British holidaymakers heading to Ecuador are being warned to exercise increased caution as the South American nation faces a fresh wave of violence and political instability. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has confirmed that Ecuador has renewed a 60-day state of emergency across several provinces due to “internal disturbance and armed violence.”
The emergency measures, which began on April 12, include curfews and restrictions on movement in some areas. While Ecuador remains a popular destination known for its breathtaking biodiversity, from the Galapagos Islands to the Amazon rainforest, rising gang-related violence has sparked serious safety concerns.
The FCDO listed several provinces currently under the state of emergency, including:
In addition, curfews from 10pm to 5am have been imposed in several towns and districts across the affected provinces, such as Quevedo, Duran, Balao, and parts of Puerto Francisco de Orellana.
Travellers needing to transit during curfew hours, for example to reach the airport, may still do so by showing proof of flight reservations.
The country’s beauty is now overshadowed by its rapidly deteriorating security situation.
According to research by health insurance experts William Russell, Ecuador saw the largest global decline in its Peace Index score between 2023 and 2024, a 47.7-point drop attributed largely to gang and drug-related violence.
In response, President Daniel Noboa has classified 22 gangs as terrorist organisations, ramping up efforts to dismantle criminal networks. However, public fear remains high, with surveys showing 70% of Ecuadorians feel unsafe in their own communities after dark.
The UK government is not advising against all travel to Ecuador, but it is urging Britons to remain vigilant and “always follow the instructions of police and local authorities.”
The FCDO continues to advise against all but essential travel to certain regions, and travellers are encouraged to check the latest updates on the official FCDO website.
