‘Armed violence!’ Fresh travel advice for Britons as popular South American spot renews state of emergency
Britons have been given new travel guidance as a popular South American country reinstates a State of Emergency.
Holidaymakers flock to Ecuador for its four diverse regions; spectacular sites from the Amazon rainforest to the Galápagos Islands; stunning capital Quito; culinary delights and friendly locals.
But before visiting the beautiful country, it’s important to consult the UK Government’s latest travel advice to ensure a safe, well-informed trip.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has shared important information about the renewal of Ecuador’s State of Emergency.
The beautiful Galápagos Islands is popular with tourists
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Tourists were warned: “A 30-day state of emergency (SOE) was renewed on December 2 due to internal disturbance and armed violence.”
Provinces where the State of Emergency applies
- Guayas
- El Oro
- Santa Elena
- Manabí
- Orellana
- Los Ríos
- Quito Metropolitan District (Pichincha province)
- Camilo Ponce Enríquez district (Azuay province)
The FCDO stated: “The SOE allows the military and police to seize assets, conduct inspections and enter private properties without permission.
“There are additional restrictions on the freedoms of association and assembly and the police and armed forces are permitted to break up gatherings in public spaces.”
Several districts (“cantons”) and parishes (“parroquias”) within the affected provinces have imposed curfews during this time.
The FCDO stated: “Curfew hours (10pm until 5am) are in place until further notice.
“If you need to travel to or from the airport for a booked flight during curfew hours, you can do so by presenting your booking reservation.”
Curfews between 10pm and 5am have been imposed in several districts and parishes
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Districts and parishes placed under a curfew
Azuay province
Los Ríos province
- Baba
- Babahoyo
- Buena Fe
- Mocache
- Montalvo
- Palenque
- Pueblo Viejo
- Quevedo
- Quinsaloma
- Urdaneta
- Valencia
- Ventanas
- Vinces
Guayas province
- Balao
- Durán
- Parroquia Tenguel del canton Guayaquil
Orellana province
- La Joya de los Sachas Puerto Francisco De Orellana
- Loreto
Before visiting Ecuador, holidaymakers should consult the FCDO for the latest travel guidance. This includes essential information on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, regional risks – including where the FCDO advises against all but essential travel – health and getting help.
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