of the coast of Ecuador). Travel in Ecuador is relatively easy, because the distance between remote sites and cities is far less than in most places. When coming to the Andes Mountains in Ecuador, even though you will be on the equator, the weather will be chilly. Temperatures are determined more by altitude (the higher you go, the colder it is) than by the calendar. Temperatures also vary greatly according to whether it's raining or sunny and the temperature can rise 10 degrees just because the sun is out. Unfortunately, it has been difficult to predict weather patterns in Ecuador this year, mostly due to the El Nino effect. September to December are normally the driest months, however this year we've had alot of rain in Dec. The Amazon and coastal areas are always warmer and more humid. Quito, at 9,300 feet, remains constant year round with lows in the mid 40s and highs around 68-72 degrees centigrade. Mornings and evenings are cool. The Ecuadorian mainland time is equivalent to Eastern Standard Time in North America. Because of Ecuador's location on the equator, days and nights are of equal length (12 hours) year round and there is no daylight-saving time. Electricity Ecuador uses 110 volts, 60 cycles, AC, the same as in North America, but not compatible with Britain and Australia. Plugs have two flat prongs, as in North America. Health ALTITUDE You will feel the altitude more in Quito because of the pollution and most recently, because of volcanic ash in the air. Otavalo, a few hours outside of Quito, is only a few hundred feet lower, but the air contains much more oxygen because of the lack of pollution (and volcanic ash). When flying into high altitude areas, allow a day or two to adjust. Avoid alcohol, cigarettes and heavy foods. Try not to eat alot of salt as the body retains fluid in the altitude. Altitude may make you feel dizzy and light-headed and also affects appetite and your sleeping patterns so you won't sleep as deep as you are used too. Drink lots of liquids, and simple painkillers will help with the headache you may have. It's always good to check with your doctor first. Be sure to bring all your prescription medicine with you. THE SHOTS Innoculations against cholera, yellow fever, polio, typhoid, tetanus and hepatitus might be recommended, although they are not required. |