Services & Safety

Currency

US dollar officially adopted as legal tender in March 2000, replacing the former national currency, the sucre, at a conversion rate of Su25,000:US$1. The sucre ceased to be legal tender in September 2000, apart from new sucre coins equivalent to US nickels, dimes and cents used as fractionary money. The U.S. currency currently in circulation will eventually be replaced with dollars and coins bearing the visages of notable Ecuadorians

Electricity

Similar to USA electric appliances operate on a 110 volts, 60 cycles (Hertz) alternating current,. This means that European travelers need to bring an adapter for their laptops, cameras, hair dryers, etc.

Local Time

Eastern Standard on GMT-5 (same as New York, except during daylight savings months when Ecuador is one hour behind). The Galapagos are one hour ahead of the mainland.

Visas

Most travelers entering Ecuador as tourists do no require visas. All travelers not wishing to enter as tourists must have valid visas. Citizens of most nations can stay in Ecuador for up to 180 days per year. Immigration officials will stamp either 60 or 90 days in your passport when you enter. If you know you need more than 60 days, be sure to tell them before they stamp your passport. Also, if you want to stay longer than 90 days you will have to get an extension or obtain a visa.

Passports

All nationals entering as tourists need a passport that must be valid for at least 6 months after your arrival. Failure to produce identification can result in arrests. Military and police checks are semi-frequent and not pretty if you are caught without your documents. If you are staying in Quito, Guayaquil or another large city for an extended period, it is advisable that you carry only a copy of your passport. Check with your embassy or consulate for details. For a reasonable fee most foreign embassies provide their citizens with an "official" copy of their passport that is recognized by Ecuadorian law. Also, report lost or stolen passports immediately to your embassy or consulate.

If you overstay your tourist visa you must obtain a stamp on your passport before you may leave. These are referred to as "Salidas", and are obtained in Quito at the immigration office on Isla Seymour 1152, between Río Coca and Tomás de Berlanga, and in Guayaquil at the immigration office on Avenida Pichincha and Aguirre..

Safety

Ecuador is safer than Peru and Columbia. However tourists need to be wary and take precautions to avoid being robbed. There are parts of big cities and coastal areas that can be pretty dangerous. Sneak thefts and pickpockets are common. Also be wary of crooked police who prey on tourists. Travel with trustworthy companions. Make copies of your important documents, card numbers, etc., and give them to a trusted companion. It's also a good idea to leave copies of important documents and numbers with a relative at home.