US State Department Warns Americans of Crime, Kidnapping in Ecuador

The State Department issued a Level 2 "Exercise Increased Caution" advisory for Ecuador this week, warning Americans of widespread crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.

Officials cited murders, assaults, kidnappings, and armed robberies linked to drug trafficking. Areas with transnational criminal organizations have much higher rates of violent crime, and US citizens and lawful permanent residents have been victims of kidnapping and extortion. The advisory covers parts of Guayaquil and the coastal provinces of Manabí and Santa Elena, areas frequented by travelers.

Quito, Cuenca, and the Galápagos Islands are not among the areas designated "Do Not Travel" or "Reconsider Travel." The advisory also noted that demonstrations can block roads and disrupt transportation and essential services. Americans formed Ecuador’s largest group of foreign visitors in 2025, accounting for roughly a third of international arrivals, according to Ecuador’s National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INEC).

This network allegedly shipped thousands of kilograms of cocaine monthly from Ecuador through Mexico, destined for the United States. The operation reportedly uses Ecuador-based fishing vessels to transfer cocaine to power boats heading north.