17 facts you may not know about Ecuador:

1. Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, despite its relatively small size. It is home to the Amazon Rainforest, the Andes Mountains, and the Galápagos Islands.
2. Ecuador is home to the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World), a monument located near Quito that marks the equator. It’s a popular tourist attraction where visitors can stand with one foot in each hemisphere.
3. The Galápagos Islands, located about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) off the coast of Ecuador, are famous for their unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. The islands played a significant role in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.
4. The capital city, Quito, is the highest official capital in the world, standing at an elevation of 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level. Its historic center is one of the best-preserved in Latin America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. The Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest covers a significant portion of the country’s eastern region, harboring incredible biodiversity, indigenous communities, and unique ecosystems.
6. Ecuador is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and is known for its many volcanoes. The Avenue of the Volcanoes is a stretch of the Andes Mountains where several towering peaks, including Cotopaxi and Chimborazo, can be seen.
7. Cuy, or guinea pig, is considered a delicacy in Ecuador and is often roasted whole and served during special occasions or festivals.
8. The Otavalo Market is one of the largest and most famous indigenous markets in South America, known for its colorful textiles, handicrafts, and traditional clothing.
9. Yasuní National Park in the Ecuadorian Amazon is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, home to an estimated 10,000 species of plants, hundreds of species of birds, and numerous mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
10. Ecuador is one of the world’s leading producers of fine flavor cacao, prized for its quality and distinct flavor profile. It is a significant export for the country.
11. The TelefériQo is a cable car that transports visitors from Quito to the top of the Pichincha Volcano, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
12. Ceviche, a dish made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices and mixed with onions, tomatoes, and peppers, is a popular dish in coastal Ecuador.
13. Ecuador’s coast, particularly around Puerto López and Machalilla National Park, is a prime destination for humpback whale watching during their annual migration.
14. The Ecuadorian Highlands, also known as the Sierra region, are characterized by picturesque Andean villages, stunning landscapes, and indigenous cultures.
15. Ingapirca is the largest and most important archaeological site in Ecuador, featuring the remains of an Inca settlement and temple complex.
16. Ecuador is known as the “Land of Orchids” and is home to thousands of species of orchids, many of which can be found in the cloud forests of the Andes.
17. Ecuador is one of the world’s leading producers of roses, known for their large size, vibrant colors, and long stems. Roses are a significant export crop for the country.