Cultural Info: Ecuador

Did You Know...

The Ecuador flag kept the colors from Gran Columbia, the South American Republic that broke up in 1830. The flag colors are yellow representing sunshine, grains, and mineral wealth. Blue is for the sky, seas and rivers and Red for the blood spilled in the struggle for freedom and justice.

In Ecuador there some interesting facts when it comes to nature, for example, their national tree is called cinchona and produces quinine. Quinine is the first medicine used to prevent and fight Malaria. In Ecuador there is a mountain called Chimborazo and this is the point on Earth closest to the sun.

Ecuador has a small population of 16,623,180 and density of 59 people per kilometer square. Most of the population live near the coast, los Andes Mountains and some of the Central regions. Only about 3% of the population lives in the forest and 45% lives in the two big cities Guayaquil and Quito, the capital.

Ecuador is located in the North part of South America, is one of the only two countries that does not share a border with Brazil. As the name says it, Ecuador which means equator in English, was given to the country because this is where the equator passes by. The equator is located 26 km north of Quito exactly where Earth is divided in half.

Central University of Ecuador is the oldest and largest college in Ecuador located in Quito established in 1826. The most famous area is the college of Medicine which is one of the best one's in the country.

Ecuadorian cuisine can be diverse, pork chicken and beef are the most popular food and usually served with rice beans and potatoes. An exotic food the eat is the Guinea pig, consider a delicacy in the consumption because is seen as an ancient tradition.

Hear From A Student

After reading all of these facts, you still have questions and want to hear from a former study abroad student what they experienced in Ecuador? Check out this page with students reviews!



Page last modified January 24, 2020