This is not for the faint-hearted. Drivers in Ecuador are far more aggressive than you would find in the U.S. and most of Europe.

For instance, the standard of roads in the big cities is fine. Many people prefer to get round by public transport, taxi or even on foot.

Outside of the cities, the highways are wide and modern. Stick to these and you will probably be fine.

Stray onto the country roads at your own peril. The roads in Ecuador, especially in the mountains, are some of the most precarious in the world. And, if for some reason you must take these routes, take a bus or a van with a professional driver.