Ecuador
The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
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Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in Ecuador are severe — offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines, and drivers can be held responsible for drugs passengers carry in their luggage.
1–2 year minimum for cannabis trafficking/consumption; long sentences and heavy fines.
§ US State Dept — EcuadorMedications
Confirm your medication is legal with Ecuador's Ministry of Public Health, carry it in original packaging with your prescription, and buy only from reputable pharmacies (counterfeits are common).
§ US State Dept — EcuadorCustoms & Cash
Declare USD 10,000 or more when entering or leaving Ecuador — and on exit, amounts of USD 1,200 or more are subject to a 5% currency-exit tax.
Failure to declare can lead to fines, confiscation, or criminal charges (FCDO).
§ US State Dept — EcuadorImports & Customs
Ecuador restricts certain items entering the Galápagos Islands; check the Galápagos Biosecurity Agency (ABG) prohibited-items list before traveling there.
§ US State Dept — EcuadorDriving
A valid US license is recognized in Ecuador for up to 90 days; carrying an international driving permit is recommended, and longer stays require a license from the National Transit Agency.
§ US State Dept — EcuadorPhotography & Drones
Drone and satellite-phone use is regulated in Ecuador; research the rules (civil aviation / ARCOTEL) before bringing them into the country.
§ US State Dept — EcuadorLGBTQ+ Safety
There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Ecuador.
§ US State Dept — Ecuador