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Ecuador is a great country. It is home to an abundance of iconic and breathtaking natural wonders, as well as a rich cultural heritage.
But if you plan to travel to Ecuador now, you should be prepared.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has declared another state of emergency for 60 days. This applies to the provinces of Guayas, Los Rios, Manabi, Orellana, Santa Elena and El Ora.
The two areas of the Distrito Metropolitano de Quito in Pichincha and Camilo Ponce Enriquez in Azuay are also affected.
In real terms, this means there is a huge police and military presence in the country, your right to assemble is being revoked, and the government has also introduced a curfew.
What’s happening in Ecuador?
Ecuador is a beautiful and culturally rich country, but one that is in a state of ‘internal armed conflict’. Gang violence and the struggle to control it are having a hugely negative impact on the country.
Several roads have been blocked by gangs and in some cases tire fires are blocking roads and posing a threat to the public.
This is not the first time Ecuador has declared a state of emergency this year.
In January, widespread violence broke out when gangs took over towns and a TV station.
As a result, criminal gangs in the country have been labeled as terrorist organizations.
Ecuador is a largely peaceful country and many of the criminals and gangs causing these problems are thought to come from the drug trade in other South American countries.
What advice do American travelers get?
In a security alert, the US mission in Ecuador advised US citizens to adhere to curfews and local laws while in the country.
If you decide to travel to Ecuador, be prepared for a heavy military and police presence in the country due to this state of emergency.
When traveling by road you may be subject to police checks.
It is also important to note that power outages are expected during this time, and these outages will bring additional challenges that travelers should be aware of.
Protect your personal safety during dark periods in the countryside by staying in your hotel room or accommodation where possible.
Forewarned has two arms, and you can plan ahead. Stocking up on essentials such as food, water and medical supplies can be helpful during periods without power.
Most power outages that are introduced are overnight so that they have the smallest possible impact. My advice would be to sleep through it!
Finally, the Ecuadorian government has also imposed a curfew for everyone in the country (regardless of whether you are a resident or a tourist).
The curfew is from 10pm to 5am in most parts of the country. This is bad news for travelers who want to visit Ecuador so they can party all night!
Can you still travel to Ecuador?
The short answer to this question is yes!
Although a state of emergency has been declared in the country, nothing will stop you from boarding a plane to Ecuador and enjoying your planned holiday.
Despite the state of emergency, curfews and power outages, the international airports of both Quito and Guayaquil are open and fully operational.
However, I recommend that you keep an eye on your flight status, in case anything changes. Changes in these types of situations can happen quickly.
If your flight time coincides with the curfew, don’t worry.
If you have a scheduled flight (and the passport and plane ticket as proof!) you can still travel to and from the airport during the curfew.
Make sure you have your tickets and passport somewhere you can easily access them. You will likely be stopped and checked during your journey.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
