Headlines
Ecuador Population, Official Language And More.
Throughout its history, Ecuador has experienced periods of civil war and has been dominated by caudillos, alternatively conservative and liberal. In the 20th and 21st centuries, Ecuador has continued to face challenges in achieving both economic and political stability.
Ecuador
The Population
Ecuador has a population of approximately 17.5 million people, according to the World Bank. The country is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, including Mestizo, Indigenous, and Afro-Ecuadorian peoples.
The Landmark
One of the most famous landmarks in Ecuador is the Galapagos Islands, which are located approximately 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. The islands are known for their unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies.
The Official Language
The official language of Ecuador is Spanish. However, there are also several indigenous languages spoken throughout the country, including Quechua and Shuar.
The Culture
Ecuador has a rich cultural heritage that is influenced by its indigenous roots as well as its Spanish colonial past. The country is known for its vibrant music and dance traditions, including the pasillo, marinera, and sanjuanito. Ecuadorian cuisine is also diverse and includes dishes such as ceviche, locro de papas, and empanadas.
The Economic Stability
Ecuador’s economy has been characterized by instability in recent years. In 2019, the country experienced a period of political unrest that led to the resignation of President Lenin Moreno. The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on the country’s economy, with GDP contracting by 7.8% in 2020. Despite these challenges, Ecuador has a wealth of natural resources, including oil, minerals, and agricultural products.
The GDP
According to the World Bank, Ecuador’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was $115.05 billion in 2022. The country’s economy has been characterized by instability in recent years, with the COVID-19 pandemic having a significant impact on the country’s GDP in 2020.
The Currency
The official currency of Ecuador is the United States dollar. US dollar bills are used in Ecuador, and the country issues its own centavo coins.
The Food
Ecuadorian cuisine is diverse and includes dishes such as Bolon de Verde, Encocado de Pescado, and Ceviche. These dishes range as wide as the three distinct regions found in the country, which include the Amazon jungle, the Andean highlands, and the Pacific Coast (including the Galápagos Islands).
Major Cities
Ecuador has several major cities, including:
- Guayaquil: The largest city in Ecuador with a population of approximately 2.3 million people.
- Quito: The capital city of Ecuador with a population of approximately 1.6 million people.
- Cuenca: A city located in the Andean highlands with a population of approximately 330,000 people.
- Santo Domingo: A city located in Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas Province with a population of approximately 271,000 people.
- Machala: A city located in El Oro Province with a population of approximately 231,000 people.
Major Airport, Sea Port and Schools
Ecuador has two major airports:
- José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport located in Guayaquil.
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport located in Quito.
The country also has several major seaports, including:
- Port of Guayaquil
- Port of Manta
- Port of Esmeraldas
Some of the major schools in Ecuador include:
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito
- Universidad de las Américas
- Escuela Politécnica Nacional
