February 7, 2001
Americans traveling to or residing in Ecuador should be aware that Ecuador is experiencing disturbances and civil unrest as demonstrators protest government economic policies. The majority of the disturbances have been reported in areas north and south of Quito, around the towns of Otavalo and Latacunga, respectively. Violent demonstrations have been reported as well in the town of Tena, about 75 miles southeast of Quito, in Napo Province. Indigenous groups and Ecuadorian authorities clashed in Tena, and protestors prevented some foreigners from leaving the town. Demonstrations have the potential to flare up in other outlying areas, and may turn violent.
In large cities, demonstrations may occur in public areas such as parks, government buildings and universities, and city streets may be blocked without warning. Protests in Ecuador occasionally turn violent, and the police generally respond by using water cannons and tear gas. In addition, there have been several bombings in the Quito area, resulting in property damage but no injuries. No one has claimed responsibility for the bombings.
While there is no indication that American citizens or institutions have been or will be a focus of these protests or of the bombings, travelers are advised to take common-sense precautions, be wary of unfamiliar or unattended packages, and avoid any large gatherings.
Roadblocks have been, and will likely continue to be, erected sporadically in rural areas, especially outside of Quito along the Pan American Highway north and south of the city, though it is impossible to predict where or when roadblocks may occur. Because of these conditions, American citizens in Ecuador should seriously consider deferring non-emergency road travel within Ecuador until the demonstrations have stopped and reports indicate that it is safe to travel. Travelers should not attempt to drive through roadblocks.
For further information, please see the Department of State's Consular Information Sheet for Ecuador, available at the Bureau of Consular Affairs' Internet web site: http://travel.state.gov.
This Public Announcement replaces the Public Announcement of January 31, 2001, to update the security situation in Ecuador. This Public Announcement expires on May 7, 2001.