Dana Tours LLC wishes to convey some important news regarding the need for proof of health insurance for travellers entering the country.
Continental Ecuador
We are pleased to report that foreign tourist entering Continental Ecuador will not need to show proof of health insurance. This was decided through a new Ecuadorian Law (Ley Orgánica para el Fomento Productivo, Atracción de Inversiones, Generación de Empleo y Estabilidad y Equilibrio Fiscal), which went into effect on Tuesday 22nd August 2018, after being published in the Official Registry.
The official communiqué from the Ministry of Tourism may be found at this link.
Galapagos
However, the health insurance requirement for travel to the Galapagos Islands will stand. The Galapagos authorities (CGREG) emitted an official statement on 15th August 2018 stipulating that foreign visitors to the Galapagos will need to show proof of health insurance starting 1st November 2018. As of yet, no other details have been provided, such as what companies will sell the insurance, or where it can be purchased.
That same date, some other norms will take effect, namely that foreign visitors must have proof of reservation at an authorised hotel or a letter of invitation to a private home, as well as a two-way plane ticket. It has not yet been specified when travellers will be asked for these documents, or whether they will be required to carry printouts of the documents. We are currently requesting more details from the Galapagos authorities in order to keep our clients informed.
The official communiqué from the Galapagos authorities may be found at this link.
Please also note that we are following these developments closely and will, at all times, do everything in our power to assist our travellers. Do not hesitate to contact your Destination Expert for additional information.