Being prepared and researching travel safety precautions should be as essential to every traveller as packing a suitcase. Here at Ecoventura we take care of the guesswork for you!
Concerning current events and our unstable political environment, you may be curious about the safety of Americans traveling to Ecuador and the Galapagos. We are here to provide current information to ease your mind and travel plans.
The Word From the Experts
As of today, there is no nationwide advisory in effect for Ecuador. It is wise to avoid the Colombian border, but flying into Quito or Guayaquil for the start of your trip will still be encouraged. Follow local reports before you leave to be aware of the local climate. Use this tool from the US Department of State to be up to speed on any recent updates of travel warnings. There are no current warnings in effect for Ecuador travel.
Important Announcement for Passengers Traveling to Ecuador Feb 17-20th
Feb 17-20th marks the dates of national elections here in Ecuador. Wanting to be sure that its electorate is in full possession of its reasoning powers during national elections, the government of Ecuador requests that all establishments normally allowed to sell alcoholic beverages in the country (bars, restaurants, supermarkets…) refrain from doing so over a full three day period. More details can be found here.
Prepare for Your Journey Ahead of Time
We encourage you to review this pre-departure information before your trip. Some items of note:
- Entry requirements: A valid passport, with at least 180 days from your return date remaining before expiration, is required to enter Ecuador.  Visas are not currently required for visitors for up to 90 days, however it is the passenger’s responsibility to check with their Ecuadorian consulate prior to traveling to determine if a visa is necessary.
- International Flights to Ecuador: Flights to Ecuador are currently serviced by American Airlines (Miami and Dallas), United (Houston), DELTA (Atlanta), LAN (Lima and JFK), Jet Blue (Fort Lauderdale), AVIANCA (Bogotá, Lima), COPA (Panamá), IBERIA (Madrid) and KLM (Amsterdam). All international tickets have the airport departure taxes included in the cost of the ticket.  Local customs authorities allow two suitcases with a total combined weight of 60 kilos per person.  A fee of $200.00 is charged for a third suitcase and $400.00 for a fourth suitcase, excluding carry-on bags.
- Immunizations:Â No inoculations are currently required for visitors to Ecuador and Galapagos. Please do check with your local health office at least two weeks prior to your departure for an update.
- Flights to Galapagos (San Cristobal):Â Flights to Galapagos for Ecoventura passengers are serviced by AVIANCA Airlines from Quito and Guayaquil. Â Flight reservations for confirmed passengers are made automatically by Ecoventura through our allotment of seats on Sundays to/from San Cristobal (SCY). Â Passengers who purchase their tickets through Ecoventura for the Avianca flights will receive assistance with the check in procedure and can pre-pay the park tax and transit card. A representative from Ecoventura accompanies our passengers on this flight. The airline is required to spray inside the aircraft with a special process once doors are closed and is preparing for take-off. Â This is considered common procedure for flights bound to fragile island ecosystems that are susceptible to prevent any invasive species or virus being accidentally transported to the islands.
Enroll in Travel Insurance
Our recommendation is to purchase comprehensive travel insurance to keep you and your belongings safe during your trip. Use this link to World Nomads who can set that up for you and your family.Â
Another smart idea is to join STEP, or the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This free service will connect you with the local U.S. Embassy in case of emergency. You will also receive alerts about safety conditions in Ecuador to keep you informed.
Be Informed
The easiest way to achieve peace of mind is to stay informed about your travels! Use this checklist to prepare for your trip. This will show you any updated information on Ecuador, any health precautions to keep in mind, the required documents you will need for travel, as well as the contact information for the U.S. Embassy closest to you.
And lastly….remember to relax!
Remember this is an adventure of a lifetime for you and your family. For over two decades, Ecoventura has shared the enchantment of the Galapagos Islands, our planet’s most precious and unique ecosystem, with thousands of travelers and enriched lives with an extraordinary profusion of exotic and endemic flora and fauna.
As a family-owned expedition cruise company, we are committed to providing our valued guests an authentic experience in small compatible groups, offering value, as well as a safe and memorable voyage.
It is our commitment to bring you an amazing and safe journey to the Galapagos. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at any time, and we would be happy to provide you more information. We can’t wait to share in this adventure with you!
