Ecuador

Ecuador is a beautiful country in South America, sitting right on the Equator, which is how it got its name! It’s bordered by Colombia to the north, Peru to the south and east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Even though it’s not very big, Ecuador is one of the most diverse countries in the world — with beaches, volcanoes, mountains, rainforests, and even the famous Galápagos Islands.

The capital city is Quito, high in the Andes Mountains and known for its stunning colonial buildings and friendly people. Another popular city is Guayaquil, the country’s biggest port and gateway to the coast, while Cuenca charms visitors with red-tiled roofs and blue-domed cathedrals.

Ecuador was once part of the mighty Inca Empire, and you can still see signs of this ancient history today in local traditions, crafts, and foods. The Spanish arrived in the 1500s, and after centuries of change, Ecuador finally became an independent country in 1822.

Today, Ecuador is loved for its mix of cultures, languages, and landscapes. From Andean villages and Amazon jungles to tropical beaches and wildlife-filled islands, it’s a place where adventure and beauty meet — and where vegan travelers can find delicious food and kind hospitality everywhere they go.