The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to areas within 20km of the Ecuadorean border with Colombia, except:

• the El Angel ecological reserve in Carchi province
• the Rumachica border crossing, the town of Tulcan, and the Pan American Highway in Carchi province

Travelling to areas within 20km of the Ecuadorean border with Colombia to which the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to carries significant risks due to the presence of organised crime linked to the production and trafficking of drugs.

Since the end of March 2023 there has been a series of small explosions and also false bomb threats in Quito and Guayaquil, linked to organised crime. The explosions have resulted in some property damage, no injuries or deaths. Some threats have been detonated by security forces in controlled explosions. Should an incident occur near where you are, follow the instructions of police and local authorities.

The security situation in the areas of Esmeraldas, Carchi and Sucumbios provinces, which lie outside the 20km border zone can change quickly. If you are travelling to these areas, including Cuyabeno, the Napo river, and the El Angel ecological reserve where there are a number of eco lodges, you should take local advice, pay close attention to warnings issued by the Ecuadorean authorities and be particularly cautious and vigilant. Illegal armed groups and criminal gangs are present in these areas. Travelling during daylight hours and with a reputable operator with official guides, emergency plans and good communication systems will reduce risks. Some lodges are a long distance from the nearest major hospital and helicopter evacuation may be necessary in an emergency. See Local travel

On 17 May 2023, President Lasso dissolved parliament, in accordance with the Constitution. This will see legislative and presidential elections take place in August 2023. British nationals are advised to avoid any potential demonstrations that may arise.

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

Around 20,700 British nationals visited Ecuador in 2022. Most visits are trouble free.

Terrorist attacks in Ecuador cannot be ruled out. See Terrorism

Ecuador is situated in an area of intense seismic activity. There is a high risk of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. You should make sure you are aware of the risks and are familiar with the relevant safety and evacuation procedures. In the event of a natural disaster, you should monitor official channels – the Ecuadorean National Geophysical Institute and the National Service for Risk and Emergency Management (both Spanish only) – and follow the advice of the local authorities. See Natural disasters

Cases of armed robbery are increasing and petty crime is common. See Crime

UK health authorities have classified Ecuador as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For more information and advice, visit the website of the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. Consular support may be limited in parts of Ecuador.

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Ecuador, including Quito. See Health.