Lack of Personal Safety:
At night, stick to busy well-lit streets and never admit
you are traveling alone. Be sure someone at home knows
your itinerary.
For transportation, think twice before driving, as roads
are poor, and travel only during the day. Definitely do
not hitchhike, particularly women.
Theft of Valuables: Bring as little with you as possible.
Keep your cash, cards, and papers in a money belt, especially
in large cities. And don't let your bags out of your sight
while traveling from place to place.
Sickness:
Inoculations: You are required by Ecuadorian law to show
a vaccination certificate for yellow fever. Also, make
sure you're up to date on your other vaccinations and
boosters.
Food and Water: Tap water is unsafe to drink. Bottled
water and sealed soft drinks are safe.
