Moving to Ecuador: visas, cost of living & immigrant guide

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Population

16,904,867

Population Growth Rate

1.4%

Urban Population

67.500000

Population in Major Urban Areas

Guayaquil 2.287 million; QUITO (capital) 1.622 million

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Age Structure

27.520000

Median Age

26.300000

Birth Rate - births/1,000 population

19

Death Rate - deaths/1,000 population

5.03

Total Fertility Rate - children born/woman

2.33

Contraceptive Prevalance Rate - female 12-49

72.7%

Contraceptive Prevalence Rate - female 12-49

72.7%

Sex Ratio at Birth - male/female

1.050000

Net Migration Rate - migrant(s)/1,000 population

-0.25

Ethnic Groups

mestizo (mixed Amerindian and white) 65%, Amerindian 25%, Spanish and others 7%, black 3%

Nationality Noun

Ecuadorian(s)

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Literacy - total population

91%

Literacy - male

94%

Literacy - female

91%

Literacy Definition

age 15 and over can read and write

Education Expenditures - percent of GDP

4.4%

Total School Life Expectancy - (primary to tertiary)

0.000000

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Life Expectancy at Birth

76.150000

Infant Mortality Rate

18.480000

Infant Mortality Rate - total deaths/1,000 live births

18.480000

Maternal Mortality Rate - deaths/100,000 live births

110

Physicians Density - physicians/1,000 population

1.69

Hospital Bed Density - beds/1,000 population

1.6

Health Expenditures - percent of GDP

7.3%

Major Infectious Diseases - degree of risk

high

Obesity - adult prevalence rate

21.4%

Drinking Water Source - percent of urban population improved

91.600000

Sanitation Facility Access - percent of urban population improved

86.500000

Underweight - percent of children under five years

6.2%

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Economic Overview

Ecuador, a country rich in natural resources and diverse ecosystems, has an economy that heavily relies on oil exports, agriculture, and remittances.

While these sectors provide substantial revenue, the nation faces several economic challenges, including dependency on volatile oil prices, political instability, and the need for diversification.

In this article, we explore the various facets of Ecuador's economy, the hurdles it confronts, and the potential pathways for sustainable growth.

The Backbone of Ecuador's Economy: Key Sectors Oil and Energy Oil remains the cornerstone of Ecuador's economy, accounting for a significant portion of export revenues and government income.

As a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Ecuador plays a role in global oil production.

However, this reliance on oil makes the economy vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices.

The country's financial stability is often at the mercy of these external shocks, emphasizing the urgent need for economic diversification.

Agriculture Agriculture is another vital sector, with bananas, coffee, cocoa, shrimp, and flowers being major exports.

Ecuador is notably one of the world's top banana exporters, which highlights its importance in global agricultural markets.

This sector not only generates significant foreign exchange but also employs a substantial portion of the population.

However, agricultural productivity is subject to climate change and global market conditions, which can pose risks to economic stability.

Tourism Tourism in Ecuador has seen considerable growth, driven by its rich cultural heritage and natural attractions, such as the Galápagos Islands.

The government has been actively promoting eco-tourism and cultural tourism to diversify the economy.

The tourism sector's expansion promises new jobs and increased foreign exchange earnings, making it a critical area for future economic development.

Manufacturing and Industry Ecuador's manufacturing and industrial sectors, including food processing, textiles, and chemical products, are less developed compared to its neighbors.

Enhancing industrial capacity and value-added production is essential for economic diversification.

The government aims to attract foreign investment and foster innovation in these areas to boost industrial growth.

Services The service sector, encompassing banking, finance, and retail, plays a significant role in the economy.

Remittances from Ecuadorians living abroad contribute notably to household incomes, reflecting the sector's importance.

Strengthening financial services and expanding digital infrastructure are key to enhancing the service sector's contribution to the economy.

Economic Challenges Debt and Fiscal Issues Ecuador's high levels of public debt have led to financial instability, necessitating austerity measures and international assistance.

Managing debt and achieving fiscal balance remain critical challenges for the government.

Efforts to reduce debt include structural reforms, fiscal consolidation, and seeking support from international organizations like the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Economic Diversification The overreliance on oil exposes the economy to external shocks, highlighting the need for diversification.

Developing sectors such as renewable energy, technology, and tourism is crucial for reducing dependency on oil and achieving sustainable growth.

Initiatives to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and encourage entrepreneurship are vital for diversification.

Political Instability Political changes and instability have often affected economic policies and investor confidence in Ecuador.

Consistent and transparent policies are essential to foster a stable business environment and attract foreign investment.

Political stability is a cornerstone for sustained economic growth and development.

Social Issues Poverty and inequality remain significant issues in Ecuador.

Although the government has implemented various social programs to address these challenges, further efforts are necessary to ensure inclusive growth.

Enhancing education, healthcare, and social protection systems are key to reducing poverty and improving living standards.

Recent Developments and Future Prospects Economic Reforms The government has been implementing a series of reforms to stabilize the economy.

These include tax reforms, improving the business climate, and enhancing transparency.

Collaboration with international organizations like the IMF has provided financial support and policy guidance, aiding in economic stabilization and growth.

Impact of COVID-19 The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted Ecuador's economy, particularly the tourism sector.

The government's recovery efforts have focused on vaccination drives, economic stimulus packages, and support for affected businesses.

The post-pandemic recovery presents an opportunity to rebuild a more resilient and diversified economy.

Green Economy Ecuador i

Industries

petroleum, food processing, textiles, wood products, chemicals

GDP - per capita (PPP)

$11,000.00 (USD)

GDP - real growth rate

-2.3%

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GDP - Gross Domestic Product (PPP)

$182,400,000,000 (USD)

GDP Per Capita

$11,000.00 (USD)

GDP - real growth rate

-2.3%

GDP - official exchange rate

$99,120,000,000 (USD)

GDP - composition, by end use

• consumption: 62% government
• consumption: 13.3% investment in fixed
• capital: 25.5% investment in
• inventories: 0.1% exports of goods and
• services: 19.8% imports of goods and
• services: -20.7%

GDP by Sector- agriculture

6.2%

GDP by Sector- Industry

34%

GDP by Sector- services

59.8%

Industrial Growth Rate

-3.2%

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Inflation Rate

2.1%

Exchange Rate per US Dollar

1

Currency Name and Code

US Dollar (USD)

Fiscal Year

calendar year

Commercial Bank Prime Lending Rate

9%

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Labor Force

4,848,000

Unemployment Rate

5.5%

Major Industries

petroleum, food processing, textiles, wood products, chemicals

Agriculture Products

• bananas, coffee, cocoa, rice, potatoes, cassava (manioc, tapioca), plantains, sugarcane
• cattle, sheep, pigs, beef, pork, dairy products
• fish, shrimp
• balsa wood

Population Below Poverty Line

25.6%

Child Labor - # of children ages 5-14

227,599

Child Labor - % of children ages 5-14

8%

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Labor Force By Occupation- agriculture

27.8%

Labor Force By Occupation- industry

17.8%

Labor Force By Occupation- services

54.4%

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Annual Budget

$30,900,000,000 (USD)

Public Debt (% of GDP)

33%

Budget Surplus or Deficit - percent of GDP

-4%

Taxes and other revenues - percent of GDP

31.2%

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Full Country Name

Republic of Ecuador

Country Name

Ecuador

Local - Long

República del Ecuador

Local - Short

Ecuador

Etymology- history of name

the country's position on the globe, straddling the Equator, accounts for its Spanish name

Independence

24 May 1822 (from Spain)

National Holiday

Independence Day (independence of Quito), 10 August (1809)

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Government Type

presidential republic

Constitution

• history: many previous; latest approved 20 October 2008
• amendments: proposed by the president of the republic through a referendum, by public petition of at least 1% of registered voters, or by agreement of at least one-third membership of the National Assembly; passage requires two separate readings a year apart and approval by at least two-thirds majority vote of the Assembly, and approval by absolute majority in a referendum; amendments such as changes to the structure of the state, constraints on personal rights and guarantees, or constitutional amendment procedures are not allowed; amended 2011, 2015, 2018

Legal System:

civil law based on the Chilean civil code with modifications; traditional law in indigenous communities

Executive Branch:

• chief of state: President Daniel NOBOA Azin (since 23 November 2023); Vice President Verónica ABAD Rojas (since 23 November 2023); the president is both chief of state and head of government
• head of government: President Daniel NOBOA Azin (since 23 November 2023); Vice President Verónica ABAD Rojas (since 23 November 2023)
• cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president
• elections/appointments: president and vice president directly elected on the same ballot by absolute majority popular vote in 2 rounds if needed for a 4-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 20 August 2023 with a runoff on 15 October 2023 (next to be held on 28 February 2025); note – on 18 May 2023, Ecuador’s National Electoral Council announced that the legislative and presidential elections—originally scheduled for February 2025—would be held on 20 August 2023 with a runoff on 15 October 2023 after former president Guillermo LASSO dissolved the National Assembly by decree on 17 May 2023; though eligible for a second term, LASSO announced that he would not run in the 2023 election; President Daniel NOBOA Azin will serve out the remainder of the current presidential term (2021–2025)
• election results: 2023: Daniel NOBOA Azin elected president; percent of vote in the second round - Luisa GONZÁLEZ Alcivar (MRC) 33.6%, Daniel NOBOA Azin (ADN) 23.5%, Christian Gustavo ZURITA Ron (Construye) 16.4%, Jan Tomislav TOPIĆ Feraud (Por Un País Sin Miedo) 14.7%, Otto Ramón SONNENHOLZNER Sper (Avanza) 7.1% other 4.7%; percent of vote in the second round - Daniel NOBOA Azin 51.8%, Luisa GONZÁLEZ Alcivar 48.2% 2021: Guillermo LASSO Mendoza elected president; percent of vote in the first round - Andres ARAUZ (UNES) 32.7%, Guillermo LASSO Mendoza (CREO) 19.7%, Yaku PEREZ Guartambel (MUPP) 19.4%, Xavier HERVAS Mora (ID) 15.7%, other 12.5%; percent of vote in the second round - Guillermo LASSO Mendoza (CREO) 52.5%, Andres ARAUZ (UNES) 47.5%

Legislative Branch:

• Description: unicameral National Assembly or Asamblea Nacional (137 seats; 116 members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote, 15 members directly elected in a single nationwide constituency by open-list proportional representation vote, and 6 directly elected in multi-seat constituencies for Ecuadorians living abroad by simple majority vote; members serve 4-year terms);
• Note: all Assembly members have alternates from the same party who cast votes when a primary member is absent, resigns, or is removed from office
• Elections: last held on 20 August 2023 (next to be held on 28 February 2025); note – on 18 May 2023, Ecuador’s National Electoral Council announced that the legislative and presidential elections—originally scheduled for February 2025—would be held on 20 August 2023 after President Guillermo LASSO dissolved the National Assembly by decree on 17 May 2023; a return to a regular election cycle will occur in February 2025
• Election Results: percent of vote by party - MRC 39.7%, Construye 20.4%, ADN 14.6%, PSC 11.9%, Actuemos 4.5%, PSP 3.2%, other 5.7%; seats by party - NA;
• Note: defections by National Assembly members are commonplace, resulting in frequent changes in the numbers of seats held by the various parties

Judicial Branch:

• office: candidates for the National Court of Justice evaluated and appointed justices by the Judicial Council, a 9-member independent body of law professionals; justices elected for 9-year, non-renewable terms, with one-third of the membership renewed every 3 years; candidates for the Constitutional Court evaluated and appointed judges by a 6-member independent body of law professionals; judges appointed for 4-year renewable terms
• subordinate courts: provincial courts (one for each province except Galapagos); fiscal, criminal, and administrative tribunals; Election Dispute Settlement Courts; cantonal courts

Regions or States:

24 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Azuay, Bolivar, Canar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Galapagos, Guayas, Imbabura, Loja, Los Rios, Manabi, Morona Santiago, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Pichincha, Santa Elena, Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas, Sucumbios, Tungurahua, Zamora Chinchipe

Political Parties and Leaders:

• Actuemos Ecuador or Actuemos AMIGO movement, Independent Mobilizing Action Generating Opportunities (Movimiento AMIGO (Acción Movilizadora Independiente Generando Oportunidades)) or AM16O [Victor BRAVO, acting president]
• Avanza Party or AVANZA [Javier ORTI Torres]
• Central Democratic Movement or CD [Jimmy JAIRALA]
• Citizen Revolution Movement or MRC or RC5 [Luisa GONZÁLEZ]
• Creating Opportunities Movement or CREO [Esteban BERNAL]
• Democratic Left or ID [Analía LEDESMA]
• Democracy Yes Movement (Movimiento Democracia Si) [Gustavo LARREA]
• For A Country Without Fear (Por Un País Sin Miedo) (an alliance including PSC, CD, and PSP) [Jan Tomislav TOPIĆ Feraud]
• Green Movement (Movimiento Verde Movimiento Construye or Construye [María Paula ROMO]
• National Democratic Action (Acción Democrática Nacional) or ADN [Daniel NOBOA]
• Pachakutik Plurinational Unity Movement or MUPP [Guillermo CHURUCHUMBI]
• Patriotic Society Party or PSP [Lucio GUTIÉRREZ Borbúa]
• People, Equality, and Democracy Party (Partido Pueblo, Igualdad y Democracia) or PID [Arturo MORENO]
• Popular Unity Party (Partido Unidad Popular) or UP [Geovanni ATARIHUANA]
• Revolutionary and Democratic Ethical Green Movement (Movimiento Verde Ético Revolucionario y Democrático) or MOVER [René ESPÍN, Secretary-General]
• Social Christian Party or PSC [Alfredo SERRANO]
• Socialist Party [Gustavo VALLEJO]
• Society United for More Action or SUMA [Guillermo CELI]
• Total Renovation Movement (Movimiento Renovacion Total) or RETO [Eduardo SÁNCHEZ]

Suffrage:

• 18-65 years of age
• universal and compulsory
• 16-18, over 65, and other eligible voters, voluntary

Citizenship Criteria:

• birth: yes citizenship by descent
• only: yes dual citizenship
• recognized: no residency requirement for
• naturalization: 3 years

Capital Name

Quito

Capital - geographic coordinate

0 13 S, 78 30 W

Capital Time Difference

UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time) time zone note: Ecuador has two time zones, including the Galapagos Islands (UTC-6)

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International Organization Participation:

• CAN
• CD
• CELAC
• FAO
• G-11
• G-77
• IADB
• IAEA
• IBRD
• ICAO
• ICC (national committees)
• ICCt
• ICRM
• IDA
• IFAD
• IFC
• IFRCS
• IHO
• ILO
• IMF
• IMO
• Interpol
• IOC
• IOM
• IPU
• ISO
• ITSO
• ITU
• ITUC (NGOs)
• LAES
• LAIA
• Mercosur (associate)
• MIGA
• MINUSTAH
• NAM
• OAS
• OPANAL
• OPCW
• OPEC
• Pacific Alliance (observer)
• PCA
• PROSUR
• SICA (observer)
• UN
• UNCTAD
• UNESCO
• UNHCR
• UNIDO
• Union Latina
• UNISFA
• UNMIL
• UNMISS
• UNOCI
• UNWTO
• UPU
• WCO
• WFTU (NGOs)
• WHO
• WIPO
• WMO
• WTO

International Law Organization Participation:

has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction

Diplomatic Representation from US:

• Chief of Mission: Ambassador Michael J. FITZPATRICK (since 3 July 2019)
• Embassy: E12-170 Avenida Avigiras y Avenida Eloy Alfaro, Quito
• Mailing Address: 3420 Quito Place, Washington DC 20521-3420
• Telephone: [593] (2) 398-5000
• Email: ACSQuito@state.gov
• Website: https://ec.usembassy.gov/
• Consulate(s) General: Guayaquil

Diplomatic Representation in the US:

• Chief of Mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d'Affaires Maria Soledad PENA PLAZA (since 9 February 2024)
• Chancery: 2535 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
• Telephone: [1] (202) 234-7200
• FAX: [1] (202) 333-2893
• Email: embassy@ecuador.org
• Website: http://www.ecuador.org/
• Consulate(s) General: Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New Haven (CT), New York, Newark (NJ), Phoenix, San Francisco

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Geographic Location

South America

Geographic Coordinates

2 00 S, 77 30 W

Total Area

109,483 Square Miles 283,561 Square Kilometers

Land Area

106,888 Square Miles 276,841 Square Kilometers

Water Area

2,595 Square Miles 6,720 Square Kilometers

Land Boundaries

1,249 Miles 2,010 Kilometers

Border Countries

Colombia 590 km, Peru 1,420 km

Coastline

1,390 Miles 2,237 Kilometers

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Terrain

coastal plain (costa), inter-Andean central highlands (sierra), and flat to rolling eastern jungle (oriente)

Highest Point

6,267 Meters

Highest Point Location

Chimborazo 6,267 m

Lowest Point Location

Pacific Ocean 0 m

Natural Resources

petroleum, fish, timber, hydropower

Irrigated Land

3,295 Square Miles 8,534 Square Kilometers

Time Zone

UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time) time zone note: Ecuador has two time zones, including the Galapagos Islands (UTC-6)

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Climate

Because of variations in altitude, Ecuador has a variety of climates.

The lowlands are generally hot and humid.

Temperatures on the coast are moderated by the Humboldt Current to a range of 65°F to 90°F.

Temperatures in the Sierra are generally cool, ranging from 35°F to 75°F.

Due to the altitude and thin air, temperature in direct sunlight can reach 85°F at midday.

In the evenings it can range from pleasantly cool to very chilly.

The tallest mountains are always snowcapped, but it never snows in the inhabited altitudes, although it hails occasionally.

During the Sierra dry season, from June through September, gusty winds are common.

In Quito the temperature pattern rarely changes from day to day or month to month.

Mornings are cool and crisp, and midday is agreeably warm, unless skies are overcast.

Fog and mist may occur in the mornings or evenings as low-lying clouds spill over the sides of the valley.

Since Quito is such a short distance from the Equator, sunrise and sunset vary only slightly from 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Average annual rainfall in Quito is 50 inches, with 43 inches falling from October through May, and 7 inches from June through September.

Relative humidity averages 75%.

Occasional tremors are registered in the area; these may or may not be perceptible to residents.

Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are infrequent but do remain a possibility.

Terrain

coastal plain (costa), inter-Andean central highlands (sierra), and flat to rolling eastern jungle (oriente)

Location

Western South America, bordering the Pacific Ocean at the Equator, between Colombia and Peru

Total Area

109,483 Square Miles 283,561 Square Kilometers

Border Countries

Colombia 590 km, Peru 1,420 km

Environment - Current Issues

• deforestation
• soil erosion
• desertification
• water pollution
• pollution from oil production wastes in ecologically sensitive areas of the Amazon Basin and Galapagos Islands

Environment - International Agreements

party to: Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements

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Exports

$16,770,000,000 (USD)

Imports

$17,740,000,000 (USD)

Major Exports

petroleum, bananas, cut flowers, shrimp, cacao, coffee, wood, fish

Major Imports

industrial materials, fuels and lubricants, nondurable consumer goods

Top Export Partners

US 39.5%, Chile 6.2%, Peru 5.1%, Vietnam 4.3%, Colombia 4.3%

Top Import Partners

US 27.1%, China 15.3%, Colombia 8.3%, Panama 4.9%

Export Partners

US 39.5%, Chile 6.2%, Peru 5.1%, Vietnam 4.3%, Colombia 4.3%

Import Partners

US 27.1%, China 15.3%, Colombia 8.3%, Panama 4.9%

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Country Description

Ecuador is a Spanish-speaking country approximately the size of Colorado.

It has a democratically elected government.

In general, tourist facilities are adequate but vary in quality.

Safety & Security

• Disasters: Ecuador has many active and potentially active volcanoes, including around the capital of Quito and other popular tourist destinations. Other potential environmental threats include flooding, earthquakes, and tsunamis. In the event of a natural disaster, transportation, water, communications, and power systems may fail due to damaged infrastructure or heavy ash fall. Roads may close and flights in or out of Ecuadorian airports might be cancelled due to adverse conditions. Three active volcanoes within 100 kilometers of Quito threaten the city primarily with ash fall. Baños, a popular tourist destination, is located at the base of the Tungurahua volcano. Tungurahua has erupted explosively several times in the last decade, including several eruptions throughout 2010 and 2011 that produced significant ash fall. Travelers to Baños, especially on the western side of town, should be aware that mud or lava flows could pose a significant and immediate threat. If you are in Baños when a volcanic eruption occurs, stay alert to the sirens and instructions from local authorities, and follow the arrows on the street to reach the evacuation shelters in the Santa Ana neighborhood on the main road on the east side of town, towards Puyo. Earthquakes sometimes trigger deadly tsunamis, which could strike coastal areas of Ecuador or the Galápagos Islands. Ecuadorian national authorities put out warnings of potential tsunamis, but the response on the local level is uneven, and on one recent occasion in the Galapagos Islands, there was no coordinated evacuation when a tsunami struck. Ecuador’s National Risk Management Secretariat and the Ecuadorian Geophysical Institute monitor Ecuadorian volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis in Ecuador, issuing regular reports on their activity. In the event of a natural disaster, pay close attention to the news media for updates. Civil
• Unrest: Political demonstrations occur frequently throughout Ecuador. During demonstrations, protesters often block city streets and rural highways, including major arteries such as the Pan American Highway, disrupting public and private transportation. Protesters sometimes burn tires, throw rocks, damage cars and other personal property, and on occasion detonate small improvised explosive devices. Police response to demonstrations varies, but may include water cannons and tear gas. U.S. citizens and U.S.-affiliated interests are not usually targeted, but you should avoid areas where demonstrations are in progress and be prepared with back-up transportation plans. Peaceful demonstrations can turn violent with little or no warning, and you could become a target. Northern Border
• Region: Due to the spread of organized crime, drug and small-arms trafficking, and incursions by terrorist organizations near Ecuador’s border with Colombia, the U.S. Embassy in Quito advises caution when traveling to northern Ecuador, including the provinces of Sucumbios, northern Orellana (including the city of Coca), Carchi, and northern Esmeraldas (including the city of Esmeraldas). U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the northern border unless case-specific permission is granted. Embassy personnel are not permitted to go to this region on personal travel of any kind. At least 11 U.S. citizens are known to have been kidnapped in this region during the past 11 years. Safety in the Galapagos
• Islands: The Galápagos archipelago is located more than 600 miles to the west of continental Ecuador. Geographic isolation and the lack of local resources may present challenges to travelers there. Dangers posed by lax enforcement of marine safety laws and rudimentary medical facilities are exacerbated by the difficulty of performing evacuations from the islands. A significant number of Ecuadorian tour vessels operating in the Galápagos do not meet international safety standards. The Government of Ecuador requires that vessels carrying more than 16 passengers comply with the Inte

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Crime

• Assaults: Robberies and assaults against taxi passengers, known locally as “secuestro express” continue to present a significant safety concern, especially in Guayaquil and Manta, but also with increasing regularity in Quito. Shortly after the passenger enters a taxi, the vehicle is typically intercepted by armed accomplices of the driver, who threaten passengers with weapons, rob passengers of their personal belongings, and force victims to withdraw money from ATMs. Increasingly, victims have been beaten or raped during these incidents. In the Guayaquil area, you should call to order a taxi by phone or use a service affiliated with major hotels. If you must hail a taxi on the street, seek out those that are officially registered and in good condition. Registered taxis in Ecuador are usually yellow, display matching unit numbers on their windshields and doors, feature a taxi cooperative name on the door, and are identified with an orange license plate. Still, be aware that passengers have been victimized even in taxis that meet these criteria. U.S. officials associated with the U.S. Consulate in Guayaquil are forbidden from hailing street taxis. If you become a victim of express kidnapping and/or robbery, cooperation with the assailant usually results in the best outcome, as nothing material is as valuable as your life. Following a criminal incident, U.S. citizens are encouraged to immediately file a police report with the local authorities and to inform the American Citizens Services Unit at the U.S. Embassy in Quito or the U.S. Consulate General in Guayaquil. Violent
• Robberies: Armed or violent robberies can occur in all parts of Ecuador, not just the major cities. Many travelers have been robbed after using ATMs or when exiting banks. Travelers should avoid withdrawing large amounts of cash at one time from banks and ATMs, and should use ATMs in protected indoor areas like well-guarded shopping malls. In some cases, robbers have used motorcycles to approach their victims and flee the scene. Tourists have also been robbed at gunpoint on beaches and along hiking trails. Non-Violent
• Robberies: Pick-pocketing, purse-snatching, robbery, bag-slashing, and hotel room theft are the most common types of crimes committed against U.S. citizens in Ecuador. They occur throughout Ecuador and incidents have increased significantly in recent years. Pickpockets and other petty thieves are particularly active in airports, restaurants, on public transportation, in crowded streets, bus terminals, public markets, and grocery stores. Backpackers are frequently targeted for robbery, as are travelers carrying laptop computer bags. On buses, luggage stowed below the bus or at a traveler’s feet is sometimes stolen. Thieves in Ecuador often distract the victim, sometimes by purposefully spilling liquid on the victim and pretending to help the victim clean it up, while accomplices snatch the victim’s bag or pick the victim’s pocket. To lower your risk of these or other non-violent crimes, leave valuables in a safe place, or don’t travel with them. Make use of hotel safes when available, avoid wearing obviously expensive jewelry or designer clothing, and carry only the cash or credit cards that you will need on each outing. Stay alert to pickpockets when in crowds and when taking public transportation, and be conscious that distractions can be created to target you. Carjacking an

Criminal Penalties

While you are traveling in Ecuador, you are subject to Ecuadorian laws even though you are a U.S. citizen.

Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different from our own.

Criminal penalties will vary from country to country.

There are also some things that might be legal in the country you visit, but still illegal in the United States.

For example, you can be prosecuted under U.S. law if you buy pirated goods.

Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is also a crime prosecutable in the United States.

If you break local laws in Ecuador, your U.S. passport won’t help you avoid arrest or prosecution.

It’s very important to know what’s legal and what’s not where you are going.

If you are arrested in Ecuador, under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations and customary international law, you have the option to request that the police, prison officials, or other authorities alert the nearest U.S.

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Medical Facilities

Adequate medical and dental care is available in the major cities of Ecuador.

In smaller communities and in the Galápagos Islands, services are limited, and the quality is generally well below U.S. standards.

Ambulances, with or without trained emergency staff, are in short supply in cities, but even more so in rural areas.

Pharmacies are readily available in any city; however, you might find that the availability of some medications is sporadic, and formulations and brand names will differ from products available in the United States.

Narcotics and tranquilizers are extremely limited in availability.

Pharmacists sometimes dispense medications without requesting a prescription.

These individuals may have little training and often prescribe broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Consider any advice from them accordingly.

Folk healers and traditional markets in some parts of the country offer herbal and folk remedies.

You should exercise caution when exploring these remedies, as the formulations can be questionable and some components may interact with other prescription medications.

Many tropical diseases are present in Ecuador, including malaria, dengue and yellow fever (which are transmitted by mosquitoes at lower altitudes), leishmaniaisis (transmitted by sand flies), chagas disease (transmitted by triatomine bugs) and tuberculosis (transmitted from person to person via respiratory droplets).

To protect yourself from insect-borne diseases while at lower altitudes, use insect repellants, clothing treated with permethrin, and bed nets.

In Ecuador, yellow fever is found only in the Amazon basin.

Ecuadorian authorities might require you to show a certificate of yellow fever vaccination when entering or leaving this area, or when continuing travel to other areas of South America.

If possible, you should obtain a yellow fever vaccine prior to departure from the United States.

You can also obtain the vaccination in Guayaquil from the Jefatura Provincial de Salud, Panama y Padre Aguirre, (tel): 04-230-3160, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The vaccine is free if you do not need an international certification; otherwise it costs $10.40.

Antimalarial medication significantly reduces the risk of contracting malaria.

There are no vaccines or prophylactic medications for dengue, leishmaniaisis or chagas.

If you become ill with fever or flu-like symptoms during or after travel in a high-risk area, you should promptly seek medical attention.

Note that the onset of these diseases may be delayed by up to a year.

Your Health and High Altitudes: If you travel to Quito (elevation: 9,400 feet) or other highland areas, you will typically require some time to adjust to the altitude, which can adversely affect your blood pressure, digestion, and energy level.

Mountain climbers in particular should be cautioned not to underestimate the time required to adjust before beginning a challenging climb at altitude.

Consult with your personal health care providers before undertaking high-altitude travel, as there are medications available to help combat the effects.

If you have heart or lung problems or the sickle cell trait, you may develop serious health complications at high altitudes.

Traffic Safety

• Licenses: You may drive in Ecuador using your state-issued driver’s license for up to 90 days. If you are staying in Ecuador for a prolonged period, you should contact the Comision de Transito del Ecuador to obtain a valid driver’s license. Importing a
• Vehicle: You should investigate local regulations before attempting to import any vehicle into Ecuador on a temporary or permanent basis. If you are able to register a vehicle in Ecuador, you will be required to buy local liability insurance, called SOAT. Bus
• Travelers: Intra- and inter-city bus passengers are often targets of crime, including robbery and sexual assault. Numerous bus accidents occur every year in Ecuador, and many buses are overcrowded, poorly maintained, and lack seat belts or other safety features. In Guayaquil, security on public transportation is a major concern. Armed criminals have been known to board local city buses and rob passengers of jewelry, money, and other valuables. There have been instances in which routes between cities are blocked by criminals, who force the bus to stop and then board the bus to rob passengers.

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Airports - total

432

Airports with Paved Runways

104

Heliports

2

Railways

600 Miles 965 Kilometers

Roadways- total

27,135 Miles 43,670 Kilometers

Roadways- paved

4,022 Miles 6,472 Kilometers

Waterways

932 Miles 1,500 Kilometers

Ports and Terminals

Esmeraldas, Guayaquil, La Libertad, Manta, Puerto Bolivar, San Lorenzo

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Pipelines: extra heavy crude

327 Miles 527 Kilometers

Pipelines: Gas

44 Miles 71 Kilometers

Pipelines: Oil

1,324 Miles 2,131 Kilometers

Pipelines: Refined Products

948 Miles 1,526 Kilometers

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Telephones

2,004,000

Cell Phones

10,086,000

Internet Users

1,549,000

Internet Country Code

.ec

Internet Hosts

67,975

Broadcast Media

• Ecuador has multiple TV networks and many local channels, as well as more than 300 radio stations
• many TV and radio stations are privately owned
• the government owns or controls 5 national TV stations and multiple radio stations
• broadcast media required by law to give the government free air time to broadcast programs produced by the state

Telephone System

• assessment: elementary fixed-line service, but increasingly sophisticated mobile-cellular network
• domestic: fixed-line services provided by multiple telecommunications operators; fixed-line teledensity stands at about 15 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular use has surged and subscribership has reached 100 per 100 persons
• international: country code - 593; landing points for the PAN-AM and South America-1 submarine cables that provide links to the west coast of South America, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, and extending onward to Aruba and the US Virgin Islands in the Caribbean; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)

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Electricity Consumption- Kilowatt Hours (kWh)

15,810,000,000

Electricity Exports- Kilowatt Hours (kWh)

20,680,000

Electricity Imports- Kilowatt Hours (kWh)

1,120,000,000

Electricity Production- Kilowatt Hours (kWh)

16,420,000,000

Natural Gas Consumption - Kilowatt Hours (kWh)

330,000,000

Natural Gas Imports- Cubic Meters (cu m)

25,000

Natural Gas Production- Cubic Meters (cu m)

240,000,000

Natural Gas Reserves- Cubic Meters (cu m)

6,994,000,000

Oil Consumption- Barrels Per Day (bbl/day)

280,000

Oil Exports- Barrels Per Day (bbl/day)

413,000

Oil Imports- Barrels Per Day (bbl/day)

154,000

Oil Production- Barrels Per Day (bbl/day)

493,200

Oil Reserves- Barrels Per Day (bbl/day)

8,240,000,000

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Anthem Lyrics

CORO ­Salve oh Patria, mil veces! ­Oh Patria! ­gloria a ti!

Y a tu pecho rebosa gozo y paz, y tu frente radiosa más que el sol contemplamos lucir.

ESTROFAS Indignados tus hijos del yugo Cedió al fin la fiereza española, que te impuso la ibérica audacia, y hoy, oh Patria, tu libre existencia de la injusta y horrenda desgracia es la noble y magnífica herencia que pesaba fatal sobre ti, que nos dio, el heroísmo feliz; santa voz a los cielos alzaron, de las manos paternas la hubimos, voz de noble y sin par juramento, nadie intente arrancárnosla ahora, de vengarte del monstruo sangriento, ni nuestra ira excitar vengadora de romper ese yugo servil. quiera, necio o audaz, contra sí.

Los primeros los hijos del suelo Nadie, oh Patria, lo intente.

Las sombras que, soberbio; el Pichincha decora de tus héroes gloriosos nos miran, te aclamaron por siempre señora y el valor y el orgullo que inspiran y vertieron su sangre por ti. son augurios de triunfos por ti.

Dios miró y aceptó el holocausto, Venga el hierro y el plomo fulmíneo, y esa sangre fue germen fecundo que a la idea de guerra, y venganza de otros héroes que, atónito, el mundo se despierta la heroica pujanza vio en tu torno a millares surgir. que hizo al fiero español sucumbir.

De estos héroes al brazo de hierro Y si nuevas cadenas prepara nada tuvo invencible la tierra, la injusticia de bárbara suerte, y del valle a la altísima sierra ­gran Pichincha! prevén tú la muerte se escuchaba el fragor de la lid; de la patria y sus hijos al fin; tras la lid la victoria volaba, hunde al punto en tus hondas extrañas libertad tras el triunfo venía, cuando existe en tu tierra: el tirano y al león destrozado se oía huelle sólo cenizas y en vano de impotencia y despecho rugir. busque rastro de ser junto a ti.