Is Ecuador Safe For Solo Female Travellers? 2023 Updates
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One of the most common questions I get asked on Instagram is ‘is Ecuador safe for solo female travellers?’ especially if you want to visit alone. Sadly, Ecuador gets a bad rep – and it really shouldn’t.
Yes, things happen sometimes, but bad things happen all over the world. For us, there wasn’t anything less safe about Ecuador than any other country we visited.
Throughout our time backpacking Ecuador we felt safe. Safe enough for me to walk around solo. Safe enough to walk around at night. Just as safe as I feel at home! But of course, there are some precautions you can take to just add that extra layer of security.
In this post, I hope to dispel any thoughts that Ecuador isn’t ‘safe’, especially for those wanting to backpack the country solo.
It’s also important to remember that most trips to Ecuador are safe, fun and trouble-free. But below I have included a few tips that we followed to make sure our trip to Ecuador was as successful as possible. So, let’s get started!
Still got a question about ‘Is Ecuador safe for solo female travellers’? Let me know over on Instagram or shoot me an email at jennie(@)jenniewanders.com!
🇪🇨 Other Ecuador posts:
- Backpacking Ecuador: COMPLETE Guide
- 2 Weeks In Ecuador: Routes, Itineraries & Guides!
- 10 Days In Ecuador: Route, Itinerary & Tips
- Ecuador Itinerary 3 Weeks: FULL Route + Guide
Is Ecuador Safe For Solo Female Travellers? My Experience
There’s a lot of controversy on the Internet about whether or not Ecuador is safe. In fact, one of the most common things I’ve been asked since our trip has been “why did you go to South America?! It’s so dangerous!”
If this is all you’ve ever heard, and all you’ve ever seen on the news or in the media, it’s not your fault for believing it. We even had a warning of riots pop up on our phones the week we were due to arrive in Ecuador – which of course, was scary! Fortunately, they didn’t happen, and our trip to Ecuador was totally stress-free.
But we did use common sense. I’m not saying that’s always the answer, but nine times out of ten, those who get into trouble in South America or Ecuador are doing something they shouldn’t.
Whether it’s wandering around at 4 am in an area that’s not recommended for tourists, flaunting expensive equipment or using illegal substances, it’s usually these kinds of circumstances that encourage danger.
But of course, as anywhere in the world; as a solo female traveller in Ecuador you have to use common sense, keep your wits about you and be wary of your surroundings.
There are going to be ‘bad people‘ in every single country you visit – including your own! This is a sad fact of life, and that’s why I have some tips in this post to help you stay as safe as possible.
It’s a shame because Ecuador gets such a bad rep. It really is a beautiful country that deserves a lot more recognition. If you take anything from this post, I hope it is the courage to travel to Ecuador, whether you’re a solo traveller or not. It’s a special country – don’t let incorrect, outdated safety concerns stop you!
I highly recommend getting travel insurance if you are backpacking South America. SafetyWing is the best company to cover your trip, covering both medical and travel delays, lost checked luggage, emergency response, natural disasters and personal liability. ➡️ You can sign up for SafetyWing here.
15 tips for staying safe in Ecuador as a solo female traveller
1. Know basic Spanish
This really is the most important piece of advice when backpacking Ecuador, mainly as so many of the locals will not speak English. There will be many times when you will need to interact with others; from restaurants to public buses, buying a drink in a bar and ordering street food. It’s really important to know at least a few phrases.
If you know some basic Spanish, it will also help you out if you’re stuck with something, or need help and advice. It really is key to staying safe in Ecuador as a solo female traveller.
The app we used on a daily basis was SpanishDict. It translates more conversationally than Google Translate and gives examples of how you might need to ask or say something. It’s better than a word-for-word translation that may not actually make sense when spoken.
We did actually find that many locals in Ecuador wanted to practise their English with us. This was great – but it was helpful that we knew some basic phrases to be able to respond to them in their own language!
If you’re a solo female traveller in Ecuador, here are some helpful phrases in Spanish that you may want to screenshot!
- Please: por favor
- Thank you: gracias
- My name is…: Me llamo…
- Nice to meet you: Mucho gusto
- Yes: Si
- No: No
- What: que
- Where: donde
- Toilet: banos/bano
- Girls/ladies: mujeres or damas (look for an M or D on the toilet doors)
- Help: ayuda
- Algo mas: anything else?
Simple phrases such as ‘you’re welcome‘ will change between different South American countries.
For example, in Guatemala, we found the locals to say ‘de nada‘ when saying you’re welcome. Then in Colombia, it was more common to say ‘con mucho gusto‘ for the same phrase! There are slight differences, but it’s easy enough to get used to.
2. Still to well-known routes and places
Like in most countries, there are areas in Ecuador that you will want to avoid for safety reasons. This is not uncommon, and even if you think of your own country, I bet there are areas that you don’t particularly like visiting as a solo female traveller.
This is one of the main reasons why I’ve written so many detailed Ecuadorean route blog posts. Stick to a well-known route, and stick to areas that tourists visit!
Yes, you can go off the beaten track, but I highly, highly recommend going in a group or at least telling someone where you are going.
So, where are the safest areas in Ecuador for solo female travellers? Stick to:
- Quito (specifically La Floresta and the Historic Centre)
- Mindo
- Banos
- The Galapagos Islands
- Otavalo
- Cuenca
- The Amazon Rainforest (Cuyabeno)
3. Only use Uber or licensed taxis
Never get in a taxi in Ecuador (or anywhere) that simply has the word ‘TAXI’ written on the front – usually in white marker pen or even chalk. This is a big no-no, and typically means they are unlicensed and illegal.
Taxis in Ecuador must be licensed. They may look different from city to city, but you will be able to tell a licensed taxi from an illegal one. For example, in Quito, they are bright and yellow, and have the license plate printed on the side of the vehicle.
Ubers are available in major cities like Quito, but we found they take a long time to arrive. They’re also much fewer than in other Latin American locations, so be sure to pre-book if you’re in a rush.
If you need a lift to the airport or a specific location, I highly recommend booking a private transfer.
4. Use tourist shuttles to get from place to place
If you are backpacking Ecuador, use tourist shuttles to get around. The shuttles are full of other backpackers going to the same destinations and hostels that you are! This gives total peace of mind when you’re travelling around solo.
Shuttles are easy to book. You can either book via your hostel, travel agents or online here. Regardless of who or where you book, you will more than likely be on the same shuttle. Most booking sites use the same shuttle companies.
5. Only use the public buses on well-known routes during the day
Public buses in Ecuador are one of the cheapest ways to travel around the country, but sadly are not the easiest!
They can be hectic, with two seats usually seating four people. You’ll need to be able to speak simple Spanish to communicate that your backpack is on the roof (that’s where it is stored during the journey) and you will need to tell the driver where you want to go. So be prepared!
They also get busy – really busy. Be mindful of pickpockets – just like you would on any other busy public transport. Keep all of your valuables within eyesight – never, ever put your valuables somewhere that you can’t see them!
Most of the time, public buses in Ecuador are safe. But to be even safer, make sure you are taking a well-known route, keep your belongings close to you and use common sense.
⚠️ Do not put your bag on the floor under your seat of the bus. Thieves use this as a common way to cut/slice through your bag and steal your belongings whilst being undetected. Keep it on your lap or within your eyesight!
6. Don’t walk around Quito at night
Safety is subjective, so I can only talk about my experiences in Quito when it comes to safety. And for me, Quito definitely felt safer to walk around during the day than at night.
But, there were also areas at all times of the day where I would not have walked alone.
If you’re travelling solo (or even in a couple like we were) stick to the main areas, busy and well-lit streets. The main squares in the Historic Centre felt safe, and the roads full of restaurants and bars in La Floresta also felt safe.
When I went off course a little, I didn’t feel as safe. But as I said, safety is different for everyone.
My biggest tip is to stay in a hostel or hotel in one of these areas. This means you can just stick to the surrounding safe areas and do not need to wander into any unknown territories.
7. Stay in hostels or well-located hotels/apartments
Hostels are one of the best ways to stay safe as a solo female traveller in Ecuador. In general, hostels are in a good and safe location, meaning you don’t need to worry about being in a risky area. They should also have good safety measures in place for all visitors.
As a backpacker myself, I’m a big advocate for hostels. Staying in hostels means you can make friends from day one, and there are people around you immediately.
During your stay at a hostel, you might become friends with a group of people and end up travelling around with them. Or, you might book tours and activities with the hostel, which again are always done in big, safe groups!
8. Book tours and organised trips for experiences
Whilst you can visit most of the big attractions in Ecuador alone, visiting these locations in a group is a safe and fun way to see the country!
Most tours will organise transport to and from the locations, and you will be with other like-minded travellers. This gives an extra level of safety and security, especially if something goes wrong.
Some of the best-organised tours in Ecuador include:
- Mindo Cloud Forest Day Tour 🌳 ➡ check prices here!
- Hiking Cotopaxi 🏔️ ➡ check prices here!
- Incredible Isabela Island Tour (Galapagos) 🦭 ➡ check prices here!
- Adrenaline-Pumping Activities in Banos 🧗🏼♂️ ➡ check prices here!
- Incredible 2-Day Amazon Rainforest Tour 🌿 ➡ check prices here!
➡View all bucket list activities in Ecuador now!
9. Keep your valuables close to you at all times, especially on public transport
There are a number of pickpockets in Ecuador, just like any other country in the world. Personally, I didn’t see this in Ecuador, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen!
Cases have been reported where someone walking along the street has had their phones taken from their hands. This happens all over the world; Bali, Thailand, and even London! Sadly, the thieves can then whizz off on their motorbikes without a trace.
Always have your iPhone in your pocket or bag, safely hidden. Don’t follow a GPS as you’re walking, as you make yourself a target. Look at your route beforehand.
iPhones and Apple products are prone to be stolen in Central and South America. This is because there are few ways to buy Apple products, so they are worth a lot of money. This also means if you get your iPhone stolen in Ecuador, it’s going to be harder to replace than at home.
Just be vigilant. As I said, this is no different from anywhere else in the world. Keep your belongings safe, zipped away and hidden when walking around and on any form of public transport in Ecuador.
10. Know your emergency numbers
Hopefully, you will never need to use Ecuador’s emergency numbers, but just in case you do, these are the numbers you will need to dial.
🚑 Medical emergencies: 131 or 911 (if you dial 911, be sure to ask for medical assistance).
🚓 Police: 911
For safety reasons, always let someone know where you are when travelling Ecuador. Check in with a family member or friend often, and let them know where you are staying.
11. Trust your gut!
Another way of staying safe in Ecuador is to always let someone know where you are. Similar to location tracking, smartphones are great at allowing anyone to track your taxi or journey. This is so important when you’re travelling alone!
But I know this can be hard when you’re backpacking in a country with a time zone completely different from your family and friends back home. And do you really want to keep bothering them with your location?
You have two choices.
A) You don’t care about ‘bothering’ them, as they love you and want to keep you safe! You ask them to keep an eye on you when you’re doing uncomfortable or long journeys. This is great!
B) If the time zone is too difficult, let someone in your hostel know where you’re going. You don’t need to tell them your life story, or what you’re doing, but if you’re visiting somewhere new (or meeting someone new!) someone should know where you are.
If you can, exchange numbers with someone at your hostel. It’s likely you won’t need to use it, but it’s an extra layer of security.
Normally, the reception staff in hostels are friendly and are there to make you feel comfortable and safe. I’ve often told hostel staff that I’m heading off to a waterfall or on a long hike, just as an extra sense of security.
12. Install an eSIM on your phone (or get a local SIM)
Whether you choose to get a local sim or an eSIM, always make sure you have data when backpacking Ecuador. This gives an extra layer of security and means you can reach out to someone if necessary.
ESIMs are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchase. They’re great if you’re landing or crossing into a country solo, and would like to use your phone immediately. If you’re visiting Ecuador solo, I recommend checking out the eSIM packages here.
I highly recommend getting travel insurance if you are backpacking in Ecuador or South America. SafetyWing is the best company to cover your trip, covering both medical and travel delays, lost checked luggage, emergency response, natural disasters and personal liability. ➡️ You can sign up for SafetyWing here.
13. Always carry a portable charger
I strongly advise carrying a portable charger so you can use your mobile phone whenever needed.
Not only is this needed for directions and communication, but it’s vital that you have a phone battery in emergencies. Can you imagine that uncomfortable gut feeling whilst having a dead phone?
Portable chargers aren’t that expensive, and you can buy a tiny one that fits into your purse or pocket. It may seem annoying, but trust me, it could save your life! You can buy my favourite and most reliable portable charger here. It lasts up to 4-5 charges!
14. Join Ecuador Facebook groups to see the current safety conditions
This is one of my favourite, easiest and most actionable tips when staying safe as a solo female traveller in Ecuador. When you know the dates that you will be in Ecuador, and the time is approaching, join Facebook groups.
These groups have up-to-date, current information about what the state of the country is like. Let me explain a little further.
When we were due to visit Quito in 2023, the news reported not to visit, as protests and riots were predicted. Of course, we panicked and wanted to cancel all of our Ecuador plans!
However, on the Facebook groups (and multiple of them), the locals stated the atmosphere was calm and peaceful and nothing out of the ordinary was happening.
Of course, these groups aren’t gospel, but they’re a great way to get a feel for whether you should visit or whether there really is a danger with visiting at that current time.
You can even post a message yourself asking about a safety concern of a specific area or location if you are feeling really unsure. We were so pleased that we had checked these groups before jumping to conclusions and cancelling everything!
15. Be kind, friendly and SMILE!
I know everyone has their own experiences, but we found that Ecuadorians were friendly, welcoming and kind. Everyone greeted us with a smile, welcomed us to the country and made us feel safe!
I’ve had readers not believe me that locals went out of their way to speak to us, but it really did happen. That’s why I always say knowing at least a basic level of Spanish goes a long way.
And this kindness works in both ways! We always smiled, greeted and even waved to locals. Ultimately, we were in their country, and we wanted to show respect and gratitude.
This also has a direct impact on how safe you will be when in Ecuador. I’m not saying it will stop anything from happening, but it will at least help. Kindness always wins!
Useful apps for staying safe in Ecuador
- Always have a local or eSIM installed whilst travelling through Ecuador. Avoid being on buses, in taxis or walking around without any phone signal. ESIMs are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing, so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡ You can check out the prices and packages for eSIMs here.
- Google Maps allows you to follow area maps even when you’re offline. Download some of your local areas before heading out to ensure you can travel safely on the right route at any time.
- SpanishDict: This is similar to Google Translate – but it gives more conversational terms when translating rather than direct word-for-word translations. We used it daily when travelling Central and South America.
- Shake2Safety allows users to input emergency contacts to which a message, location, audio or photo can be sent in an emergency situation. Simply shake your phone or click the unlock button 4 times to send the alert. This can also be used without wifi and when your phone is locked.
- The Circle Of Six app allows you to save 6 contacts of your choice which can be notified in just two taps if you’re in an emergency situation.
- As horrible as it sounds, One Scream works by being able to detect the scream of a panicked female. A loud siren will go off, and after 20 seconds an automated voice call and message will be sent to your emergency contacts.
Where to stay if you are a solo female backpacker in Ecuador
Staying in the best hostels, hotels or apartments in Ecuador is a great additional layer to staying safe. You can even volunteer in hostels to make friends and have somewhere safe to live and work!
I recommend staying in hostels if you are a solo female traveller (even if you get a private room), as there will be like-minded travellers and other women in the same position as you.
➡ You can view and book all Ecuador hostels here.
Getting around if you are a solo female backpacker in Ecuador
You can travel around Ecuador in multiple ways, depending on how much time you have, your budget and where you want to visit. This blog is full of the exact, detailed ways to travel from place to place (see links below).
The most common way for backpackers to travel around Ecuador is via tourist shuttle, public bus or private transfer.
Public buses in Ecuador are commonly used, as they’re cheap, frequent and safe. They’re a little more hassle than a tourist shuttle, and you have to be wary of your belongings (similar to anywhere in Latin America). I recommend always checking tourist shuttle availability first.
Need information about specific routes in Ecuador? Check out my detailed posts below:
- Quito To The Galapagos: Easy Step-By-Step Guide
- Banos To Cuenca (Ecuador) Full Guide & Routes
- Quito To Guayaquil: Full Guide & Transport Options
- Banos To Guayaquil (Ecuador) Complete Guide & Routes
- Quito To Mindo: BEST And Easiest Routes
- Quito To Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve (Ecuador Amazon Rainforest)
Is Ecuador safe for solo female travellers? FAQs
1) Is Quito safe?
We found walking around Quito during the day to be safer than at night, although there were certain areas that I wouldn’t have visited alone at any time of day. But safety is subjective, so I can only share my personal experiences when it comes to safety in Quito!
Both hostels we stayed in in Quito (Community Hostel and Viajero), either served family-style dinners or were right next to restaurants for us to use. This meant we didn’t have to wander too far after dark.
Areas such as La Mariscal and La Ronda are popular with tourists and locals after dark, and of course, you can have an epic time in Quito after dark (and I’d love to hear from you if you did!).
When it comes to staying safe in Quito, you decide for yourself and what you’re comfortable with.
2) Is it safe for a woman to travel alone in Ecuador?
Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo women to travel in Ecuador! However, it’s important to take certain safety precautions and be extra careful when walking around at night (and avoid it if possible).
Ecuador is a beautiful, fun, vibrant and wonderful country; it would be sad to miss out on its wonders because of outdated safety advice!
But of course, safety is subjective, and be sure to trust your gut and only do what you feel comfortable with. Stay in hostels, go on organised tours and only venture out during the day if you are worried.
3) Are the Galapagos Islands safe for solo female travellers?
Yes, the Galapagos Islands are generally a safe place for solo women to travel to. The islands are known to have a low crime rate, plenty of tourists and welcoming locals. In addition to this, you will often be on organised day tours or trips (snorkelling, scuba diving, boat trips) and surrounded by travellers similar to yourself.
Remember, safety is subjective, and what might feel safe to me might not feel safe to you. Always trust your gut and go with what makes you feel comfortable.
4) Is it safe to travel to the Amazon in Ecuador as a solo female traveller?
Yes! Absolutely, but you must, must, must book an organised tour, whether you’re a solo female traveller or not.
Entering the Amazon alone is not only not allowed, but extremely dangerous! As a solo female traveller, the Amazon Rainforest tours are a perfect way to stay safe in a group and be surrounded by like-minded people!
Need more information about booking an Amazon Rainforest tour? Check out my detailed Amazon blog post here!
Visiting Colombia? Check out my in-depth, honest and realistic blog post about how to stay safe in Colombia as a solo female traveller here.
Don’t forget travel insurance for South America!
If you’re visiting South America as a backpacker, or even for a short vacation, it is so important to have travel insurance. And if you ended up on a post that’s called ‘epic party tips’, you know (just as well as I do) that you definitely need travel insurance.
Personally, I recommend SafetyWing. As a digital nomad and world traveller myself, I can confirm it is the best travel insurance out there. And one of the cheapest – they have deals that start at just $42 USD per month.
I know, I know, you’re thinking ‘but I can’t afford that!’. I was the same! It’s tough to fork out $42 a month on something ‘you might not need’. But what if something DOES happen? That extra Mezcal shot results in you falling down the stairs, or you eat something dodgy from a street food van.
If you need medical help at any point whilst in South America, you need travel insurance.
With SafetyWing, you’re covered on travel emergencies, basic medical costs and medical expenses throughout your trip, so you can travel without worry (at a backpacker’s price!)
Don’t even think twice about getting travel insurance for South America. Trust me, I have heard enough horror stories about backpackers who haven’t had insurance and have ended up in a lot of debt. Don’t be that person!
If you’ve been putting the job off because it takes a lot of time and effort to research the best travel insurance companies, I understand. That’s why I’ve done the hard work for you. Sign up for SafetyWing, and the job is done!
Is Ecuador safe for solo female travellers? In a Nutshell
So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about how safe Ecuador is for solo female travellers. When you’re planning a trip to Ecuador or the Galapagos, make sure you let me know over on Instagram or in the comments below!
If you haven’t seen my blog before, I write posts aimed at real-life travellers wanting authentic and down-to-earth information.
I’m currently travelling around the world with my boyfriend (read more here!), creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps!
Keep an eye out for more Ecuador content, all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates here!
As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!
Happy travelling 🙂
Jennie x
🇪🇨 Other Ecuador posts:
- Backpacking Ecuador: COMPLETE Guide
- Quito To The Galapagos: Easy Step-By-Step Guide
- 3 Days In Quito: The PERFECT Itinerary
- 2 Weeks In Ecuador: Routes, Itineraries & Guides!
- Amazon Tours Ecuador: BEST Cuyabeno Trip From Quito
MEET THE AUTHOR!
Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.
If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).
