Teaching Abroad in Ecuador Overview: If it is the unique and exceptional experience you crave, then Ecuador is the destination of choice. Swim next to harmless sharks, snorkel with manta rays and tropical penguins, and befriend the giant tortoises that have made the Galapagos Islands both wondrous and famous. After checking off those experiences go white-water rafting and then seek out caimans and iguanas for some photo memories. Did we mention that you can fish for piranhas?!? If you are eager to kickback then don your Panama hat (they are made in Ecuador) and pop a squat in a restaurant for a delicious craft cerveza (beer) and some ceviche (uncooked seafood marinated in lemon and served with popcorn and onion). Bacan (cool!)
Interesting Facts About Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands, which belong to Ecuador, got their name from the giant tortoises that live there.
Cotopaxi is one of the world's highest active volcanoes.
Tuesday the 13th is considered a very unlucky day in Ecuador.
Ecuador is the world's largest exporter of bananas.
More species of birds can be found in one hectare of rainforest in Ecuador than in all of North America.
Highlights of Working Abroad in Ecuador
Snorkel with harmless sharks, stare at iguanas, and scuba dive with manta rays in the Galapagos Islands!
Wander through the splendid colonial streets of Cuenca.
Visit indigenous communities, go white-water rafting, fish for piranhas and spot caimans in the Oriente.
Festivals in Ecuador Mama Negra
In addition to Carnaval and Semana Santa, the most important festival in Ecuador is the Mama Negra celebration in Latacunga. This pagan celebration takes place in November and dates back to the Spanish conquest when men dressed up as black women. Really!
The December Bullfights
The December bullfights in Quito, Ecuador's capital, attract fighters from all over the globe. If bullfighting is not your cup of tea, be sure to check out Pseudo bullfights (the bull isn't killed and everyone is allowed to enter the ring in a comical display of machismo). These are held throughout the year so you have plenty of opportunities to attend.
