Ecuador Travel & Emergency Guide

Emergency Numbers in Ecuador

Key Travel Facts

Driving Rules & Speed Limits in Ecuador

Toll & Vignette: Toll sections active on the Pan-American Highway (approx. 1 USD cash per toll plaza).

Tipping & Etiquette

Recommendation: Tipping of 10% in restaurants is standard (frequently listed as 'Servicio 10%'). Check if the 10% service charge is already included. In casual local diners, rounding up is customary. Taxis do not expect tips.

• DO Take altitude acclimatization slowly in Quito (2,850 m) and stay well hydrated.
• DO Use official registered taxis equipped with orange license plates and security cameras.
• DO Strictly maintain a 2-meter (6-foot) distance from all wildlife on the Galápagos Islands.
• DON'T Never drink unboiled tap water or unpurified ice cubes.
• DON'T Never take sand, stones, shells, or plants from the Galápagos Islands (strictly penalized).
• DON'T Avoid walking up the Panecillo hill in Quito on foot at night.

Power Sockets & Tap Water

Plug Type & Electricity: Type A & B (120V, 60Hz – standard US prongs, travel adapters required for European plugs).

Tap Water: Treated in parts of Quito/Cuenca, but bottled water is strongly recommended throughout the country, particularly on the coast and in Amazon provinces.

Insider Tip: The US Dollar has been Ecuador's official currency since 2000! For Galápagos travel, obtain the mandatory TCT Transit Card (20 USD) at the airport and pay the National Park fee upon arrival in cash.