Planning your trip to Ecuador
Entry requirements for Ecuador
Passport requirements
All tourists entering Ecuador must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their arrival date. For example, if your trip begins in April 2025, your passport should be valid until at least the end of October 2025. Failing to meet this requirement can result in being denied boarding by the airline. Ensure your passport has sufficient pages for entry and exit stamps.
While traveling within mainland Ecuador, it’s advisable to secure your passport and other valuables in hotel safes. For day-to-day identification, carry a photocopy of your passport’s
ID page. However, you will need your original passport when traveling to the Galapagos Islands and the Amazon region.
Visa requirements
Most visitors do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, citizens from certain African and Asian countries, including China and India, require a visa to enter. Upon arrival, eligible travelers will receive a T3 stamp in their passport, allowing a stay of up to 90 days per calendar year without a visa.
To verify if your country requires a visa for entry to Ecuador, please check the official guidelines here: Ecuador Visa Requirements.
Traveling with children
Children and adolescents may enter Ecuador under the following conditions:
- Accompanied by both parents, one parent, a legal guardian, or an individual with parental authority.
- Traveling alone or with a third party.
If entering alone or with someone other than a parent or guardian, children must have authorization from the person(s) exercising parental authority, the competent authority in their home country, or in accordance with regulations in the country of origin.
Health insurance
All visitors to Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands, must have valid health insurance for the duration of their stay. Immigration agents may ask for proof of health insurance upon entry, and failure to provide this can result in denial of access.
When choosing an insurance provider, ensure the policy covers all medical expenses, emergency evacuation, repatriation, and the repatriation of mortal remains. Selecting a comprehensive policy from the numerous options available will ensure both peace of mind and security throughout your visit.
Travel insurance
For full coverage during your trip, consider comprehensive travel insurance. Beyond medical and repatriation benefits, this insurance can protect against lost or stolen luggage,
flight cancellations, and other unforeseen expenses. If you plan to participate in adventure activities or extreme sports in Ecuador, ensure that your policy covers these specific
activities, especially if they are considered hazardous or occur in high-risk areas.
Comprehensive travel insurance offers peace of mind and financial protection, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip.
Vaccination requirements
No vaccinations are obligatory for entry into Ecuador, except for travelers arriving from Brazil, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda, who must present an international certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination.
However, the following vaccinations are recommended, especially for long-term stays or specific exposures:
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (whooping cough)
- MMR (Mumps, Measles, Rubella)
- Influenza and Pneumococcus
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
Please consult your health provider before your travel to ensure you receive all necessary vaccinations for your trip.
Additional entry requirements for the Galapagos Islands
When planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands, ensure you meet these specific
requirements.
For more information, please check our extensive blog: The Ultimate Galapagos Travel Guide (2024)
- Round Trip Flight Ticket: Provide proof of a round-trip flight ticket from/to Quito or Guayaquil, indicating your departure date from the Galapagos.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure you have valid travel insurance covering emergency evacuation and medical expenses.
- Luggage Check: Before leaving mainland Ecuador, your luggage will be inspected for restricted items by the Tourist Control and Certification (TCC) to protect the islands’ unique environment and wildlife. Bringing fresh products such as meat, fruits, vegetables, and plants is prohibited.
- INGALA / TCT – Transit Control Card: All visitors must obtain a Transit Control Card (TCT) for immigration control, which costs $20 and is payable at the mainland airport before departure.
- Entrance Fee: A cash-only entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park is required upon arrival.
These measures are in place to preserve the ecological integrity of the Galapagos Islands.
| CATEGORY | FOREIGNERS | FOREIGNERS FROM CAN/MERCOSUR* | ECUADORIAN CITIZEN AND LEGAL RESIDENTS OF ECUADOR |
| ADULTS | USD 200 | USD 100 | USD 30 |
| CHILDREN (12 YEARS OLD OR YOUNGER) | USD 100 | USD 50 | USD 15 |
*Countries member of the Andean Community of Nations (Can) and MERCOSUR: Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay.
| Safety considerations while traveling in Ecuador Ecuador, like many Latin American countries, has experienced an increase in crime, including some areas affected by drug cartel activity. Traveling with a reliable agency can significantly enhance your safety and overall experience. These agencies are familiar with safe zones, optimal routes, and provide experienced local guides. They also assist in emergencies and help you avoid risky areas, ensuring quality and safety through a network of suppliers and tour operators who organize worry-free activities and tours. While petty crime is common in many South American cities, necessary precautions can help you avoid such issues. If you travel with us, we will provide you with information and advice on how to travel safely before your trip. The Galapagos Islands are an exception to typical safety concerns; they are not only a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts but also one of the safest places in South America. Thanks to a small local population and a virtually non-existent crime rate, the islands offer an exceptionally secure environment for travelers. |
Recommendations for on the ground planning
Ecuador’s small size makes it easy to explore without relying heavily on national flights. You can drive from the Pacific coast across the Andes to the Amazon lowlands in just one day. Whether with a knowledgeable professional guide, a Spanish-speaking driver, or on your own in a rental car, you have multiple options to discover the diverse regions.
If you choose to drive independently, we provide hotel reservations, a programmed GPS, and a roadbook to enhance your flexibility. Alternatively, if you opt for a Spanish-speaking driver, they will handle all transportation, including pick-ups from your hotel, visits scheduled on your itinerary, and transfers to your accommodations each night. In national parks, a local guide will join you to share insights about the local flora, fauna, and history, enriching your experience with their unique expertise and favorite spots.
We tailor the guiding services to your travel preferences, arranging the best specialist for you — be it a mountain guide, cultural expert, or birding specialist — for a day or throughout your trip, ensuring a personalized and enriching travel experience.
Accommodation options in Ecuador
Exploring diverse accommodations in Ecuador can greatly enhance your travel experience, catering to various preferences and interests:
- Eco-Lodges: Situated in natural settings like the Amazon rainforest or Andean cloud forests, eco-lodges provide sustainable lodging with minimal environmental impact, allowing you to immerse yourself in pristine environments.
- Historic Haciendas: Experience Ecuador’s colonial past through historic haciendas converted into boutique hotels. These estates offer a unique blend of historical elegance, comfort, and cultural immersion.
- Luxury Resorts: Found along the coast and in the Galapagos Islands, luxury resorts offer upscale amenities and stunning ocean views, perfect for relaxation and indulgence amidst Ecuador’s natural beauty.
- Community-Based Tourism: Engage in a cultural exchange by staying with local communities or indigenous groups. Accommodations might include homestays or community-run guesthouses, providing deep insights into local customs and lifestyles.
- City Hotels: In urban areas like Quito, Cuenca, and Guayaquil, a variety of hotels range from budget-friendly to luxurious, ideal for exploring city attractions and enjoying local dining.
Each accommodation type offers unique experiences, allowing you to customize your stay according to your travel style while exploring the diverse landscapes and cultures of Ecuador.
What to eat and where to eat it
Ecuador offers a rich culinary landscape, characterized by diverse flavors influenced by its geographic regions and cultural heritage. Travelers can enjoy a variety of dishes ranging from hearty Andean meals and fresh seafood along the coast to exotic fruits and specialties in the Amazon.
Have a look on our extensive blog about delicious food: WHAT TO EAT IN ECUADOR
Dining options
- Local Cuisine: Explore traditional dishes like ceviche, made with fresh local seafood, or locro de papa, a comforting potato and cheese soup. High in the Andes, you might try cuy (guinea pig), a traditional delicacy.
- Street Food: For a more casual dining experience, street food is a must. Empanadas, grilled plantains, and freshly made juices offer a taste of Ecuador’s vibrant street food culture.
- International Cuisine: In larger cities such as Quito and Guayaquil, a range of international cuisines is available, from Italian and French to Chinese and Japanese, catering to diverse palates.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Options: While traditional Ecuadorian cuisine is heavily meat and seafood-based, many restaurants now offer vegetarian and vegan options, particularly in tourist areas and larger cities.
Food safety
When traveling, ensuring food safety is crucial to avoid health issues. It’s best to drink only bottled or purified water, as tap water is not always safe. Be cautious with raw fruits and vegetables that cannot be peeled, and consider washing them in purified water. Opt for street food vendors who maintain high hygiene standards and have a fresh turnover of food. Seafood should be fresh and properly cooked, especially in coastal areas. Choose pasteurized dairy products to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. When traveling with us, your guides will recommend dining options that are known and have been vetted, ensuring both quality and safety. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy Ecuador’s
diverse culinary offerings while keeping health risks at bay.
Weather and climate in Ecuador
Ecuador’s climate varies significantly across its regions due to its geographical diversity. Each region experiences a wet “winter” and a relatively dry “summer,” although daily weather forecasts can be unreliable, especially during years affected by the “El Niño” and “La Niña” phenomena, which bring heavy rainfalls followed by dry periods.
The Andes
Located on the equator, the Ecuadorian Andes have a cooler climate than many expect. For example, Quito enjoys a spring-like climate year-round, with warm days and cool, sometimes chilly nights. During the course of the year, the temperature generally varies from 97°C – 19°C (48°F – 66°F) and rarely drops below 7°C (44°F) or rises above 21°C (70°F) in the shade. From October to May, the weather is generally rainy, with good weather in the mornings and rain or thunderstorms in the afternoons or evenings. The dry season from June to September sees little rain but often brings strong, cold winds. For example in the Cotopaxi National Park you can expect sunny and warm days or snowfall year round.
The Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos have distinct seasons. From December to May, known as the warm season, expect a mix of heat, rain, and sunshine, with temperatures between 27°C – 32°C (81°F – 89°F) and water temperatures from 21°C to 26°C (70°F – 79°F). From June to November, the climate is cooler and cloudier, with little rain but more wind and waves.
Temperatures range from 21°C – 27°C (70°F – 81°F), and water temperatures drop to 18°C –
24°C (64°F – 75°F).
Check our blog about the Best time to visit the Galapagos Islands!
The Coast
The coastal region enjoys a tropical climate influenced by Pacific Ocean currents. With an average daily maximum temperature of 30°C (85°F), the Coast is one of the warmer regions in Ecuador. High humidity and hot temperatures make the weather pleasant at times but also tropical humid. It is warm to hot all year round, inviting bathing at average water temperatures of 24°C (75°F). Due to less rain, the best time for traveling is from June to November. From January to June, the weather is warm and humid with sunny mornings and potential heavy rainfall in the late afternoon. The latter half of the year, from July to December, is cooler and drier, and may be cloudy during the “garúa” (mist) season.
The Amazon Lowland
The Ecuadorian Amazon is one of the wettest and most biodiverse areas globally, characterized by a hot and humid climate with consistent rainfall year-round. Temperatures typically range from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F), with high humidity levels, often exceeding 80%. Night temperatures can occasionally drop to around 18°C (64°F). The wet season spans from March to July, marked by heavier rains and frequent thunderstorms, while the less wet season from August to February still sees substantial rainfall.
