Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to go to Ecuador?

There are two general categories of visas: Resident (immigrant) and Non-resident. Within each category, there are several other types of specific visas as described below:

Non-Immigrant Visas

U.S. citizens and most citizens (except French) do not require a visa to enter Ecuador for up to 90 days. This tourist visa is known as the 12-X. If you're planning to stay more than 90 days, immigrating or working, you will need other types of visas as detailed below.

Visas up to 90 days (Transeunte / Visitor, Visa 12-X)

Ecuador welcomes tourists and travelers from every country. United States citizens traveling to Ecuador for tourism, business, studies do not require a visa unless they expect to stay in Ecuador for more than 90 days in one calendar year (that is, 90 days adding every entry in one year). The only travel requirements are:

Requirements:
  • Valid passport for more than 6 months.
  • Return ticket (for air, land or sea travel).
  • Proof of economic means to support yourself during your stay in Ecuador (may be asked by Immigration authorities).

Nationals of the following countries require a visa and should approach the Consulate of Ecuador of their residence (list may change without notice): Algeria, Bangladesh, Costa Rica, Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Lybia, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Palestine Authority, Panama, People's Republic of China, Sri Lanka, Syria, Tunisia and Vietnam.

If applying in the U.S., American citizens will have to produce their valid U.S. visa or residence permit and fill out an application form (requirements listed above, plus 2 photographs).

Foreigners traveling in these conditions may not take employment in Ecuador. VISA 12-X status cannot be changed in Ecuador.

Visas for more than 90 days stay

Foreign nationals planning to stay in Ecuador for more than 90 days need to apply for a visa and must present the following documents:

  • Valid passport for more than 6 months.
  • Police certificate with criminal record of the State where she/he resides.
  • Medical certificate.
  • Return ticket (for air, land or sea travel).
  • Two photographs
  • Application form
  • Nationals of other countries applying for this type of visa in the United States must also present a valid US visa/green card.

Additionally, depending on the type of visa needed, the following requirements apply:

Student Visa
Requirements:
  1. Certificate of course registration in an educational institution in Ecuador.
  2. Certificate of financial solvency (either a bank deposit of a reasonable amount to cover expenses –please inquire at the Consulate of your jurisdiction- with a letter stating the intention of the bank of forwarding to the student 10% of that amount per month or a document signed by a relative stating that the student is supported by his/her family; or a legal and duly notarized document indicating the student receives some other type of pension).

Validity: Up to one year; renewable.

Professional, technician, consultant, legal representative, or government official visas
Requirements:
  • Documents showing he/she is required to stay in Ecuador for work related purposes and that his/her stay will be supported by the company/agency.
  • Labor contract legalized by an Ecuadorian Labor Court.
  • Technical or specialized professionals or industrial training personnel need a working permit from the Ministry of Labor.
  • Managers, legal representatives, or executive officers, with also require a certificate from the Superintendency of Companies.

Validity: According to the appointment.

Clergy, volunteer workers and other members of religious organizations
Requirements:
  • Certificate of the religious organization where the applicant will work in Ecuador, explaining why a foreign person is required and a brief description of the tasks she/he will be assigned in Ecuador.
  • A copy of the Decree in which the Government of Ecuador authorizes the organization to work in the country.
  • A copy of the rules of the organization.
  • A copy of the document stating the appointment of the legal representative of the organization in Ecuador.

Validity: Two years.

Cultural Exchange Visas

Teachers appointed to, or students participating in, exchange programs require:

  • Application from the Ecuadorian authority sponsoring the student/teachers visit.
  • A copy of the Agreement under which the program is carried out.
  • Teachers must sign a document stating that she/he will not receive any Ecuadorian funds for his/her work.

Validity: One year.

Tourism, Business and other activities for more than 90 days and Up to 180 Days

Foreigners who need to stay in Ecuador for over 90 days, for activities such as tourism, sports, studies, science and research, art, or business, will require:

  • Certificate of financial solvency to the satisfaction of the Consular Officer (either a bank letter stating the applicant’s monthly balance or a personal guaranty of an Ecuadorian citizen or a foreigner residing in Ecuador in a duly notarized document or a certificate stating the applicant’s income or any other document that proves the applicant has enough funds for his stay in Ecuador).

Validity: 90 to 180 days.

Resident / Immigrant Visas

Foreign nationals may apply to settle in Ecuador and obtain the residence. Resident visas need to be approved by the Immigration Board in Ecuador, so upon correct presentation of all the documentation the process may take 4-8 weeks.

There are different categories, please inquire at the Consulate.

10-I Retired persons who receive pensions from their native countries (pension from a stable source, at least US$ 8,000 a year).

10-II Real estate and securities investors who are willing to invest in Ecuador the equivalent of at least 350 minimum monthly general salaries (S.M.V.G.), plus 100 SMVG per dependent, or amount specified by Consular Officer (in the US at least US$ 15,000).

10-III Investors in industry who wish to export agricultural products, livestock, or minerals, provided they bring capital the equivalent of at least 600 minimum monthly general salaries to Ecuador, or amount specified by Consular Officer (in the US at least US$ 25,000).

10-IV Companies with foreign local agents who possess unlimited power of attorney to represent the company in Ecuador, provided that 80% of the company's local personnel are Ecuadorian.

10-IV Technicians or technical experts under contract with a company established in Ecuador.

10-V Professionals with university degrees recognized by a national university, who wish to practice their profession in Ecuador. Should the applicant's profession not exist in Ecuador, the degree must be locally certified. The applicant must also fulfill the requirements for such practice (e.g. bar).

10-VI Individuals economically dependent on spouses or on a blood­related family member (family). up^

What kind of health concerns should I have?

It is not unusual for many travelers to incur mild stomach upsets or even diarrhea. The latter condition tends to diminish as immunity levels are built up and the stomach becomes accustomed to its new diet, in any case drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration such as mineral water and soft drinks, avoid milk and caffeine beverages as well as ice in your drinks if possible.

Exposure to health risks will vary climatically as well as within Ecuador wildlife and vegetation. For example the lowland tropical provinces house different health hazards in comparison to the high land areas, where the main risks will be more related to water, food or altitude sickness.

Never eat from street vendors stalls due to contamination of the handlers or street pollution from passing vehicles or drink the local water unless you have purification tablets, preferably iodine based.

Use bottled water when possible as the iodine taste can be overpowering. Also, always wash and clean fruits thoroughly before eating as well as your washing and drying your hands on clean hand towels or paper tissues.

Immunizations

Pre-departure health checkups are essential for any major Latin American trip so do check in with your doctor for vaccinations in plenty of time before journeying or even a Latin American specialist if your doctor is not qualified sufficient to help. Today immunizations against smallpox and Cholera are not necessary or recognized even by the World Health Organization.

The major vaccinations recommended for Latin America travel to combat diseases are as follows: Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Malaria, Tetanus, Poliomyelitis, Infectious Hepatitis, Rabies in the Oriente and jungle areas or other epidemics that may have recently sprung up such as Meningitis.

Foods to Avoid

Avoid at all costs street food stalls that is often undercooked or often reheated, namely eggs, meat, fish or uncooked vegetables and salads. Street pollution along with unwanted mosquitos is another thing to watch out for and avoid again mainly street food along with raw foods, also peel your own fruit.

Shellfish

Avoid raw fish as well as shellfish which often have toxins in them causing various types of food poisoning, even when prepared do not drink excessive alcohol as the mixture can also upset the stomach.

Heat treated milk

Pasteurized cheese and yogurt along with Heat treated milk (UHT) sterilized or pasteurized in cardboard boxes are safe but avoid plastic bagged milk. If you buy the later at least ensure it is boiled.

Tap water

Buy filtered or bottled water only in Ecuador as it is not safe to drink the local water. If you have to drink the water, boil it first and use also for washing vegetables and fruits if no filtered water is unavailable. Water-purifying tablets are not recommended as the hepatitis virus may remain. If you do buy tablets at least ensure they have iodine solution in them, 4 drops can make a liter of water. Also, avoid iced drinks if possible as this is a further risk to catching disease.

Altitude & Sunburn

Please note that if you travel to areas higher than Quito, which is 2,850m above sea level you may experience what is locally referred to as "Soroche" (acute altitude sickness). This condition may hit the visitor within hours or take a few days to appear and causes tiredness, headaches, occasional dizziness, some vomiting and often a loss of appetite all due to a lack of oxygen as a result of exertion. This latter condition can be avoided if the visitor ascends and acclimatizes to higher altitudes over 1 or 2 days in preference to ascending 3,000m and over in one day.

To help further in adapting to new heights do try to avoid cigarettes and alcohol and also use deep breathing exercises along with sufficient fluid intake at 4,000m and higher.

It is also very necessary due to large climatic drops over night to bring very warm jackets and sweaters while cotton is the best material to wear in the day time for the heat.

Sunburn

Always use a high S.P.F. sun block minimum 30-50 for face and shoulders S.P.F 15 for the body and a Vaseline in the evening for lips and areas of dryer skin where appropriate. The ultraviolet levels at these heights can literally burn your skin to a crisp. A good hat is also needed when ascending to high levels and is essential to protect the head and further dehydration levels.

For beach bathers the same protection applies but do use sun blocks on your feet to avoid burning, this is often overlooked once shoes are removed and tourists simply forget this area.

Insects

To avoid being bitten always purchase a couple of bottles of "DETAN" from the local pharmacy chain Fybeca, who also stock aerosols containing Pyrethrum to spray the rooms you are living or sleeping in. Keep the doors closed for up to two hours before allowing air circulation from other rooms.

If you are bitten badly especially on the feet or in between the toes do avoid scratching as this often amplifies the discomfort further and causes bites to open and repair slower as well as become further infected. Instead try rubbing on calamine or use hydrocortisone cream, if you don't have lotion or cremes try soaking in a bath filled with baking-soda.

Take good care of your hair in while traveling in tropical and jungle areas because lice often frequent body hair and can cause much irritation and rashes to occur, the best shampoo to use is one containing benzene hexachloride. Bedding as well as clothes if required should also use the same treatment in hot water.

Rabies

Rabies although prevalent in certain areas of Ecuador does not usually exist in the highland (Sierra) but is more common in the Oriente, jungle and coastal areas. A clue into rabid dogs is often their erratic behavior be it wild or domesticated, if you are bitten it is worth seeking medical checks immediately with a local doctor.

The reporting of such animals whether they have rabies or not is always a good idea so the animal can be captured and inspected. Human diploid is today the best vaccination on the market and is also available in most of Ecuador and if you begin a treatment make sure you complete the course at all times.

Malaria

Malarial Mosquitos do not exist above 2,500m so, if you aren't visiting the coastal lowlands (check on seasonal changes) and the jungles then you will not need to take any measures against Malaria, this applies also to the Galapagos.

If you are in malarial areas always wear long trousers and longer sleeved shirts and ensure you have a mosquito net while you sleep that should be coated in permethrin. The best deterrent against Mosquitos in the day is a repellent called DEET that is stocked by many pharmacies in Ecuador.

It is recommended to begin your anti-malarial course of pills a week before you depart to the jungle or coastal route and continue after your adventure at least 4-6 weeks depending on the type you purchase. It is a good idea to make checks with the locals in Ecuador on the types of malaria prevalent in the area you'll be visiting to ensure you buy the right anti-malarial tablets. If you don't purchase your tablets in your own country, Ecuador offers two effective preventative called Chloroquine (Aralen) and Fansidar. Also look out for newer remedy's including Mefloquine (Larium) and the most recommended type today due to anti-resistant strains and outbreaks of chloroquine malaria along with Proguanil (Paludrine) at most pharmacies and physicians.

Pregnant women should check with their local doctors as their risk is higher in complications through the intake of these drugs. If you do catch Malaria you will need to increase your dosage by up to 4 times, Malaria gives the victims a series of sweats and chills so your temperature will fluctuate widely but is treatable as explained by increasing the level of intake to stave off the condition.

Yellow Fever

The same clothing, repellent, netting precautions should be followed as with the advice under malaria because Mosquitos transmit this disease also which is prevalent in the jungle (Oriente) and Lowlands of the coast but again if you plan to visit the high lands or Galapagos you do not need to take preventative measures.

Ecuador unlike the rest of South America doesn't require prior to entering the country, the exception is if you are leaving a country that is regarded as a Yellow fever prone area so do check with an Ecuadorian Consulate or Embassy in your country before departure if you have any doubt. For North American visitors the vaccine can be dispensed only in Yellow Fever Vaccine Centers controlled through your health office in the state you reside.

The immunity from Yellow Fever is good for 10 years and though it is far more prevalent in Africa and other South American tropical zones the disease causes fatalities so, ignore this injection at your own peril!, the side effects are very minimal and it is almost 100% effective. An International certificate for Yellow Fever vaccine is always available from your dispensing authority so do make sure you ask for your copy which is often required for presentation in most countries when entering so always have a copy available when you travel.

Typhoid

Typhoid inoculations are very necessary and are effective for 3 years. The newest Brand, Typhin Vi, causes minimal side effects in comparison to the earlier types such as TAB and monovalent typhoid but are more costly.

The vaccine may also be taken orally in 3 or 4 doses and lasts 5 years but must be completed one week before starting the malaria treatment. The Fever is caught normally from unsavory non-sanitary handling of food or drinks and the washing of cups and plates by infected carriers and originates from dirty water such as contaminated sewage or from Salmonella typhi bacterias.

Poliomyelitis

This disease is not common in Ecuador or the rest of the world but is worth guarding against for regular visitors to Ecuador and is effective up to 3 years. The disease is very serious if you become infected so either take in oral form if available in your country or use the injection method if this is all that is available.

Tetanus

All travelers must have pre-tetanus injections only before arriving in Ecuador followed by 6 week boosters so you must organize this if you already have not done so 8 weeks before departure followed by another one at 6 months. The boosters can then be administered yearly after the final injection for 10 years.

Intestinal worms

Intestinal worms are frequent in the system when eating foods in other countries, yogurt has live bio-cultures in its make up and is a recommended food to help clear these parasites. The hookworm condition can be caught by not wearing sandals or flip flops on beaches and infested terrain so make sure you don't allow these worms to enmesh and bury themselves into your feet by wearing at least minimum foot protection.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis occurs through bacteria's in the urine of rodents. Be careful if you have suffered any new cuts or scratches. Exposure occurs through either fresh water or moist earth contact.

Dengue fever

There is no remedy for this fever but the same procedures for protection as explained under the malaria section apply as this is also carried by Mosquitos, the specific variety is known as Aedes aegypti. Although it is not common in Ecuador (Esmeraldas was the only Province with outbreaks) and totals only 3% In Latin America of the worlds total area, if you catch the fever it may take a full month to recover although signs of recovery are often made after a few days. The main symptoms are body pains through muscular swelling and high temperatures which may be accompanied by pink rashes which spreads to the facial areas. Take plenty of rest and pain killers when appropriate if you catch this disease.

Infectious Hepatitis (jaundice)

Hepatitis "A" is the most common of the other main types B, C and D which are transmitted sexually through body fluids or unclean medical syringes, contaminated blood or even insects. B and C are also more serious than A and can take a recovery period of up to 6 months in comparison to the former that can last up to 4 weeks unless you're unlucky.

The best remedy is a combination injection covering all possibilities and is available in most country's. To minimize the risks drink only bottled water, avoid salads along with unpeeled fruit or uncooked fruits and always wash your hands while drying them on clean towels or tissues. Also take great care with your toilet practice as this is another major area of hygiene that must be strictly adhered to.

The vaccines are usually good for up to 10 years and if you are traveling to rural areas or even trekking by horse you will be prone to infection so take care. If you have experienced jaundice before take a blood test to check your immunity level to the various vaccinations that are also available in Ecuador in order to take the right vaccine.

The term Yellow Jaundice was given to those who have caught the condition due to the body and whites of the eyes turning yellow as well as making you perpetually tired, also there is no cure. If this occurs seek a good hotel for a few weeks and have high protein foods low in fat served daily to you and take full rest, also avoid alcohol for a minimum of 4 to 6 months, check with your local physician on your monthly progress. up^

What to Pack For Your Trip to Ecuador?

What to pack really depends on where you are going and your style of travel: budget backpacking, luxury island-cruising, a two-week guided historical tour, or a combination of all three. Every type of travel has its own list of bare essentials, so we list some of the obvious and not-so-obvious items for the various regions and activities you may encounter in Ecuador.

General Packing List

Passport; travelers checks; medical prescriptions or health supplies; Swiss army knife; cloths for warm and cool weather as one can encounter both in an afternoon in the Andes or if traveling between regions; raincoat; backpack; money belt or neck pouch; watch with alarm clock; flashlight or headlamp; plastic bags for separating dirty and clean clothes and shoes; needle and thread; biodegradable soap (if in backcountry areas); notebooks and pens/pencils; hat; and sunglasses.

Leave copies of your important documents, such as your passport, as well as travelers check and credit card numbers, with someone who can fax them to you if they are stolen or lost, and/or give a copy to a trusted traveling companion.

Ecuador's electrical current is 110 volts 60 cycles, the same as North America, so adapters for North American equipment are not needed. However, plug converters are necessary in older buildings.

Regional Packing Lists
Andes

In most parts of the Andes, you can experience all four seasons in one day. Be prepared for cold nights and cold rain, especially if you plan on camping. Warm, fast drying clothes are recommended (synthetics and wool are good, but avoid cotton, especially directly against the skin). Good hiking boots that either dry quickly or are water-resistant are a must for most activities. For trekking through páramo, rubber boots work exceptionally well, even with a full pack. The general packing list plus these items will serve you well in the Andes.

Galapagos

Sun hat; sun glasses; sandals (for the boat); sneakers (for dry landings and rocky shores); teva-style sandals (for wet landings); swim suit; umbrella (for sun protection during island hikes); high factor, waterproof sunscreen; snorkel and mask (you can rent them in Quito or in Puerto Ayora); beach towel and bath towel; wind resistant jacket; light sweater or sweatshirt (nights can get rather cool and you don't want to miss stargazing on deck); twice as much film as you think you will need; extra camera batteries; underwater camera; and motion sickness pills.

Coast

All of the Galapagos equipment minus all that may be rented if you plan on doing a lot of hiking or travel by bus. Travelling light is always recommended. You'll also need insect repellent (at least 30% DEET) and possibly a mosquito net (most hotels provide them). Malaria pills may also be necessary.

Oriente (Amazon Rainforest)

Rubber boots (a must since hiking boots don't work well in calf-deep mud - most lodges and arranged tours will provide boots up to size 10 or they can be purchased in most towns for about USD 5); mosquito net (most hotels and tour companies offer nets); insect repellent (with DEET); malaria pills; antihistamine tablets and an epi-pen for people with serious allergies to stings; water purification tablets (iodine is recommended); oral rehydration packets; binoculars (invaluable in the rainforest); plastic bags for keeping your clothes dry; swimming suit; lightweight quick drying clothes; at least one long-sleeved shirt; one pair of loose-fitting pants (no jeans); a light sweater (it gets surprisingly chilly in the rainforest, especially on boat trips); poncho that fits over you and your pack (the cheap plastic knee-length type coats are better than goretex, which will soak right through in a real rainforest deluge); bandana; a pair of clean socks for each day; Teva-like sandals or sneakers for around camp; and zip lock bags for food, books, maps and anything else you hope to keep dry.

All clothes (undergarments included) should be loose fitting to help keep you cool and to reduce your chances of being bitten by insects. up^

How do I plan my budget for my trip to Ecuador?

Before outlining the various ways for visitors to Ecuador to bring or change money, it is important to note first of all that the country operates only in American US Dollars. Also whenever you exchange your dollar bills do not accept ripped notes as they will not be accepted when you next buy something.

It is also sensible to arrive with some funds preferably smaller denominations in $1, $5, $10 notes because often the sellers of goods in small shops and stores will not have the right change. Another thing to be on the look out for in South America including Ecuador are counterfeit bills that don't have the right thread running through them, check with local Banks for better descriptions on fake bills.

If you do bring currencies from other countries you will still have the opportunity to exchange them into dollars also as there are various currency exchange places in most large cities called "casas de cambio", they are mostly found in International airports and the larger hotels. If you have the neighboring currency, the Colombian Peso or Peruvian Soles you may also exchange these in most banks

Travelers' checks

Traveler's checks are one of the safest forms of money while on a journey or expedition and there is usually only a small charge in the major cities of Guayaquil, Quito and Cuenca, however if you are in smaller cities expect a commission charge of around 5%.

Examples of banks exchanging Traveler's checks are: Lloyds Bank, Citibank, Produbanco, Banco del Pacífico and Banco de Guayaquil, in most branches. In addition you may also exchange checks in the casas de cambios but they will be a higher charge than in banks starting at 1.5% and up. American express also offers a service to issue checks and has locations in Guayaquil and Quito (Banco de Guayaquil). Checks are offered against Amex cards and also personal checks of cardholders although they will not reconvert travelers checks into cash!. If you ever have checks stolen you must first report them to the police and file a report before you'll be allowed to claim at an office of American Express.

Credit cards

Most 1st class restaurants, hotels, travel agencies and gift shops accept Credit cards, the main ones being MasterCard, American express, Visa and Diners.

Before charging credit against your card do check the rates with your own banks before leaving and to be doubly sure also ask first the costs which are usually minimal with the banks you call in while traveling, also be aware that some merchants will add between 4 to 10% on top of your card for a service charge so you may be better paying cash because you will bear the costs unlike in Europe and North America where the merchant will bear these costs.

For MasterCard holders there are also offices in Ambato, Cuenca, Quito and Guayaquil as well as Mutualista Pichincha, ABN-AMRO and Banco del Pacífico Banks. For Visa and American Express; Banco Pichincha, Banco Bolivariano, Banco del Austro and Banco de Guayaquil all work well with these cards.

ATMs

Most banks in Ecuador have ATM facilities which are linked up to international connecting systems that are compatible to foreigners credit cards. For MasterCard holders look out for the Cirrus system while those using Visa card should be looking for the Plus system.

Do also check with your local Bank card issuer to avoid errors, retraction and confiscation of cards as well as loss of time and costs involved because this certainly isn't the cheapest form of cash when traveling. If you are still uncertain then check with the bank you wish to make the cash withdrawal from within office hours 9-5pm in order to confirm compatibility.

Do also note, If you are in the Galapagos only Master card is accepted. It is advisable with respect to your PIN number that it has no more than 4 digits because in Ecuador theses machines are programmed to accept no more than 4 numbers, however if you have made your PIN Code a word also be aware that letters may not be given on the PIN Pads in the code that you punch in so you will have to work out the numeric equivalent to avoid disappointment.

Money Transfers

As well as the major forms of credit for the withdrawing of cash Western Union offices for wiring quick cash are also available in most major cities but the fees are around 10% in commissions and charged to the sender.

Amex card holders may also arrange travelers checks on their cards or use personal checks. We do not recommend bank wire S.W.I.F.T. Transfers or telexes as they often may take up to a week to clear through American systems as well as proving expensive due to service charges and are subject to local Ecuadorian taxes.

In general terms, Ecuador is one of the cheapest countries in Latin America. Here you’ll find good quality food, lodging and transport at low costs compared with other countries of the region.

Daily Budget

You can survive in Ecuador with:
Low-budget: from US$15
Mid-budget: from US$30 to US$60
High-budget: from US$100 and upwards

Food Budget

You can get a good meal in a good restaurant for an average price between US$5 to US$7. Still you can find good quality meals for lower prices but then you may sacrifice comfort. Nevertheless you may find some places where you can get a complete meal between US$3 to US$5. Of course, there is the luxury stile, fancy restaurants may charge US$15 and upwards for a meal.

Lodging Budget

There is a great variety of hotels and hostels in the Country which means that there is a great variety of prices too. You can find surprisingly clean and comfortable places for a range of prices between the US$5 and US$15, however, price may be a good warranty at the moment of choosing a place with all the necessary services. Most of the good hotels are between US$15 to US$70. This places have better facilities and comfort is assured. You will find also top-end hotels from US$70 and upwards.

Transportation Budget

Maybe transport is the cheapest service in Ecuador. A bus ride will cost US$0.20 and a taxi ride will cost between US$1 to US$5. If you want more information about transport make a click in our transport link.

Ecuador Taxes

Good quality restaurants and hotels will add a 12% tax to your bill, and another 10% for service charge.

Tips

Tourist guides, porters, waiters and other people related to the tourist industry will expect a tip from you, but taxi drivers wont. up^

How good is the communication network in Ecuador?

Telephone

Ecuador has a complete telephonic network that covers almost all the national territory including the Galapagos Islands. Big cities and towns have a good telephonic service so calling in and outside the country isn't complicated.You can find public phones in most of the public buildings in Quito, Guayaquil and the capital cities in each province. Also, there are call-centers in centric places where you can use the phone service at cheap rates.This call-centers are very popular in small towns and usually you may find fax service and sometimes internet.In Ecuador is very common to find telephones at small grocery stores located in each neighborhood. There aren't specific rates for this services, so it depends mostly in the owner of the phone.

Cellular and mobile telephones

There is an effective coverage of cellular phone service through the entire Country. Despite our difficult geography, it's possible to communicate from remote areas such as the Amazon jungle or the Galapagos Islands, but some isolated places like the highlands or the mangroves may be a little bit harder. At the international airports or at the cellular phone shops you can rent mobile telephones.Cellular phone cabins are also very common. They work with cards, and you may find these cabins and the cards at gas stations, restaurants, streets, malls and airports.

Internet

The internet is also very popular in all the cities and towns. There are hundreds of "coffee-nets" in the commercial and touristic areas that offer net2phone, email, internet and fax services at very reasonable prices.Internet is expanding very fast and is easy to find at least one computer center at any neighborhood of a big city. Service in this places is better in touristic areas, and the rates may depend on the category of the computer center, but rates are cheap most of the times.

Mail

The traditional mail service is pretty good too. In urban centers it is faster and more effective rather than in small country-side towns so it's better to wait until you reach a post office to send a card or a box. Mailboxes are not very common but in Ecuador, so you may have to find the post offices. Also at many hotels you will find this service.Mail is cheap compared to other countries in the region. There are also many private mail companies and their rates may vary depending on the service. up^

How good is the transportation network in Ecuador?

Getting around Ecuador and its cities is pretty easy, however, you should know some tips for traveling in a fast and safe way.

Urban Buses

You may get anywhere in a big city by just taking a bus. It’s a really cheap service (USD 0.20) and there are a lot of “only seated” units. Buses begin to circulate early in the morning (06 a.m.) but they do not stay in the streets too late (9 p.m.). Even though it’s a popular way of moving around, it has some negative aspects. Bus drivers, not always respect the bus stops and sometimes they stop anywhere, which means you will be late. But some other times they are in a big rush so you should request them to make a full stop. There are many new buses, and there are another many that aren’t so new which means comfort is not always guaranteed.

The Trolley and the Ecoway

It’s the most modern and efficient urban transport in the country. Big articulate buses run through exclusive ways and still bus stops. The service is cheap (USD 0.20) and it runs along the city from one side to the other. You can use also the integrated bus service (units that work exclusively for the trolley and the ecoway). Buses are new and the bus stops are well distributed in the city. You may be a little bit tight in the rush hours. This service exists only in Quito from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Taxis

Cabs are also a very popular way to move around in big cities. In a general way, the service is good, cars are new and drivers are pleased to help tourists. The cost depends on the taximeter, but an average ride will be between USD 1.50 to USD 2. At night will be hard to find a taxi driver using the taximeter, even though it’s illegal, but they would not charge more than USD 2 to USD 3. If you come from or go to the airport, they will charge some extra money. (Between USD 3 to USD 5). It’s safer to use a radio taxi at night. This units work with radios and you must call them from a telephone. The cab will be there in no more than 5 minutes with no extra charge. Taxis work 24 hours.

Buses for provinces

The easiest and cheapest way to travel inside Ecuador is in a bus. You may get anywhere in the Country just by taking one or two buses. Costs may vary due to distance and the quality of service. There are some express buses which means that they would not stop in any town until you get to your destination. Many transport companies have new units, with bathroom, TV and comfortable chairs. Some even serve some snacks during your travel.

If you want to take one of these buses, you should locate the ground terminals in each city. There you will find a huge offer of companies for any destination in the Country.

Some transportation companies have their own ground terminal. Frequency of the trips are wide and they work 24 hours.

If you want more information on ground transport companies and terminals make a click in Ground Terminals

Airplanes

Ecuador has one of the best domestic air transportation system in the region. Twelve cities have their airports and are served by local air companies. Costs vary depending in distance and service. The longest flight inside Ecuador may take 45 minutes, with the exception of the Galapagos Islands which may take like an hour and a half.

Trains

There is a train system in Ecuador but it is much used as tourist attraction rather than a transport system. This train was known as one of the hardest in the whole world because it runs through the Andes between huge cliffs, canyons and rivers. If you are in a hurry don’t count on it because it is too old and slow, but is one of the greatest ways to know Ecuador. It’s hard to know the departure and arriving schedules of the train and you must inform yourself about which lines are working. In any travel agency will help you in this adventure over rails.

Boats, motor boats and canoes

There are many places in Ecuador that can only be reached in a boat, by the sea or by the river. In all these towns or destinies you will find people with motor boats or canoes which offer transportation. Costs vary depending distance and the destiny, in some cases, inhabitants will be happy to take you for free so you can show your gratefulness with a tip. If it has a cost, you may discuss it with the owner before you get inside the boat. up^

What safety precautions should I take?

Ecuador is considered one of the safer countries in the Andean Region, however, it is always a good idea to be cautious during your visit. Ecuador's urban centers, especially Quito and Guayaquil, are generally more dangerous than the countryside. The best way to prevent crime is using your common sense and reduce the likelihood of being a crime victim by following a few basic precautions:

Safety in the City
  • Travel with trustworthy companions.
  • Find out where the unsafe sectors are and avoid them. Find out which are the best hours to visit tourist sites.
  • Keep all important documents in a secure place, such as an inner pocket or a pouch that is hidden under a layer of clothing.
  • Make copies of your important documents, such as passport, travel ticket and card numbers. Leave originals in a safe box in your hotel. Keep always a copy of your passport with you.
  • Carry travelers checks and credit cards instead of large sums of cash.
  • Walk confidently with your head up. Never stare at the ground, it makes you look nervous and weak.
  • When you feel unsafe listen to your instincts. If you get that feeling grab a taxi or go into a place with lots of people.
  • Be wary of people who are too friendly too quickly, or that offer to show you around. Use your judgement.
  • Don't wear expensive jewelry or wristwatches. They make you a target.
  • Your cameras are also valuable, take them inside your bag or keep them out of sight.
  • Keep an eye on your carry shoulder-bags and purses. Take them in front of you in crowded places.
  • Keep all bags and other valuables where you can see them in restaurants, ground terminals, and other public places.
  • Change your currency in a bank or in your hotel. Don’t do it in the street
  • If you rent a car, park it in parking lots, don’t leave valuable objects in the car.
  • Don’t take hitchhikers.
Safety Outside the of City
  • Watch out for the security terms in National Parks. Use the paths.
  • Before getting into the sea, ask if there is any dangerous zone. Ask about the tides. If you feel that a strong current is taking you apart from the shore, swim in parallel in relation to the coast until you reach the shore. Maintain calm
Special recommendations

Avoid travelling by yourself if you plan to visit the Ecuadorian northern border (limit with Colombia). We recommend to use a travel agency’s service. At this moment subversive groups operate in Colombia, a few miles from the Ecuadorian border. Even though there hasn’t been known any cases of assaults lately, is better to prevent.

Passports

Always carry your passport while traveling in Ecuador. Police checks are semi-frequent and it may be a problem if you are caught without your documents. However, if you are staying in Quito, Guayaquil or another large city for an extended period, it is advisable that you carry only a copy of your passport. Most foreign embassies provide their citizens with an "official" copy of their passport that is recognized by Ecuadorian law. Report lost or stolen passports immediately to your embassy or consulate. up^

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