Travellers heading to Ecuador are being urged to pay closer attention to where they’re going as updated travel warnings highlight concerns over violent crime, kidnapping and organized criminal activity in parts of the country.

The United States updated its Ecuador travel advisory on August 18, maintaining the country at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, while identifying certain areas where the risks are considerably higher.

The warning cites crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping among the concerns travellers should be aware of. (U.S. Department of State)

For Canadians, the message is similar.

The Government of Canada currently advises Canadians to “exercise a high degree of caution” throughout Ecuador because of high levels of crime, while advising against travel altogether to certain areas. (Government of Canada)

Which Parts of Ecuador Are Most Affected?

The warnings do not mean tourists should avoid the entire country.

Canada specifically advises against all travel within 20 kilometres of the Colombian border in parts of Carchi, Esmeraldas and Sucumbíos, citing drug trafficking and criminal activity. There are exceptions, including the Pan-American Highway connecting to the official Tulcán-Ipiales border crossing.

The U.S. advisory also places stronger restrictions on several locations, including parts of Guayaquil and areas within the coastal provinces of El Oro, Los Ríos, Manabí and Santa Elena.

The risks can therefore vary considerably depending on exactly where someone is travelling.

Kidnappings Are One of the Concerns

Kidnapping has become a particular concern.

British government travel advice notes that kidnapping rates have risen in Ecuador and warns about so-called “express kidnappings.” These are short-term abductions in which victims can be forced to withdraw money or hand over financial information. (UK Government)

Violent crimes including armed robbery, assault and carjacking are also among the risks highlighted by international travel advisories.

The security situation is connected in part to Ecuador’s ongoing struggle with organized crime and drug-trafficking organizations, which has led to significant violence in some regions.

What About Quito, Cuenca and the Galápagos?

This is an important distinction.

The latest warnings do not say that people should stop travelling to Ecuador altogether.

Major tourist destinations such as Quito, Cuenca and the Galápagos Islands are not under the same “do not travel” designation applied to some higher-risk areas. Travellers should still take normal security precautions and stay informed about changing conditions.

For Canadians planning a trip, checking the Government of Canada’s advisory shortly before departure is particularly important because security conditions and regional warnings can change quickly.

Ecuador Remains a Major Tourism Destination

Despite its security challenges, Ecuador remains one of South America’s most unique destinations.

From Quito’s historic centre and the Andes to the Amazon, Pacific coast and Galápagos Islands, tourism remains an important part of the country’s economy and international identity.

The latest warnings shouldn’t be interpreted as saying “don’t visit Ecuador.”

Instead, they’re a reminder that Ecuador’s current security situation isn’t the same everywhere. Knowing which regions carry elevated risks, avoiding dangerous areas and checking official travel advisories before travelling can make a significant difference.

For Ecuadorians living in Canada — and Canadians planning to visit Ecuador — it’s a situation worth keeping an eye on.