In April 2020, Ecuador was all over the news because of the viral images. In Guayaquil, people were dying in the streets, and bodies had to wait days to be collected from their homes. Hospitals were full and totally collapsed. This madness happened in the first two months since coronavirus was in Ecuador. After that, Ecuador has picked itself up and has better control of the virus. More than 70% of the population is vaccinated, and the country has already started to offer the third dose. It is mandatory to wear a mask, inside as well as outside.
Corona virus in Ecuador on 28 December 2021
Omicron has been confirmed in Ecuador. The official number of confirmed cases is 27. There is a significant increase in cases of coronavirus in Ecuador. One reason for this could be the holidays. Therefore, the Health Authority encourages families to avoid gatherings. Since December 23rd, the vaccination has been mandatory, and public and private places such as supermarkets, restaurants, and events have to ask for the vaccination card. So far, not many places have asked for this card yet. The government has said that this is a temporary measure to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant.
Coronavirus rules to enter Ecuador by air
To enter Ecuador, you need the following:
1. Proof of vaccination showing that you were fully vaccinated at least 14 days before departure. The proof of vaccination does not apply to children younger than 16 years or if you had a positive COVID-19 PCR test issued no more than six months before departure, including a medical statement that states that you could not be vaccinated due to having COVID-19. If you cannot be vaccinated for any other medical reasons, you can enter with a medical certificate of contraindication.
2. You must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken a maximum of 72 hours before departure. A negative PCR test does not apply to children younger than two years or if you tested positive at least one month before your travel and have a medical certificate which states that you are not contagious anymore.
3. You must present a health declaration upon arrival. The flight attendant will provide this declaration, and you will need to hand this over to authorities once you arrive.
If you have been or transited through any of the following countries (Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, or Zimbabwe), you are prohibited from entering Ecuador. You can still enter Ecuador if you have a permanent residency or are a national of Ecuador.
Coronavirus rules to enter Ecuador by land
The border between Colombia and Ecuador has been closed since the pandemic. Since December 17th, 2021, the border is finally open to all transportation.
On December 1st, 2021, Peru wanted to reopen the land border with Ecuador, but Ecuador has not agreed with this decision. Therefore, the border remains closed.