Ecuador travel advice

Risk level

Safety and security

State of internal armed conflict

Ecuador is in a state of “internal armed conflict.” There is an increased presence of security forces to contain gang violence across the country, including in Guayaquil and Quito.

If you are in Ecuador:

• expect an increased police and military presence, especially near prisons
• carry your ID at all times
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Border areas

Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence.

Colombia

Criminal groups are active in the border area with Colombia. Criminal activities include:

• drug trafficking
• extortion
• armed assault
• kidnapping

Peru

Work to clear landmines in certain areas near the border with Peru is still ongoing. See the Regional Risks, above, for specific locations.

Criminal activity has been reported near the border crossing at Huaquillas, where we advise against non-essential travel. If you do cross the border by land from Peru, do so during daylight hours and ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Crime

Crime rates are high in Ecuador.

Arrest and detention rates are low and contribute to high levels of criminality. Infiltration within the security forces by local gangs weakens law enforcement even further.

Violent crime

Violent crime is a significant concern throughout Ecuador. Drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and street gang activity is prevalent. Violent incidents include:

• murders
• armed robberies
• kidnappings
• extortion
• home invasions
• sexual assaults
• car-jacking

These crimes occur even during the day in tourist destinations. Tourists, including Canadians, have been assaulted:

• in downtown areas
• on hiking trails
• at beaches
• in public parks
• outside banks

While you're in Ecuador:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• avoid travelling after dark, and in isolated or deserted areas
• avoid showing signs of affluence
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
• don’t resist if you’re threatened, hand over your cash and valuables immediately

Tourist police officers are present in major cities, including Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca.

Organized crime

Criminal gang activity has increased in recent years, particularly in the coastal provinces of El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí and Santa Elena. Since late 2022, the use of explosives has increased, especially in coastal provinces. Targets have included small businesses, gas stations, government offices, and bridges.

Organized criminal groups and gangs commit crimes such as targeted killings, express kidnapping, and armed robberies. They generally use knives and guns, and occasionally explosives.

Although tourists are not usually targeted, you may find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time and caught in the crossfire.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and car break-ins, occurs daily in major cities.

Thieves often work in teams to divert the victims and snatch their possessions. Groups of street children selling candies are sometimes engaged in this type of team operation.

Thefts commonly occur in:

• popular tourist areas
• public transportation, especially city and inter-city buses
• bus terminals and airports
• shopping malls
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants, including patios

To avoid becoming a victim:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• keep a low profile when walking in public areas
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items
• avoid showing signs of affluence
• avoid hitchhiking
• be suspicious of recent acquaintances or strangers approaching you
• avoid accepting rides or invitations from strangers

Kidnapping

The number of kidnappings, especially express kidnappings, has significantly increased since 2022. Kidnappers mainly target locals, but foreigners have also been targeted. Many victims have been rescued by the police. Some victims are released in exchange for ransom.

While you’re in Ecuador:

• choose accommodation with good security measures
• keep your doors and windows locked at all times
• check your car for suspicious markings after leaving it parked on the street
• if you're kidnapped, comply with the kidnappers’ demands and don’t resist

Express kidnappings

These kidnappings are often committed by organised gangs, sometimes in collaboration with taxi or rideshare drivers. Kidnappers may take their victims to an ATM and force them to make a cash withdrawal, or else hold their victims for a few days and force them to make online bank transfers before releasing them.

• Use only reputable taxi companies
• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• Use the security features in rideshare apps
• If you’re threatened, don’t resist

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud may occur. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

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

Overseas fraud

Extortion

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

If police threaten you with a fine:

• remain calm and courteous but firm
• show original documents but keep them in your possession
• try to cooperate by following the instructions of police to avoid escalation
• ask for a clear explanation of the offence and a written fine that can be paid at a police station
• don’t pay a bribe to anyone
• call 911 to report the incident to the National Police

National Police – Ecuador (in Spanish)

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations occur frequently.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also 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

Ecuadorian law prohibits political activities by foreigners. You may face detention if you take part in demonstrations or political activities.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse.

Incidents of attacks and sexual assault against foreign women, including rape and murder, have been reported throughout the country, particularly in tourist areas. Even women travelling in pairs have been targeted.

• Choose accommodation with good security measures
• Be suspicious of recent acquaintances or strangers approaching you
• Avoid hospitality exchange arrangements, such as couch-surfing
• Do not accept transportation offers from strangers 

Useful links

• Recommendations for female travellers – Ministry of Tourism
• Gender-based Violence – Ministry of Public Health
• Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. Incidents can occur in various locations, including buses, nightclubs and bars.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Scopolamine

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

Thieves may slip the drug into food and drinks, smear it on papers, or blow it into the face of the victim. They often work in teams, with an attractive woman or man who eases 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.

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

Indigenous shamanic ceremonies

The consumption of ayahuasca is common during indigenous shamanic ceremonies in Ecuador. These ceremonies are not regulated. The safety of the facilities, services, operators, or shamans cannot be assessed. They often take place in remote areas without access to medical facilities, emergency services or telecommunications.

The consumption of ayahuasca has caused serious medical complications, including cognitive and physical impairment. Several tourists, including Canadians, have died while taking part in such ceremonies. Some have also been assaulted or injured.

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Most beaches don’t have lifeguards or warning flags.

• Only undertake scuba diving and other water activities with a well-established company
• Don’t swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Monitor weather warnings
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

This advice applies to both mainland Ecuador and to the Galápagos Islands.

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as snorkelling, diving, surfing, white water rafting, horseback riding, parasailing, hiking, trekking and other adventure activities, can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in the dry season.

Avalanches pose a risk in Ecuador. They can be fatal, even with light snow accumulations. Tourists, including Canadians, have died in avalanches on Ecuadorian volcanoes.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and don’t part with your expedition companions
• consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company certified by the Ministry of Tourism
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity
• carry an avalanche beacon, a mobile phone and a fully charged battery pack to generate your position in case of emergency
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary

If you require emergency assistance in a remote area, find an area with a signal and call 911 so that authorities can geolocate your phone and send help more quickly.

Ministry of Tourism – Government of Ecuador

Power outages

Power outages can affect the following services and businesses:

• public lighting and traffic lights
• telecommunications and security systems
• stores and food supply
• hotels and other accommodations
• banks and ATMs

Prolonged power outages could increase the risk of criminal activity, which could lead to opportunistic theft.

If you’re in Ecuador:

• make sure you always have a complete emergency kit on hand, including several flashlights
• always carry a cell phone, a charger, a portable charger, and a list of emergency numbers handy

Roads

Road conditions and road safety vary throughout the country. Accidents causing fatalities are common.

Road conditions

Road conditions are generally in fair conditions in urban areas. However, they remain poorly maintained in rural areas.

Heavy rain and mudslides often close or wash out roads. Driving in Ecuador may be hazardous due to:

• unmarked speed bumps
• large pot holes
• poorly maintained vehicles
• traffic lights on major highways
• heavy traffic, especially on weekends and statutory holidays
• stray livestock in rural areas  
• heavy fog in mountainous areas

Driving habits

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They may drive at excessive speed and be reckless. Drinking and driving is frequent. 

If you drive in Ecuador:

• always drive defensively and maintain heightened awareness
• plan your trip ahead of time, especially if you plan to visit a rural area
• avoid road travelling alone and at night
• carry a cell phone and a charger
• always keep your gas tank fullkeep your car doors locked and the windows closed at all times
• do not leave valuables within reach or in plain sight and unattended

Public transportation

Buses

Many buses are not safe. Some are poorly maintained and often overcrowded. They lack safety equipment. Drivers are reckless. They often make illegal stops to pick up passengers. Robberies and assault occur regularly, especially in the Guayaquil area.

Avoid using local or intercity public buses. 

Taxis

Taxis are generally safe to take during the day. They are easily available in urban areas.

Ride-sharing apps are also popular in Ecuador. They are usually a safe option to move around.

Incidents of assault and express kidnapping have occurred at night.

• Use official taxis with orange plates only
• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• Never share a taxi with strangers 
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers along the way to your destination
• Note driver’s name and plate number
• Ask the driver to start the meter or negotiate the fare in advance
• Have small bills ready for payment

Ferries 

Ferry accidents have occurred mostly due to severe weather conditions or poor safety measures. 

Some boats are poorly maintained and overloaded. 

If you decide to travel by ferry:

• use only a reliable company
• make sure appropriate safety equipment is available 
• make sure you have access to a lifejacket at all times 
• don't board a boat that appears overloaded or unseaworthy

Piracy

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur.

Take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

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

We have obtained the information on this page from the Ecuadorian authorities. It can, however, change at any 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 you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules. 

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Ecuador.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues 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 you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days per period of 12 months 
Business visa: not required
Student visa: not required

Entry stamp

Make sure your passport is stamped upon arrival. You may face significant problems if you fail to present an entry-stamped passport when departing Ecuador.  

Many tourists, including Canadians, have not stopped to get their passports stamped when arriving by land from Peru. When they try to leave the country later on, for example by airplane out of Quito, they are often required to return to the Peruvian border to obtain an entry stamp at the place of entry.

Ecuador entry restrictions

If you enter Ecuador from Colombia or Peru through land or river borders, you must present a criminal record check from your country of origin or residence. The original criminal record check and the Spanish translation must be apostilled and cover the past five years. Minors travelling with their family members are generally exempt.

If you cannot provide a criminal record check, the Ecuadorian Migration System will check to verify that you don’t have previous convictions.

Authentication of documents

Stay extension

You may extend your stay for an additional 90-day period once. If you decide to do so while in Ecuador, you must obtain a visa from the immigration authorities before the expriation of the entry stamp. 

If you overstay your authorized length of stay, you may be:

• fined
• denied entry for one year

Local authorities may also add your name to their immigration records, requiring you to request a visa at an Ecuadorian embassy or consulate before re-entering the country.

Useful links

• Migration Ecuador – Ministry or Interior (in Spanish)
• Digital services – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
• Visas – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
• Extension of stay – Ministry of Interior (in Spanish)

Galápagos Islands

To enter the Galápagos Islands, you must present:

• personal identification
• the Galápagos Transit Control Card purchased at the Galápagos Governing Council Counter in the Quito or Guayaquil airports
• a return ticket

The maximum stay for tourists is 60 days in a 1-year period.

Guidelines for entering Galápagos – Galápagos Governing Council (in Spanish)

Amazon region

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

Children and travel

To leave the country, children born in Ecuador to a Canadian parent must:

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

Minor dual citizens - under 18 - travelling alone with both passports must have a letter of consent from both parents. This letter should:

• authorize the travel and stipulate the destination and duration of the intended trip
• be legally certified and translated into Spanish
• be notarized at the Embassy of Ecuador or an Ecuadorian consulate in Canada

Canadian minors travelling alone as tourists with Canadian passports don’t need this authorization letter.

Useful links

• Travelling with children
• Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad

Yellow fever

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

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections, like rabies and bird flu (avian influenza), can be spread from animals to humans. Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick, avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid eating undercooked meat.

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• have fewer sexual partners
• use protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability. The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Public medical services and facilities remain below Canadian standards, especially in rural areas. Medical facilities lack medical supplies.

Private hospitals and clinics offer better health care, but services are often expensive. Doctors typically require upfront payment. They may only speak Spanish.

Emergency services may not be available outside major cities. In the Galápagos Islands, you will likely require medical evacuation in case of a serious condition. The wait time to be evacuated can be up to 48 hours as there is no air ambulance service based on the islands.

Medical evacuations can be extremely expensive.

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

Health and safety outside Canada

Medications

Some prescription medication may not be available in Ecuador.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a paper and an electronic copy of your prescriptions

Altitude sickness

Some cities and major tourist attractions are located at more than 2700 metres above sea level. In some parts of the country, you may experience health problems due to high altitudes.

Altitude sickness can range from mild to severe symptoms, which in extreme cases can be fatal. It may require immediate medical evacuation.

• Know about the symptoms of altitude sickness
• Find out how to prevent or reduce the effects of altitude sickness

Keep in Mind...

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

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Ecuador are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Ecuador to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Ecuadorian authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

You may also be found guilty by association if they have criminal associates. For instance, drivers could be held responsible for passengers carrying drugs in their luggage.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases
• Avoid picking up hitchhikers

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your ID at any time.

• Carry valid identification or a photocopy of it at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Many legal protections are in place and same-sex marriage is legal in Ecuador. Attitudes toward same-sex couples may vary in different communities.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Ecuador.

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

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

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

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

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information 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
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch 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 aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Driving

You can drive up to 6 months with your valid Canadian driver’s licence.

There is a traffic restriction based on the last digit of the vehicle licence plate number in Quito. You may be heavily fined and your vehicle temporarily seized if you fail to respect the restricted part of the city on the weekday (Monday to Friday) corresponding to your plate number.

If you are involved in a road accident-causing injuries, you will be temporarily detained, regardless of culpability. Detention may last until responsibility for the accident has been assigned and all parties are satisfied.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Money

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

Credit cards are accepted by many businesses.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Ecuador. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news for the latest information.

Ecuador is subject to various natural disasters such as:

• earthquakes  
• forest fires 
• torrential rains  
• tsunamis 
• volcanic eruptions  

El Niño

The complex weather phenomenon called El Niño happens at irregular intervals of 2 to 7 years. In Ecuador, El Niño generally generates heavy rainfalls for 6 to 9 months, occurring at the same time as the rainy season from October to May.

• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts before and during your travels, and plan accordingly.
• Ensure you have adequate insurance to cover the consequences of such events, including the disruption of travel plans.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Ecuador is in an active seismic area. Earthquakes and tremors occur regularly. 

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

Tsunami warnings may be issued after a strong earthquake. A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor.

If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

Useful links

• Alerts Ecuador – Risk Management Secretariat (in Spanish)
• Tsunami Early Warning System – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
• Earthquakes – What to Do?
• Latest earthquakes – U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts – U.S. Tsunami Warning System

Volcanoes

Ecuadorian authorities are closely monitoring multiple volcanoes which are active:

• Chiles-Cerro Negro
• Cotopaxi
• Fernandina
• Guagua Pichincha
• Reventador
• Sangay
• Sierra Negra
• Tungurahua

Access to the Cotopaxi National Park could be restricted at any time without notice.

There are several volcanoes on the mainland and on the Galápagos Islands, including around Quito and the tourist communities of Baños and Riobamba. 

Eruptions could occur at any time.  They sometimes lead to evacuations of surrounding areas on short notice. Volcanic ash fall may also disrupt domestic and international flights and cause the closure of major highways.

Exposure to falling ash and toxic fumes from active volcanoes can affect your health.

 If you are planning to travel near active volcanoes:

• consult a physician in advance to determine associated health risks if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• familiarize yourself with local emergency plans
• avoid restricted areas
• be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice

In the event of a volcanic eruption:

• pay careful attention to all warnings issued for national parks
• monitor local media to stay informed of the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Useful links

• Alerts Ecuador – Risk Management Secretariat (in Spanish)
• Instituto Geofisico – Ecuador’s geophysical institute (in Spanish)

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from December to May.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged. Underpasses may fill quickly with water.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Useful links

• National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
• Road Conditions and Closures – ECU911 (in Spanish)

Wildfires

Wildfires are common between June and September.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)