Ecuador is bounded to the north by Colombia, to the east and south by Peru, and to the west by the Pacific Ocean.
Colonisation is, however, increasing in the wake of the oil boom.
Constitution adopted in 1979. Last amended in 1998. Spanish is the official language but Quechua and other indigenous languages are common. Some English is spoken. Callers should note that even if the person called is not there a charge may still be made.