Safety
General Situation
Ecuador is generally safe for tourists but requires a higher level of attention than Europe. The security situation has deteriorated in recent years — mainly due to drug trafficking, which particularly affects port cities (Guayaquil, Esmeraldas) and the Colombian border region. Tourist areas (Quito Old Town, Baños, Otavalo, Cuenca, Galápagos) are significantly safer and hardly affected by the problems.
| Region | Safety | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Quito Centro/North | Good | Be cautious at night in the old town (La Mariscal) |
| Baños, Otavalo | Very good | Hardly any crime |
| Cuenca | Very good | One of the safest cities in Ecuador |
| Galápagos | Very good | Virtually no crime |
| Coast (Montañita, Puerto López) | Good | Beach theft possible, be cautious at night |
| Guayaquil | Medium | Tourist areas safe, avoid outskirts |
| Esmeraldas | Limited | Only recommended for tourist beach villages |
| Colombian Border | Avoid | Advised against by the Foreign Office |
Practical Safety Tips
- Pickpocketing is the most common issue — especially in Quito's old town, markets, and public buses. Keep valuables close to your body (waist pouch under clothing), do not display expensive jewelry or watches.
- Express kidnapping (secuestro express): Rare but possible in Quito and Guayaquil. Use taxi apps (Uber, Cabify) or hotel taxis at night, never hail a taxi on the street.
- Night: In Quito's old town and La Mariscal (entertainment district) after midnight, use Uber/taxi, do not walk.
- Copies: Carry only copies of your passport and credit cards, keep originals in the hotel safe.
- Emergency number: 911 (police, fire department, ambulance). Tourist police in Quito and Guayaquil: English-speaking and helpful.
