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Travel to Ecuador

Encompassing the Amazonian Rainforest, the Andes Mountains along with picture-perfect beaches and rich environmental diversity, Ecuador is an array of native beauty and scenic sights all within a short distance from each other.

Thanks to the small size of this country, it’s a breeze to get around and to fit everything in. The two cities of Quito and Cuenco, are so rich in history and so architecturally delightful with Spanish influences that their centres are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Speaking of UNESCO sites, Ecuador is best known as the home of the Galapagos Islands, a sultry archipelago in the Pacific Ocean diverse and abundant with unusual marine life such as blue footed boobys and red rock crabs.

Whether in the mountains, rainforests, islands, or cities, you can expect nothing but kindness from the locals who will treat you like their ‘pana’ (buddy).

Small yet abundant and enchanting to say the least, Ecuador’s charm will have you yearning for round two!

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The Real Galapagos

The Ecuadorian culture is vibrant and full of life, blended with indigenous customs and European colonial influence. Ecuador’s population predominantly consists of mixed backgrounds which means you can experience entirely new micro-cultures between cities and villages.The country’s distinct architecture and artwork are a reflection of its heterogeneous community.

Best time to visit

Surprisingly, the wet season (December - May) is considered the best time to visit if you want to relax on the beaches, as it’s a lot warmer throughout the day with few tropical rainfalls in the afternoons.

April and May are exceptionally great months to visit, as the water is usually pristine off the Galapagos Islands. For those wanting to explore the Amazon, it's recommended you visit in the dry season (June - September).

Best places to visit

Straight from the ‘gram, travel inspiration.

Quito Tours & Holidays

You’ll need a breath in the  Ecuadorian  capital – acclimatise to the high altitude and just take in the magnificent setting of this mountain-backed city. Take a tour from Quito and explore a historic centre packed with churches and plazas, head outside of the city for active pursuits in Cotopaxi National Park, or trek further afield to some of the world’s most important natural habitats – the Amazon Jungle or the Galapagos Islands.

Tours to Quito

Quito should be as high on your to-go list as it is above sea level. The high-altitude Ecuadorian capital is high on sites – like the Old Town and numerous museums – and links to unforgettable destinations like the Galapagos Islands and the Amazon Jungle. Fly straight to one of the world’s most unique wildlife spots, or maybe discover more of  Ecuador  – like the hot springs of Banos or the mountains of Cotopaxi National Park – in a country that's more than just a jumping off point.

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Tours from Quito

Quito tour reviews.

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Ultimate Galapagos: Central Islands (Grand Daphne)

Best of Galapagos

Galapagos Explorer: Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Classic Galapagos: Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Ecuador travel advice

Latest updates: Need help? - removed information on the temporary closure of the Honorary Consul of Canada to Ecuador, in Guayaquil

Last updated: April 29, 2024 09:01 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, ecuador - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Ecuador due to high levels of crime.

Border areas - Avoid all travel

• Carchi (except for the Panamerican Highway which connects to the official border crossing with Colombia at Tulcán/Ipiales)
• Sucumbíos

Minefields near the southern portion of the border with Peru - Avoid all travel

Esmeraldas province, parts of el oro, guayas and los ríos provinces - avoid non-essential travel.

• the province of Esmeraldas
• Durán
• Bastión Popular
• El Fortín
• Flor de Bastión
• Las Orquídeas
• Monte Bello
• Monte Sinaí
• Nueva Prosperina
• Paraíso de la Flor

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Nationwide energy shortage

Power outages are planned for 3 to 7 hours every day due to national energy shortages. An official schedule provides advance notice of the planned power outages. However, they can also occur with very little notice.

Power outages can affect the following services and businesses:

• public lighting and traffic lights
• telecommunications and security systems
• stores and food supply
• hotels and other accommodations
• banks and ATMs

If you're in Ecuador:

• make sure you always have a complete emergency kit on hand, including several flashlights
• always carry a cell phone, power banks, chargers and a list of emergency numbers
• keep a sufficient supply of water, food and fuel on hand
• monitor local media
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Useful links

• List of planned outages – Quito Electric Company(in Spanish)
• List of planned outages – Guayaquil Electric Company (in Spanish)

State of internal armed conflict

On January 9, 2024, the Government of Ecuador declared a nationwide state of “internal armed conflict” to allow security forces to better respond to a sharp increase in gang violence across the country, including in Guayaquil and Quito. There are reports of small explosions, attacks on businesses, and car burnings.

If you are in Ecuador:

• expect an increased police and military presence, especially near prisons
• carry your ID at all times

Border areas

Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence.

Criminal groups are active in the border area with Colombia. Criminal activities include:

• drug trafficking
• armed assault

Work to clear landmines in certain areas near the border with Peru is still ongoing. See the Regional Risks, above, for specific locations.

Criminal activity has been reported near the border crossing at Huaquillas, where we advise against non-essential travel. If you do cross the border by land from Peru, do so during daylight hours and ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Crime rates are high in Ecuador.

Arrest and detention rates are low and contribute to high levels of criminality. Infiltration within the security forces by local gangs weakens law enforcement even further.

Violent crime

Violent crime is a significant concern throughout Ecuador. Drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and street gang activity is prevalent. Violent incidents include:

• armed robberies
• kidnappings
• home invasions
• sexual assaults
• car-jacking

These crimes occur even during the day in tourist destinations. Tourists, including Canadians, have been assaulted:

• in downtown areas
• on hiking trails
• in public parks
• outside banks

While you're in Ecuador:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• avoid travelling after dark, and in isolated or deserted areas
• avoid showing signs of affluence
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
• don’t resist if you’re threatened, hand over your cash and valuables immediately

Tourist police officers are present in major cities, including Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca.

Organized crime

Criminal gang activity has increased in recent years, particularly in the coastal provinces of El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí and Santa Elena. Since late 2022, the use of explosives has increased, especially in coastal provinces. Targets have included small businesses, gas stations, government offices, and bridges.

Organized criminal groups and gangs commit crimes such as targeted killings, express kidnapping, and armed robberies. They generally use knives and guns, and occasionally explosives.

Although tourists are not usually targeted, you may find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time and caught in the crossfire.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and car break-ins, occurs daily in major cities.

Thieves often work in teams to divert the victims and snatch their possessions. Groups of street children selling candies are sometimes engaged in this type of team operation.

Thefts commonly occur in:

• popular tourist areas
• public transportation, especially city and inter-city buses
• bus terminals and airports
• shopping malls
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants, including patios

To avoid becoming a victim:

• keep a low profile when walking in public areas
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items
• avoid hitchhiking
• be suspicious of recent acquaintances or strangers approaching you
• avoid accepting rides or invitations from strangers

The number of kidnappings, especially express kidnappings, has significantly increased since 2022. Kidnappers mainly target locals, but foreigners have also been targeted. Many victims have been rescued by the police. Some victims are released in exchange for ransom.

While you’re in Ecuador:

• choose accommodation with good security measures
• keep your doors and windows locked at all times
• check your car for suspicious markings after leaving it parked on the street
• if you're kidnapped, comply with the kidnappers’ demands and don’t resist

Express kidnappings

These kidnappings are often committed by organised gangs, sometimes in collaboration with taxi or rideshare drivers. Kidnappers may take their victims to an ATM and force them to make a cash withdrawal, or else hold their victims for a few days and force them to make online bank transfers before releasing them.

• Use only reputable taxi companies
• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• Use the security features in rideshare apps
• If you’re threatened, don’t resist

Credit card and ATM fraud may occur. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Police officers sometimes try to extort drivers by threatening detention or confiscating identity documents.

If police threaten you with a fine:

• remain calm and courteous but firm
• show original documents but keep them in your possession
• try to cooperate by following the instructions of police to avoid escalation
• ask for a clear explanation of the offence and a written fine that can be paid at a police station
• don’t pay a bribe to anyone
• call 911 to report the incident to the National Police

National Police  – Ecuador (in Spanish)

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations occur frequently.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Ecuadorian law prohibits political activities by foreigners. You may face detention if you take part in demonstrations or political activities.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Incidents of attacks and sexual assault against foreign women, including rape and murder, have been reported throughout the country, particularly in tourist areas. Even women travelling in pairs have been targeted.

• Choose accommodation with good security measures
• Be suspicious of recent acquaintances or strangers approaching you
• Avoid hospitality exchange arrangements, such as couch-surfing
• Avoid accepting rides or invitations from strangers
• Recommendations for female travellers – Ecuador ministry of tourism
• Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. Incidents can occur in various locations, including buses, nightclubs and bars.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Scopolamine

Scopolamine is a drug that temporarily incapacitates unsuspecting victims, who become disoriented quickly and are vulnerable to crime.

Thieves may slip the drug into food and drinks, smear it on papers, or blow it into the face of the victim. They often work in teams, with an attractive woman or man who eases their victim into a false sense of security.

Incidents occur in nightclubs, bars and restaurants, on public transportation and in the streets. They occur most frequently in larger cities.

Use extreme caution when dealing with strangers offering pamphlets, requesting information, or selling street wares.

Indigenous shamanic ceremonies

The consumption of ayahuasca is common during indigenous shamanic ceremonies in Ecuador. These ceremonies are not regulated. The safety of the facilities, services, operators, or shamans cannot be assessed. They often take place in remote areas without access to medical facilities, emergency services or telecommunications.

The consumption of ayahuasca has caused serious medical complications, including cognitive and physical impairment. Several tourists, including Canadians, have died while taking part in such ceremonies. Some have also been assaulted or injured.

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Most beaches don’t have lifeguards or warning flags.

• Only undertake scuba diving and other water activities with a well-established company
• Don’t swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Monitor weather warnings

This advice applies to both mainland Ecuador and to the Galápagos Islands.

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as snorkelling, diving, surfing, white water rafting, horseback riding, parasailing, hiking, trekking and other adventure activities, can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in the dry season.

Avalanches pose a risk in Ecuador. They can be fatal, even with light snow accumulations. Tourists, including Canadians, have died in avalanches on Ecuadorian volcanoes.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and don’t part with your expedition companions
• consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company certified by the Ministry of Tourism
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity
• carry an avalanche beacon, a mobile phone and a fully charged battery pack to generate your position in case of emergency
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary

If you require emergency assistance in a remote area, find an area with a signal and call 911 so that authorities can geolocate your phone and send help more quickly.

Ministry of Tourism  – Government of Ecuador

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety vary throughout the country. Accidents causing fatalities are common.

Road conditions

Road conditions are generally in fair conditions in urban areas. However, they remain poorly maintained in rural areas.

Heavy rain and mudslides often close or wash out roads. Driving in Ecuador may be hazardous due to:

• unmarked speed bumps
• large pot holes
• poorly maintained vehicles
• traffic lights on major highways
• heavy traffic, especially on weekends and statutory holidays
• stray livestock in rural areas  
• heavy fog in mountainous areas

Driving habits

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They may drive at excessive speed and be reckless. Drinking and driving is frequent. 

If you drive in Ecuador:

• always drive defensively and maintain heightened awareness
• plan your trip ahead of time, especially if you plan to visit a rural area
• avoid road travelling alone and at night
• carry a cell phone and a charger
• always keep your gas tank fullkeep your car doors locked and the windows closed at all times
• do not leave valuables within reach or in plain sight and unattended

Public transportation

Many buses are not safe. Some are poorly maintained and often overcrowded. They lack safety equipment. Drivers are reckless. They often make illegal stops to pick up passengers. Robberies and assault occur regularly, especially in the Guayaquil area.

Avoid using local or intercity public buses. 

Taxis are generally safe to take during the day. They are easily available in urban areas.

Ride-sharing apps are also popular in Ecuador. They are usually a safe option to move around.

Incidents of assault and express kidnapping have occurred at night.

• Use official taxis with orange plates only
• Never share a taxi with strangers 
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers along the way to your destination
• Note driver’s name and plate number
• Ask the driver to start the meter or negotiate the fare in advance
• Have small bills ready for payment

Ferries 

Ferry accidents have occurred mostly due to severe weather conditions or poor safety measures. 

Some boats are poorly maintained and overloaded. 

If you decide to travel by ferry:

• use only a reliable company
• make sure appropriate safety equipment is available 
• make sure you have access to a lifejacket at all times 
• don't board a boat that appears overloaded or unseaworthy

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur.

Take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Ecuadorian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

entry_restrictions_at_land_and_river_borders_with_peru_and_colombia

Entry restrictions at land and river borders with Peru and Colombia

On January 11, 2024, the Government of Ecuador announced new entry restrictions as part of the ongoing state of internal armed conflict.

All foreigners entering Ecuador at crossing points with land or river borders with Peru and Colombia will need to present a criminal records check from their country of origin or residence. Both the original criminal record check and the Spanish translation must be apostilled and cover the past five years. Minors travelling with their family members will generally be exempt.

The Apostille Convention took effect in Canada on January 11, 2024. An apostille is a standard certificate allowing documents to be accepted in all countries where the convention is in effect.

• Migration information – Ecuador Immigration Agency (in Spanish)
• Changes to authentication services in Canada
• Authentication of documents

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Ecuador.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days per period of 12 months  Business visa: not required Student visa: not required

Entry stamp

Make sure your passport is stamped upon arrival. You may face significant problems if you fail to present an entry-stamped passport when departing Ecuador.  

Many tourists, including Canadians, have not stopped to get their passports stamped when arriving by land from Peru. When they try to leave the country later on, for example by airplane out of Quito, they are often required to return to the Peruvian border to obtain an entry stamp at the place of entry.

Stay extension

You may extend your stay for an additional 90-day period once. If you decide to do so while you are in Ecuador, you must obtain a visa from the immigration authorities before the entry stamp you received upon arrival expires.

If you overstay the initial 90-day period without the required extension or the 180-day period without the required visa, you may face:

• denied entry for one year

Local authorities may also add your name to the immigration records. As a result, you would have to request a visa at an Ecuadorian embassy or consulate before re-entering the country.

• Migration Ecuador  – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
• Visas - Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
• Extension of stay – Ministry of Interior (in Spanish)

Galápagos Islands

To enter the Galápagos Islands, you must present:

• personal identification
• the Galápagos Transit Control Card obtained online at least 24 hours before time of departure
• a return ticket

The maximum stay for tourists is 60 days in a 1-year period.

Guidelines for entering Galápagos  - Galápagos Governing Council (in Spanish)

Amazon region

Some Indigenous groups require permits to enter their territory. If you are planning on visiting the Amazon region, ensure that you have the required documentation prior to entering the area.

Children and travel

To leave the country, children born in Ecuador to a Canadian parent must:

• be registered with the Ecuadorian Civil Registry
• obtain an Ecuadorian passport
• present valid Ecuadorian and Canadian passports

Minor dual citizens - under 18 - travelling alone with both passports must have a letter of consent from both parents. This letter should:

• authorize the travel and stipulate the destination and duration of the intended trip
• be legally certified and translated into Spanish
• be notarized at the Embassy of Ecuador or an Ecuadorian consulate in Canada

Canadian minors travelling alone as tourists with Canadian passports don’t need this authorization letter.

• Travelling with children
• Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever  is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*    

Proof of vaccination is required if you are arriving from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, or have transited through an airport in one of these countries.

Recommendation          

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability. The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Public medical services and facilities remain below Canadian standards, especially in rural areas. Medical facilities lack medical supplies.

Private hospitals and clinics offer better health care, but services are often expensive. Doctors typically require upfront payment. They may only speak Spanish.

Emergency services may not be available outside major cities. In the Galápagos Islands, you will likely require medical evacuation in case of a serious condition. The wait time to be evacuated can be up to 48 hours as there is no air ambulance service based on the islands.

Medical evacuations can be extremely expensive.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medications

Some prescription medication may not be available in Ecuador.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a paper and an electronic copy of your prescriptions

Altitude sickness

Some cities and major tourist attractions are located at more than 2700 metres above sea level. In some parts of the country, you may experience health problems due to high altitudes.

Altitude sickness can range from mild to severe symptoms, which in extreme cases can be fatal. It may require immediate medical evacuation.

• Know about the symptoms of altitude sickness
• Find out how to prevent or reduce the effects of altitude sickness

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Ecuador are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Ecuador to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Ecuadorian authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

You may also be found guilty by association if they have criminal associates. For instance, drivers could be held responsible for passengers carrying drugs in their luggage.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases
• Avoid picking up hitchhikers

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your ID at any time.

• Carry valid identification or a photocopy of it at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Investments

Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

If you plan to buy property, or making other investments in Ecuador:

• seek legal advice in Canada and in Ecuador before making commitments
• choose your own lawyer
• avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Ecuador.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Ecuador, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Ecuador.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Ecuador, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Ecuadorian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Ecuador to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You can drive up to 6 months with your valid Canadian driver’s licence.

There is a traffic restriction based on the last digit of the vehicle licence plate number in Quito. You may be heavily fined and your vehicle temporarily seized if you fail to respect the restricted part of the city on the weekday (Monday to Friday) corresponding to your plate number.

If you are involved in a road accident-causing injuries, you will be temporarily detained, regardless of culpability. Detention may last until responsibility for the accident has been assigned and all parties are satisfied.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency in Ecuador is the U.S. dollar (USD).

Credit cards are accepted by many businesses.

El Niño

The effects of El Niño are expected to begin in November 2023. Severe weather mostly affects places lower than 1500 metres above sea level and could result in problems such as:

• above-average temperatures

Secretariat of Risk Management – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)

The complex weather phenomenon called El Niño happens at irregular intervals of 2 to 7 years. In Ecuador, El Niño generally generates heavy rainfalls for 6 to 9 months, occurring at the same time as the rainy season from October to May.

• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts before and during your travels, and plan accordingly.
• Ensure you have adequate insurance to cover the consequences of such events, including the disruption of travel plans.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Ecuador is in an active seismic area. Earthquakes and tremors occur regularly. 

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

Tsunami warnings may be issued after a strong earthquake. A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor.

If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

• Alerts Ecuador - Risk Management Secretariat (in Spanish)
• Tsunami Early Warning System – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
• Earthquakes - What to Do?
• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts - U.S. Tsunami Warning System

Ecuadorian authorities are closely monitoring multiple volcanoes which are active:

• Chiles-Cerro Negro
• Guagua Pichincha
• Sierra Negra

Access to the Cotopaxi National Park could be restricted at any time without notice.

There are several volcanoes on the mainland and on the Galápagos Islands, including around Quito and the tourist communities of Baños and Riobamba. 

Eruptions could occur at any time.  They sometimes lead to evacuations of surrounding areas on short notice. Volcanic ash fall may also disrupt domestic and international flights and cause the closure of major highways.

Exposure to falling ash and toxic fumes from active volcanoes can affect your health.

 If you are planning to travel near active volcanoes:

• consult a physician in advance to determine associated health risks if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• familiarize yourself with local emergency plans
• avoid restricted areas
• be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice

In the event of a volcanic eruption:

• pay careful attention to all warnings issued for national parks
• monitor local media to stay informed of the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Instituto Geofisico  - Ecuador’s geophysical institute (in Spanish)

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from December to May.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged. Underpasses may fill quickly with water.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology  – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)
• Road Conditions and Closures  – ECU911 (in Spanish)

Wildfires are common between June and September.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology – Government of Ecuador (in Spanish)

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Ecuador, in Quito, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613-996-8885.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Nuestra misión es brindar experiencias turísticas memorables y auténticas que enriquezcan la vida de nuestros viajeros y contribuyan al desarrollo sostenible de las comunidades locales en Ecuador y más allá. Nos esforzamos por ofrecer servicios turísticos de la más alta calidad, promoviendo la conservación del entorno natural y cultural, fomentando el respeto por la diversidad y la preservación de nuestro patrimonio histórico y natural.

Ser reconocidos como el principal referente en el sector turístico a nivel nacional e internacional, caracterizados por la excelencia en la atención al cliente, la innovación en nuestros itinerarios y servicios, y el compromiso con la sostenibilidad y la responsabilidad social. Nuestro objetivo es convertirnos en una empresa líder que inspire a otros en la industria turística a seguir prácticas éticas y sostenibles, y a contribuir al desarrollo integral de las comunidades y destinos en los que operamos.

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Meet Gulliver Expeditions

Gulliver values the preservation of our beautiful environment. For the organization of all tours, we work closely with local and indigenous communities. What’s more, we support important projects such as ecological markets, gardening, and fruit growing.  Additionally, since 2013, Gulliver is committed to supporting children in difficult conditions.  As a result, Lucy in the Andes was created to educate young women in rural communities.

Eran Hayoun

Owner and manager of the Gulliver Expeditions Company is Eran Hayoun. Eran immigrated to Ecuador from Israel in 2001 at the age of 26 with the goal of starting a self-sufficient, organic farm in the western highlands. He discovered the “Hacienda Bolivia” after six months of looking, and he immediately got to work building a Hosteria (farmhouse). Eran opened “Hosteria PapaGayo” on March 27th, 2002, for those who wish to take in the beauty and charm of this place. Eran founded Gulliver Expeditions three years later to expand services and provide trips all around the country.

Jeremy Le Cam

Jeremy, a French employee of Gulliver’s Quito office, is the Operations and Sales Supervisor. In 2008, he visited Ecuador and fell in love with it. He has visited several locations and is well-versed in the nation. He worked as a guide for the tourism sector while studying tourism in France. He joined Gulliver in 2010 and has since been imparting his wisdom. Over the years he became an expert for Ecuador, Peru, The Galapagos islands and Bolivia. French is Jeremy’s mother tongue, and he also speaks English and Spanish very well.

Tania Albuja

Tania has worked for more than 26 years and trained to become a national tourism guide, but she decided against applying because she preferred working in the office in the operations department. She has expertise in many areas, including sales, operations, and logistics. She has gained knowledge of the habits and traditions of customers who have travelled to the nation during the course of her profession.

Jahaira Viracocha

At the University of Tourism Specialties, Jahaira pursued a National Tourism Guide Degree. She has a strong sense of adventure and trekking, loves her nation, and adores discovering new locations. She works in the operations division and is responsible for organising each passenger’s logistics to ensure that their trip is one to remember.

Angie De La Bastida

Angie is a captivating blend of Polish and Ecuadorian heritage. With a native command of Polish, but her linguistic prowess extends to both English and Spanish. She’s an intrepid explorer, deeply passionate about the wonders of nature. Her heart belongs to the world, and she’s a true connoisseur of breathtaking destinations. Within our team, Angie takes on the pivotal role in our operations department, overseeing the intricate web of logistical coordination with unwavering dedication to excellence. Her mission is to make each client’s vacation not just a reality but the most enchanting dream of their lives.

Carmen María Minga

Carmen, an Amazonian native, relocated to Quito to further her education and earned a degree in hotel business management. She is our sales specialist and is really passionate about both travel and the environment. She will assist you in planning your custom vacation to the greatest locations in Ecuador, the Galapagos, Peru, and Bolivia.

Ely Rosales

Elízabeth earned a degree in engineering management tourism marketing companies from the University of Quito. She has worked in the tourist industry since 2005 and is well familiar with every region in Ecuador. She specialises in custom vacations. Elízabeth oversees Gulliver’s tour operators, lodgings, travel arrangements, and service bookings for both mainland and Galapagos itineraries.

Jessenia Morales

Jessenia is an expert in financial procedures, tax compliance, as well as matters relating to payroll and employee benefits. She graduated from Universidad Central del Ecuador with a degree in Accounting and Auditing Engineering. Throughout her time in college, she worked in outsourcing accounting until joining the group in 2014. She is a crucial member of our business since she works in the accounting division and serves as the primary point of contact for our suppliers. She likes spending her leisure time with her family and seeing different regions of Ecuador.

Are you interested in Quito tours, a mountain climbing program, or a custom-designed program?  Contact us today!

How can we help you plan your trip.

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Our Offices

Ecuador Main Office

Mariscal Foch E 7-38 y Reina Victoria

Reina Victoria Bldg. 1st Floor, Quito

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Av.Sol 457   Ofi 307 Cusco, Peru

Office +51 910 646 748/ +593 99 357 9690

Whatsapp: +51 935 438403

ABOUT GULLIVER EXPEDITIONS

Gulliver Expeditions is a tour operator that offers unique   Ecuador   and Peru tours. Specialized in adventure travel such as climbing , mountain biking and horseback riding .   We offer both pre-planned packages as well as tailor-made tours that can include the Amazon rainforest , once-in-a-lifetime Galapagos cruises   and expeditions to  Machu Picchu.

Gulliver Terms and Conditions  

Nº de Registro Turístico: 1791994876001.001.9000310

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Quito | Cotopaxi | Baños | Riobamba | Cuenca

ARRIVE TO QUITO

Arrive in Quito. Meet and greet with your bilingual guide; then transfer to the Patio Andaluz hotel. Two nights, in double room, including breakfast, hotel tax and service charge.

Equator Tour

QUITO CITY AND EQUATOR TOUR

This interesting and renovated city tour starts with a visit of the Itchimbia neighborhood, which is a place that offers a spectacular view of the old and new city. Then you will visit the old colonial Quito starting in Santo Domingo Plaza walking through one of the oldest streets in the town “La Ronda Street” where you will see how the colonial houses were built and how the Quiteños lived in the 17 th century. Your walk takes you through the city museum to San Francisco Plaza, making a quick stop to try the typical sweets of Quito. San Francisco is the oldest church in Quito and it is full of history and legends.

Finally, you will tour the main square where the presidential palace, the main cathedral and some other important buildings can be appreciated. La Compañía de Jesus church is one of the most beautiful churches in South America, or perhaps, in the world. This is the last treasure to be visited in our program before your guide takes you to the equator. Once there, you will visit a very interesting museum, INTI NAN, where you will learn about the different cultures in Ecuador and some interesting facts about the Equator.

BANOS FULL DAY AND RIOBAMBA

After breakfast, take a spectacular route along the gorge of the Pastaza River to the town of Baños, right at the foot of Tungurahua Volcano, from where the thermal waters that gave it its name emerge.  Drive along the Route of the Cascades to El Pailón del Diablo (the Devil’s Cauldron) where the most adventurous will descend (medium difficulty) to observe the impressive cascade up close, surrounded by subtropical vegetation.  The force and sound of the waters can also be appreciated from a lookout point without descending.  Lunch is served at an hacienda / hostel in the surroundings, and in the afternoon you will enjoy a short stroll along Baños, a town with an international pulse, full of people from all over the world as well as many locals who take pilgrimages to the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Holy Water.

DEVIL´S NOSE TRAIN – INGAPIRCA – CUENCA

This day you will wake up very early to be on time at the train station. Train journeys in Ecuador are a sure adventure, the Trans-Andean Railroad is a spectacular tourist attraction for the variety of climates and fantastic natural and cultural scenery along the journey. Moreover, the trains themselves are a colourful part of the landscape. On your way to the train station in Alausi, drive by Cajabamba and the Colta lagoons, and the small Guamote village then climb to a little picturesque town in the highlands called Alausi, which is the beating heart of the rehabilitation of the Ecuadorian Railway Company in the last years.  Great effort has been made to restore the 100-year old train to its old glory and romance. From Alausi comes the most exhilarating part of the journey; said to be one of the most spectacular portions of railway in the world.

The train zigzags up and down 45 degree gradient called “Devil’s Nose” in a breathtaking way. The train goes backwards on the way down, arriving to the station of Sibambe where you will have some time to wander around. The train then goes back up the Devil’s Nose to return to Alausi. After the train ride you will continue driving south towards Cuenca with a stop at the Ingapirca ruins.

Ingapirca means “Incas stone wall” and it’s the most important archaeological site in Ecuador. The massive fortress of Ingapirca, a complex built by the Incas on top of an old Cañari settlement, is the only remaining of a major monument of the Inca Empire in Ecuador. You will arrive to Cuenca where you will stay two nights at hotel Santa Lucia in one double room incl breakfast and local taxes.

Note: If the train is not available on this day, we will continue the tour by car.  

HALF DAY CITY TOUR OF CUENCA

Cuenca was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. It is the third largest city in the country and is referred to as “the Athens of Ecuador” for its many contributions to the field of literature. The city is located in the southern part of the country and is crossed by four rivers which give it a unique landscape.

The historic centre is the most visited site in the city because it dates from the 16th century. The architecture is an eclectic mix of European styles, mainly Spanish and French. Stroll through the cobblestone streets to visit the various squares housing churches, flower markets, and Panama hat makers! After lunch you will have time to explore the city on your own.

TRANSFER TO GUAYAQUIL WITH STOP AT CAJAS NATIONAL PARK

After breakfast, drive out of Cuenca to the Cajas National Park. The tour will begin with a walk through a beautiful, glacial valley (elevation: 3,100 meters). This part of the park is a cloud forest, and home to a wide array of birds. Forests are rare at elevations as high as 4,000 meters, however El Cajas National Park is home to quinua forests, also known as “paper tree” forests. The bark of this tree is literally paper thin. In the afternoon, you will continue on to Guayaquil and check-in at hotel Wyndham, one night, one room (double occupancy), including breakfast, hotel tax and service charge.

TRANSFER OUT

Pick up by your guide at the hotel front desk & transfer out for your flight home or Galapagos.

Program includes:

• Private transportation
• English speaking guide all over the tour
• Accommodations at hotels mentioned (or similar)
• Daily Breakfasts

Not included:

• Entrance fees
• Meals not mentioned
• Personal expenses
• Gratuities for guides & transportation

Interested in this trip? Call (866) 558-1003

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As a married couple, Charles and Ray Eames gave shape, literally, to America's mid-to late 20th century. Most of us know them as furniture designers, but they also designed hundreds of other products, from airplane stabilizers to magazine covers to various types of tools. The Eames Institute presently holds more than 40,000 artifacts including prototypes, products and items not originally designed to be retained or preserved but have been collected or retained.

As one of the most popular destinations in the world, the Scottish Highlands is unmatched when it comes to green mountains, lush glens and vast lakes. Being able to see it in all its beauty can be a challenge when considering just how large it is, and finding a place to stay that grants easy access to some of the most scenic spots in the Highlands is important.

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Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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2024 Vermund Global Health Travel Award

Dr. Sten H. Vermund was the founding director of the Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health (VIGH). The Sten H. Vermund Awards for Excellence in Global Health recognize Vanderbilt University School of Medicine (VUSM) students who have demonstrated a strong commitment to improving the health of all people through distinguished global health scholarship, education, training, and/or service.  

The annual $1,500 award supports one medical, public health or doctoral level student at VUSM to gain experience in global health while they are enrolled in their academic program at Vanderbilt. Funding can be used to support their global health research, service, or training travel-related costs.

Julia Landivar Donato , a MPH Global Health track student, is dedicated to enhancing childhood nutrition health outcomes and addressing health disparities within underrepresented communities, particularly the Hispanic population. A native of Texas, Julia is trilingual in English, Spanish and Portuguese. While in college, Julia completed both a Baylor Medical Spanish Certification and a Global Engagement Certification. Both of these certificate programs spanned multiple years and included research projects. They equipped Julia with competencies in cross-cultural communication and engagement. Julia is currently a research assistant with the COACH study in the VUMC Department of Pediatrics. In this role, she collects data from research participants to provide behavioral intervention for childhood obesity among Latino preschool-aged children. She will pursue a global health practicum from May to June 2024 in the municipalities of Manizales and Victoria Trails in Colombia to fulfill her MPH practicum requirements. 

Julia is partnering with the Ministry of Health in Columbia to investigate nutrition's effect on primary school students' academic performance from a rural school in the Municipality of Victoria compared to a rural school in the Municipality of Manizales in the Department of Caldas. They hope to characterize the nutrition levels of primary school students in the Santa Isabel and Linda villages in the Municipalities of Victoria and Manizales Caldas, respectively. This will include efforts to identify the social, family, and nutritional conditions of primary school students in the indicated villages and assess their academic performance in primary school. Julia will also collaborate with the Secretaries of Health and Education of the Government of Caldas and the Municipality of Victoria Caldas.

As an aspiring global health leader, Julia has a strong, demonstrated interest in building a career focused on improving nutritional access and outcomes locally and globally, especially among Latinx patients in Nashville and at-risk population groups in Latin America. Her commitment to this cause is not just a professional aspiration but a personal mission, making her an ideal recipient of the Dr. Vermund Global Health Travel Award. Julia's commitment to improving global health through public health practice, research, and service mirrors the values and work of Dr. Vermund, and we are confident she will use her training to make a significant impact on the health and well-being of populations globally.

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Trends in heavy electric vehicles

• Executive summary
• Electric car sales
• Electric car availability and affordability
• Electric two- and three-wheelers
• Electric light commercial vehicles

Electric truck and bus sales

Electric heavy-duty vehicle model availability.

• Charging for electric light-duty vehicles
• Charging for electric heavy-duty vehicles
• Battery supply and demand
• Battery prices
• Electric vehicle company strategy and market competition
• Electric vehicle and battery start-ups
• Vehicle outlook by mode
• Vehicle outlook by region
• The industry outlook
• Light-duty vehicle charging
• Heavy-duty vehicle charging
• Battery demand
• Electricity demand
• Oil displacement
• Well-to-wheel greenhouse gas emissions
• Lifecycle impacts of electric cars

Cite report

IEA (2024), Global EV Outlook 2024 , IEA, Paris https://www.iea.org/reports/global-ev-outlook-2024, Licence: CC BY 4.0

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The multiple benefits of city bus electrification boost adoption in advanced and emerging economies.

Sales of electric buses, comprising all medium- and large-sized buses, are far ahead of those of other heavy-duty vehicle (HDV) segments (including medium- and heavy-duty trucks 1 ). Several European countries (such as Belgium, Norway and Switzerland) and the People’s Republic of China (hereafter "China") achieved sales shares above 50% in 2023, and more than one-fifth of bus sales were electric in Canada, Chile, Finland, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal and Sweden. Globally, almost 50 000 electric buses were sold in 2023, equating to 3% of total bus sales and bringing the global stock to approximately 635 000 in total. This relatively low share is primarily due to the limited sales shares in most EMDEs, as well as the low market penetration of electric buses in some larger markets such as the United States and Korea.

Early policy support for electrifying public transport, and the availability of domestically produced electric buses, coupled with incentives, meant that China took an early and significant lead in electric bus sales. In 2020, China was responsible for about 90% of electric bus sales worldwide. In 2023, this fell to around 60%, largely due to a decrease in domestic demand for both electric and ICE buses and, to a lesser extent, increasing sales in other regions. The fall in Chinese demand could be a consequence of the early success seen for electric buses – around 65% of China’s electric bus stock was deployed before 2019. It may also be linked to the ending of purchase subsidies for BEV and PHEV buses at the end of 2022. Despite China’s lead in global sales having shrunk, Chinese manufacturers continue to export large volumes of electric buses, accounting for over 85% of electric city bus deployments in Latin America. They have also increased their market share in the European Union from 10% of bus sales in 2017 to 30% in 2023, driven by companies such as Yutong and BYD.

City buses, in particular, have strong potential for electrification thanks to their relatively fixed driving patterns and lower daily travel distances, and have spearheaded growth in electric bus sales. In the European Union, BEVs reached a 43% sales share among city buses in 2023, demonstrating clear progress towards the proposed target of 100% of city bus sales being zero emissions vehicles (ZEVs) by 2035. Over the same period, just 1% of European Union coach sales were battery electric, though uptake is increasing there and around the world.

There has also been encouraging progress in EMDEs, where a focus on the co-benefits of electric buses – such as reduced air pollution and greater access to public transport – has boosted take-up. This has been further supported by the wide availability of electric buses in already competitive markets. Cities across Latin America, such as Bogota and Santiago, have deployed nearly 6 500 electric buses to date. BasiGo , Africa’s largest electric bus company, has an order book of 350 buses, which represents almost 2% of electric bus sales outside of China in 2023, and aims to sell a further 1 000 electric buses in Kenya and 200 in Rwanda in the coming years.

Along with high potential for electrification of city buses, infrastructure developments can also support the transition. The bus rapid transit (BRT) system, which is based on the use of dedicated bus lanes with priority access at intersections and off-board fare collection, can support the establishment of high-capacity, efficient services for cities. The new all-electric BRT system in Dakar – the first on the African continent – is a strong example. This network, announced at the end of 2023, will serve 320 000 passengers per day. Elsewhere, the European bus rapid transit of 2030 ( eBRT2030 ) scheme aims to improve the urban transport environment by developing innovative solutions for electric BRTs, with demonstrations in Amsterdam, Athens, Barcelona and Prague, among other cities.

Electric bus registrations and sales share by region, 2015-2023

Electric truck sales are gaining momentum.

Sales of electric trucks increased 35% in 2023 compared to 2022, meaning that total sales of electric trucks surpassed electric buses for the first time, at around 54 000. China is the leading market for electric trucks, accounting for 70% of global sales in 2023, down from 85% in 2022. In Europe, electric truck sales increased almost threefold in 2023 to reach more than 10 000 (>1.5% sales share). The United States also saw a threefold increase, though electric truck sales reached just 1 200, less than 0.1% of total truck sales.

We expect electric truck sales to continue to increase thanks to strong and ambitious policies, such as the European Union’s CO 2 standards for HDVs, which target a 90% CO 2 emissions reduction by 2040. In the United States, the newly adopted heavy-duty emissions regulation is expected to result in ZEV sales shares of up to 60% by 2032 in different segments.

At the city-level, zero emissions (or “green”) zones for freight , are being implemented in 15 different cities as diverse as London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Quito, Shenzhen, Seoul and Taoyuan City. Together, these cities have a total population of over 52 million. In addition, initiatives such as EV100+, the Global Memorandum of Understanding on Zero-Emission Medium and Heavy Duty Vehicles co-led by Drive to Zero, the European Clean Trucking Alliance, the eTransport coalition, the First Movers Coalition–Trucking, and the Fleet Electrification Coalition have increased their membership. They continue to advocate for more ambitious policies , such as accelerated sales targets and zero emission government fleets.

In the United States, there have been efforts to use demonstration projects to identify truck segments ripe for electrification. In June 2023, the North American Council for Freight Efficiency, together with the Rocky Mountain Institute, launched Run on Less – Electric DEPOT . Through this initiative, depots deployed almost 300 electric trucks of various sizes to gather telemetry data with the aim of identifying use cases where electric trucks are already a viable solution, as well as where challenges remain.

Similarly, the UK Government is investing USD 250 million under the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Programme to run real-world trials of zero-emission trucks. The programme will deploy 370 trucks and almost 60 refuelling and electric charging sites.

Electric truck adoption is also gaining momentum in EMDEs outside of China. In India, NITI Aayog launched the Electric Freight Accelerator for Sustainable Transport , a platform to pioneer collaboration between the government and private sector partners for large-scale freight electrification. This initiative has spurred 16 major manufacturing and logistics companies to collectively signal demand for 7 750 electric freight vehicles by 2030. To meet this demand, focused efforts will be needed on policy regulation, establishing market certainty, scalable pilot support, infrastructure development, and creating blended financing platforms to attract private investments.

Electric truck registrations and sales share by region, 2015-2023

China produces the largest selection of battery electric heavy-duty vehicles.

Chinese OEMs currently produce by far the largest number of models of battery electric HDVs – 430 in total – with a particular focus on buses suitable for urban public transport, which make up almost 40% of all models. 2 In 2021 alone, Chinese OEMs released almost 150 bus models, providing more choice and covering more applications in what was already the world’s largest electric bus market. Since 2021, the number of additional new models has continued to grow, but with a more even distribution across different segments – over 65 new models for buses, and around 40 each for medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks – thereby enabling wider electrification. A significant number of models is now available in each segment in China.

North American OEMs produce a far smaller number of battery electric models – over 170 – with a greater emphasis on the medium-duty truck market, which accounts for more than 60% of all models. New brands such as Rizon are targeting the electric medium-duty segment in North America, where despite their higher upfront costs, electric trucks are already competitive with diesel trucks in terms of total cost of ownershiplifetime costs, especially when charged at depot as opposed to higher-cost public charging. Costs are even more competitive when factoring in incentives available in the United States and Canada . Though both the United States and Canada also have policy incentives specifically targeting buses, they have relatively small public transport markets and, as a consequence, buses suitable for urban public transport make up just over 10% of all models. Instead, OEMs have targeted the school bus niche, producing nine different models excluding minibuses.

Despite producing a lower number of battery electric models overall, at around 120, European OEMs offer the most even distribution of models across segments. They also have the highest share of heavy-duty trucks, with more than 20% of all models. This has allowed European OEMs, in particular the Volvo group (which includes the Mack, Renault, and Dongfeng (joint venture) truck brands), to gain a large share of not only the European, but also the North American heavy-duty electric truck market. European OEMs also produce a significant number of niche vehicles such as refuse trucks (around 10% of all models), which – like medium-duty trucks – are already cost-competitive with their ICE counterparts.

On average, individual Chinese OEMs produce more models across segments, which differentiates Chinese OEMs from those in other regions. Only about half of Chinese OEMs produce models for a single segment, compared to around 70% in North America and Europe.

Model availability is a key indicator of the growing maturity of the battery electric HDV market, but the number of OEMs is also important for assessing competition and ability to meet future demand.

The number of OEMs producing electric HDVs in China trebled between 2020 and 2023, from 12 to 36, in response to increasing sales of electric trucks domestically, as well as increasing electric bus sales abroad. In addition to growth in the number of Chinese OEMs, companies such as BYD, Skywell, Dongfeng and Foton have also expanded their offerings, with models in the bus, MD truck, and HD truck segments, offering potential advantages in terms of economies of scale and supply chains. The strength of the domestic market may also have allowed Chinese firms to build more robust supply chains.

North America also experienced an almost threefold increase in the number of HDV OEMs between 2020 and 2023, from 16 to 45. Early support in states such as California and anticipation of national policies supported investment in HDV manufacturing, which was later boosted by demand incentives and regulations . United States-based OEMs typically specialise in models for a smaller number of segments than Chinese OEMs. Only Lion offers vehicles in the bus, MD truck, and HD truck categories, along with Exro’s recently acquired SEA Electric, which builds vehicles for different applications by adapting its powertrain to glider chassis platforms from other OEMs.

Europe had the highest number of HDV OEMs in 2020, but still saw a 50% increase between 2020 and 2023 to reach 36, the same number as China but less than the United States. Established OEMs such as Volvo Trucks, MAN, Mercedes, and Quantron offer vehicles in three or more segments. This wide range of offerings, coupled with an already strong position in the global market, and relatively low sales shares in Europe prior to 2023, meant there was less space for new entrants to compete.

Manufacturers in the rest of the world have not responded to the electric HDV opportunity in the same way, mirroring the slower uptake of electric HDVs to date and fewer supportive policies than in leading electric HDV markets. Of the OEMs outside of China, North America and Europe, nine produce models in the bus segment alone, with India’s Tata Motors producing both buses and MD trucks. Korean OEM Hyundai produces only FCEV HDVs, while only three Japanese OEMs feature in the database.

“Trucks” refers to both medium (3.5-15 tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight [GVW]) and heavy (15 tonnes GVW and above) trucks.

Excludes minibuses, i.e. buses with 25 seats or fewer. Where the number of seats changes by 5 or less, variations of the same model are counted as one throughout this analysis. For the purposes of this calculation, buses suitable for urban public transport are defined as having a seating capacity of between 30 and 70. 

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