Ecuador: COVID-19-related measures remain largely unchanged nationwide as of Sept. 17 /update 32

Event

As of Sept. 17, COVID-19-related restrictions in effect in Ecuador remain largely unchanged compared to those in place in mid-August. Under existing directives, the use of facemasks is mandatory in public spaces. The national government urges all individuals to practice social distancing and encourages regional officials to restrict activities in bars and nightclubs and to limit the operating capacities of malls and restaurants. All persons entering the Galapagos Islands from mainland Ecuador are required to take a COVID-19 PCR test no more than 72 hours prior to travel to the islands.

Municipal authorities are still empowered to impose tighter restrictions on business operations and public movement, depending on local disease activity. Such measures could include capacity limits and restrictions on operating hours, as well as limitations on access to entertainment and recreational facilities.

In Quito, the "Hoy no Circula" program for regulating the use of private vehicles is expected to remain in place until Sept. 30. Under the system, motorists are prohibited from driving their vehicles in the capital during the specified period based on the final digit of their license plate numbers. As of Sept. 17, these regulations are as follows:

• Mondays: Private vehicles with plates ending in 0, 1, 2, and 3 may not be on the roads 07:00-19:00.

• Tuesdays: Private vehicles with plates ending in 2, 3, 4, and 5 may not be on the roads 07:00-19:00.

• Wednesdays: Private vehicles with plates ending in 4, 5, 6, and 7 may not be on the roads 07:00-19:00.

• Thursdays: Private vehicles with plates ending in 6, 7, 8, and 9 may not be on the roads 07:00-19:00.

• Fridays: Private vehicles with plates ending in 8, 9, 0, and 1 may not be on the roads 07:00-19:00.

International Travel Restrictions
The following requirements are in effect for persons arriving in Ecuador by air:

• Travelers must present a negative result from a COVID-19 RT-PCR test for entry; the test must be taken no more than 72 hours before departure for Ecuador.

• Travelers possessing proof of having been inoculated with a full course of an approved COVID-19 vaccine may enter without a negative test result.

• Passengers presenting COVID-19 symptoms are subject to an antigen test upon arrival. If the test is positive, the traveler must complete a 10-day quarantine period. Nonresidents must complete the quarantine at a government-regulated hotel or accommodation.

• Travelers arriving from Brazil or India must present a negative result from an RT-PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure for Ecuador, regardless of whether they are fully vaccinated. Such travelers must also complete a 10-day quarantine period.

• Passengers are required to present a completed Traveler Health Declaration form upon arrival. To view the form, click here.

All restrictions are subject to amendment at short notice, depending on local disease activity.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements and appointments. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Coronavirus Ecuador (Spanish)
Air Traveler Entry Protocols (Spanish)