Ecuador offers a number of exciting cities so that you can tap into what South America has to offer.
Unfortunately, the greatness is often overshadowed by drug trafficking, violent attacks, and petty theft.
Whether you are there for the Galapagos Islands, the history of ancient Incas, or the country’s incredible beaches, some cities are safer to visit than others.
Knowing which cities are the safest will make it easier for you to plan your trip accordingly.
There are also some safety tips that you should implement before and during your trip.
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10 Safest Cities in Ecuador
Ecuador can be an amazing place for you to visit.
Knowing about the safest cities will help you to avoid problems and enjoy more of what the country has to offer.
Realistically, on average, the crime rate in Ecuador is only 5.8 per 100k population – considerably lower than many other countries around the world.
Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are considered to be the most popular archipelagos in the world.
The population is around 25,000, which is high considering that it is 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador.
There is nature everywhere you look, with plenty of parks and beaches that you can explore.
Wildlife tours are popular, and you can explore all 18 islands.
It is not always safe for women because of the male-dominated population – but if you travel in groups, you will not typically find a problem.
There are strict rules in place to help keep crime low in this area.
Cuenca
Cuenca is listed as one of the safest cities in Ecuador – and it’s also the third-most populated city.
There is a lot of history found throughout Cuenca as it was established by the Spanish in 1557.
You will find historic architecture, vast amounts of culture, and countless entertainment options.
The most dangerous part about the entire city is traffic – you will find that it is easier to walk to most places.
The area is one of the more open-minded cities, too – and you will find it very welcoming to the LGBTQ population.
Intag Valley
Along the Intag River is the Intag Valley.
It is considered a remote area, so there is not a lot of crime happening here.
It is home to the Intag Cloud Forest Reserve, which offers diverse flora and fauna for you to explore.
The area is famous for its coffee as well as many endangered specials.
Plenty of cultural and eco-tours are available for you to embark on.
Choosing reputable tour companies will also help to keep you safe.
Montanita
Montanita is a coastal town that attracts tourists from all over the world.
It can offer quite the vibrant nightlife, which is where you will want to exercise the most caution.
You can spend your days soaking up the sun on the beach and surfing.
There is a significant amount of affordability throughout Montanita, which is why it is so popular.
You will find that you feel safe everywhere you go.
The roads are not the best, though, so that is where you will be more likely to encounter problems.
Quito
Quito is the capital of Ecuador, which means that it is also extremely populated.
It is a beautiful city, though it can also have pockets of crime – especially when you are in the downtown area as well as in select neighborhoods.
Plenty of hotels will provide you with access to tours, transportation, and more.
You can rely on the hotel staff to tell you where to go in order to stay safe throughout your vacation.
There is always something to do, day and night.
Plus, you will find that there is a large police presence and almost everyone speaks English.
Bahia de Caraquez
Bahia de Caraquez is a popular vacation spot because of its location on the peninsula at the mouth of the Rio Chone.
The area has become considerably safer in recent years as it has recovered from the earthquake of 2016.
There is nature everywhere you look, and you will find that it is very easy to walk everywhere you want to go.
Hotels are right on the beach, providing you with amazing views.
Bahia de Caraquez is a small city, though, so amenities are sparse.
You may find that this is only one of many stops you make when you travel to Ecuador.
Santa Marianita
Santa Marianita is a beach community that has been growing considerably over the past few years.
Manta is less than 30 minutes away, to the north.
You will find that there is no petty crime to speak of, allowing you to relax and enjoy the beachy scenery that the town has to offer.
This is a very affordable area, too, so you can stay for an extended period of time and truly enjoy all that there is here.
Beyond exploring the beach, you will find that kitesurfing is huge throughout Santa Marianita – and there is even a school where you can get lessons.
Salinas
Salinas is extremely safe because you get to be tucked away on a beach resort – and this may be one of the most popular resort towns in the entire country.
You will find countless nightclubs, bars, coffee shops, and restaurants down the length of the beach.
Property crimes are the highest crime that you have to worry about.
Most of the tourist areas are heavily patrolled by police officers and private security guards.
While you are out on the beach, you can enjoy plenty of watersports.
You may also want to take a boat tour where you may find dolphins, whales, and sea lions.
Ballenita
Ballenita is nestled within the province of Santa Elena.
You are close to many of the beaches, and there are also art galleries for you to explore.
This is one of the quieter areas of Ecuador, allowing you to enjoy peace and tranquility.
The population is only around 2,000 people.
Tourism is alive and well, and there is also a lot of artisanal fishing that happens throughout the town.
Crimes are relatively low because it is a quiet town.
Most crimes are associated with home invasion and theft.
If you are staying in a hotel or resort, you will be well-protected for the most part.
Playas
If you are interested in visiting the coast, you can do so without visiting Guayaquil.
Instead, you can visit Playas.
This is a resort community, so it is designed with the safety of tourists in mind.
The population is small at only 24,000 – though it will seem much more populated because of the number of tourists that visit each and every year.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Ecuador
Although crime is high throughout Ecuador, you can keep yourself safer by following a few safety tips.
It can ensure that you do not fall into the category of an “unsuspecting tourist.”
Use Caution When Calling for a Taxi
Ideally, you should order a taxi using one that is affiliated with a major hotel.
Otherwise, look at the taxis on the street to make sure that they are officially registered.
These are typically yellow and will display matching unit numbers on both their doors and windshields.
Additionally, the registered taxis are identified with an orange license plate.
Be Careful When Using ATMs
If you have to pull out cash at any time during your stay in Ecuador, you need to use caution when utilizing an ATM or exiting a bank.
Try to avoid withdrawing large sums of cash at a single time.
You should also use protected indoor areas, such as ATMs found in hotels or guarded shopping malls.
Do Not Travel with Valuables
Pickpockets and petty thieves can be found all throughout Ecuador, particularly in bus terminals, restaurants, public markets, and crowded streets.
Leave all of your valuables at home or within a hotel safe.
When at all possible, keep wallets and cash in your pocket as opposed to carrying a purse or backpack.
Travel in Groups
You should get in the habit of traveling in groups when at all possible so that there are more people looking out for you at all times.
Sexual assault has increased throughout Ecuador, particularly in some of the most populated tourist areas.
Make sure that you never accept a drink from a stranger.
Additionally, do not leave drinks or food unattended so that you do not have to worry about the possibility of a date-rape drug being added to what you are consuming.
Be Aware of Distractions
Many thieves throughout Ecuador will work to distract their victims.
This includes anything from asking “innocent” questions to purposefully spilling a drink.
Then, when they are working to “help,” they have accomplices that will pick a pocket or snatch a bag.
When it is possible, walk directly to your destination without stopping to interact with anyone you do not know.
Sources
- Crime Information for Tourists in Ecuador
- 7 Best Places to Live in Ecuador
- Ecuador Crime Rate & Statistics
- Beach Towns in Ecuador
Ecuador Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Ecuador Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: HIGH
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city is the most dangerous in Ecuador?
Guayaquil, found along the coast, is the city in Ecuador with the most amount of crime.
You will want to exercise extreme caution, particularly within the southern part of the city and downtown.
Is there a lot of police presence in Ecuador?
Police presence will vary depending upon where you are in Ecuador.
Even though many high-tourist areas are patrolled by the police, criminals are always hoping to prey on unsuspecting tourists.
What are the most common crimes against tourists in Ecuador?
As a tourist, the most common crimes you have to be worried about include non-violent crimes such as hotel room theft, robbery, and pick-pocketing.
Originally, from Texas in USA, I have lived in Ecuador 19 years. I love it: the people and the climate. Our home is about 2 hours south of Quito in a rural area near Latacunga. From the eastern jungles to the high sierras to the Pacific beaches, there is no place I’d rather be. Life is never dull. Ecuador has some volcanic activity and a few earthquakes. Common sense is require for happiness and safety.
I had such a peaceful experience visiting Cuenca last summer, truly a gem among Ecuador’s safest cities!
I couldn’t have felt more secure exploring the stunning natural beauty of Vilcabamba. It’s a hidden haven in Ecuador, where safety and serenity go hand in hand.
Exploring the vibrant streets of Loja felt so safe and welcoming, a must-visit for anyone seeking a secure yet enriching cultural experience.