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Named after the equator, Ecuador is home to the ‘equator monument’ that lies in the Pichincha province. This monument gives us the exact location of the equator, dividing the earth into its northern and southern hemispheres, is one of Ecuador’s numerous attractions.

Named after the equator, Ecuador is home to the ‘equator monument’ that lies in the Pichincha province. This monument gives us the exact location of the equator, dividing the earth into its northern and southern hemispheres, is one of Ecuador’s numerous attractions.

Despite its tremendous potential and numerous attractions, visitors need to remain vigilant. Taking the appropriate precautions will assure that you have a fantastic safari experience. Ecuador is also a great safari destination for solo travellers.

Ecuador Travel Advice For Safaris

  • Ecuador is a high altitude region, and therefore visitors may require a few days to acclimatise to the altitude. Avoid climbing any mountains or volcanoes until you have a few days to familiarise yourself with the high altitude otherwise you run the risk of feeling sick.
  • Stay hydrated. It will help you overcome not only symptoms associated with altitude sickness but also seasickness. The Galápagos cruises, on the calm-open waters, can be too much for some Remember to pack ginger or nausea medications.
  • The forest and mangroves in Ecuador are teeming with mosquitoes, so don’t forget to pack insect repellent and long-sleeved shirts and trousers.
  • Get travel insurance that covers the activities you are planning to undertake in Ecuador. Activities may include hiking the high-altitude mountains and volcanoes on mainland Ecuador or cruises in the waters of the Galápagos Islands.
  • Apart from malaria, visitors, especially pregnant women, should beware of the Zika virus. Based on scientific observations, Zika virus infection has caused microcephaly. Avoid travelling to Ecuador if you are pregnant.

Ecuador Travel Safety Tips For Cities

Ecuador is technically crime-free if one were to discredit pickpocketing. But visitors should remain alert about their belongings in crowded public locations such as buses, busy city areas, and markets.

Take the basic precautions:

  • Avoid wearing or flaunting jewellery. Travel light and don’t carry a lot of cash. Just carry what you need for your daily spendings.
  • Keep your valuables locked in hotel safes.
  • Don’t leave your belongings unattended at any time.
  • Avoid leaving your hotel at night.
  • Credit card fraud is pretty common in Ecuador. Carry it only when necessary and keep it within your sights all the time.
  • If a crime occurs despite all the precautions, report to the tourism police employed in the major cities. You can reach them at either 911 or 112.

Food and Water Safety Tips

  • According to WHO, around 94% of water sources in Ecuador have improved. Although the data says that the tap water in Quito should be safe to drink, the old pipes that supply water might contaminate it on the way. So, it is preferable to drink bottled water in Ecuador, which is readily available. Water contaminated with animal urine may cause leptospirosis, says CDC.
  • Although Ecuador’s food is excellent, some people might experience mild stomach upset. As such, you are advised to pack medication for this before travelling to Ecuador as the availability of medical facilities in some regions might be limited.