Ecuador, straddling the equator on South America's west coast, is a vibrant tapestry of Andean landscapes, Amazon rainforest, indigenous cultures, colonial history and Galapagos Islands' unprecedented wildlife. Its merging ecosystems make it an exhilarating biodiversity hotspot, testament to this is Ecuador's capital, Quito, perched high in the Andean foothills.
Geographical Characteristics of Ecuador
Ecuador is a country located in South America. It shares its borders with Colombia to the northwest, Peru to the east and the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
Ecuador is divided into three geographical regions: the coast, the Andes, and the Amazon. Each of these areas offers diverse landscapes and climatic conditions.
Geographical Spotlights
The Coast
The coastal area of Ecuador stretches along the Pacific Ocean. Fertile plains, rolling hills, and mangrove swamps are common in this region. In addition to its natural beauty, these geographical elements provide fertile grounds for agricultural activities, specifically export of bananas.
The Andes
The Andean highlands run through the heart of Ecuador. This region is characterized by two parallel mountain ranges punctuated by several active volcanoes. Cotopaxi, one of the world's highest active volcanoes, is found here.
The Amazon
The Amazon region, also known as El Oriente, covers the eastern part of Ecuador. It's a biodiversity hotspot, home to a multitude of wildlife species and plants. This inaccessible region is primarily filled with rainforests.
Where is Ecuador on the map?
Ecuador is located in the western part of South America, precisely at coordinates 1.8333° S, 78.1834° W. It is strategically positioned on the Equator, hence its name, Ecuador, which means equator in Spanish.
Climate of Ecuador
Ecuador's climate is varied due to its geographical diversity. Coastal regions feature a tropical climate with a dry and wet season. The Andes regions are cooler with temperatures fluctuating based on altitude. The Amazon exhibits a humid and wet tropical climate.
FAQs
What is the geographical size of Ecuador?
Ecuador is approximately 283,561 square kilometers.
What are the major cities of Ecuador?
The major cities in Ecuador are Quito, the capital, and Guayaquil.
Does Ecuador have four seasons?
Ecuador, due to its equator location, experiences two primary season: wet and dry.
What is the population of Ecuador?
As of 2021, Ecuador's population is estimated to be around 17 million people.
What is Ecuador's highest point?
Ecuador's highest point is the summit of Mount Chimborazo, standing at approximately 6,263 meters above sea level.
Ecuador Map
