Member Nation : Ecuador
EEcuador is a country with vast natural wealth. The diversity of its
four regions has given rise to thousands of species of flora and
fauna. Ecuador is considered one of the 17 countries where the
planet's highest biodiversity is concentrated, being also the
largest country with diversity per km 2 in the world. Most of its
fauna and flora live in 26 protected areas by the state.
The country has two cities with UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
Quito and Cuenca, as well as two natural UNESCO World
Heritage Sites: the Galapagos Islands and Sangay National Park,
in addition to one World Biosphere Reserve, such as the Cajas
Massif. Culturally, the toquilla straw hat and the culture of
the Zapara indigenous people are recognized.
Ecuadorian culture is a vibrant blend of Indigenous ancestral
traditions, Spanish colonial heritage, and Afro-Ecuadorian
influences.
Culture
* Handicrafts: Artisans are famous for woven textiles from
markets like Otavalo, detailed silverwork, and globally
prized straw Panama hats.
* Music and Dance: Indigenous Andean music uses wind and
string instruments like the charango, while coastal Afro-
Ecuadorian rhythms are driven by the marimba
Ecuador is a diverse South American destination offering the
Galápagos Islands, the Andes mountains, the Amazon rainforest,
and well-preserved colonial cities.
Ethnic Cuisine
Ecuadorian cuisine is a rich mix of Spanish, Indigenous Andean,
and Amazonian traditions that varies greatly by region, altitude,
and local agriculture. Coastal dishes heavily feature fresh
seafood, rice, and plantains, such as shrimp ceviche
and encebollado.
* Highland Staples: Andean food relies on corn, a vast
variety of potatoes, and hearty meats
like llapingachos (pan-seared potato cakes) and roasted
pork (Hornado).
* Traditional Soups: Fanesca, a rich soup made from twelve
different grains and fish, is traditionally prepared during
Easter week.
Ethnic Clothing
The Ecuadorian woman's dress is the closest to the Incan costumes worn in the Andes. A white blouse, a blue skirt and a shawl is usually worn. Jewelry is very important, layers of necklaces of predominantly gold beads and red coral bracelets are the most common form of jewelry worn by the Otavalo women.
Tourist Attractions
* The Galápagos Islands: See giant tortoises, sea lions, and
blue-footed boobies.
* Quito's Old Town: Walk through a UNESCO World Heritage
site with colonial churches and plazas.
* Baños de Agua Santa: Relax in hot springs and view
waterfalls like Pailón del Diablo.
* Cuenca: UNESCO World Heritage site: Historic Centre of
Santa Ana de los Rios de Cuenca, Visit the blue-domed
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
* Deleg: ancient Cañari-Inca roots on the
Pachamama. Laguna de Guabizgun. Virgen del Rocio
(Barrio el Rocio)
* Amazon Rainforest (Yasuni / Tena): Go on jungle
excursions and whitewater rafting.
Reference Links
Mi Bello Ecuador - latinakcj@yahoo.com
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