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US updates travel warning for South American nation: "Increased risk"

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, October 15th 2025 at 14:42 GMT by Newsweek
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U.S. Travel Advisory for Ecuador Raised to “Reconsider Travel” Amid Growing Unrest

The U.S. Department of State has upgraded its travel warning for Ecuador to a higher level of caution, advising American citizens to “reconsider travel” to the South‑American nation. The new advisory reflects escalating security concerns stemming from widespread civil unrest, a surge in violent crime, and heightened risks of kidnapping across the country. Travelers are urged to weigh the risks carefully, stay informed, and take preventive measures if they decide to proceed.

Why the Advisory Was Tightened

Ecuador has long been a popular destination for tourists and expatriates, famed for its Andean landscapes, Amazonian biodiversity, and the historic city of Quito. However, recent political turbulence and crime spikes have changed the security landscape dramatically.

1. Civil Unrest and Protests
   Since the 2023 presidential elections, opposition groups have mounted protests against President Guillermo Lasso’s administration. Demonstrations in Quito, Guayaquil, and the Galápagos Islands have sometimes turned violent, with clashes between demonstrators and police, sporadic looting, and threats of bomb threats. In August 2024, a series of demonstrations turned into a violent confrontation near Quito’s Plaza de la Independencia, prompting the State Department to raise the advisory level.

2. Escalating Violent Crime
   Data from the Ecuadorian National Police and U.S. consular reports reveal a sharp increase in armed robbery, assault, and homicide. Urban centers, particularly Quito’s historic quarter and Guayaquil’s coastal zones, have seen a rise in gang‑related activity. Rural regions, especially in the Amazon and Andean highlands, have also reported an uptick in violent confrontations and abductions.

3. Kidnapping Risk
   Kidnapping remains a significant concern, especially in remote areas and along major transportation corridors. In the past year, over a dozen kidnappings of foreign nationals were recorded, with many incidents involving travel by car or small aircraft in the Amazon basin.

4. Natural Disasters and Health Risks
   Ecuador’s susceptibility to earthquakes, volcanic activity, and severe weather conditions remains unchanged. Additionally, the country continues to grapple with the spread of vector‑borne diseases such as dengue and Zika. The COVID‑19 situation is still evolving, with periodic spikes in case numbers tied to seasonal travel.

Key Recommendations for Travelers

The U.S. travel advisory page includes a set of concrete precautions for those considering a trip:

• Register with STEP
  American travelers are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service alerts the U.S. Embassy of any emergencies and allows the embassy to contact travelers if needed.

• Avoid High‑Risk Areas
  Avoid traveling to areas known for civil unrest, high crime, or kidnapping, particularly the outskirts of Quito and Guayaquil, certain parts of the Amazon, and regions around the Galápagos Islands during ongoing protests.

• Stay Informed
  Monitor local news and official government statements. Use reputable news outlets and the U.S. Embassy’s daily briefings for updates on security conditions.

• Use Trusted Transportation
  Stick to established transportation companies. Avoid hailing unregistered taxis or accepting rides from strangers. When driving, keep windows up and avoid stopping in isolated areas.

• Limit Night Travel
  If possible, avoid traveling after dusk. Nighttime is when the majority of violent incidents occur.

• Secure Valuables
  Keep jewelry, cameras, and other valuables concealed or in a hotel safe. Use RFID‑blocking wallets to reduce pickpocket risk.

• Maintain Local Emergency Numbers
  Keep a list of emergency contacts: local police (911), the U.S. Embassy in Quito (+593 2 222 4000), and the nearest U.S. consular office.

How the Advisory Is Structured

The U.S. Department of State classifies travel advisories into four levels:

• Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions
• Level 2 – Reconsider Travel
• Level 3 – Exercise Greater Caution
• Level 4 – Do Not Travel

The new advisory places Ecuador at Level 3: Exercise Greater Caution. The State Department’s official page for Ecuador lists detailed safety tips, crime statistics, local emergency numbers, and instructions on what to do in the event of a kidnapping or violent incident.

Additional Resources

• State Department Travel Advisory Page for Ecuador
  Provides up‑to‑date risk assessments, local emergency contacts, and recommended safety practices.

• U.S. Embassy in Quito
  Offers consular services, visa information, and the “Emergency Preparedness” guide for U.S. citizens in the country.

• STEP Enrollment
  Allows travelers to receive emergency alerts and facilitates contact between the embassy and its citizens.

The Bigger Picture

Ecuador’s economic challenges—high inflation, a shrinking GDP, and a debt crisis—have intensified social discontent. Coupled with an international climate of anti‑corruption protests, the government’s crackdown on dissent has led to a heightened security environment. The State Department’s decision to raise the advisory level is a response to these dynamic conditions and reflects an effort to protect American citizens abroad.

While the risk to travelers remains significant, many Ecuadorian citizens and expatriates continue to live and work safely in the country. For U.S. travelers, the best strategy is to remain vigilant, stay informed, and heed the official warnings. By following the outlined precautions and maintaining open lines of communication with U.S. authorities, visitors can reduce the likelihood of becoming victims of the heightened crime and civil unrest that now characterize much of Ecuador’s social landscape.