🐾 Traveling to Ecuador with Pets
Pet-Friendly Ecuador
Ecuador offers a welcoming environment for pets, particularly in urban areas and coastal regions. From Andean trails to Pacific beaches, well-behaved pets are often allowed in hotels, restaurants, and outdoor spaces, making it a viable destination for pet owners exploring diverse ecosystems.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a health certificate issued by an official veterinarian within 10 days of travel.
Certificate must include vaccination records and confirmation of good health; obtain an import permit from AGROCALIDAD beforehand.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days but no more than 1 year before entry.
Vaccination must be recorded on the health certificate; boosters required if over 1 year since last dose.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Chip number must be linked to all documents; scanners are available at entry points like Quito's airport.
Non-US Countries
Pets from rabies-endemic countries may need a rabies antibody titer test 30 days post-vaccination.
A 90-day waiting period applies after the test; contact Ecuadorian embassy for specific requirements.
Restricted Breeds
Certain aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers may face restrictions or require special permits.
Muzzles and leashes are mandatory for larger dogs in public areas; check local municipal rules.
Other Pets
Birds, fish, and exotic animals require additional CITES permits and quarantine in some cases.
Consult AGROCALIDAD for species-specific rules; primates and reptiles have strict import bans.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Ecuador on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Quito & Guayaquil): Urban hotels like Wyndham and Hilton welcome pets for $10-25/night, with nearby parks and walking areas. International chains often have consistent policies.
- Andean Lodges & Haciendas (Cuenca & Otavalo): Mountain retreats frequently allow pets at no extra fee, offering access to hiking trails. Ideal for dogs in highland settings.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and Vrbo options in coastal and urban areas commonly permit pets, providing space for pets to move freely.
- Eco-Lodges (Amazon & Coast): Jungle and beach lodges like those in Mindo or Montañita accept pets, with opportunities for nature exploration. Family-oriented with animal interactions.
- Campsites & Beach Parks: Coastal campsites near Salinas and Amazon river sites are pet-friendly, with designated areas for dogs and outdoor activities.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: Upscale resorts like Mashpi Lodge provide pet amenities including guided walks and special diets for traveling companions.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Andean Hiking Trails
Ecuador's highlands feature pet-friendly paths in areas like Quilotoa and Chimborazo.
Leash dogs near llamas and check for altitude restrictions at park entrances.
Beaches & Coast
Pacific beaches in Montañita and Salinas have dog-friendly zones for swimming and play.
Galapagos prohibits pets; stick to mainland coast with local signage for rules.
Cities & Parks
Quito's La Carolina Park and Guayaquil's Malecón welcome leashed dogs; outdoor eateries allow pets.
Cuenca's historic center permits dogs on leash; riverside paths are popular.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Ecuadorian café culture includes pet-friendly patios in cities with water stations.
Many spots in Quito's La Mariscal allow dogs outside; inquire before entering.
City Walking Tours
Outdoor tours in Quito's Old Town and Cuenca welcome leashed pets without extra fees.
Avoid indoor sites like churches; focus on colonial streets and markets.
Cable Cars & Lifts
Quito's TelefériQo allows small pets in carriers for $1-5; larger dogs may need leashes.
Check operators in advance; high-altitude sites require pet acclimation.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Buses (Urban & Intercity): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs require tickets ($1-2) and must be leashed/muzzled. Avoid long-haul buses without AC.
- Taxis & Rideshares (Urban): Quito and Guayaquil taxis accept pets with driver approval; Uber Pet option available in cities for $2-5 extra.
- Taxis: Ask driver before entering with pets; most accept with advance notice. Bolt and Uber rides may require pet-friendly vehicle selection.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Budget allow pets with notice and cleaning fee ($20-50). Opt for SUVs for Amazon or highland roads.
- Flights to Ecuador: Check airline pet policies; LATAM and Avianca allow cabin pets under 10kg. Book early and review specific carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, and Copa accept pets in cabin (under 10kg) for $100-125 each way. Larger pets in hold with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics in Quito (Clínica Veterinaria Quito) and Guayaquil offer urgent care.
Travel insurance covering pets recommended; consultations cost $30-100.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Chains like Supermaxi and pet stores in cities stock food, meds, and supplies.
Pharmacies carry basic pet items; bring prescriptions for specialized treatments.
Grooming & Day Care
Urban areas have grooming salons and daycare for $15-40 per session.
Reserve in advance during holidays; hotels can recommend local providers.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in Quito and Cuenca offer sitting for day trips or overnights.
Hotels arrange trusted sitters; apps like local equivalents to Rover are emerging.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, parks, and protected areas. Highland trails may allow off-leash if controlled and away from livestock.
- Muzzle Requirements: Larger breeds need muzzles on public transport and in crowded markets. Carry one for compliance checks.
- Waste Disposal: Bags and bins available in urban zones; fines ($10-100) for not cleaning up. Always carry supplies on outings.
- Beach & Water Rules: Mainland beaches allow dogs but check for seasonal bans; keep distance from bathers and wildlife.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets ok at outdoor tables; no indoors. Ensure pets stay calm and on the ground.
- National Parks: Pets restricted in Galapagos and some Amazon reserves; leash required in Podocarpus and Cotopaxi parks.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Ecuador
Ecuador for Families
Ecuador delights families with its biodiversity, cultural heritage, and adventure options. Safe urban centers, interactive sites, and natural wonders engage kids while offering relaxation for parents. Facilities include family rooms, play areas, and child-focused tours across regions.
Top Family Attractions
Mitad del Mundo (Quito)
Equator monument with interactive science exhibits, planetarium, and cultural villages.
Entry $5-10 adults, $3-5 kids; hands-on equator experiments thrill children.
Guayacil Zoo (Guayaquil)
Modern zoo with native animals, aviaries, and educational shows in coastal setting.
Tickets $8-12 adults, $4-6 kids; includes playgrounds and picnic areas.
Ingapirca Ruins (Cuenca Area)
Inca archaeological site with guided tours, sun temple, and surrounding trails.
Family tickets $10-15; kids enjoy the history and on-site museum exhibits.
Mindalae Cultural Space (Quito)
Interactive museum showcasing Ecuador's ethnic groups with crafts and performances.
Entry $6-8 adults, $3-4 kids; perfect for cultural immersion and hands-on activities.
Devil's Nose Train (Riobamba)
Scenic railway ride through Andes with thrilling switchbacks and views.
Tickets $20-30 round-trip; adventure for families with narrated history.
Quilotoa Lagoon (Highlands)
Volcanic crater lake with easy hikes, kayaking, and rainbow trout fishing.
Family-friendly trails; entrance $2, suitable for kids 5+ with scenic overlooks.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Ecuador on Viator. From chocolate farm visits to highland adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Quito & Guayaquil): Properties like Holiday Inn offer family suites (2 adults + 2 kids) for $80-150/night. Include cribs, pools, and kids' menus.
- Highland Resorts (Cuenca): All-inclusive options with family activities, childcare, and spacious rooms. Places like Hotel Oro Verde cater to families.
- Eco-Lodges (Amazon): Jungle stays with family cabins, guided nature walks, and animal spotting. Prices $100-200/night including meals.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering units in cities with kitchens for family meals and laundry facilities.
- Budget Hostels: Family rooms in hostels like those in Baños for $40-70/night. Clean with communal kitchens and adventure access.
- Beach Resorts: Coastal spots like in Salinas offer family bungalows with pools and beach play. Kids enjoy water activities.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Quito with Kids
TelefériQo cable car, Old Town carriage rides, parks, and equator monument visits.
Chocolate tasting and puppet shows add fun to the highland capital experience.
Guayaquil with Kids
Malecón boardwalk, zoo, river boat tours, and Iguana Park interactions.
Family-friendly markets and ice cream spots along the coast keep kids happy.
Cuenca with Kids
River rafting, artisan markets, hot springs, and colonial architecture exploration.
Easy hikes and craft workshops engage children in Andean culture.
Coast & Amazon (Montañita & Yasuni)
Beach play, surfing lessons, jungle canopy walks, and wildlife spotting.
Boat safaris and easy trails suitable for families with picnic opportunities.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Buses: Kids under 2 free; ages 2-12 half-price ($1-3). Family seating on intercity buses; strollers fold for storage.
- City Transport: Quito's Ecovía and Guayaquil trolleys offer family passes ($5-8/day). Most vehicles are stroller-accessible.
- Car Rentals: Child seats mandatory ($5-10/day) for under 12; book ahead. 4x4s recommended for highlands.
- Stroller-Friendly: Urban areas improving with ramps; cobblestones in old towns challenging. Attractions often have elevators.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants serve empanadas, ceviche, or rice for $3-7. High chairs available in tourist spots.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Cevicherías and markets welcome kids with casual vibes and play spaces outdoors.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets like Mi Comisariato have baby food and diapers. Fresh markets for family cooking.
- Snacks & Treats: Street vendors offer helados de paila ice cream and fresh fruits to energize kids.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Found in malls, zoos, and major hotels with nursing areas.
- Pharmacies: Stock formula, diapers, and meds; English-speaking staff in cities assist families.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange sitters ($10-15/hour); local agencies in Quito for evenings out.
- Medical Care: Pediatric services in hospitals like Hospital Vozandes; travel insurance essential for non-residents.
♿ Accessibility in Ecuador
Accessible Travel
Ecuador is advancing in accessibility, especially in cities like Quito and Guayaquil, with improving infrastructure, wheelchair transport, and inclusive sites. Tourism offices offer guidance for barrier-free planning in urban and coastal areas.
Transportation Accessibility
- Buses: Urban systems like Quito's MetroBus have low-floor access and ramps. Assistance available at major terminals.
- City Transport: Trolleys and taxis with ramps in cities; audio aids for visually impaired on main routes.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-adapted taxis bookable via apps; standard ones fit folding chairs for $2-5 rides.
- Airports: Quito and Guayaquil airports feature full services, ramps, and priority assistance for disabled passengers.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: Quito's museums and Mitad del Mundo have ramps, elevators, and tactile guides.
- Historic Sites: Guayaquil's Malecón is wheelchair-friendly; Cuenca's center has partial access despite some uneven paths.
- Nature & Parks: Select trails in Cotopaxi accessible; urban parks like La Carolina offer paved paths.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (June-September) for highlands; wet coast (December-April) for beaches. Year-round equatorial climate with regional variations.
Avoid rainy peaks for outdoor activities; shoulder months offer fewer crowds.
Budget Tips
Combo tickets for attractions; Quito Tourist Card covers transport and sites.
Picnics and local markets save costs while introducing kids to cuisine.
Language
Spanish official; English in tourist hubs and with youth. Basic phrases help; locals patient with families.
Packing Essentials
Light layers for altitude changes, rain gear, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Pet owners: familiar food, leash, muzzle, waste bags, and vaccination papers.
Useful Apps
Moovit for transport, Google Translate, and local pet service apps.
Quito Metro and Guayaquil apps for real-time updates.
Health & Safety
Ecuador safe for families; bottled water advised. Pharmacies offer advice.
Emergency: 911 for all services; travel insurance covers health needs.