Current Situation in Ecuador: Is It Safe to Travel?
Is it safe to travel to Ecuador right now? This page shares our direct perspective on the current situation in Ecuador, based on real experience living here and welcoming guests to our Ayahuasca retreat in Ecuador.
We want you to feel informed, confident, and at ease when planning your journey. Our priority is simple: you should only travel when the situation is appropriate and safe for you.
Exceptional situations can happen anywhere in the world, and media coverage can sometimes emphasize fear more than balanced reality. Here you will find information directly from us, together with practical observations from participants who travel here regularly. If you are considering joining us, you can also explore our 10-day ayahuasca retreat in Ecuador.
Is It Safe to Travel to Ecuador Right Now?
At this time, we consider it safe to travel to our retreat center without unusual difficulty or concern.
Feather Crown is located in the Amazon region, in Pastaza Province—an area that is peaceful, remote, and far removed from the places most often mentioned in international media reports.
For the smoothest and safest arrival, we recommend:
- Staying near the airport after arrival if needed
- Using our organized transport directly to the retreat center
This makes the journey simple, safe, and low-stress. For a broader overview of retreat-related safety, see our Ayahuasca safety and screening process.
Media Coverage and On-the-Ground Reality
Many people ask whether it is safe to travel to Ecuador after seeing international headlines, especially in U.S. media. It is important to understand that these reports usually focus on specific regions and do not represent the country as a whole.
The Amazon region and the areas where retreats take place are not affected in the same way. Like in many countries, some places require caution, while large parts of the country remain calm and suitable for travel.
For broader context, you can also read our guide to Ayahuasca in Ecuador.
Areas That Require More Caution
We do not recommend unnecessary independent travel through areas known for higher crime rates, especially:
- Some parts of the coastal region
- Certain zones in Guayaquil
- Some areas of Quito, especially at night
If travel through these areas is necessary, we recommend traveling during the day, using reliable transport, and avoiding unnecessary movement through unfamiliar neighborhoods.
Areas Commonly Considered Safe for Travel
Many parts of Ecuador remain very safe and suitable for travel, including:
- The Amazon region, including Pastaza, Tena, and Puyo
- Baños de Agua Santa
- National parks and nature destinations such as Galápagos and Cuyabeno
These places are regularly visited by both Ecuadorians and international travelers without issues.
Our Retreat Location in the Ecuadorian Amazon
Our retreat center is located in a quiet natural area in the Amazon, far from major urban centers and away from the zones that receive most security-related attention.
This environment offers:
- Peace, seclusion, and safety
- A strong connection to nature
- Minimal exposure to urban risks
Most participants travel directly from Quito to the center and remain in this protected environment throughout their stay.
You can learn more about the full experience on our Ayahuasca retreat in Ecuador page or read about our retreat center in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
State of Emergency in Ecuador
From time to time, the Ecuadorian government may declare a state of emergency (“estado de excepción”) in response to security concerns in specific areas.
This can allow authorities to increase police or military presence and carry out operations more efficiently.
If such a measure were ever to affect either our province or the route between the airport and our center, we would inform participants immediately.
At this moment, no such situation is affecting travel to our location.
Direct Communication and Updates
If you have any concerns or questions, you are welcome to contact us or reach out via WhatsApp for honest and current information.
Cancellation Policy
If you decide to cancel your stay, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to another participant.
The conditions regarding deposits and refunds can be found in your application form or in the confirmation email you received after booking.
Final Note on Travel Safety in Ecuador
Ecuador is a diverse country, and like many destinations, it requires basic awareness and informed travel decisions. At the same time, it remains a place of extraordinary natural beauty, welcoming people, and deep cultural traditions.
From our direct experience and from the experience of our participants, it continues to be safe to travel to Ecuador when visiting our retreat location with normal precautions and clear planning.
If you are preparing for your journey, we also recommend reading How to prepare for an Ayahuasca ceremony.
