Us Department of State Ecuador Travel Warning

Terminal updated: April 30, 2022 12:10 ET

Latest updates: Rubber and security - Addition of information on the state of emergency

On this folio

• Risk level
• Safety and security
• Entry and exit requirements
• Health
• Laws and culture
• Natural disasters and climate
• Need help?

Chance level

Republic of ecuador - Practise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Ecuador due to loftier levels of criminal offense.

Northern provinces - Avoid non-essential travel

Avert non-essential travel to the post-obit provinces (except within 20 km of the border with Colombia where nosotros propose against all travel) due to violent crime:

• Esmeralda
• Sucumbíos

Edge area with Republic of colombia - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to the area within 20 km of the border with Colombia in the following provinces due to the presence of drug traffickers and criminal organizations:

• Carchi (except for the Panamericana International Highway which connects to the official border crossing with Colombia at Tulcán/Ipiales)
• Esmeraldas
• Sucumbíos

Minefields near the southern portion of the border with Peru - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to the following cantons in the Cordillera del Cóndor, most the Peruvian border, due to the presence of landmines and unmarked minefields:

• Tiwinza in the province of Morona-Santiago
• El Pangui, Nangaritza and Palanda, in the province of Zamora-Chinchipe

Follow the advice of local authorities and respect exclusion zones.

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Safety and security

COVID-nineteen - Preventative measures and restrictions

COVID-nineteen preventative measures and restrictions are all the same in effect in some destinations.

These could include:

• curfews, movement restrictions, or lockdowns
• mandatory mask use
• required proof of vaccination or a COVID-19 test result to admission public and private services and spaces

Earlier travelling, verify if specific restrictions or requirements are all the same in effect.

Foreign Representatives in Canada

Land of emergency

Due to an increase in violence and drug trafficking action, the president decreed a lx-day state of emergency in the following provinces on April 29, 2022:

• Guayas
• Manabí
• Esmeraldas

A curfew from 11 pm to 5 am has been instituted in the city of Esmeraldas and other parishes identified as high adventure.

In these provinces, you can look 24-hour street patrols, inspections and weapons control operations. Police and military will also accept the power to restrict liberty of movement, assembly and clan.

Boosted curfews could exist practical on short find. Travel disruptions are likely due to boosted security checks and potential road closures.

If you're in an afflicted area:

• monitor local media for data on the evolution of the situation
• avoid demonstrations and large gatherings
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Areas immediately bordering Republic of colombia

Travel to and inside areas immediately bordering Republic of colombia is dangerous due to the presence of drug traffickers and criminal organizations. The run a risk of violence, kidnappings, armed assaults and extortion is high.

Canadian and other strange tourists and oil workers have been kidnapped in these areas.

Demonstrations and ceremonious unrest

Demonstrations occur frequently. Even peaceful demonstrations tin turn violent at any time. They tin likewise lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (big-scale events)

Criminal offence

Crime rates in Ecuador are high. Arrest and detention rates are depression and contribute to loftier levels of criminality.

Fiddling crime

Petty theft, including pocketbook snatching, car break-ins and pickpocketing, is a daily occurrence in major cities.

Thieves often work in teams, in which one thief diverts the victims' attention while the other snatches their possessions. Groups of street children who sell processed are frequently engaged in this type of team operation.

The hotel zones in Quito are often targeted by thieves and muggers who believe tourists are affluent.

Thefts of backpacks and other small bags are as well very common. Baggage theft is prevalent:

• on buses (urban center and regional)
• at bus terminals
• at airports
• at other transit points.

If you are in Ecuador:

• remain aware of your environs at all times
• maintain a low profile when walking in public areas
• avoid walking alone and travelling after dark
• don't evidence signs of affluence
• go on all valuable items and electronic equipment out of sight
• keep your car windows closed, bags and handbags out of reach, and motorcar doors locked at all times
• ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Violent crime

Gang war activeness in public places has been increasing since the beginning of 2021. There's a take chances of beingness in the wrong place at the wrong time and getting caught in the crossfire.

There's as well been an increment in tearing crime in Guayaquil since 2020, especially in the area south of Portete de Tarquí Artery. Organized criminal groups and gangs are committing crimes such as targeted assassinations and armed robberies.

Armed robberies are frequent and occur in tourist destinations such as:

• downtown areas
• hiking trails
• beaches
• public parks

Some robberies accept occurred during the day at gunpoint. Masked thieves accept stolen valuables and belongings from their victims' person on hiking trails. Thieves take fifty-fifty targeted large groups of tourists at beaches. Random attacks and sexual assaults involving Canadians have occurred.

Car-jacking likewise occurs frequently. Thieves often target cars stopped in traffic for break-ins.

Violent robberies have occurred outside banks in Quito and Tumbaco valley. The Ecuadorian National Law offer a complimentary escort service to and from banks, which you lot tin can use if you lot demand to withdraw big amounts of coin. Y'all can request this service by calling 911.

• Practise caution at all times
• Avert isolated areas where travellers take been murdered or threatened with violence
• Travel in groups
• Avert wandering on deserted beaches, particularly at night
• Only utilize ATMs during daylight hours in decorated public areas, such as malls or in banks
• Withdraw and behave but small amounts of money
• In case of robbery, remain at-home and do non resist

If you're in Quito, you may contact the tourist police, who tin exist identified past their greyness uniforms and yellow vests. Tourist police officers are more probable to speak some English.

Women'southward safe

Incidents of attacks and sexual attack against strange women, including rape and murder, take been reported throughout the country, especially in tourist areas.

• Never travel lonely, peculiarly afterward night
• Be aware that even women travelling in pairs have been targeted
• Stay in accommodations with adept security
• Avert hospitality exchange arrangements, such as couch-surfing

Safety-travel guide for women

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, mucilage or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assail and robbery. Incidents can occur in various locations, including buses, nightclubs and bars.

Scopolamine

Scopolamine is a drug that temporarily incapacitates unsuspecting victims, who go disoriented quickly and are vulnerable to offense.

Thieves may slip the drug into nutrient and drinks or blow it into the face up of the victim. They often work in teams, with attractive women who ease their victim into a false sense of security.

Incidents occur in nightclubs, bars and restaurants, on public transportation and in the streets. They occur most frequently in larger cities.

Utilise extreme caution when dealing with strangers offering pamphlets, requesting information or selling street wares.

Kidnapping

Limited kidnappings, often in connection with carjackings, is a business concern throughout Ecuador. They are a method of abduction where criminals enquire for a small and immediate ransom. Thieves usually forcefulness their victims to withdraw funds from an ATM or to arrange for family or friends to pay the bribe.

This ploy often involves an innocent taxi rider and a criminal driver, who stops to option up associates. To address the problem, the Ecuadorian government has installed cameras and panic buttons in taxis and buses. These panic buttons are linked directly to the ECU 911 Operations Centre. As soon as yous printing it, someone will be able to monitor a live feed of what is happening in the taxi and rail GPS coordinates.

• Use simply reputable taxi companies through establishments such every bit      hotels or ride-hailing apps
• Booked your ride in accelerate when possible

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs frequently in Ecuador. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• utilize ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using carte du jour readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your Pivot
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

More almost overseas fraud

Extortion

Police officers sometimes try to extort drivers by threatening detention or confiscating identity documents.

If law threaten you with a fine:

• remain calm and courteous but firm
• bear witness original documents but keep them in your possession
• endeavor to cooperate past post-obit the instructions of police to avoid escalation
• ask for a articulate explanation of the offence and a written fine that can exist paid at a police station
• don't pay a bribe to anyone
• report the incident to the National Police

National Police – Ecuador (in Spanish)

Route safety

Driving in Ecuador is hazardous and unpredictable. In that location are all types of vehicles on the route that don't come across acceptable safety standards. Drivers involved in accidents causing physical injury are immediately detained. In many cases, detention lasts until responsibility for the blow has been assigned and all parties are satisfied.

Route weather condition have improved but road travel is slow. If driving in Ecuador, look:

• unmarked speed bumps
• large pot holes
• traffic lights on major highways
• heavy traffic (especially on weekends and statutory holidays)
• police and military route blocks

Heavy rain and mudslides likewise often shut or launder out roads. Heavy fog occasionally poses hazards in mountainous areas.

Public transportation

Buses

Robberies and assaults continue to occur regularly on intercity and Guayaquil's urban buses. Bus drivers ofttimes make illegal stops to selection up passengers.

The Ecuadorian authorities has installed GPS units on many buses to track their routes in an effort to improve security. These installations often include panic buttons issued past ECU 911 Operations Centre.

Taxis

Registered taxis have orange licence plates and an orange and white registration number on the side of the car and on the windshield. Official taxis are also equipped with cameras and panic buttons which are linked to the ECU 911 Operations Centre.

• Just use registered taxis
• Exercise not hail unofficial taxis on the street

Piracy

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take advisable precautions.

Live piracy study - International Maritime Bureau'due south Piracy Reporting Eye

Swimming

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Follow the instructions and warnings of local government.

Exist enlightened that most beaches lack consistently staffed lifeguard stations.

Water rubber abroad

Trekking

If yous intend on trekking:

• never practise so lonely and always rent an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your concrete condition is good enough to encounter the challenges of your activity
• high altitude can take significant effects on fitness levels and susceptibility to ailments; know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which tin can exist fatal
• ensure that you're properly equipped and well informed about conditions and other conditions that may pose a adventure
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be dorsum to military camp
• obtain detailed data on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and practise not venture off marked trails or slopes

Ayahuasca ceremonies

Spiritual cleansing and ayahuasca ceremonies, offered past shamans and other individuals, accept led to serious disease and even the death of several tourists. Ceremonies involve taking substances that can cause medical complications and severely impair cerebral and physical abilities. Tourists have also been assaulted or injured while participating in such ceremonies.

Ayahuasca ceremonies often have place in remote areas with no access to medical facilities and limited advice with local authorities. They are not regulated and there is no manner to assess the condom of any of the services, the operators or the shamans.

Air travel

We do non make assessments on the compliance of strange domestic airlines with international prophylactic standards.

General information virtually foreign domestic airlines

General data

The government of Ecuador has developed an app for your smartphone if you plan visiting Ecuador. Information technology allows you to enquire for help in the case of an emergency and to exist located through your phone's GPS. Information technology is available in English.

Y'all can also contact the Ministry of Tourism if y'all have a complaint to make regarding your trip to Ecuador since the government have set up a tourist complaint direction arrangement.

• To install the Ecu911 app- Integrated Security Service, Ecuador government (in Spanish)
• To make a tourist complaint - Ministry of Tourism, Ecuador authorities (in Spanish)

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Entry and go out requirements

COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements

Nigh governments have implemented special entry and go out restrictions and requirements for their territory due to COVID-19. These measures tin be imposed suddenly and may include:

• entry or exit bans
• quarantine
• mandatory proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing
• suspensions or reductions of international transportation options

Strange authorities might non recognize or have proof of vaccination issued past Canadian provinces and territories. You may need to obtain a translation, a notarization, an authentication, or the legalization of the document.

Earlier travelling:

• verify if the local regime of both your electric current location and destinations have implemented any restrictions or requirements related to this state of affairs
• consider fifty-fifty your transit points, as there are transit rules in place in many destinations
• monitor the media for the latest information
• reconfirm the requirements with your airline or tour operator

The situation could disrupt your travel plans. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance to change your travel plans.

Useful links

• Travel restrictions and health requirements - United Nations Earth Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and International Air Ship Association (IATA)
• Strange Representatives in Canada

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Authorities of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you practice not meet your destination's entry or exit requirements.

We accept obtained the information on this folio from the Ecuadorian regime. It can, nevertheless, change at whatsoever time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before yous travel, check with your transportation visitor about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more than stringent than the state'south entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months across the date you await to leave Republic of ecuador.

Passport for official travel

Unlike entry rules may employ.

Official travel

Passport with "X" gender identifier

While the Authorities of Canada bug passports with an "X" gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the "X" gender identifier. Before yous leave, cheque with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Unlike entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you lot go out, check with the closest strange representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: Non required
Concern visa: Not required
Student visa: Not required

Canadians do not require a visa for stays of less than 90 days in a 365-day period.

You lot must go out Ecuador before the divergence date stipulated on the entry postage that yous received in your passport upon arrival. If you remain in Ecuador past this date, you may be deported and must then asking a visa at an Ecuadorian embassy or consulate before re-entering the country. Your name may also be added to immigration records. Attempting to re-enter Ecuador without a visa pre-issued by Ecuadorian authorities in Canada will issue in exclusion and yous will be returned to your port of embarkation.

If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, you must obtain a visa earlier your entry let expiries. If yous enter Republic of ecuador by land from Colombia or Peru, you are required to register with the Ecuadorian immigration office at the border. You must provide your passport and signal where you are going and how long y'all intend to remain in Ecuador. Ensure y'all receive an entry postage in your passport. Failure to practice so may cause pregnant problems when trying to exit the land.

Virtual Consulate of Ecuador - Ministry of Foreign Diplomacy and Human Mobility, Ecuador authorities (in Spanish)

Galápagos Islands

To enter the Galápagos Islands, you must present the Galápagos Transit Control Carte (Tarjeta de control de tránsito, or TCT).

You can apply for the Galápagos Transit Control Carte online or obtain it at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil. Your bout operator may also request it for you lot. The maximum stay for tourists is threescore days in a 1-yr period.

Go along the card in a safe place, since you must also show information technology when departing the Galápagos Islands.

Pace by footstep TCT online – Government of Galápagos

Amazon region

Some Indigenous groups require permits to enter their territory. If y'all are planning on visiting the Amazon region, ensure that y'all have the required documentation prior to entering the area.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizens may enter Republic of ecuador on an Ecuadorian passport and stay indefinitely. A dual denizen entering on a Canadian passport volition be considered a tourist and only be granted a 90-twenty-four hours, non-extendable visa.

To go out the country, children born in Republic of ecuador to a Canadian parent must:

• be registered with the Ecuadorian Ceremonious Registry
• obtain an Ecuadorian passport
• present valid Ecuadorian and Canadian passports

Ecuadorian immigration authorities practice not allow children born in Ecuador to depart only on a Canadian passport.

Children and travel

Learn most travel with children.

Unaccompanied minors (under eighteen) property dual citizenship (Ecuadorian and Canadian) and travelling with both passports, or who are landed immigrants in Ecuador, should have a letter of consent from both parents. This letter of the alphabet should:

• qualify the travel and stipulate the destination and elapsing of the intended trip
• exist legally certified and translated into Spanish
• be notarized at the Diplomatic mission of Republic of ecuador or a consulate in Canada

Canadian unaccompanied minors travelling as tourists with Canadian passports do not need this authorization letter of the alphabet.

Recommended consent letter for children travelling away

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

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Health

Related Travel Health Notices

Consult a health intendance professional or visit a travel health dispensary preferably vi weeks earlier you travel.

Vaccines

Routine Vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccines, every bit per your province or territory, are up-to-appointment regardless of your travel destination.

Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Vaccines to Consider

You may be at adventure for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this state. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.

COVID-xix

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It tin can spread from person to person by straight contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series forth with whatever boosted recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Testify shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing astringent disease, hospitalization and death from COVID-xix. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, yous may still exist at chance of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-nineteen and is at greater risk for astringent illness when travelling internationally.

For destination entry and go out requirements, including for COVID-19 vaccination requirements, please check the Entry/exit requirements section.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a affliction of the liver spread through contaminated nutrient and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may exist exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical handling, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should go vaccinated.

Flu

Seasonal flu occurs worldwide. The influenza flavour usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, betwixt April and Oct in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the influenza shot.

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. Information technology can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through aerosol in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at run a risk of being infected with information technology when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Rabies

Rabies is a mortiferous affliction spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected brute. Vaccination should exist considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high hazard of exposure (e.g., are children, accept an occupational gamble, or in close contact with animals, including gratis roaming dogs in communities).

Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements

Yellow fever is a affliction caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a state or because it is recommended for their protection.

Hazard

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this state.

State Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are arriving from Brazil, Democratic republic of the congo, or Uganda, or have transited through an airport in i of these countries.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Hash out travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

About Yellow Fever

Yellowish Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

*It is important to note that land entry requirements may non reflect your take chances of yellowish fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will exist visiting to verify whatever additional entry requirements.

Food/H2o

Food and H2o-borne Diseases

Travellers to any destination in the world tin develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated h2o or food.

In some areas in Due south America, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Do safe food and water precautions while travelling in South America. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!

Travellers' diarrhea

• Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
• Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise condom food and water precautions.
• The most of import treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Hazard is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a take chances typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.

Insects

Insects and Illness

In some areas in Southward America, sure insects carry and spread diseases like American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease), chikungunya, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, malaria, onchocerciasis (river blindness), West Nile virus , yellow fever and Zika virus.

Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.

Chikungunya

There is currently a risk of chikungunya in this country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the seize with teeth of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya tin can crusade a viral disease that typically causes fever and hurting in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain tin be severe and concluding for months or years.

Protect yourself from musquito bites at all times. At that place is no vaccine bachelor for chikungunya.

Dengue

• In this land, dengue is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue tin can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it tin lead to severe dengue, which can exist fatal.
• The level of hazard of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to twelvemonth. The level of adventure besides varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, especially effectually sunrise and dusk.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Dengue

• In this country, risk of dengue is sporadic. Information technology is a viral illness spread to humans past mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it tin can lead to astringent dengue, which tin be fatal.
• The level of gamble of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from twelvemonth to yr. The level of risk too varies between regions in a country and can depend on the meridian in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly effectually sunrise and dusk.
• Protect yourself from musquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects confronting dengue fever.

Zika Virus

Zika virus is a take a chance in this country.

Zika virus is primarily spread through the seize with teeth of an infected mosquito. Information technology can likewise exist sexually transmitted. Zika virus tin can cause serious birth defects.

Pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy should visit a wellness care professional before travelling to discuss the potential risks of travelling to this country. Pregnant women may choose to avoid or postpone travel to this land.

Travel recommendations:

• Prevent musquito bites at all times.
• If you are pregnant, always use condoms correctly or avert sexual contact with anyone who has travelled to this country for the duration of your pregnancy.
• Women: Wait 2 months after travel to this country or subsequently onset of disease due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) earlier trying for a pregnancy. If your male partner travelled with you, wait 3 months afterwards travel or afterwards onset of disease due to Zika virus (whichever is longer).
• Men: Wait 3 months after travel to this land or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy.

For more travel recommendations, see the travel health discover: Zika virus: Communication for travellers

Malaria

Malaria

• There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this country.
• Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal illness that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine against malaria.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes roofing up, using insect repellent and staying in enclosed air-conditioned accommodations. You may as well consider pre-treating habiliment and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping nether an insecticide-treated bednet.
• Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year yous are travelling. See a wellness care provider or visit a travel wellness dispensary, preferably vi weeks before y'all travel to discuss your options.

Animals

Animals and Illness

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, and bats. Sure infections found in some areas in South America, like rabies, can be shared betwixt humans and animals.

Person-to-Person

Person-to-Person Infections

Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper coughing and sneeze etiquette to avert colds, the flu and other illnesses.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through claret and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is an infection acquired past bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the take chances of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at loftier risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a wellness care professional.

Loftier-gamble travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

COVID-19 - Testing facilities

Consult the following links to find out where you lot can get a COVID-nineteen test:

Local COVID-nineteen testing facilities - Authorities of Ecuador (in Spanish and accessible from Ecuador just)

Health care is available only the quality of care varies greatly throughout the state. In Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca, private hospitals offer medical services comparable to those in Canada. In smaller towns and in rural areas, still, health services are below Canadian standards.

Serious medical cases in the Galapagos Islands will likely require medical evacuation to the Ecuadorian mainland or Canada for treatment. Surgical and cardiac services are extremely limited. As there are no air ambulance services based on the islands, the wait time to exist evacuated can be 48 hours or more, depending on atmospheric condition conditions.

Medical evacuations can be extremely expensive.

Make sure you go travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and condom

Keep in Mind...

The determination to travel is the sole responsibleness of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Exist prepared. Do non expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, specially if you will exist travelling away from major urban center centres.

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Laws and culture

You lot must abide by local laws.

Larn about what y'all should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are astringent.

Individuals may be found guilty by clan if they have criminal associates. Drivers should not take hitchhikers, equally they could be held responsible for them too as for the content of their luggage.

Monitor your luggage at all times when travelling, peculiarly at airports, and never agree to carry items for another person.

Identification

Ecuadorian constabulary requires all individuals to comport identification at all times.

Pedestrians

Pedestrians should cross streets merely at designated crosswalks. Jaywalking and walking off the sidewalk are punishable by a fine.

Curfews and states of emergency

Authorities may declare curfews and states of emergency in regions afflicted by ceremonious unrest, natural disaster or other disruption.

During a state of emergency, authorities have expanded powers to restore order, including intermission of some constitutional rights and expanded detention powers.

Driving

There is a traffic restriction based on the last digit of the vehicle licence plate number in Quito.

Y'all may exist heavily fined if you fail to respect the restricted areas on the weekday corresponding to your plate number.

You lot tin bulldoze up to 3 months with your valid Canadian driver's licence.

Y'all should carry an international driving permit.

More than about the International Driving Let

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Ecuador.

If you lot are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Ecuador, our ability to offering yous consular services may be limited while you're there. You may too be subject to unlike entry/exit requirements.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Kid Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in sure countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Ecuador.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is beingness held in Ecuador, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your kid to the Ecuadorian court.

If you lot are in this situation:

• act as quickly every bit yous can
• contact the Central Authorisation for your province or territory of residence for data on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Ecuador to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• written report the state of affairs to the nearest Canadian government office away or to the Vulnerable Children'south Consular Unit of measurement at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Lookout man and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be enlightened that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another state's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Primal Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates past destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Money

The currency in Ecuador is the U.S. dollar (USD).

Credit cards are accepted by many businesses.

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Natural disasters and climate

Flooding

Heavy rains at various times of the year trigger landslides in many areas, peculiarly in mountainous areas. This causes road damage which contributes to traffic accidents.

During flooding, disruptions may happen to essential services such as:

• transportation
• utilities
• emergency and medical care
• food, fuel and water supplies

Water- and insect-borne diseases may also become a threat.

If you are already in the affected areas, monitor local media for the latest developments, verify your travel plans with your airline or tour operator, and follow the instructions of local government.

Seismic activity

Earthquakes

Ecuador is located in an active seismic surface area. Earthquakes and tremors occur regularly. Unsafe landslides are frequent following even modest earthquakes.

Tsunamis

There is a risk of tsunamis when earthquakes strike along the Pacific coastline. In Esmeraldas and Manabí provinces, government maintain an early alert organisation of sirens to alert the population of an approaching tsunami or a sudden dam overflow.

ECU 911, the Integrated Security Service - Ecuador authorities (in Spanish)

Volcanoes

At that place are several active and potentially active volcanoes on the mainland and on the Galapagos Islands, including around Quito and the tourist communities ofBaños and Riobamba. Eruptions could occur at whatsoever time and without warning. Near recently, the Reventador and Sangay volcanoes have erupted and Cotopaxi and Tungurahua are agile.

Exposure to falling ash and toxic fumes from active volcanoes can affect your health. If you lot suffer from respiratory ailments, consult a dr. or travel medicine specialist well in advance to determine associated wellness risks.

Ash fall may besides disrupt domestic and international flights and crusade the closure of major highways. If you are planning to travel well-nigh agile volcanoes, monitor local news and pay careful attention to all warnings issued, avert restricted areas and follow the advice of local authorities. Be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice. Yous should besides be familiar with local emergency plans (available at nearly hotels).

• Public alerts for volcanoes displaying increased seismic activeness - Republic of ecuador Secretariat of Risk Management (in Spanish)
• Instituto Geofisico - Ecuador's geophysical institute (in Spanish)

El Niño

The circuitous weather phenomenon called El Niño happens at irregular intervals of 2 to 7 years and can last 9 months to two years. El Niño generally generates heavy pelting falls, which could cause flooding, landslides and mudslides and could severely disrupt travel.

Go along informed of regional weather condition forecasts earlier and during your travels, and plan accordingly. Ensure you lot have adequate insurance to cover the consequences of such events, including the disruption of travel plans.

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Demand help?

Local services

Emergency services

Dial 911 for emergency help

Consular assistance

Due to the ongoing pandemic, our consular services could be limited. Contact us by email or phone before visiting our offices.

Quito - Embassy of Canada

Street AccostAv. Amazonas N37-29 and Union Nacional de Periodistas, Eurocenter Building, 3rd Flooring (i cake north of the Supreme Court Building, near Amazonas and United Nations), Quito, EcuadorPostal AddressP.O. Box 17-11-6512, Quito, Republic of ecuador, EC170514Telephone593 (2) 245-5499Fax593 (2) 227-7672Emailquito@international.gc.caInternet www.ecuador.gc.caServices Passport Services Available Facebook Embassy of Canada to Republic of ecuadorTwitter @CanadaEcuador

Guayaquil - Consulate of Canada

Street AddressAvenida Francisco de Orellana, Number 234, Blue Towers Edifice, 6th Flooring, Office 604, Guayaquil, EcuadorTelephone593 (4) 263-1109 Ext.101E-mailguayaquil@international.gc.caCyberspace www.ecuador.gc.caFacebook Embassy of Canada to EcuadorTwitter @CanadaEcuadorOther social media Embajada de Canadá en EcuadorConsular servicesThis office is headed by an Honorary Consul of Canada and does not provide all consular services.
For more information, contact the Embassy of Canada to Ecuador.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Ecuador in Quito and follow the instructions. Yous may also brand a collect call to the Emergency Lookout man and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613-996-8885.

Disclaimer

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. Nosotros take the safe and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide apparent and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this folio is provided for information only. While we make every attempt to give y'all correct information, information technology is provided on an "as is" ground without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and volition not be liable for whatever damages in connection to the information provided.

If yous need consular assistance while abroad, we will brand every effort to help yous. However, there may exist constraints that volition limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more virtually consular services.

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