Ecuador: Travel Tips For Americans

Ecuador is a popular destination for US citizens, but there are some important things to know before you go. Firstly, Ecuador has a Level 2 travel advisory in place, which means that you should exercise increased caution due to civil unrest, crime, and kidnapping. Some areas, such as Guayaquil and the cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas, are considered particularly high-risk and the US State Department recommends reconsidering travel to these areas. To enter the country, you will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. US citizens can stay in Ecuador for up to 90 days per calendar year without a visa, but extensions can be requested for an additional 90 days. It is also important to have the necessary vaccinations, such as Yellow Fever if you are coming from a region where the disease is prevalent. Finally, it is recommended that you enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and review the Country Security Report for Ecuador before your trip.

Crime and safety

To protect yourself from crime and stay safe in Ecuador, it is recommended that you take the following precautions:

• Stay alert and avoid large gatherings, especially during civil unrest or political demonstrations, which can turn violent.
• Follow updates from local emergency services and authorities, and monitor local media for safety information.
• Avoid traveling alone, especially at night or in quiet areas.
• Do not wear expensive jewelry or carry large sums of cash.
• Keep your belongings secure and out of sight, especially in crowded places, on public transportation, and when using ATMs.
• Use hotel safes if available, and leave valuables in a safe place.
• Be cautious when using taxis. Avoid hailing taxis on the street and use registered taxi services or those affiliated with major hotels.
• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe, move to a different location.
• Keep a low profile and avoid discussing your financial or business affairs in public.
• Follow local laws and comply with any curfews or restrictions.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay informed and make it easier for the US government to locate you in an emergency.

It is also important to be aware of natural disasters and health risks in Ecuador. The country experiences frequent earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic activity, and extreme weather events such as El Niño and La Niña. These events can have a significant impact on travel and infrastructure. Additionally, there are health risks associated with high altitudes in certain regions, and the quality of medical care may vary. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance and are aware of any necessary vaccinations or health precautions.

Visa requirements

U.S. citizens wishing to enter Ecuador must present a U.S. passport with at least six months of validity remaining. Ecuadorian immigration officials may also request evidence of return or onward travel, such as an airline ticket. U.S. citizens do not need a visa if they are travelling for business or tourism and can enter Ecuador for up to 90 days per calendar year without a visa. Extensions for up to another 90 days can be requested through provincial migration offices.

If you are planning a visit longer than 90 days, you must obtain a visa in advance. Contact the Embassy of Ecuador in Washington, DC, for the most current visa information.

If your passport is lost or stolen while you are in Ecuador, you should obtain a police report and apply for a new passport at the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate General. We also recommend obtaining an entry/exit report from an Ecuadorian immigration office before leaving the country. For further information, see the Ecuadorian Ministry of Interior website.

U.S. citizens born in Ecuador are required to show an Ecuadorian passport or national ID card upon entering and exiting Ecuador. U.S. citizen children born in Ecuador who are travelling without one or both parents must present a copy of a birth certificate and written authorization from the absent parent(s). If the parent is deceased, a notarized copy of the death certificate is required. For more information, contact the Embassy of Ecuador in Washington, DC.

Health and travel insurance

Health Insurance

Ecuador has a public and private healthcare system. The quality of medical care is generally good, but it may not be on par with the standards of some Western countries. In the event of a major medical emergency, you may need to be evacuated out of the country. Therefore, it is essential to have adequate health insurance coverage.

Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas, as most care providers in Ecuador only accept cash payments. Paying for healthcare out-of-pocket in another country can be extremely costly, and some facilities may hesitate to treat foreign patients without proof of adequate funds or travel medical insurance.

When choosing a health insurance plan, look for one that covers emergency treatment for injuries or illnesses, medical evacuation, and dental care. If you have pre-existing conditions, ensure that your plan covers them. Additionally, consider the activities you plan to engage in during your trip and choose a plan that covers any potential risks associated with those activities. For example, if you plan to scuba dive, rock climb, or engage in other adventurous activities, make sure your insurance covers medical emergencies resulting from those activities.

Travel Insurance

While travel insurance is not mandatory for entry into Ecuador, it is strongly recommended for added security and peace of mind. Travel insurance can assist with various travel-related situations, such as emergency healthcare, emergency evacuation, travel delays, lost luggage, and more.

When choosing a travel insurance plan, consider the coverages included, the number of travellers being covered, the ages of the covered travellers, and the duration of your trip. The price of travel insurance will generally be higher for trips with a greater potential risk.

It is also important to read the policy carefully to understand exactly what is covered. For example, trip cancellation insurance usually only reimburses non-refundable reservations or flight tickets for specific reasons, such as illness or family emergencies, but not for reasons like missing your flight.

Specific Considerations for Ecuador

• The Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism previously announced that all tourists entering Ecuador would have to present proof of travel health insurance. However, there have been conflicting reports, with some tourists claiming that this requirement is only enforced for the Galápagos Islands and not the mainland. It is recommended to check for the most up-to-date information before your trip.
• Ecuador has a diverse landscape and wildlife, which brings an increased risk of certain diseases, such as malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever, especially in the Coast region and Amazon Rainforest. Ensure you are vaccinated and protected against these diseases before your trip.
• Natural disasters such as wildfires, landslides, earthquakes, tsunamis, and floods are common in Ecuador due to its geographical location. Consider choosing a travel insurance plan that covers emergency evacuation or interruption due to natural disasters.
• Crime is a widespread problem in Ecuador, including violent crimes such as robbery, assault, and kidnapping. Choose a travel insurance plan that covers theft, loss, or damage to your possessions, as well as emergency evacuation or repatriation if needed.

In summary, while health and travel insurance are not mandatory for entry into Ecuador, it is highly recommended that you purchase comprehensive insurance plans to protect yourself financially and ensure you have access to quality healthcare and emergency assistance during your trip.

Transport and accommodation

Ecuador has a varied transport network, including aviation, highways, pipelines, railways, and waterways. The country's topography and geography can make getting around a little challenging, but its straightforward road system, affordable gas prices, and budget-friendly transport options make it easy to navigate.

Air Travel

Flying is an expensive but quick way to get around Ecuador. It is particularly useful for reaching the Galápagos Islands, which are otherwise accessible by cruise. Expect to pay around US$150-250 for round-trip flights within the mainland, and twice that for trips to the Galápagos.

Buses

Buses are a solid alternative for travel between cities. Much like in the rest of South America, buses are a preferred and reliable means of transportation for locals due to their reach. Most cities and towns have designated bus stations. Prices depend on the distance between destinations, but the longest rides could last up to 15 hours and cost between US$25 and $30. Shorter trips between neighboring towns start at $3. Flota Imbabura and Transportes Occidentales are some of the transportation companies offering routes that traverse the country.

Urban Transport

In cities such as Quito and Guayaquil, bus rapid transit (BRT) systems like Trolebus and Metrovía offer a more organized alternative for touring urban centers. Quito’s underground system, Metro de Quito, is also a time-saving choice for traversing the city, taking about 34 minutes to cross from north to south.

Driving

If you want to discover Ecuador at your own pace, renting a car is a good option. Budget-friendly petrol prices and relatively easy-to-navigate roads make rentals a popular choice. Car rental requirements vary, but a driving license and passport will usually suffice for those over 25. Agencies like Avis, Europcar, and Goldcar are easy to find at major airports in big cities or close to transport hubs in smaller cities.

Taxis

Taxis and apps like Uber are another easy and affordable way to get around. As a safety measure, verify that the cars have a license plate. If you’re opting for an app, check that the license plate number matches the number listed online. Taxis generally work with a meter in major cities, whereas in small cities, they have a standard fee that shouldn’t surpass US$3 regardless of the distance.

Accommodation

Ecuador has a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels in major cities to more basic offerings in rural areas. Metropolitan Touring, an Ecuador-based tour operator and hotel owner, has hotels in Quito and the cloud forest outside the city. The company also operates hotels in the Galápagos, including the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel and three expedition cruise vessels.

Safety

Ecuador has a high level of crime, including violent crime such as murder, assault, kidnapping, and armed robbery. The rate of violent crime is significantly higher in areas where transnational criminal organizations are concentrated. There have also been reports of civil unrest and demonstrations, which can lead to road blockades and disruptions to critical infrastructure. It is recommended to exercise increased caution when traveling in Ecuador and to avoid certain areas with high levels of crime.

Local laws and customs

Ecuador has a rich and diverse culture with a variety of customs and traditions that are unique to the country. Here are some important things to know about the local laws and customs when travelling to Ecuador from the US:

Local Laws

Ecuador has strict laws and regulations that all visitors must adhere to. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• US citizens must present a valid US passport with at least six months of validity remaining when entering Ecuador.
• Ecuadorian immigration officials may request evidence of return or onward travel, such as an airline ticket.
• US citizens can enter Ecuador for up to 90 days per calendar year without a visa. Extensions for up to an additional 90 days can be requested through provincial migration offices.
• All visitors to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are required to have medical insurance coverage. While this may not always be checked, it is strongly recommended to have adequate insurance.
• Proof of accommodation and onward travel is rarely asked for by immigration officials, but it is advised to have this documentation ready.
• The only vaccine requirement for entry is a certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination, and it is mandatory for anyone arriving from regions where the disease is prevalent.
• Other recommended vaccinations include Polio, Meningococcal disease, Measles, Mumps, Rabies, and Japanese Encephalitis.
• Malaria medication is recommended if you plan to visit the Amazon or coastal regions.
• Ecuador has strict laws regarding illegal drugs. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs include long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• It is illegal to carry packages or luggage through customs for anyone else.
• Ecuador has laws prohibiting political activities by foreigners. Participating in demonstrations or political activities may result in detention.
• Driving laws and road conditions vary in Ecuador. It is recommended to drive defensively, plan trips in advance, and avoid driving at night.
• Credit card and ATM fraud can occur. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards, and use ATMs in well-lit and secure locations.
• Ecuador has laws against credit card "skimming". Do not let your credit card out of your sight.

Local Customs

Understanding the local customs and cultural norms is essential for a respectful and enjoyable experience in Ecuador. Here are some key points:

• Greeting people with a handshake is common, and close friends may greet each other with a kiss on the cheek.
• Ecuadorians value personal space and maintain a reasonable distance when conversing.
• It is considered rude to point at someone, especially with your index finger.
• Ecuador has a conservative culture, and dressing modestly is recommended, especially when visiting religious sites.
• When dining, it is polite to offer to share your food with others.
• Ecuadorians place importance on family and community, and social gatherings often include large meals and celebrations.
• The concept of "saving face" is important in Ecuadorian culture. Avoid causing someone to lose face or embarrassing them in public.
• Ecuadorians value punctuality, but they may arrive slightly late to social gatherings.
• Learning some basic Spanish phrases and greeting people in Spanish is appreciated.
• When visiting someone's home, it is customary to remove your shoes at the door.
• Ecuadorians are proud of their culture and heritage. Showing a genuine interest in their traditions and customs will be well-received.

Frequently asked questions