Travel Essentials › Ecuador
Travel Essentials
Plugs: Types A and B, 120 V. Emergency: One number for everything 911. Tipping: A 10% service charge is usually included in restaurants; add a little for good service and tip guides. Tap water: Drink bottled or treated water outside Quito and major cities.
Types A and B, 120 V
| One number for everything | 911 |
A 10% service charge is usually included in restaurants; add a little for good service and tip guides.
Greetings. A handshake is standard for first meetings; among friends, a single cheek kiss is common, even between men and women in some regions.
Indigenous communities. When visiting indigenous markets or communities (e.g., Otavalo), ask before photographing people and consider buying handicrafts directly to support local artisans.
Relaxed time sense. Social events often start later than the stated time; patience and flexibility are appreciated.
Ecuador is broadly safe for tourists in main destinations, but petty crime is common in cities and some regions have seen an increase in violent, narcotrafficking-related crime in recent years.
Fake police checks. Scammers posing as police ask to inspect money or documents, then swap or steal cash; ask to see identification and insist on going to a real police station.
Taxi overcharging / broken meter. Drivers may claim a broken meter to charge more; agree on the fare before starting or use a rideshare app.
Distraction scams near landmarks. Bracelet sellers or petition-signers can distract tourists for pickpocketing; politely decline and keep belongings close.
Women travelers. Women travelers should avoid walking alone at night, use pre-booked transport, and stay alert on public transit; harassment can occur but serious incidents are not the norm in tourist areas.
Legal · Mostly Safe
Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2019 and anti-discrimination protections exist, making Ecuador legally progressive, though public displays of affection are uncommon and discretion is advised outside Quito and Guayaquil.
| Coffee (café) | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| Local bus ride | $0.25 | $0.25 |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | $10 | $10 |
| Hostel bed / budget room (night) | $15 | $15 |
| Mid-range hotel (night) | $45 | $45 |
| Daily budget, mid-range traveler | $85 | $85 |
2026-09
The Andean highlands (Quito, Cuenca) are best June-September (dry season); the Galápagos has good weather year-round with warmer, calmer seas December-May and cooler, clearer waters June-November.