The Government of Canada has issued a safety and security update for Ecuador, urging travellers to exercise caution in the South American country. Ecuador is currently in a state of "internal armed conflict" due to gang violence, with parts of the country under a state of emergency.
Under the emergency declaration, security forces have been granted broad powers including the authority to enter private homes, read private mail and phone records, and prevent assembly. They are also authorised to conduct raids, inspections, and searches throughout affected areas.
Authorities have announced a curfew that will be in effect from May 3 to May 18, running from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. local time. During curfew hours, no one is permitted to walk or drive outside, with enforcement conducted by the National Police and the Armed Forces. Those who violate curfew rules face penalties or detention. Healthcare professionals, security forces, and emergency services personnel are exempt from the restrictions.
The curfew affects multiple provinces including Bolívar, Cañar, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí, Pichincha, Santa Elena, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, and Sucumbíos. However, travel to and from international airports in Quito and Guayaquil will not be affected. Travellers heading to airports during curfew hours must present a boarding pass or airline ticket, along with a passport or Ecuadorian national ID card.
Canada has assigned Ecuador a yellow risk level, meaning travellers must "exercise a high degree of caution". The Canadian government recommends that Canadians register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA), a free and confidential service that notifies citizens of emergencies abroad or personal emergencies at home.
