By telling us your country of residence we are able to provide you with the most relevant travel insurance information.
Please note that not all content is translated or available to residents of all countries. Contact us for full details.
From the breathtaking Galápagos Islands to the majestic Andes mountains, Ecuador remains an unforgettable destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Whether you're coming to explore biodiversity, improve your Spanish, or hike through cloud forests and volcanic peaks, it’s essential to understand the current safety landscape before traveling.
As of 2025, Ecuador is experiencing a serious internal conflict between the government and organized crime groups, leading to elevated risks in some areas. Travelers can still enjoy many parts of the country safely, but awareness and caution are more important than ever.
Read the latest advice from the US State Department’s travel advisory.
Since early 2024, Ecuador has seen a sharp rise in violence as the government declared an internal armed conflict against criminal gangs. This includes:
Avoid demonstrations and stay updated through local news or your embassy. Protests can escalate quickly, and police or military presence is high in many cities. If you see a protest forming, get out of the area quickly. You do not want to get caught up in one.
Quito remains a top destination for tourists, but petty crime is common:
While violent crime is still relatively rare for tourists, robbery with weapons has increased in recent years. If threatened, comply and hand over valuables—resistance is not worth the risk.
Express kidnappings (short-term kidnappings, usually to force the victim to get money) and taxi robberies have occurred in:
Criminals pose as drivers or hijack taxis shortly after pick-up. Victims are often forced to withdraw money at ATMs.
Never hail taxis on the street. Look up taxi options online or ask your hotel to call you a car.
Pichincha offers stunning views over Quito, but take precautions:
Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city and a major port, has seen a surge in violent crime:
Here’s how to reduce your risk:
Given the political climate, consider a travel insurance plan and do your research to find a policy that includes benefits for theft, medical evacuation, and trip interruption.
Register with your home country’s embassy for updates and emergency contact support.
Ecuador is a beautiful and rewarding place to visit—but now is not the time to be careless. Avoid high-risk areas, stay alert in cities, and plan logistics like transportation with safety in mind. The Galápagos, many mountain towns, and rural areas remain relatively calm, and with the right precautions, your trip can still be safe and memorable.
You can buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world. With 150+ adventure activities covered and 24/7 emergency assistance.
Get a quote
No Comments