Tourism Investment Guide

1

2

CONTACT DETAILS

Ministry of Tourism: (MINTUR)

www.mintur.gob.ec

[email protected]

Coordinating Ministry of Production,

Employment and Competitiveness (MCPEC)

www.creecuador.ec

[email protected]

CONTACTS:

Tourism Ministry: (MINTUR)

www.turismo.gob.ec

www.ecuador.travel

servicios.turismo.gob.ec

[email protected]

Coordinating Ministry of Production,

Employment and Competitiveness

(MCPEC)

www.mcpec.gob.ec

GOBIERNO NACIONAL DE

LA REPÚBLICA DEL

3

Table of Contents

Prologue: Foreign investment, a vector of economic development 5

Ecuador at a glance 7

A stable economy 13

A growing market 17

Tourism An emerging economic sector 21

A committed government 27

Tourism Destinations and the Investment Opportunity 33

4

5

“Today there is a growing understanding around the world, and especially in Latin

America, that the alliance between countries that are strong, efficient, active and transpar-

ent, and private sectors that are responsible and committed to the wellbeing of society,

constitutes the basis for productive and economic development that is harmonious and

holistic; the ethiconomy - ethics and economics - which places human beings at its centre, as

its reason to be, and reminds us that human beings are not just another factor in production,

they are in itself the purpose of production".

Address by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ecuador, Rafael Correa Delgado, at the opening

of the World Business Forum Latin America 2010—Guayaquil, 30th November 2010.

Rafael Correa Delgado,

President of Ecuador

NATIONAL GOVERNMENT OF

THE REPUBLIC OF ECUADOR

6

7

Ecuador at a glance

A stable economy

A growing market

Tourism: An emerging economic sector

A committed government

Tourism Destinations and the Investment Opportunity

8

From To Distance

Quito Buenos Aires 4,353 kilometres

Quito Canberra 13,689 kilometres

Quito México City 3,130 kilometres

Quito Doha 13,968 kilometres

Quito Hong Kong 17,193 kilometres

Quito Londres 9,218 kilometres

Quito Madrid 8,741 kilometres

Quito New York 4,575 kilometres

Quito Riyad 13,533 kilometres

Quito Rio de Janeiro 4,570 kilometres

Located in the northwest of South America, straddling the equator, an exceptional geostrategic position (the port of Manta is the point of South America which is closest to the Asian ports).

It is the centre of America and, as such, the equidistant axis with markets such as Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Colombia, Peru,

Mexico, the United States and Canada. Thanks to the proximity of the Panama Canal, Ecuador is an economic stopping point for accessing European and Middle

East markets.

L o c a t i o n i n t h e W o r l d

E C U A D O R

London

Madrid

Doha

Riyad

New York

Mexico cityHong Kong

Canberra

Buenos Aires

Rio de Janeiro

9

H i g h v a l u e s t r a t e g i c a n d g e o g r a p h i c a l p o s i t i o n

4 WORLDS

Galapagos:

One of the greatest natural laborato-ries in the world

Coast:

640 km of continental coastline

Andes:

The Andean range favours the development of exceptional tourism products

Amazon:

For centuries, a "natural pharma-cy" for its indigenous

62 122,545 Km

2 of Amazonia

15,901 800

Plant species in

400 Amphibian

species

1,640 Bird species

324 Mammal

species

Outstanding facts

17 Indigenous groups

Huge Ethnocultural

4 Sites declared World Heritage

Historical Centre of Quito

Historical Centre of Santa Ana de

los Cuatro Ríos de Cuenca

Galapagos Archipelago

Volcanoes

over 4,000m

Plant

species

4,200 Orchid

350 Reptile

species

47 Protected areas

4,173 Species of

Azuay

Esmeraldas

Manabí

Galápagos

Carchi

Sucumbíos

Orellana

Pastaza

Morona Santiago

Zamora

Chinchipe

Loja

El Oro

Guayas

Santa Elena

Los Ríos

Santo Domingo de

los Tsáchilas

Pichincha

Imbabura

Napo

Cotopaxi

Tungurahua

Chimborazo

Cañar

Bolívar

Source: Website of the Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador

10

5.1% UNEMPLOYMENT 2011

57.98 TOTAL GDP (billion $ 2010)

4,003 GDP PER CAPITA ($ 2010)

14.5 Million POPULATION (2010)

9.7% AVERAGE GDP GROWTH

5.3% INFLATION IN 2011

USD CURRENCY

Economic stability Political stability High fiscal incentives Great natural attractions

Internationally connected Major investments in

infrastructure

Why invest in the country?

Source: INEC and Central Bank of Ecuador

11

12

13

Ecuador at a glance

A stable economy

A growing market




14

The GDP at constant prices in 2000 in Ecuador reached 24.9

billion USD in 2010. This has shown a continuous positive

trend since 2005, with average annual growth of 3.6% between 2005 and 2010.

In terms of sectors, the service sector contributes with

n e a r l y 5 8 % o f t h e

total GDP production, followed by industry (36%) and agri-

culture (6%).

A s t a b l e e c o n o m y

The provinces that most contribute to the national GDP

are Guayas and Pichincha, which shows its economic

dynamism. The GDP per capita at constant prices increased by 2.1%

between 2005 and 2010 from USD 1,587 per capita up to

USD 1,759.

Ecuador has experienced annual non-oil growth of 4.5% between 2007 and 2010

Source: Economic Comission for Latin America and the Caribbean

4,80%

2,00%

7,20%

0,40%

3,60%

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

10,1%

8,0%7,1% 6,8% 6,4% 6,2%

4,5% 4,1% 3,6% 3,5%2,5% 2,0%

1,0% 0,5% 0,4%

Source: Economic Comission for Latin America and the Caribbean

GDP growth (2005 – 2010 , % per annuum)

15

A s t a b l e e c o n o m y

T h e u n e m p l o y m e n t r a t e h a s

fallen significantly in Ecuador in the last five years

from 10.7% in 2005 to 5.0% in 2011

Inflation has significantly decreased since a peak of

8.4% in 2008 and reached 5.3% in 2011 showing a

trend towards stabilization and price control

15

Source: INEC (National Statistics Institute of Ecuador)


10,7% 10,1%8,8%

7,3% 7,9%6,1% 5,0%

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Fuente: Instituto Nacional de Estadística del Ecuador

3,4%2,7%

4,2%

8,4%

4,4%3,2%

5,3%

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Fuente: Instituto Nacional de Estadística del Ecuador

16

17

Ecuador at a glance

A stable economy

A growing market




18

A g r o w i n g m a r k e t

Annual GDP growth between 2.3% and 3.2% is expected from 2011 to 2016, confirming the positive growth trend

I n f l a t i o n w i l l u n d e r g o a downward stabil isation from 3.4% to 3.0% annually from 2013 until 2016.

Source: International Monetary Fund


3,1%

3,0% 3,0% 3,0% 3,0%

2012E 2013E 2014E 2015E 2016E

2,80%2,50% 2,40% 2,30% 2,30%

2012E 2013E 2014E 2015E 2016E

19

The prospects for the future s h o w t h e s t a b i l i s a t i o n o f unemployment a t l eve ls c l ose to those of 2010 (7.6%) for the 2011-2016 period

T h e E c u a d o r i a n p o p u l a t i o n h a s a c l e a r g r o w t h t r e n d and is forecast to reach 15 million by 2014 and 17 million in 2025

A g r o w i n g m a r k e t



14,614,8

14,915

15,215,4

2011E 2012E 2013E 2014E 2015E 2016E

7,5% 7,5% 7,5% 7,5% 7,5%

2012E 2013E 2014E 2015E 2016E

20

21

Ecuador at a glance

A stable economy

A growing market




22

International tourism is primarily distributed in three seasons: High: July and August

Average: January, February, June, November and December

Low: March, April, May, September and October

I n t e r n a t i o n a l t o u r i s m p r i m a r i l y c o m e s f r o m t h r e e c o u n t r i e s : U n i t e d S t a t e s ,

Colombia and Peru

Ecuador currently offers many advantages for the international tourist:

A safe and well preserved environment

A competitive tourism industry Few restrictions on entry to the country

Refunds of VAT (value added tax)

Very competitive air industry

Two major tourist segments are differentiated: Leisure: Growing, thanks to improvements in the marketing of Ecuador as a destination. Continued growth is ex-

pected.

Businesses: Higher growth than leisure tourism thanks to economic recovery. Good prospects linked to a forecast

of growth.

Inbound Tourism

Structure of arrivals

29%

23%21%

27%

Individual tourists

Package Tours

Individual tourist groups

Other

Source: Euromonitor International 2010

23

Domestic Tourism has grown 7% in 2010 thanks to the recovery of the economy and the government's commitment to

tourism.

Domestic tourism is divided into two segments:

Leisure: Varies depending on inflation, income and social status.

Business: Has very high growth rate.

Quito and Guayaquil account for 41% of internal travel. Most of this is motivated by business and MICE (Meetings, Incenti-

ves, Conventions and Exhibitions)

In terms of leisure, domestic tourists prefer short stays during public holidays in coastal destinations and in the main

cities of the country

Ecuador has:

4 international airports and 13 major national airports

4 Major Ports 8,780.50 km of State Road Network

Internal Tourism

Infrastructure

Vía 50 km/h

Vía 70 km/h

Vía 100km/h

Aeropuerto

Puerto

Road, 50 Km/h

Road, 70 Km/h

Road, 100 Km/h

Airport

Port

Source: Ministry of Transportation

24

F u t u r e p r o s p e c t s

Very positive due to a mix of public and private initiatives at various levels of the value chain of the tourism sector

In the medium term (2015), future visits are expected to grow by 42% in cumulative terms

The new international airport in Quito will contribute to the creation of new routes and connections

Major government efforts for the international promotion and development of ecotourism and luxury tourism, with

special emphasis on the "Four Worlds"

The government will continue to focus on promoting domestic tourism and the number of domestic trips is expected to

grow 31% by 2015

Ecotourism Growth

Tourism infrastructure development in the coastal zone

(Esmeraldas, Manabí and Guayas)

Thanks to improvements in road and air infrastructure is easier,

travelling is less expensive and the target market is larger

Inbound Tourism

Internal Tourism

25

R e a l e s t a t e d e m a n d

There is a growing demand for primary residences due to population growth and the reduction of household size.

Expansion of projects to meet the growing demand for second homes for:

Residents of Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca looking for areas near the sea for holiday purposes

International market which has the time for long stays in the country and the economic resources to invest

Type of home required by the international market:

Average occupancy of 6 months per year

Small, easy to mantain and safe

Gated neighbourhoods

Modern and colonial style

International buyers seek lower prices than in their home countries and are attracted by the climate and services of the

country.

26

27

Ecuador at a glance

A stable economy

A growing market




28

“ To a t t r a c t p r i va t e i n ve s t m e n t t h e r e m u s t b e g o o d h i g h w a ys , e l e c t r i c i t y ,

efficient ports and airports, an up to date telephone system; quality education and health services, a government that redu-

ces red tape; and this is precisely what we are doing, this is called systemic competitiveness.

Also, we have an inventory of projects, perfectly identified to guide any investor who wants to come to Ecuador."

Rafael Correa Delgado,

President of Ecuador

NATIONAL GOVERNMENT OF

THE REPUBLIC OF ECUADOR

I n t r o d u c t i o n

28

29

Important c ommitment to the deve lopment o f t our is m as an ax is f or the

e c o n o m i c d y n a m i s a t i o n o f t h e c o u n t r y a l o n g 5 m a i n a x e s :

Sustainability Conservation Knowledge of natural and cultural heritage Promotion of community tourism

Nature tourism

Transversal vision: Each Ministry carries out actions within its competence to improve the sector.

Tax incentives for priority sectors (specified on page 31).

P r i o r i t y s e c t o r s o f a c t i v i t y

Fresh and

processed food

Tourism Petrochemical

Agroforestry Renewable

energies

Clothing and

footwear

Metalworking Software Automotion

Pharma Logistics Plastic and rubber

30

N a t i o n a l I n v e s t o r S u p p o r t P r o g r a m m e

The programme seeks to strengthen the production of business tourism through:

Specialised technical support in project management: Preparation of a business plan, strategic basis which will guide the successful development of the project.

Technical support specialised in management of credit with Public Bank bodies: once determined how much capital is required, the goal is to obtain a loan from the Public Bank.

Technical Validation of projects prior to obtaining credit through Public Bank

ProEcuador is the Institute for Promotion of Exports and Investments, part of the Foreign Ministry, with responsibility for enacting the policies and norms for the promotion of exports and investments in the country, in order to foster Ecuador's offer of products, markets and stakeholders,

encouraging strategic insertion in foreign trade, through the following main areas of activity: Commercial Intelligence: Support in the identification of the opportunities for businesses focused on the leading sectors of the

Ecuadorian economy. Investment Promotion: Carrying out activities to attract public or private investments that contribute added value to the country. Services Team: A support team that responds to the needs that arise in the process of preinvestment, monitoring and reinvest-

ment. Export Promotion: Promotion of exports coordinating with public and private institutions and facilitating contact between Ecuado-

rian exporters and international entrepreneurs.

P r o d u c t i v e T o u r i s m B u s i n e s s P r o g r a m m e

31

S u m m a r y o f f i s c a l i n c e n t i v e s

Incentive Objective Sector TaxCode of the

Production

Reduction of the IT (income tax) tax rate from

25% to 22% in the coming three years

General tax

benefitAll IT Yes

Deductions for creating new jobs

Foster the

increase of

employment

(Between 1 and 5

years)

All IT Yes

VAT refund (Value Added Tax) to foreignersPromotion to the

investmentAll IT Yes

Accelerated depreciation (with prior application)

on assets with durability under five years

Investment

support measureAll IT Existing

Stability for the Incentives with investment

contract, up to 15 years, extendable once

Investment

support measureAll IT Yes

Exemption of the COT (Currency Outflow Tax)

for external funding of more than 1 year

Investment

support measure All COT Yes

Ease of payments of tariffs and VAT in the

import of capital assets

Investment

support measureAll

Tariffs +

VATYes

Exemption of the IT for productive investments

in priority sectors, for 5 years from the time they

generate income

Investment

support measure

Priority

sectors IT Yes

Additional deduction of the investment in

machinery and equipment that generate cleaner

production

Fostering of a

cleaner

production

All IT Yes

Additional deductions for the calculation of the

IT, by expenditures made in technical training,

expenditures in the improvement of production,

international development, within the legal

framework

Investment

support measure Medium

Enterprises IT Yes

Exemption from withholding of the IT levying the

interests of the payments of foreign credit,

provided they are not sourced from tax havens

Reduction of the

Cost of Credit Financial

SystemIT Yes

Deferral of the advance payment of IT for the

first 5 years

Support to the

capital

contribution

AllIT and

AdvancesYes

Exemption of the advance payment of IT for the

first 5 years.

Investment

support measureAll IT Yes

Permanent reduction in the income tax rate, of

5% percentage points, for Administrators and

Operators of the SEDZ (Special Economic

Development Zone)

Investment

support measureSEDZ IT Yes

Permanent exemption of VAT, for administrators

and operators of the SEDZ

Investment

support measureSEDZ VAT Yes

Exemption of tariffs for imports made to the

SEDZ

Investment

support measure SEDZ Tariffs Yes

Tax credit for local purchases of inputs and raw

materials for operators and administrators of the

SEDZ

Investment

support measure SEDZ VAT Yes

32

33

Ecuador at a glance

A stable economy

A growing market




34

35

The country has been divided into a list of 10 tourism destinations (provinces that form these are in brackets) and 2 Metropo litan Districts based on their tourism offer and attractiveness.

T o u r i s m D e s t i n a t i o n s i n E c u a d o r

36

General description

Esmeraldas is one of Ecuador's main ports and one of the most economically

dynamic areas of the country. The province has its main attractions in two

areas. The northern part of Esmeraldas is home to the Cayapas Mataje

ecological reserve, with the tallest mangroves in the world, while the province's many beaches are found in the south.

The Sol de Oro of the Central Bank of Ecuador was found in the province.

Relics of the ancient Tolita people, excellent goldsmiths and potters, are also

found here.

P r o v i n c e o f E s m e r a l d a s — D T R C o s t a N o r t e

Population 491,168

Natural World

COAST

% Added Value generated for the

country 3.03%(1)

International tourism as % of total

tourism to province 8.6%(2)

Tourism business opportunity

Conventions resort

Beach hotels

Tourism profile

The province receives a massive flow of tourists in the beach season, due to its

established offer of sun and sand products. On the other hand, high spending

tourism is becoming more important in the province as well as business

tourism, attracted by the dynamism emerging in the coastal areas.

(1) 2007 Data. Source: National Statisitics Institute of Ecuador (2) 2011 Data. Source: Tourism Ministry, Market Intelligence Department

37

P r o v i n c e o f M a n a b í — C o s t a C e n t r o

Population 1,369,780

Natural

World COAST


country 5.38%


tourism to province 19.2%


Marina

Ecolodge

General description

Manabí is located in the central northwest of Ecuador. The city of Manta is one

of the most active fishing centres in the country. Cliffs, estuaries, estuaries,

islands and islets make up the 350 km of beaches in this province Along this

exceptional coastline, there are numerous salt water and freshwater spa resorts.

The Machalilla National Park features archaeological remains of the Manteña

and Machalilla cultures.

Tourism profile

Manabí's main attraction is its extensive coastline, so visitors primarily look for

sun and beach tourism. However, the province offers a wide range of possibili-

ties for ecotourism, adventure tourism, business tourism and cruises.

38

P r o v i n c e o f S a n t a E l e n a — D T R C o s t a S u r

Population 308,693

Natural

World COAST


country N/D




Beach resort

Second residences

General description

The province of Santa Elena, the youngest in the country, was established in

2007 when it separated from the province of Guayas. It has cultural, ancient,

and archaeological elements that are national heritage but its main attraction

lies in the many beaches along its coastline.

The areas of Salinas and Montanita are famous for their surfing.

Tourism profile

A destination characterised by its sun and sand appeal, with massive presence

of domestic tourists and becoming positioned as a new destination for

international tourists.

39

P r o v i n c e o f G u a y a s — D T R C o s t a S u r


Natural World

COAST


country 26.79%




Beach hotels

Conventions centre

General description

Located on the southwest coast of Ecuador, it is the country's most dynamic

province. The capital, Guayaquil, is the most important financial, commercial

and industrial centre in the country. The main activities of the province are

industry and tourism thanks to its beaches which are internationally famous. The Island has been declared a RAMSAR Site for the preservation of the

wetlands and its aquatic birds.

Tourism profile

The main tourism attraction of the province is sun and beach tourism, located in

coastal areas, but there is huge potential for development of business tourism

and rural tourism. Also developed have been a series of tour routes based on

characteristic elements such as cocoa, sugar and rice.

40

P r o v i n c e o f L o s R í o s — D T R C o s t a S u r

Population 778,115

Natural

World COAST


country 3.07%




Rural hotel, recreational sites

General description

The name to this province comes from the large number of rivers that cross

the region. Due to its geographical characteristicsis, it is one of Ecuador's most

important agricultural centres and its increasing industrial development make

it the country's fourth most populated province.

Tourism profile

The wide range of agro-tourism farms in the province makes it a potential focus

for the development of this sector. The large number of rivers that cross the

region can be exploited to offer river tours.

41

P r o v i n c e o f E l O r o — D T R C o s t a S u r

Population 600,659

Natural

World COAST


country 2.93%




Beach hotels

General description

The Oro is characterised by having two differentiated zones. The plains of the

Northwest, where bananas are grown and where the capital Machala is located

- known as "the banana capital of the world." The Southeast, crossed by the

Andes Mountains, is home to the gold mines from which the province takes its name.

Zaruma, main city in the southeast, is considered part of the country's National

Heritage. The use of guaiacum and cedar timber and bamboo cane are notable

in its colonial architecture.

The Oro is home to the Puyango Petrified Forest, fossil site and the largest area

of exposed petrified wood in South America.

Tourism profile

The most important tourism sector in the province is business tourism, which

has significant potential for development, as well as agrotourism.

42

Tourism profile

Loja is a destination visited by both domestic and international tourists

attracted by its cultural and natural offer. The province favours the develop-

ment of ecotourism, bird watching and cultural tourism activities.

General description

Loja is located south of the main Ecuadorian range and is the largest province

of the Andes. It has elements that are part of the cultural and natural heritage

of Ecuador such as the historic centre of Loja, Vilcabamba, known for the

longevity of its inhabitants, or the indigenous village Saraguro. It is also home to one of the largest dry tropical forests in the world.

The province is known for its stunning painted tile murals, frescos and statues.

Part of the Podocarpus National Park falls within Loja.

P r o v i n c e o f L o j a — D T R F r o n t e r a S u r

Population 448,966

Natural

World ANDES


country 1.90%




Hotels

Ecolodge

43

Tourism profile

The tourism offer is structured around cultural tourism of the city's heritage as

well as nature and adventure tourism. It is recognised internationally as an

ideal retirement and second residence destination.

General description

The province is situated in the south of Ecuador, in the Andean range. The

Historical Centre of Cuenca has been declared a World Cultural Heritage site by

UNESCO Also known as the “Athens of Ecuador”, its historic centre is characte-

rised by majestic colonial architecture. Azuay is known for its handmade products such as hats and jewellery.

The province has 9 National Parks, among them Cajas and Sajay.

Population 727,127

Natural

World ANDES


country 4.89%




2nd, residences

Rural Lodges

P r o v i n c e o f A z u a y — D T R A u s t r o

44

General description

Zamora Chinchipe is located in the south eastern part of the country. Its

mountainous orography makes it unique and different from other Amazon

provinces. It has great biodiversity in its flora and fauna, as well as spectacular

rivers, waterfalls and lagoons. Different ethnic groups live there and it features an impressive archeological heritage.

The Podocarpus National Park, with enormous diversity and high endemism,

occupies a part of the province.

Tourism profile

Tourism in Zamora Chinchipe is primarily nature tourism and also has the

potential to develop bird watching.

P r o v i n c e o f Z a m o r a C h i n c h i p e — D T R F r o n t e r a S u r

Population 91,376

Natural

World AMAZON


country 0.25%




Ecolodge

45

General description

Cañar province is considered as the country's leading archeological area. The

Ingapirca ruins, an old inca solar and lunar observatory, make up the most

important archeological site in Ecuador.

The Laguna de las Culebrillas is a place with mythical associations. According to

religious tradition it is inhabited by the the leoquina, the snake which gave birth

to the Cañar people, who once made this area their home.

Tourism profile

Due to its proximity to Cuenca, tourism to Cañar is characterised as excursion-

based peripheral tourism based around visits to archeological sites.

P r o v i n c e o f C a ñ a r — D T R A u s t r o

Population 225,184

Natural

World ANDES


country 1.01%




Rural Hotel

F & B

46

P r o v i n c e o f C h i m b o r a z o — D T R S i e r r a C e n t r o

Population 458,581

Natural

World ANDES


country 1.65%




Adventure resort

Tourism profile

Loja is a destination visited by both domestic and international tourists

attracted by its cultural and natural offer. The province favours the develop-

ment of ecotourism, bird watching and cultural tourism activities.

General description

Loja is located south of the main Ecuadorian range and is the largest province

of the Andes. It has elements that are part of the cultural and natural heritage

of Ecuador such as the historic centre of Loja, Vilcabamba, known for the

longevity of its inhabitants, or the indigenous village Saraguro. It is also home to one of the largest dry tropical forests in the world.

The province is known for its stunning painted tile murals, frescos and statues.

Part of the Podocarpus National Park falls within Loja.

47

Population 183,641

Natural

World ANDES


country 0.58%




Lodge

P r o v i n c e o f B o l í v a r — D T R S i e r r a C e n t r o

Tourism profile

The tourism offer is structured around cultural tourism of the city's heritage as

well as nature and adventure tourism. It is recognised internationally as an

ideal retirement and second residence destination.

General description

The province is situated in the south of Ecuador, in the Andean range. The

Historical Centre of Cuenca has been declared a World Cultural Heritage site by

UNESCO Also known as the “Athens of Ecuador”, its historic centre is characte-

rised by majestic colonial architecture. Azuay is known for its handmade products such as hats and jewellery.

The province has 9 National Parks, among them Cajas and Sajay.

48

General description

Tungurahua, located in the centre of the country, is the gateway to the Amazon.

Baños de Aguas Calientes, at the foot of the volcano Tungurahua, is one of the

most important tourist destinations in the country due to the great variety of

tourism supply in the area. Many adventure sports can be practiced there and it is the starting point for those who want to climb to the summit of the volcano.

The city is home to many hot springs with healing properties.

The Sangay and Llanganates National Parks cover a large amount of its

territory.

Tourism profile

Tungurahua Tourism is focused mainly on the activities of adventure and

religious tourism, attracted by the thermal springs in the city of Baños.

Population 504,583

Natural

World ANDES


country 2.61%




Adventure resort

P r o v i n c e o f T u n g u r a h u a — D T R S i e r r a C e n t r o

49

General description

The name of the province is due to the largest and most important volcano of

the territory, classified as one of the highest active volcanoes in the world.

The Cotopaxi National Park is known for its stunning nature, sheltering lagoons,

forests, trails and glaciers.

The Quilotoa Lagoon, located in the crater of the volcano with the same name, is

known for its emerald green water, which varies according to the season.

Tourism profile

Cotopaxi has good tourism potential as thanks to attractions such as the

volcano Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, the history train, numerous handcraft markets,

cuisine and traditional festivals.

P r o v i n c e o f C o t o p a x i — D T R S i e r r a C e n t r o

Population 409,205

Natural

World ANDES


country 1.71%




Ecolodges, lodging

In urban areas

50

Tourism profile

Considered as an emerging destination, tourists visiting Santo Domingo go

there attracted by the opportunities for adventure tourism and for getting to

know indigenous communities through community tourism.

General description

The province of Santo Domingo, founded in 2007, acts as link between the coast

and the Andes. It stands out for its strong trading sector and as the largest

cattle market in the country. Its impressive natural environment and its

indigenous communities are the main attractions of Santo Domingo.

The indigenous Tsáchilas people live in the province. They are characterised by

their clothes and their distinctive helmet-shaped hairstyles.

P r o v . o f S . D o m i n g o d e l o s T s á c h i l a s — D T R S i e r r a C e n t r o

Population 410,937

Natural

World ANDES


country N/D




Rural Hotel

51

Tourism profile

Tourism in Pichincha mostly derives from visitors who come to the national

captial Quito, and thus it has great potential for cultural tourism. However, the

attractions of the province also favour adventure tourism, bird watching or

ecotourism.

General description

Located in the north of the country, its includes the city of Quito, capital of

Ecuador. Quito, declared a World Cultural Heritage city by UNESCO, contains

most of the country's governmental, cultural and commercial bodies. Pichincha

also offers attractions such as the Cayambe volcano or the valley of Mindo, a region in the north of the province known as "País de las Aves".

The province includes the National Parks of Cayambe Coca and Cotopaxi.

P r o v i n c e o f P i c h i n c h a — D T R S i e r r a C e n t r o


Natural

World ANDES


country 26.07%




Ecolodge, urban boutique , business hotel

52

Population 398,244

Natural

World ANDES


country 1.73%




Conventions centre

Rural Hotel

P r o v i n c e o f I m b a b u r a — D T R S i e r r a N o r t e

Tourism profile

The province attracts visitors because of its cultural offer and its many natural

elements. It is also being developed as a destination for trade fairs and

conventions, to be boosted in the near future by the creation of the City of

Knowledge.

General description

Imbabura is also called the "Province of Lakes" because of the large number of

lakes within its territory. It has cultural and natural elements considered as

national treasures such as lagoons, waterfalls, historic centres, a high

percentage of indigenous people (Otovalos, Kichwa, etc), making it a very well known destination.

The province features a significant local fabric industry

The Cayambe-Coca National Park and Cotacachi Cayapas Reserve are located

here.

53

Population 164,524

Natural

World ANDES


country 0.65%




Rural Lodge

P r o v i n c e o f C a r c h i — D T R S i e r r a N o r t e

Tourism profile

Tourism in this province is characterised by being nature tourism and recrea-

tion, also oriented towards cross-border tourism.

General description

The landscape and the richness of the land are the main attractions of this

province bordering Colombia. The city of San Gabriel, declared a national

heritage resource, has centuries-old houses and impressive waterfalls. On the

other hand, Tulcán Cemetery, with its sculpturally shaped cypress trees which convert the cemetery into a palace, is considered as a modern wonder.

The Natural Reserve El Angel is known for its abundant flora and fauna and for

being home to a wide variety of endemic species. Many of its plants have

defense mechanisms against the cold.

54

P r o v i n c e o f S u c u m b í o s — D T R A m a z o n í a N o r t e

Population 176,472

Natural

World AMAZON


country 5.92




Luxury Ecolodge

Tourism profile

Tourism in Sucumbíos is entirely structured around the Cuyabeno Reserve. This

is eco-tourism oriented towards the province's virgin forest and its different

rivers. There is enormous potential for ecotourism, scientific tourism and

birdwatching.

General description

The province of Sucumbios is characterised by its beautiful Amazonian

landscapes and spectacular virgin forest. The Cuyabeno Reserve, a place with a

great biodiversity, is located in the province.

The indigenous Cofanes, Secoyas and Sionas people live in the province.

55

P r o v i n c e o f O r e l l a n a — D T R A m a z o n í a N o r t e

Population 136,396

Natural

World AMAZON


country 7.61%




Luxury Ecolodge

River Cruises

Tourism profile

La zona está internacionalmente reconocida gracias al Parque Nacional Yasuní.

Presenta grandes oportunidades para el desarrollo de ecolodges de lujo y

embarcaciones o cruceros fluviales que permitan aprovechar el recurso de los

ríos.

General description

Orellana es una de las provincias más nuevas, creada en 1998. Pertenece a la

región amazónica y su principal atractivo es el Parque Nacional Yasuní, declara-

do Reserva de la Biosfera por la UNESCO. El parque, fundamentalmente selvático,

forma parte del territorio en el que se encuentra alojado el pueblo Huaorani y alberga una amplia biodiversidad de especies.

En la provincia habitan indígenas de las culturas Huaorani, Schuar y Quichua.

56

P r o v i n c e o f N a p o — D T R A m a z o n í a N o r t e

Population 103,697

Natural

World AMAZON


country 0.67%




Ecolodge

Tourism profile

The destination is characterised by adventure tourism and ecotourism,

facilitated by its proximity and good links to Quito. It has potential to develop

luxury and first class hotels.

General description

Napo, located in the Ecuadorian Amazon, boasts a privileged geographical

position. Very close to Quito, it runs from the eastern part of the Andean

cordillera before dropping into the heart of the Amazon plain. It is home to

many lagoons and its mountainous geography means that it contains three river basins: those of the rivers Misahuallí, Napo, and Quijos.

The Gran Sumaco and Cayambe Coca National Parks are located in the province

as well as the Papallacta Hot Springs.

The Amazon rainforest of Napo is inhabited by many indigenous communities.

57

P r o v i n c e o f P a s t a z a — D T R A m a z o n í a N o r t e

Population 83,933

Natural

World AMAZON


country 0.98%




Adventure lodging

Tourism profile

Tourists who visit Pastaza are mainly attracted by the opportunity to practice

adventure tourism and its community tourism, which allows them to explore

indigenous communities.

General description

The province of Pastaza is the largest province in Ecuador. Located in the

Amazon area, the Pastaza River, source of the province's name, separates it

from the province of Morona Santiago to the south. Known for its amazing

landscapes, natural beauty and vast tropical forest, the province offers visitors the opportunity to meet and engage with indigenous communities living there,

such as the Schuar.

Sangay National Park occupies part of the territory of Pastaza.

58

Population 147,940

Natural

World AMAZON


country 0.32%




Rural Lodge

P r o v i n c e o f M o r o n a S a n t i a g o — D T R A m a z o n i a C e n t r o

Tourism profile

The main tourism attraction of the province is its wide variety of natural

landscapes, creating significant potential for the development of nature

tourism.

General description

Morona Santiago is located in the Amazonian region of the country. There are

two different areas in the region. On one side is the pre-Amazon zone, formed

by numerous valleys, while on the other is the Amazon zone, consisting of a

triangle located between the Kutucu range, the Pastaza River and extending to the east.

The territory is inhabited by the indigenous group Shuar which has an ancient

warrior tradition.

Morona Santiago is one of three Ecuadorian provinces containing part of the

Sangay National Park.

59

Population 25,124

Natural

World GALÁPAGOS


country 0.24%




Ecolodge

Conventions centre

P r o v i n c e o f G a l á p a g o s — D T R G a l á p a g o s

Tourism profile

66% of tourism arriving on the islands is made up of international visitors

attracted by the destination's uniqueneness. It has enormous potential for the

development of scientific tourism, as well as also for ecotourism.

General description

The Galapagos Archipelago is located 972 kilometres from the mainland. It

consists of 22 islands and 107 islets that are home to one of the largest and

most ecological reserves on the planet. Sometimes, they are called the

"Enchanted Islands" since their flora and fauna are unique in the world.

The archipelago is considered as a Natural Heritage Site and Biosphere

Reserve.

Through his observations in the archipelago, Charles Darwin developed the

theory of evolution of species.

60

60

61

62

Documents

Tourism Investment Guide