In Ecuador there are more than 14 indigenous groups that live on the mainland, maintaining their own traditions and ways of life.

The principal indigenous groups of the Amazon region are: Huaoranis, Achuar, Shuar, Cofán, Siona-Secoya, Shiwiar and Záparo. The “Tagaeri”, related to the Huaorani, are another group from this area, they were declared “intangible” by the State, to respect their wish to live far from civilization.

The principle indigenous groups of the highlands are the Otavalos, Quichua, Cañaris, and Saraguros.
At the north of the country live the Awa.
On the Pacific coast live the Chachis, Cayapas, Tsáchilas, and Huancavilcas.

Ecuador’s major cities are primarily populated by people of mixed race, white, and Afro-Ecuadorians, although large numbers of indigenous migrants have moved from the country to the bigger city

The provinces with the greatest number of immigrants are Pichincha and Guayas.
Migration abroad has also grown in recent years due to the economic crisis. There are communities of Ecuadorians in the USA, Spain, and Italy.

The official language of Ecuador is Spanish, but there are also other indigenous languages such as Quichua Shimi, Awapit, Cha´palachi, Tsafiqui, Paicoca, A´ingae, Huaotirio, Shuar-chichan, and Záparo.

The predominant religion is Catholicism but many communities still preserve their ancient beliefs of worship of the earth, the mountains, and the sun.

For an in-depth look at the distinct cultures of each of Ecuador's regions, please read the following pages where you will find information related to cultural activities unique to each area, museums, indigenous markets, and more.