Although health insurance is always a good idea, it is no longer a mandatory requirement for entering mainland Ecuador.
For those who weren’t aware, the Ecuadorian Government implemented the mandatory health insurance scheme in May of this year. In order for tourists to get visas to the country, they had to prove they had valid health insurance for the duration of their stay. It didn’t stick, however, and health insurance is no longer a requirement to enter mainland Ecuador.
There a few things you should note. This new ruling only applies to mainland Ecuador. If you plan to visit the Galapagos you need to purchase health insurance guaranteed by the Government Council of the Islands.
Starting from November 1st, health cover on your travel insurance won’t cut it for the Galapagos Islands. All tourists will have to purchase the Government Council of the Island guaranteed insurance. You’ll be able to get this insurance when passing through the Quito or Guayaquil airports at one of the insurer stands.
The insurance will cover you for fun things like loss of limbs from an accident. You’ll also be covered for hospital and ambulance costs, disability as result of an accident and accidental death.
If all this talk of health insurance hasn’t got you booking your flight to Ecuador, I think I know what might.
Volcano Glacier Hiking
You’re probably not used to seeing those three words together. Yet, this is an incredible activity for any adventure enthusiasts travelling in Ecuador!
Unique and Strange Animals
No one goes to the Galapagos Islands, in Ecuador, for the weather. Everyone goes to see the incredible array of wildlife, many species of which are found nowhere else in the world. This photo essay of the Islands captures some of the more peculiar animals that inspired the works of Charles Darwin. You can even check out his research centre
Ocean Front National Parks
Even if you don’t make it to Galapagos there is plenty of nature to be seen on, and from, the mainland. From the Machalilla National Park, you have prime humpback migration viewing as well as a variety of marine birdlife to be spotted. You can also find tucans and monkeys in the cloud forest regions of the park.
Vibrant Culture and Incredible Food!
So much culture, natural diversity and incredible food is compact into this geographically small country. But what Ecuador lacks in size it makes up for in everything else. For an in-depth taste of what Ecuadorian food is like check out one traveller’s Food Journal of Ecuador.
Honestly, there are thousands of reason to visit this ecologically unique and naturally stunning country. But don’t just take my word for it, read about one group’s incredible 10-day adventure.
It’s important to note that you still need to have your yellow fever vaccination before visiting Ecuador. You should speak to your doctor about required vaccinations and register on your government sites before travelling.
Do you have your own stories or Ecuador? Tell us about them in the comment section below.
If you’ve never been, that problem can be solved by clicking here.
