Travelers without a visa cannot extend this stay beyond 90 days. It is important, therefore, that a visa be obtained if a traveler intends to stay longer than 90 days. For current information concerning entry and customs requirements for Ecuador, travelers can contact the Ecuadorian Embassy at 2535 15th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, Tel. Medical care is available but varies in quality. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
Many hospitals do take credit cards.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical evacuation, has proven useful in many emergencies. Travelers are also cautioned against visiting the areas of Carchi Province adjacent to the Colombian border. Both areas are dangerous because of the significant incidence of common crime, extortion and kidnapping. Caution should also be used in other areas bordering on Colombia, as local law enforcement is faced with growing challenges from Colombia-based organized crime, drug traffickers and armed insurgents.