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Here you will find important tips and useful information for Ecuador.
Cash withdrawals often only with a PIN four digit possible.
An additional charge of USD 1.50 per withdrawal is applied at different banks
Credit cards are recommended for car rentals. Prepaid cards are generally accepted for payment but not for reservations. Please check the possible payment methods with the car rental company in advance.
Time difference with Switzerland
- 6 h / - 7 h during our summer time
- 7 h (Galapagos) / - 8 h during our summer time
Capital
Quito
National language
Official language
Spanish
Language capabilities
English
Voltage
110/120 volt / adapter required
Opening hours
Banks
9.00 - 16.00/18.00 h (Mon - Fri)
Stores
9.00 - 13.00 h and 15.00 - 19.00/20.00 h (Mon - Fri)
9.00 - 13.00 h (Sat)
Health situation
Do not drink tap water.
Mosquito protection advised.
Risk of dengue fever.
Year-round risk of malaria below 1500 m. No risk of malaria in Quito, Guayaquil, Galapagos Islands.
Vaccination against yellow fever, diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.
Driving
Swiss driver's license accepted; international driver's license recommended.
Minimum age for car rentals: 21 to 25 (varies by company).
CH sticker and breakdown triangle mandatory.
Country code for calling Switzerland
00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)
Swiss Embassy / Consulate
Quito, Juan Pablo Sanz y Avenida Amazonas 3617, Edificio Xerox, 2do piso
Tel. +593 2 243 41 13 / +593 2 243 49 48 / +593 2 243 49 49
Other information
This country is in an active earthquake zone.
The Galapagos Islands are part of Ecuador.
Security
Travelers who wish to travel to this country are advised to inquire about current traveler safety prior to departure.
Travel to border areas with Colombia (in the provinces Carchi, Sucumbios, Orellana and eastern half of the province Pastaza) not advised.
Land mines are still found in parts of the border area with Peru (especially in the vicinity of military installations).
High crime rate.
Do not carry valuables (watches, jewelry, expensive cameras, etc.) on you.
Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.
Avoid nighttime driving.
Special legal regulations
Very strict laws to fight illegal drugs.
Travel is the secure prepaid card for use away from home – without any annual fees. In the event of loss, the card including the balance will be replaced worldwide.
Find out more about TravelWhile every precaution has been taken to verify the information provided, Swiss Bankers Prepaid Services Ltd does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of Country Information. Swiss Bankers therefore shall not be held liable for any damage or loss sustained in connection with any errors or omissions contained therein.
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