Travel warning: Tourist destination announces 'state of emergency' as heavy rainfall hits

Britons are advised to check the latest travel advice for their chosen country before going abroad

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)
Anna Barry

By Anna Barry


Published: 26/02/2025

- 10:15

Seven provinces are currently affected in a South American holiday hotspot

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a new travel warning for Britons travelling to Ecuador.

A regional state of emergency has been declared due to heavy rainfall affecting seven provinces.

The FCDO stated: "On February 24, the Committee of Emergency Operations (COE) declared a regional state of emergency due to heavy rainfall."

"Seven provinces are currently affected by the state of emergency: Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí, Esmeraldas, Santa Elena, Loja and Azuay."

Women carry a mattress they received after floods in Yaguachi, Guayas Province

The Committee of Emergency Operations (COE) declared a regional state of emergency due to heavy rainfall

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This regional emergency declaration is separate from the nationwide state of emergency already in place.

The FCDO stated: "A 60-day state of emergency (SOE) was renewed on January 2, 2025, due to internal disturbance and armed violence.

"You should always follow the instructions of the police and local authorities."

Britons in Ecuador should remain vigilant and monitor local news for updates on both emergency situations.

Provinces where the 60-day state of emergency applies

  • Guayas
  • El Oro
  • Santa Elena
  • Manabí
  • Orellana
  • Sucumbios
  • Los Ríos
  • Quito Metropolitan District (Pichincha province)
  • Camilo Ponce Enríquez district (Azuay province)
  • La Troncal (Cañar province)
Several districts (cantons) and/or parishes (parroquias) have been placed under a 10pm until 5am curfew.
Districtsand/or parishes affected by curfew
Azuay province
  • Camilo Ponce Enríquez

Cañar province

  • La Troncal

Los Ríos province

  • Baba
  • Babahoyo
  • Buena Fe
  • Mocache
  • Montalvo
  • Palenque
  • Pueblo Viejo
  • Quevedo
  • Quinsaloma
  • Urdaneta
  • Valencia
  • Ventanas
  • Vinces

Guayas province

  • Balao
  • Durán
  • Parroquia Tenguel del canton Guayaquil

Orellana province

  • La Joya de los Sachas
  • Puerto Francisco De Orellana
  • Loreto

Sucumbios province

  • Shushufindi
  • Lago Agrio
The FCDO advised: "If you need to travel to or from the airport for a booked flight during curfew hours, you can do so by presenting your booking reservation."

Ecuador is a stunning, vibrant and diverse holiday destination, popular among tourists for the Galápagos Islands, the Amazon rainforest, beautiful coastal cities such as Guayaquil and Manta, abundant biodiversity, cultural richness and traditional cuisine.

However, before visiting the popular South American destination, it's important to consult the FCDO's latest travel guidance.

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Gal\u00e1pagos Islands, Ecuador

Before visiting the South American holiday destination, make sure to check the FCDO's latest advice

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This will include the most up-to-date information on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, regional risks - including where the FCDO advises against all but essential travel -health and getting help.

Britons should always consult the FCDO's latest guidance when planning a holiday to ensure a safe, well-informed trip abroad.

Holidaymakers heading to Greece were recently warned of flight cancellations and delays to all public transport.

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