Where is Ecuador located? Ecuador is a country situated in South America, on the western part of the continent. It is one of the smaller countries in South America but boasts a diverse geography and landscape.
Ecuador is positioned along the west coast of South America, with the Pacific Ocean to its west. It shares its borders with several neighboring countries. To the north, it is bordered by Colombia. To the east, it shares a border with Peru. The southern border of Ecuador is defined by its boundary with Peru as well. To the west, it is bathed by the Pacific Ocean.
Where is Ecuador located: South America.
Location of Ecuador on the World Map
Ecuador World
Map of Ecuador.
Ecuador Profile – Where is Ecuador located
Here are 10 of the most important facts about Ecuador:
- Official Name: Republic of Ecuador
- Capital City: Quito
- Population: Approximately 17.6 million (as of 2021)
- Official Language: Spanish
- Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
- Major Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholicism
- Government: Presidential republic
- Area: Approximately 283,561 square kilometers
- GDP (Gross Domestic Product): $110.8 billion (as of 2021)
- Main Exports: Petroleum, bananas, shrimp, cacao, and flowers.
Borders of Ecuador
Ecuador shares land borders with two countries.
| Bordering Country | Approximate Length of Border (in kilometers) |
|---|---|
| Colombia | 590 km |
| Peru | 1,420 km |
Ecuador Map
Navigate over this map with your mouse to discover Ecuador’s map location.
Ecuador
Most Extreme Points of Ecuador
Ecuador boasts a variety of extreme points in various directions:
- Northernmost Point: Near the border with Colombia, close to the town of San Lorenzo.
- Southernmost Point: The southern tip of the Isla de la Plata, also known as the “Poor Man’s Galapagos,” off the coast of mainland Ecuador.
- Easternmost Point: The point along the Amazon River, near the town of Nuevo Rocafuerte.
- Westernmost Point: The point on the Pacific Ocean coastline, near the city of Manta.
Highest Points of Ecuador
The highest point in Ecuador is Chimborazo, reaching an elevation of approximately 6,268 meters above sea level. It is part of the Andes mountain range.
| No. | Mountain | Elevation (meters) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chimborazo | 6,268 |
| 2 | Cotopaxi | 5,897 |
| 3 | Cayambe | 5,790 |
| 4 | Antisana | 5,704 |
| 5 | Tungurahua | 5,023 |
How big is Ecuador?
Ecuador encompasses an area of approximately 283,561 square kilometers, making it the 72nd largest country in the world.
Comparison with Neighboring Countries
Here is a comparison of Ecuador with its neighboring countries based on approximate size and population as of 2021:
| Country | Approximate Size (sq. km) | Approximate Population | Ecuador’s Size Compared to Neighboring Country | Ecuador’s Population Compared to Neighboring Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colombia | 1,138,910 | 50.3 million | 0.35 times smaller | 0.78 times smaller |
| Peru | 1,285,216 | 33.4 million | 0.31 times smaller | 0.95 times smaller |
| Brazil | 8,515,767 | 213.9 million | 0.04 times smaller | 0.20 times smaller |
What to Visit in Ecuador?
Ecuador offers a rich tapestry of natural wonders, historical sites, and vibrant culture. Here are the top 8 tourist attractions:
- Quito: The capital and largest city of Ecuador, Quito boasts a historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with well-preserved colonial architecture and churches like the Quito Cathedral.
- Galápagos Islands: A remote archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, famous for its unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. It’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts and scientists.
- Cuenca: Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, Cuenca is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is famous for its churches, museums, and the beautiful Tomebamba River.
- Amazon Rainforest: Explore the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador, home to countless species of animals and plants. Take a guided tour to experience this natural wonder up close.
- Otavalo: Visit the town of Otavalo, renowned for its colorful indigenous market where you can find handcrafted textiles, jewelry, and traditional Ecuadorian goods.
- Baños: A picturesque town nestled in the Andes Mountains, Baños offers stunning waterfalls, hot springs, and outdoor adventures like hiking and rafting.
- Guayaquil: Ecuador’s largest port city, Guayaquil features a revitalized Malecón 2000 riverfront promenade, the historic Las Peñas neighborhood, and the Parque Seminario, home to friendly iguanas.
- Cotopaxi National Park: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park, which includes the active Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and opportunities for camping and wildlife watching.
These Ecuador destinations offer a diverse array of experiences, from delving into ancient history and cultural significance to relishing the vibrant urban life and immersing yourself in the breathtaking natural wonders of Ecuador’s landscapes. Keep in mind that certain locations might have particular regulations or entry prerequisites, particularly places of religious importance. Thus, it’s crucial to verify the requirements before making arrangements for your trip.
