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Today
10:53 pm
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Travel warning
Parts of the country, including the main coastal tourist areas and beach regions, are facing significant violence and armed crime, which has led to a state of emergency and curfews in several provinces.
Weather in Ecuador
Ecuador
16°
Slight rain showers
Wed
10
16
Thu
10
14
Fri
10
15
Sat
10
15
Sun
10
16
SPF level in Ecuador
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Ecuador
Tipping in Ecuador
Tipping is appreciated in Ecuador for good service, but not always mandatory. A service charge is sometimes included in restaurant bills, so check before tipping.
Restaurant
5-10% if service is not included
Bar/Café
A few coins or small bills for good service
Taxi
Round up the fare or a small tip for good service
Hotel Porter
$1-2 per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
$1-2 per night
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour cost
Safety in Ecuador
Tips for British travellers
Ecuador is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Always carry a printed copy of your passport, including the page with your photo and Ecuador entry stamp, as you are legally required to carry ID.
Be aware that mugging, pickpocketing, and bag snatching are common in areas like Quito's old town, transport hubs, and on tourist bus routes.
Use registered yellow taxis with official municipality stickers and agree on the fare before your journey, as unregistered taxis significantly increase the risk of crime.
Take great care when withdrawing money from ATMs, use machines inside banks or shopping centres, and avoid doing so after dark due to the risk of violent robbery.
Do not accept offers of food, drinks, or samples from strangers as criminals may use the drug scopolamine, which can be absorbed through the skin to subdue and rob you.
Bonus tips:
Be alert to the use of 'date rape' drugs in drinks, especially in popular beach towns like Montañita, and if you feel unwell, seek urgent help immediately.
There is a significant drowning risk at beaches from strong, rapidly changing ocean currents, and beaches do not always have safety warning flags, so seek local advice on tides.
Driving in Ecuador
A UK driving license is valid for tourists. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
100 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Ecuador drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Ecuador
Voltage
120V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The electrical voltage in Ecuador is 120V at 60Hz. Plugs types A and B are used. British travelers will require a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments in larger cities and tourist areas, but cash is still preferred in smaller towns and for smaller transactions.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
ATMs in Ecuador
ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, but less common in rural areas.
Local name
Cajero automático
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are generally a reliable way to access cash. Be aware of transaction fees charged by your bank and the local ATM.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, the EU roaming regulations no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Ecuador. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data.
Local SIM data package
5GB for 10 USD (~£8)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Claro, Movistar, CNT
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, restaurants, and cafes, especially in larger cities. Coverage can be limited in rural areas.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Free WiFi is often available, but the speed and reliability can vary. Consider a local SIM card with a data plan if you need a consistent connection.
Health & vaccinations in Ecuador
It is essential to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, before travelling to Ecuador. Ensure your insurance covers all planned activities, such as hiking or adventure sports. While Ecuador does not have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK, travel insurance will ensure you have access to quality medical care should you need it.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Dengue fever, Zika virus, and malaria are present in some regions of Ecuador, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and sleeping under mosquito nets. Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid ice in drinks. Food hygiene is important, so choose reputable places to eat.
Calling Ecuador
Country code
+593
To call Ecuador from the UK, dial 00 593 followed by the local number.
To call a Quito number (02 1234 567) from the UK, dial 00 593 2 1234 567.
The country code for Ecuador is 593. When calling Ecuador from abroad, you need to dial the exit code of your country (00 for the UK), followed by 593, and then the local number. Mobile numbers in Ecuador typically start with 9.
UK Embassy in Ecuador
British Embassy Quito
Ciudad de Quito, Avenida González Suárez N28-130 y Gonzalo Zaldumbide
Airports in Ecuador
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.