Travel Vaccines and Advice for Ecuador
Ecuador is a country of rich traditions. It is known for its hiking trails and nature, including the famous Galapagos Islands.
The capital city of Ecuador is Quito. Other large cities include Guayaquil, Cuenca, and Santo Domingo.
The country’s varying regions and attractions make it a must visit for many travellers.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Ecuador?
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Ecuador?
What Is the Climate Like in Ecuador?
How Safe Is Ecuador?
The Galapagos Islands In Ecuador
What Should I Take To Ecuador?
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Ecuador
Do I Need Vaccines for Ecuador?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Ecuador. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Ecuador: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies and tetanus.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Tetanus –
Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
Recommended for travellers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Recommended for travellers
to most regions. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Recommended for travel to regions under 2,200 metres elevation, excludes Guayaquil, Quito and the Galapagos Islands - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Ecuador |
||
VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
---|---|---|
Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. |
Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Tetanus | Wounds or Breaks in Skin | Recommended for travellers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. |
Typhoid | Food & Water | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Recommended for travel to regions under 2,200 metres elevation, excludes Guayaquil, Quito and the Galapagos Islands |
Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Ecuador is home to a few different mosquito-borne diseases. Malaria, dengue, Zika and yellow fever can all be found in the country. Be sure to bring repellents and netting with you. Passport Health clinics carry the yellow fever vaccine and can often prescribe antimalarials for your trip. Contact your local Passport Health clinic to learn more.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Ecuador?
No visas are required for Ecuador if staying for 90 days or less within a 365 day period. Proof of onward travel may be required at entry. Passports must have at least six months validity when entering the country.
Ecuador Entry Requirements |
||
Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Ecuador? | |
---|---|---|
Passport | ||
Tourist Visa | ||
Business Visa | ||
Vaccinations |
Sources: Embassy of Ecuador and GOV.UK
What Is the Climate Like in Ecuador?
Ecuador’s climate changes depending on the region. The western regions are warm with temperatures as high as 25 degrees. The hot and rainy seasons are between January and April.
Other regions of Ecuador experience a subtropical highland climate. It is usually dry from June to September and wet from October to May. Average temperature stay around 15 to 17 degrees.
How Safe Is Ecuador?
Travellers are not permitted to go to northern Ecuador without prior permission due to kidnappings. These areas include Carchi, northern Esmeraldas, and Sucumbíos.
Robbery is common in Ecuador, especially in hotel rooms, on seasides and on hiking trails. Use hotel safes, don’t wear valuable items, and always be alert.
Always travel in groups, be alert, and be aware of where your drinks are at all times. Drugging is common.
Pickpocketing and petty theft are common in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid situations that could lead to theft.
The Galapagos Islands In Ecuador
One of the most famous places in the world for biodiversity are the Galapagos Islands. These islands were studied by Charles Darwin and helped him come up with the theory of evolution.
Although known for their biodiversity, the islands are part of volcanic group of islands and have little vegetation. But, that’s what makes the wildlife so peculiar. The Galapagos National Park is officially a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Travellers can access the island by plane or by boat. Most travellers go to the islands from December to January and June to August.
Animals on the Galapagos Islands include: bottlenosed dolphins, the Galapagos turtles, and Darwin’s finches.
What Should I Take To Ecuador?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Ecuador:
- Mosquito repellent to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like Zika, yellow fever and dengue.
- Raincoat and rain gear is a must, especially if you’re travelling during the rainy season.
- Medications can be hard to find in Ecuador. Ensure you bring everything you need with you.
- Sun cream and sunnies to protect against the sun.
- Clothes for layering as the temperature may change from day to night.
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Ecuador
If you are in Ecuador and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.
British Embassy Quito
Citiplaza Building,
Naciones Unidas Avenue and República de El Salvador,
14th Floor
PO Box 17-17-830
Quito
Ecuador
Telephone: (593) (2) 3972 200
Contact Form: Click Here
Ready to start your next journey? Ring us up at or book online now!