Latin American Travel Association (Lata) chairman Colin Stewart has called for a “quick and peaceful resolution” to the troubles blighting Ecuador.
Protests and unrest have spread across much of the country in recent days in response to government austerity measures and cuts to fuel subsidies.
At the weekend, the Foreign Office (FCO) strengthened its travel advice, advising against all but essential travel to the country, with the exception of transit via Quito or Guayaquil to the Galapagos Islands.
“At Lata, we are sorry to hear about the current disruption in Ecuador,” said Stewart. “We are monitoring the situation closely and we understand measures are currently being taken to restore the peace.
“The FCO is currently advising against all but essential travel to Ecuador, with the exception of the Galapagos Islands. It is important to note this advice does not apply to transit through Quito or Guayaquil airports for onward travel to Galapagos. The Galapagos Islands remain unaffected by this disruption and travel to the Galapagos can continue as normal.
“We would advise all customers that have booked a holiday to Ecuador to seek advice from their travel agent/tour operator and check the FCO guidelines. At Lata, we hope for a quick and peaceful resolution.”
The FCO’s latest advice advises against all but essential travel to Ecuador, with the exception of the Galapagos Islands. “This advice does not apply to transit through Quito or Guayaquil airports for onward travel to Galapagos, which is currently not significantly affected,” said the FCO.
“There have been extensive protests across Ecuador since 3 October following new economic measures announced by the Government on 1 October. This has caused nationwide disruption, with demonstrations and road blockages in many provinces. On that basis, the FCO advises against all but essential travel to Ecuador.”
A state of emergency remains in place across Ecuador, with demonstrations, protests and road blockages likely in many provinces, the FCO has said, as well as government-imposed curfews. “Travellers should consider carefully the practicalities and security implications of their travel plans.”
Travellers have also been warned there could be disruption to airport access, as well as cancellations.