The Government of Canada has issued an updated travel advisory for Ecuador, citing safety and security risks amid a state of emergency. The advisory highlights increased gang violence and upcoming curfews in several provinces. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and register with Canadian services abroad.
On Thursday, the Government of Canada revised its travel advice for Ecuador, emphasizing heightened safety concerns. The update states that Ecuador is experiencing a state of 'internal armed conflict,' with security forces deployed to address gang violence, particularly in cities like Guayaquil and Quito.
A state of emergency is active in multiple provinces, including Bolívar (limited to Echeandía and Las Naves cantons), Cotopaxi (La Maná canton only), El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí, Pichincha, Santa Elena, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, and Sucumbíos. Under this emergency, authorities possess expanded powers, such as entering private residences, accessing mail and phone records, performing raids and inspections, and restricting public assemblies.
From March 15 to 30, a curfew will apply from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. in Guayas, Los Ríos, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, and El Oro. Visitors can expect a stronger police and military presence, especially around prisons, and are recommended to carry identification at all times while complying with local directives.
The advisory comes amid Ecuador's efforts to combat drug trafficking, with joint operations involving the United States. President Daniel Noboa has noted collaboration with the U.S. against drug cartels, pointing out that 70 percent of the world's cocaine passes through Ecuador's ports.
Canadian travelers are encouraged to enroll in the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA), a free service that provides alerts during emergencies abroad.
