The advisory level was increased to 4. There were no changes to the risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations. 

Do not travel to Niger for any reason due to crime, unrest, terrorism, health, and kidnapping. 

Advisory summary
Do not travel to Niger for any reason. On October 30, 2025, the Department of State authorized the departure of all family members of U.S. government employees in Niger due to safety risks.

The U.S. government cannot offer routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens outside of Niamey due to safety risks.

A state of emergency and movement restrictions are in place in many regions throughout Niger. 

• Nigerien authorities require military escorts for any foreigners traveling outside Niamey, including U.S. government personnel.
• Areas under a state of emergency are off-limits and subject to change.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions 
U.S. government employees working in Niger must: 

• travel in armored vehicles for all movements, and
• observe a mandatory curfew.

All restaurants and open-air markets are off-limits to U.S. government employees working in Niger.

U.S. citizens in Niger are advised to take the same precautions.

Terrorism
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Niger. Visit the U.S. Department of State's Country Reports on Terrorism to learn more.

Terrorists continue to plot attacks and use kidnapping for ransom as a business model. They target vulnerable groups and U.S. interests. 

Terrorists and their supporters are active in planning kidnappings in Niger and they may attack anywhere. Recent attacks and kidnappings have occurred in:

• Niamey
• The Malian border area (Tillabéri Region, Tri-Border Zone)
• The Diffa Region (Lake Chad Basin)
• Northern Agadez
• The southern border corridor along the Niger-Benin oil pipeline

Kidnapping
Terrorist groups continue planning kidnappings of foreigners in Niger.

Crime
Violent crimes can happen at any time. Crimes include armed robbery and residential break-ins.

Unrest
Demonstrations may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on holidays and during large events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable.
• The Nigerien government limits or does not authorize large gatherings. It increases security presence around planned protests. This includes stationary checkpoints and roadblocks.

Health
Medical services in Niger are limited. Adequate trauma and ambulance services are not widely available. There is limited access to medicines including antibiotics. Even a minor health issue may require medical evacuation at your expense. 

• Find out if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.
• If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

For U.S. citizens in Niger: 

• Review our information on Terrorism.
• Review our information on Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Research how to arrange a Nigerien military or police escort if traveling outside Niamey.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. government. Enrolling helps the U.S. government contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Niger.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. List how and when you'll confirm you're safe (text or call). Specify how often you’ll do this.
• Draft a will. Designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or draft a power of attorney.
• Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones. If you are taken hostage, your loved ones will know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to confirm that you are being held captive and alive.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them for identification purposes.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Keep a low profile.
• Stay alert in tourist spots.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry.
• Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
• Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Niger.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

Reconsider travel to Tanzania due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and targeting of gay and lesbian individuals. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory summary

Unrest
Demonstrations often take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on holidays or during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable.
• The Tanzanian government increases security presence around protests. This includes stationary checkpoints and roadblocks.
• The Tanzanian government limits or does not authorize large gatherings.

Crime
Violent crime is common. It includes assault, sexual assault, robberies, mugging, and carjacking. Local police have limited resources to respond effectively to serious crime.

Terrorism
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Tanzania. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

The risk of terrorist violence is most common in the Mtwara Region.

Targeting of gay and lesbian individuals
Members of the gay and lesbian community have been arrested, targeted, and harassed. People who identify as gay or lesbian may experience a higher likelihood of being targeted by police. People detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct may face invasive physical exams.

If you decide to travel to Tanzania:

• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Keep a low profile.
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa. Keep original documents in a safe location.
• Stay  aware of your surroundings.
• Do not leave your food or drink unattended.
• Stay alert in tourist spots.
• Avoid public displays of affection particularly between same-sex couples.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency. 
• Review the Country Security Report for Tanzania.
• Review our information on Terrorism, Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, and for Victims of Crime.
• Prepare a backup plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

There was no change to the advisory level. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.

Do Not Travel to Mali for any reason due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, unrest and health.

Advisory summary

On October 30, 2025, the Department of State ordered non-emergency employees and their family members to leave Mali due to safety risks. The U.S. government cannot offer routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens outside of Bamako due to safety risks. Do not travel to Mali for any reason.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

• U.S. government employees working in Mali are not allowed to travel outside of Bamako due to safety risks.

U.S. citizens in Mali are advised to take the same precautions.

Crime
Violent crime is common throughout Mali. Crimes include kidnapping, assault, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking.

Violent crime is a major concern in Bamako especially during  local holidays and seasonal events.

• Roadblocks, including by armed groups, occur throughout the country.
• In cities, police checkpoints are possible, especially at night.
• Highways across the country often face attacks on government, civilian, and commercial targets.

Terrorism
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mali. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorist and armed groups target foreigners to kidnap for ransom.

Terrorists may attack without warning:

• Spots frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country
• Night clubs
• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Places of worship
• International diplomatic missions
• Local security forces and civilians

Armed Conflict
Armed conflict between the Malian government and armed groups is common throughout Mali. Many terrorist and separatist armed groups are active throughout the country. These groups may plan and carry out deadly attacks against Malian government and military facilities, including in and around Bamako. Conflict between these groups often results in civilian casualties. 

Air Travel
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Mali. For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.   

Health

• Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Health facilities are available in major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.

Read the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information.  

For U.S. citizens in Mali:

• The Department of State urges U.S. citizens not to travel to Mali.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization. Consider consulting with a professional security organization.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Overseas Security Advisory Council OSAC Country Security Report for Mali.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Draft a will. Designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or draft a power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care or custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones. This helps them manage your affairs if you cannot return to the United States.
• Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. This helps them monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you'll confirm you're safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you'll contact first to share the information.
• Identify key sources of possible help for you and your family in case of emergency, such as the local U.S. embassy or consulate, FBI, the State Department, your employer (if traveling on business), and local friends or family in the high-risk area.
• Choose one family member to serve as the point of contact. If you are kidnapped or taken hostage, that person can communicate with kidnappers or hostage-takers, media, U.S. or foreign government agencies, and members of Congress.
• Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones. If you are taken hostage, your loved ones will know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to confirm that you are being held captive and alive.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them for identification purposes.
• Use all available safety measures in your home or hotel, always including locking doors and windows, and setting the alarm.
• If asked to stop by police, stop only in well-lit areas or places where several officers are posted.
• Before you travel, delete any sensitive photos, comments, or content that might be seen as controversial or inappropriate in your destination. Do this for your social media accounts, cameras, laptops, phones, and other accounts and devices.
• Leave your expensive or sentimental belongings behind.
• Refer to our list of medical providers.
• Make sure your insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.
• Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you go to Mali.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Review our information on Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, Victims of Crime, Terrorism, Travel to High-Risk Areas, and U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad.

The advisory level was increased to 3. The “natural disaster” risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.

Reconsider Travel to Jamaica due to Crime, Health, and Natural Disaster risks. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory summary
On October 28, 2025, the Department of State authorized non-emergency personnel and family members of U.S. government employees to leave Jamaica due to Hurricane Melissa.

Hurricane Damage
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica on October 27, 2025, causing widespread damage.

• The U.S. Embassy in Kingston has temporarily reduced staffing and may limit routine services for U.S. citizens.
• Consider rescheduling planned travel to Jamaica at this time. If you intend to travel, confirm availability with your transportation provider and at your destination before you depart.
• U.S. citizens in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands should monitor weather reports and follow instructions of local authorities.
• Enroll in STEP to receive updates on conditions in Jamaica from the U.S. embassy. Previously issued STEP updates are available on the embassy website.

Crime
While violent crime in Jamaica has decreased since 2024, it remains statistically high throughout the country. The homicide rate reported by the Government of Jamaica is among the highest in the Western Hemisphere.

• Tourist areas generally see lower rates of violent crime than other parts of the country.
• Armed robberies and sexual assaults are common.
• The U.S. Embassy routinely receives reports of sexual assaults, including from U.S. citizen tourists at resorts.
• U.S. citizens report slow or unsatisfactory response to serious criminal incidents.
• When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a final verdict and sentence.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions
U.S. government employees working in Jamaica are not allowed to:

• use public buses; or
• drive between cities at night.

U.S. citizens in Jamaica are advised to take the same precautions.

Medical care
Basic and specialized medical care may not be available in many parts of Jamaica. This includes slower emergency service response times and less availability of care for illness or injury.

• Private hospitals require payment up front before admitting patients and may not have the ability to provide specialized care.
• Ambulance services are not always staffed with EMTs and are not always readily available, especially in rural areas.
• U.S. citizens should bring extra prescription medication as common medications, such as insulin, can be difficult to obtain.
• U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.
• Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Air ambulance service to the United States can range from $30,000-$50,000.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

The Department of State does not pay medical bills.

Level 4 - Do Not Travel - High crime areas

Do Not Travel to high crime areas due to risk of crime.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

• U.S. government employees working in Jamaica are not allowed to travel to the below high risk areas.
• U.S. citizens in Jamaica are advised to take the same precautions. Do not travel to these areas for any reason.

St. Ann’s Parish - Steer Town and the Buckfield neighborhood near Ocho Rios.

St. Catherine’s Parish - Spanish Town, Central Village, areas within Portmore, including: Naggo Head, New Land, Old Braeton, Portmore Lane, Gregory Park, and Waterford.

Clarendon Parish - all of Clarendon Parish, except passing through Clarendon Parish using the T1 and A2 highways.

St. Elizabeth’s Parish - Vineyard District Community, between the communities of Salt Spring and Burnt Savanna, St. Elizabeth.

Hanover Parish - Logwood and Orange Bay.

St. James Parish/Montego Bay - Inland side of the A1 highway and The Queen’s Drive from San San to Harmony Beach Park.

Kingston and St. Andrew Parish - Cassava Piece, Duhaney Park, Grants Pen, Standpipe, Swallowfield, Elleston Flats, August Town, and downtown Kingston, defined as between Mountain View Avenue and Hagley Park Road, and south of Half Way Tree and Old Hope Roads. Downtown Kingston includes Arnett Gardens, Cockburn Gardens, Denham Town, Olympic Gardens, Seaview Gardens, Trench Town, and Tivoli Gardens.

Manchester Parish - Green Vale and Gray Ground neighborhoods of Mandeville.

St. Thomas Parish - Black Lane neighborhood in Seaforth, Grands Penn, Church Corner neighborhood near Yallahs, Town of Yallahs, except when driving through on the main highway.

Trelawny Parish - Clarks Town.

Westmoreland Parish - Russia community in Savanna-la-Mar (The Southeastern quadrant of Savannah la Mar east of Darling Street and south of the A2 highway/Barracks Road), Morgan Bay, Kings Valley, The Whitehall, Bethel Town, and Red Ground neighborhoods of Negril.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

If you decide to travel to Jamaica:

• Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition. This includes stray rounds, shells, or empty casings. The penalties for carrying firearms or ammunition, even by mistake, are severe, and can include long prison sentences.
• Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
• Avoid walking or driving at night.
• Avoid public buses.
• Avoid remote places.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.
• Review our information on Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, and for Victims of Crime.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Jamaica.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Jamaica.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Advisory Summary

• Exercise normal precautions in Greece.
• Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services.

If you decide to travel to Greece:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Greece.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Greece.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Bhutan.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bhutan.

If you decide to travel to Bhutan:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Bhutan.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the International Traveler Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

There was no change to the advisory level. The “health” risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated.

Advisory summary
The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum suspended its operations in April 2023 due to the outbreak of armed conflict in Sudan. The U.S. government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Sudan due to the current security situation.

To report an emergency regarding a U.S. citizen in Sudan, contact U.S. Embassy Cairo at +20-2-2797-3300. Or contact the Department of State at +1-888-407-4747 from the United States and Canada or +1-202-501-4444 from elsewhere in the world.

Unrest - Armed Conflict
Armed conflict continues in Sudan. This includes heavy fighting among the Sudanese Armed Forces, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, and various armed militias. The situation is violent, volatile, and extremely unpredictable, particularly in the Kordofan and Darfur regions, as well as in the capital region, including Khartoum and Omdurman.

Khartoum International Airport is currently closed to commercial traffic, while commercial service to the Port Sudan International Airport has been limited at times due to drone strikes. Electrical and communication disruptions can occur at any time. This includes internet and cell phone service interruptions.

Crime
Crime, including kidnapping, assault, armed robbery, home invasion, looting, and carjacking, is a common threat throughout the country. Checkpoints might occur at any time, some of which may be legitimate security checkpoints, others may intend to loot, others may present a risk to particular populations.

Terrorism
Members of known terrorist groups and individuals sympathetic to these groups can attack with little or no warning. They may target foreign and local government facilities as well as areas frequented by travelers.

Landmines
Landmines are a threat, as much of Sudan is an active war zone. There are widespread reports of unexploded ordnance posing a threat in Khartoum and elsewhere in the country, even after fighting has ended in those areas.

Health
Medical services in Sudan are extremely limited. Adequate medical treatment for routine and emergency procedures is often not available. Even minor health issues could require medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense. Make sure you have medical or travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Review our information on Travel Insurance. Check with your doctor about required vaccines and shots for high-risk exposure before you go to Sudan. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Sudan.

For U.S. citizens in Sudan:

• The Department of State urges U.S. citizens to leave Sudan.
• Travel within Sudan is conducted at your own risk. The U.S. government cannot guarantee your safety traveling to airports, borders, or during any onward travel. You should consider your personal security situation before traveling anywhere in Sudan. Only attempt to depart Sudan or travel within Sudan if you believe it is safe for you to do so.
• Exercise extreme caution in all parts of the country, including Khartoum.
• Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on crisis and evacuations.
• Review our information on crime, including for victims of crime.
• There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity, in Sudan. Visit the U.S. Department of State's Country Reports on Terrorism to learn more.
• Review our information on terrorism and travel to high-risk areas.
• Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist throughout Sudan. The locations of landmines and unexploded ordnance are often not known, marked, or easy to recognize.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Draft a will. Designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries or draft a power of attorney.
• Develop a communication plan with your family, your employer, or your host organization. List how and when you will confirm you are safe (text or call). Specify how often you will do this.
• Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones. If you are taken hostage, your loved ones will know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to confirm you are being held captive and alive.
• Make sure your insurance includes specific coverage for medical evacuation from Sudan.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. government. Enrolling helps the U.S. government contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Sudan.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for the latest Travel Health Information for Sudan.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Advisory Summary

• Exercise normal precautions in Romania.
• Romania has moderate seismic activity and a history of strong earthquakes. Bucharest faces the highest risk.

If you decide to travel to Romania:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Romania.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Romania.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

There was no change to the advisory level.  The "terrorism” risk indicator was added.  Advisory summary was updated.  

Exercise increased caution in Ecuador due to risk of crime, terrorism, unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Do Not Travel to these areas due to terrorism and crime:

• Guayaquil, south of Portete de Tarqui Avenue.
• The cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas in the province of El Oro.
• The cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo in the province of Los Rios.
• The canton of Duran, in the province of Guayas.
• Esmeraldas City and all areas north of Esmeraldas City in Esmeraldas province.
• The area north of Esmeraldas City to the Colombian border and east to Carchi province.

Reconsider Travel to these areas due to terrorism and crime:

• Guayaquil north of Portete de Tarqui Avenue.
• El Oro province outside the cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas.
• Los Rios province outside the cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo.
• All areas south of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province.
• The provinces of Sucumbios, Manabi, Santa Elena, and Santo Domingo.

Advisory Summary: 

Crime and kidnapping

Crime is a widespread problem in Ecuador. Violent crime typically associated with narcotrafficking is common. It includes murder, assault, kidnapping, and armed robbery.  Areas with transnational criminal organizations see much higher rates of violent crime. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping and extortion.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Ecuador. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. 

Demonstrations

• Demonstrations happen across the country.
• They are usually driven by political or economic reasons.
• Demonstrators often block local roads and major highways without warning, disrupting access to important infrastructure.

Local and U.S. Government Assistance

• Most of Ecuador’s land is empty and remote, especially outside big towns and cities.
• Local and U.S. government help may be very limited in remote areas. This may cause delays for U.S. citizens in remote areas.

Land Border Restrictions

• Foreign citizens entering the country by land from Colombia or Peru must show a certificate of no criminal record. This certificate must be apostilled. You can find more information on the Ministry of Tourism’s webpage and at Ecuador.Travel.
• The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in Ecuador cannot help you get the necessary documents for crossing a land border.
• U.S. citizens planning to enter Ecuador via a land border should check the State Department’s Office of Authentications webpage and Criminal Records Check webpage. These pages have information on getting a criminal record check and apostille from the United States.

Read the destination information page for additional information on traveling to Ecuador.

Risks in specific areas

Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to these areas for any reason due to terrorism and crime.

• Guayaquil, south of Portete de Tarqui Avenue.
• The cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas in the Province of El Oro.
• The cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo in the province of Los Rios.
• The canton of Duran, in the province of Guayas.
• Esmeraldas city and all areas north of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province.

Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

Terrorists, Transnational Criminal Groups, and Local Gangs

• Terrorist and other criminal organizations often commit violent acts in these areas, including sudden attacks in public places, often without warning.
• Violent crimes can involve murder, targeted assassinations, armed robberies, bombings, kidnappings, and assaults.
• Violence in these areas has risen both in frequency and brutality recently, posing a security risk to U.S. citizens.
• U.S. government employees working in Ecuador must get special permission to travel to these areas.
• The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.

Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel to these areas due to terrorism and crime:

• Guayaquil, north of Portete de Tarqui Avenue.
• El Oro province outside the cities of Huaquillas and Arenillas.
• Los Rios province outside the cities of Quevedo, Quinsaloma, and Pueblo Viejo.
• All areas south of Esmeraldas city in Esmeraldas province.
• The provinces of Sucumbios, Manabi, Santa Elena, and Santo Domingo.

Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

Terrorist and other criminal organizations have engaged in violent activity in these areas. Recently, this violence has increased. U.S. government personnel must be very careful and stay alert when traveling in and around these areas. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.

If you decide to travel to Ecuador:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review our information on Terrorism and Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones. If you are taken hostage, your loved ones will know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to confirm that you are being held captive and alive.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Check local media for breaking news.
• Review the Country Security Report for Ecuador.
• Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Ecuador.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel.  Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
• Review our information on U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad and for Victims of Crime.

Review Travel to High-Risk Areas

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Advisory Sumary

Exercise normal precautions in Bulgaria.

If you decide to travel to Bulgaria:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Bulgaria.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Bulgaria.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.