Que Tan Lejos (2006)
“Que Tan Lejos” (How Much Further) is an Ecuadorian road movie that follows the journey of two women, Tristeza and Esperanza, as they travel together across the stunning landscapes of Ecuador. Along the way, they encounter diverse characters and face unexpected challenges, providing a humorous and insightful exploration of Ecuadorian society, culture, and the beauty of the country’s diverse regions. Watching “Que Tan Lejos” before visiting Ecuador can offer a unique perspective on the country’s landscapes, social dynamics, and the spirit of adventure that awaits travelers, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and experiences of an Ecuadorian journey.
Ratas, Ratones, Rateros (1999)
“Ratas, Ratones, Rateros” is an Ecuadorian film directed by Sebastián Cordero that offers a gritty portrayal of urban life in Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city. The movie follows the story of Salvador, a young man drawn into a world of crime and violence, highlighting the social and economic challenges faced by marginalized communities. Watching “Ratas, Ratones, Rateros” before visiting Ecuador can provide a raw and thought-provoking depiction of the city’s realities, shedding light on some of the social issues that exist and encouraging a nuanced understanding of the complexities of urban life in Ecuador.
Ecuador: The Royal Tour (2016)
“Ecuador: The Royal Tour” is a documentary film featuring the former president of Ecuador, Rafael Correa, as he takes renowned travel journalist Peter Greenberg on a journey across the country. The movie showcases Ecuador’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and natural wonders, offering a comprehensive overview of the country’s attractions. Watching “Ecuador: The Royal Tour” before visiting Ecuador can provide valuable insights into the country’s geography, history, and cultural richness, helping travelers discover the breadth of Ecuador’s offerings and inspiring them to explore its various regions and hidden gems.
Prometeo Deportado (2011)
“Prometeo Deportado” is an Ecuadorian drama film directed by Fernando Mieles that tells the story of a group of people who are deported from the United States and return to their homeland, Ecuador. The movie explores the challenges, aspirations, and personal journeys of the characters as they navigate their lives in a new reality. Watching “Prometeo Deportado” before visiting Ecuador can provide valuable insights into the experiences of immigrants and their sense of identity, shedding light on the complexities of migration and offering a deeper understanding of the multicultural dynamics in Ecuadorian society.
Galapagos (2006)
“Galapagos” is a three-part BBC documentary series narrated by Tilda Swinton that explores the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the Galapagos Islands. The series showcases the extraordinary biodiversity of the region, the ongoing scientific research, and the conservation efforts to protect this pristine environment. Watching the “Galapagos” documentary before visiting Ecuador can provide valuable insights into the Galapagos Islands’ ecological significance and the delicate balance of its ecosystems. It offers a deeper appreciation for the islands’ remarkable wildlife and their place in the field of evolutionary biology. Understanding the islands’ unique attributes and conservation challenges can enhance the traveler’s experience and inspire responsible tourism during their visit to Ecuador.
Books
Galapagos: Islands Born of Fire by Tui De Roy
“Galapagos: Islands Born of Fire” is a visually stunning and informative book that explores the geological origins and natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands. It delves into the volcanic history of the archipelago, showcases the diverse landscapes and wildlife, and highlights the ongoing scientific research and conservation efforts. It would be a valuable read before visiting Ecuador as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the Galapagos Islands’ geological significance, biodiversity, and the conservation challenges they face, allowing travelers to appreciate and engage with the unique ecosystems of the region.
Andean Lives: Gregorio Condori Mamani and Asunta Quispe Huamán by Ricardo Valderrama Fernández
“Andean Lives: Gregorio Condori Mamani and Asunta Quispe Huamán” is a captivating ethnography that tells the real-life story of an indigenous couple from the Andean highlands of Peru. The book explores their experiences, traditions, and struggles, offering a profound insight into Andean culture and the challenges faced by indigenous communities. Reading this book before visiting Ecuador can provide valuable cultural context and foster a deeper appreciation for the indigenous heritage and way of life in the Andean region, enhancing the traveler’s understanding and respect for the local communities they may encounter during their visit.
The Ecuador Reader by Carlos de la Torre
“The Ecuador Reader” is an anthology that brings together a wide range of essays, historical documents, and firsthand accounts to provide a comprehensive understanding of Ecuador’s history, culture, and politics. It covers diverse topics such as indigenous rights, social movements, literature, and environmental issues. Reading this book before visiting Ecuador can offer valuable insights into the country’s complex socio-cultural landscape, providing a deeper appreciation for its history, diverse communities, and contemporary challenges, ultimately enriching the traveler’s experience and fostering a more nuanced understanding of Ecuadorian society.
The Villagers (Huasipungo) by Jorge Icaza
“The Villagers” (also known as “Huasipungo”) is a powerful novel by Ecuadorian author Jorge Icaza that portrays the struggles and exploitation faced by indigenous villagers in the Ecuadorian highlands. It delves into themes of social injustice, poverty, and the clash between indigenous communities and landowners. Reading this book before visiting Ecuador can provide a stark and thought-provoking insight into the historical and social dynamics of rural communities, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized populations and stimulating a more empathetic engagement with the local culture and people.
Wolves Dream by Abdón Ubidia
“Wolves’ Dream” (original title: “El Sueño del Caimán”) by Abdón Ubidia is a renowned novel in Ecuadorian literature that follows the life of a young protagonist named Lucha, who navigates the social and political landscape of Quito, Ecuador’s capital. The book offers a compelling exploration of the challenges, dreams, and aspirations of the city’s inhabitants, addressing themes of identity, love, and societal transformation. Reading “Wolves’ Dream” before visiting Ecuador can provide valuable insights into the country’s cultural fabric, the realities of urban life in Quito, and the complex dynamics of Ecuadorian society, enhancing the traveler’s understanding and connection with the people and places they encounter during their visit.
