Ecuador travel advice

Travellers are advised to avoid the areas bordering Colombia in the province of Sucumbios, due to the risks of guerrilla activity in these areas. Visitors to southern parts of Sucumbios should exercise caution due to the risks of criminal activity.

Travellers are also advised against travel to Baños City due to increased activity of the Tungurahua volcano, which began on 31 December 2009. On 3 January 2010, lava started to flow from the volcano and explosive noises could be heard in the surrounding area. Activity has increased since 11 January 2010, with greater ash flow towards the south west part of the volcano. The presence of lava, ash and volcanic rocks could generate mud flow and landslides during the expected rains, cutting off roads. The Ecuadorian authorities have forbidden all access to the volcano and its immediate surroundings.

Heavy rains have caused increased river flows. The rainy season has been especially intense since the beginning of February 2010 in the coastal and Amazon regions of Ecuador causing widespread flooding. On 3 February, two people were killed in a landslide in the village of Rio Verde, near Baños city on the way to Pastaza province. One British citizen died on 11 February when trying to swim across the Pastaza river. Travellers should therefore avoid crossing rivers in the Amazon region due to strong currents.

Crime is still on the increase. On 30 September 2009, the Ecuadorian Government announced a 60 day 'state of exception' (state of emergency) for the cities of Guayaquil, Quito and Manta in response to the current crime wave. This enabled Ecuadorian military forces to be used in conjunction with police units, with an increase in vehicle checkpoints. Although this action ended in December 2009, Ecuadorian nationals and foreigners are still advised to carry their identity documents at all times. If driving, ensure you have your driving licence, vehicle insurance papers (SOAT) and registration card (matricula) with you at all times.

Road travel can be dangerous due to bad driving, poor condition of roads and ill-maintained vehicles. In April 2008 five British Citizens were killed and others injured in a collision between a bus and a lorry in Manabi.

There is a low threat from terrorism, but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel