by Jen Mallia
Last updated: 9:45 AM ET, Wed October 8, 2025
Ecuador is currently experiencing “internal armed conflict,” and in response the Canadian government has updated its travel advisory for Canadians presently in the South American country, or heading there.
The risk level remains the same: yellow/exercise a high degree of caution, with elevated regional advisories. The Galapagos Islands continue to have a green/take normal security precautions risk level. Information under the heading “safety and security” has now been updated to reflect the states of exception and emergency that have been issued by the Ecuadorean government.
Demonstrations against rising fuel prices (the result of a subsidy being ended) and gang violence are at the heart of the warnings.
State of Exception in Ecuador
A state of exception means that public gatherings are prohibited. It is in effect in the following provinces:
- Azuay.
- Bolívar.
- Cañar.
- Carchi.
- Chimborazo.
- Cotopaxi.
- Imbabura.
- Orellana.
- Pastaza.
- Pichincha.
- Santo Domingo.
- Sucumbíos.
- Tungurahua.
On top of that, a curfew from 10 pm-5 am is in effect in:
- Bolívar.
- Carchi.
- Chimborazo.
- Cotopaxi.
- Imbarbura.
State of Emergency in Ecuador
In regions where there is a state of emergency, security forces have expanded powers. They are allowed to enter private homes, read private mail and phone records and prohibit assembly.
A state of emergency has been declared in:
- Echeandía and Las Naves cantons in Bolívar Province.
- El Oro Province.
- Guayas Province.
- Los Ríos Province.
- Manabí Province.
Advice for Canadians in Ecuador
If you have clients in Ecuador or planning to travel there, it’s important to let them know the government gives the following advice:
- Expect an increased police and military presence.
- Always carry your identification.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities (including any curfews).
For emergency consular assistance, Canadians can 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. Visitors should also register as a Canadian abroad. For regional advisories where travel is not recommended, please see the Ecuador Travel Advice page on the Government of Canada's website.
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