All Souls' Day (observed)

📣 Traveler notes

Ecuador, located in northwestern South America, includes major destinations such as the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Quito, Cuenca, and the Galapagos Islands. The country features high active volcanoes, including Cotopaxi.

• Dress warmly when visiting the mountain Sierra regions (e.g., Quito).
• Be aware that clothing styles vary across the country, requiring layers from coast to mountains.
• Adhere to formal cultural greetings, such as using 'usted', to show respect.
• Standard greetings include 'buenos días' (morning), 'buenas tardes' (afternoon), and 'buenas noches' (evening). Use the formal pronoun 'usted' when addressing elders or unfamiliar people. Common greetings include 'Hola', accompanied by a handshake (men) or a cheek kiss (women/mixed gender). Note local gestures: avoid using the downward-facing palm to estimate height, and use a downward swipe with the palm facing down when directing someone to approach.