Ecuador is divided into three land strips: the Costa (coastal lowlands), the Sierra (mountain range of the Andes) and the Oriente (Amazon lowlands).  These three areas differ not only in climate and topography but also economically and culturally.

In the coastal region, agricultural products are grown, mainly coffee, cacao, bananas and sugar cane. Besides the Costa, and particularly the areas around Guayaquil, are centres for industry and commerce. The highlands are defined by two ranges of the Andes in both Eastern and Western direction, sewn by volcanic mountains. The capital Quito is situated in the highlands and accommodates most of the Sierra population. The Oriente belongs to the Amazon lowlands and is largely captured by tropical rainforest. The presence of oil fields makes it an attractive economical area.

The Galapagos Islands make up a further part of Ecuador, hosting a vast amount of rare animals (giant turtles, iguanas, blue footed boobies). A large number of natural scientists and tourists are drawn to the Islands by its unique biodiversity.