What’s going on in Ecuador: Coronavirus

Here you will find all the details you need to know about what’s going on in Ecuador. This South American gem could open its doors to tourism sooner than you would expect!

Having received more than 1.4 million visitors in 2019, Ecuador has become everyone’s favorite destination when traveling through South America. There are a wide variety of attractions and activities to do throughout the whole country, making it the perfect spot for all types of travelers. But due to the recent coronavirus outbreak, Ecuador, and other countries as well, had to shut their doors, paralyzing its economic activities, and prioritizing public healthcare.

travel ecuador covid-19

Coronavirus in Ecuador

With more than 17.5 million citizens, Ecuador began the quarantine on March 12th, which lasted 4 months and 12 days. The local government had implemented a new “Traffic Light” system to control the pandemic, which consisted of different safety measures by categorizing each region by colors (green, yellow, and red) according to the number of coronavirus cases.

Currently, the Ecuadorian government has lifted the emergency state. Therefore, the “Traffic Light” system has been deactivated. However, the safety measures are still in force, so the use of masks, the practice of social distancing, constant hand washing, and disinfection of footwear are still mandatory throughout the country. Likewise, the curfew hours have been standardized, so that now, the mobilization of people is not allowed from 00:00 to 05:00.

The Ecuadorian Health System strongly recommends taking precautions and avoiding crowds in public and private places. Therefore, the capacity of commercial establishments will remain reduced.

Although the maritime and land borders are still closed, the air borders will remain open, allowing international and commercial flights.

At the beginning of the quarantine, this country was one of the most affected regions in South America by the coronavirus outbreak. Now, after four months, Ecuador is ready to reactivate local and international tourism with new safety protocols developed by the Ministry of Tourism.

travel ecuador covid-19

Ecuador’s Tourism Reactivation 2020

Like most South American countries affected by coronavirus, one of Ecuador’s principal economic assets is tourism, being this the sector that generates the most jobs inside the country. One of the government’s main goals is to reactivate tourism gradually throughout 2020.

The Minister of Tourism, Rosi Prado, announced on national television the reopening of Guayaquil, Cuenca, and Quito’s airports on July 15th. This allowed citizens to travel and book flights across the country.

At the moment, Quito remains the most connected city of Ecuador with more than five active American airlines. This means international flights are now possible between the USA, Europe and Ecuador.

The Ecuadorian authorities have approved new safety measures to ensure public health during the reactivation of tourism in this pandemic. These new protocols are now being implemented by hotels, hostels, beaches, and tour operators.

Although International flights are now possible in Ecuador, borders will remain closed until further notice.

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Ecuador Travel Safety Protocols

If you are traveling to Ecuador, here is everything you need to know about the safety protocols and requirements issued by the Emergency Operations Committee.

For international flights to Ecuador:

Passengers must sign and fill out the Traveler’s Health Record, which will be delivered to the Ministry of Public Health’s staff.

You must sign the Special Immigration Form assuring to comply with the Mandatory Preventive Isolation for 14 days upon arrival.

You will need a negative PCR test.

Transportation, accommodation, and food will be your responsibility.

Face masks, shoe disinfection, and body temperature control are mandatory.

Make sure to follow and fill out all the requirements issued by the government of Ecuador.

The Galapagos Islands Reopening

Galapagos ilands covid-19

The Galapagos Islands are one of the most sought out places to visit in Ecuador and the main tourist attraction. More than 150,000 people visit the Galapagos Islands yearly to discover its diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery.

The National Institute of Environment and Water in Ecuador has announced the reopening of this national park on July 13th.

According to the Ministry of Tourism in Ecuador, the permanence on each location will be limited to 3 hours. As well, the number of visitors will be controlled and reduced to optimize the experience inside the national park.

Keep in mind that the use of masks, temperature checks, and the practice of social distancing are mandatory throughout your visit to the Galapagos Islands

Cotopaxi and Cajas National Parks Open to the Public

Cotopaxi covid-19

The Cotopaxi National Park opened its doors to the public on July 29th. This tourist attraction home to the Cotopaxi Volcano is the perfect getaway destination just one hour and a half away from Quito.

On July 15th, Cajas National Park reopened its doors to tourism. This being the third tourist attraction of Ecuador to reincorporate its activities inside the country.

You might be wondering, is it safe to go to Ecuador?
Many countries are looking forward to opening their doors to tourism again. The coronavirus outbreak’s impact on the world is making us adapt to a new way of living. That being said, If the correct protocols are followed, safe tourism is still an option!

If you are planning to travel abroad or even inside your country, we encourage you to follow the safety protocols issued by government entities.

Constantly wash your hands
Social distance of 2m between people
If you are outside, don’t touch your eyes, mouth or nose
Always have hand sanitizer or liquid alcohol with you
Always use facial masks

what's going on in ecuador

We hope to continue sharing culture and traditions with you in the safest way possible. Travellers have never been so anxious to start exploring Ecuador, with Ecuador Hop you can start making plans and change the start time if something happens with no extra fee. The most flexible way to discover the real Ecuador!