Ecuador: Government suspends entry from several African nations as of Dec. 1 to stem spread of COVID-19 Omicron strain /update 35

Event

As of Dec. 1, the government of Ecuador is prohibiting travelers arriving from or who have transited through several African nations from entering the country due to concerns over the newly discovered Omicron strain of COVID-19. The countries in question are Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. It remains unclear how long the measure may remain in effect.

International Travel Restrictions
Aside from the new directives aimed at curbing the spread of the Omicron variant, the following pandemic-related 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 or if authorities suspect the traveler may be infected with COVID-19, the traveler must complete a 14-day quarantine period. Nonresidents must complete the quarantine at a government-regulated hotel or accommodation.

• Travelers arriving from Brazil or India must complete a 10-day quarantine period upon arrival.

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

Domestic Measures
The government continues to urge all individuals to practice social distancing; federal authorities also encourage regional officials to restrict activities in bars and nightclubs and to limit the operating capacities of malls and restaurants. Public events are limited to no more than 50 percent of the venue's normal capacity. 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 may include capacity limits and restrictions on operating hours, as well as limitations on access to entertainment and recreational facilities.

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)