UK Foreign Office Issues Travel Warning for Ecuador Amid Extended Emergency
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued an urgent travel advisory for Ecuador, a popular South American holiday destination, following the renewal of a state of emergency. This warning comes as the Ecuadorian government extends emergency measures for 60 days in response to internal disturbance and armed violence.
State of Emergency Details and Renewal
On April 2, 2026, President Daniel Noboa Azín officially declared a new state of emergency, citing serious internal unrest. This declaration, made just before the Good Friday holiday, is set to last for 60 days. The FCDO updated its guidance on April 8, 2026, noting that the state of emergency has been renewed, affecting travel plans and safety protocols.
According to reports, the state of emergency does not apply nationwide but is focused on provinces with the highest levels of conflict. Notably, freedom of movement is not restricted, as no curfew has been ordered. However, two rights remain suspended, allowing police and military operations to conduct raids without prior court orders to address security concerns.
Affected Provinces and Travel Implications
The state of emergency currently applies to 12 specific provinces and cantons in Ecuador. Travelers should be aware of heightened security measures in these areas, which include:
- Guayas
- El Oro
- Manabí
- Los Ríos
- Santa Elena
- Pichincha
- Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas
- Esmeraldas
- Sucumbíos
- Bolívar (cantones Echeandía and Las Naves)
- Cotopaxi (cantón La Maná)
- Cañar (cantón La Troncal)
The FCDO advises that due to the current state of emergency, travelers should expect increased police and military presence nationwide without prior notice. This heightened security may lead to potential travel disruptions, including extra security checks at airports, roads, and public spaces. The Foreign Office strongly recommends following the instructions of local authorities and police to ensure safety.
Local Reactions and Social Media Responses
In response to the emergency measures, residents in Ecuador have expressed mixed feelings on social media. One resident commented, "The curfew is over and the chaos has begun... The curfew should just continue, and nightlife businesses need to find another way to survive. Because many of those places are just hideouts for criminals." This highlights concerns about ongoing security issues despite the lack of a curfew.
Another resident voiced frustration with the government's handling of the situation, stating, "Desperation, for a desperate president who doesn't know what to do with the country and knowing that the problem is him, he doesn't know how to move forward a country that day after day falls to pieces; what he has done during all this time is improvise." These reactions underscore the political and social tensions underlying the state of emergency.
Travel Advisory Recommendations
For UK citizens planning to visit or currently in Ecuador, the FCDO urges caution and awareness of the updated travel advisory. Key recommendations include:
- Monitor local news and FCDO updates regularly for any changes in the security situation.
- Avoid areas with high levels of conflict, particularly the listed provinces where the state of emergency is in effect.
- Prepare for possible travel delays due to increased security checks and military presence.
- Follow all instructions from Ecuadorian police and authorities to minimize risks.
This travel warning serves as a reminder for travelers to prioritize safety when considering trips to Ecuador during this period of extended emergency measures. The FCDO continues to assess the situation and may issue further updates as needed.
