Top5 Amazing Facts About Ecuador That Will Shock You

In this article we will explore amazing facts about ecuador, there are important cultural rules. There are over 3,000 thefts and attacks on tourists in ecuador each year, mostly in busy areas like bus stations and markets. Solo female travelers are often targeted. If you’re planning to visit ecuador, you must know their rules otherwise you might face some problems. So let’s begin. 

5) Use Of Left Hand

One of the amazing facts about ecuador is that you never use your left hand to give or receive anything. This rule stems from traditional beliefs that associate the left hand with being unclean or disrespectful. Using your left hand might cause people to dislike you or think you are being rude. From a young age, Ecuadorians are taught to use their right hand for greetings, gifts, and even at the dinner table. 

If you accidentally use your left hand, it could lead to negative reactions, especially during special events like weddings or visits to elders. Many Ecuadorians believe that using the left hand is impolite, and there are stories of tourists being turned away when they attempted transactions with their left hand. To avoid awkward situations and to show respect for local customs, visitors should always use their right hand when giving or receiving anything in Ecuador. This small act can greatly improve interactions with the locals.

4) Payment

One of the amazing facts about ecuador is that ecuador is experiencing a shift towards a cashless society, but many people do not trust banks. Instead, a non-bank payment system is growing, primarily using WhatsApp for transactions. Young Ecuadorians, especially those aged 20-40, prefer paying with QR codes or direct transfers via messaging apps rather than traditional banking methods, which they find slow and complicated. A survey indicates that over 58% of Ecuadorians use WhatsApp for financial transactions, and many stores accept payments through this method.

3) Vote

One of the amazing facts about ecuador is that Voting is required for everyone. After voting, individuals receive a certificate which is essential for everyday activities like marrying, buying property, obtaining a driver’s license, or opening a bank account. Failing to vote without a valid excuse results in a $50 fine. Additionally, there is a dry law prohibiting alcohol sales 36 hours before and 12 hours after voting, with penalties for violations. 

2) Nose Blowing

One of the amazing facts about ecuador is nose blowing. In many countries, blowing your nose in public is seen as natural, but in Ecuador, especially in cities like Quito and Cuenca, it is considered very rude. If you blow your nose in public places like restaurants or buses, expect locals to react with shock or disgust. Ecuadorians find the sound of nose blowing offensive and prefer to excuse themselves or use a tissue discreetly. 

 1) Dance

One of the amazing facts about ecuador is that in ecuador, dancing is a cherished cultural trait, but public dancing without a permit can lead to fines. In Quito, Cuenca, and Guayaquil, unapproved gatherings for dancing are seen as a public order violation, as authorities fear they may cause disruptions. In 2023, American tourists were halted by police while making a dance video in a park because they lacked a permit; they were not fined but had to delete their footage.