🛡️ Travel Health & Safety Advisory from Barefoot Expeditions

Your safety is our top priority. As part of our commitment to providing transformative, meaningful, and responsible travel experiences, we want to inform you of new health regulations in Ecuador that may affect your upcoming journey.

🌍 Important Update: Yellow Fever Vaccination Now Required for Certain Travelers

Effective May 12, 2025, Ecuador’s Ministry of Public Health will require proof of yellow fever vaccination from:

• Citizens or residents of the following countries:

  • Peru

  • Colombia

  • Bolivia

  • Brazil

• Travelers of any nationality who have spent more than 10 days in any of the countries listed above prior to entering Ecuador.

🕒 Timing Matters

The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before arrival in Ecuador and offers lifetime immunity.

🇪🇨 Domestic Travelers in Ecuador

If you are an Ecuadorian citizen or resident and plan to travel to the Amazon region—including provinces such as Sucumbíos, Orellana, Napo, Pastaza, Morona Santiago, and Zamora-Chinchipe—you are required to get vaccinated against yellow fever at least 10 days before your trip unless you’ve already been immunized.

✅ Who Is Exempt from the Requirement?

You do not need the yellow fever vaccine if:

• You are arriving directly from North America, Europe, or the Galápagos Islands.

• You have not visited Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, or Brazil for 10 or more days before entering Ecuador.

• You are only traveling to high-altitude regions such as:

  • Quito

  • Cuenca

  • Baños

  • Cotopaxi

  • The Galápagos Islands

These areas are not endemic to yellow fever, and the vaccination is not required for entry or travel within them.

📋 What You Need to Do

To comply with Ecuador’s health requirements and ensure a seamless travel experience:

1. Check Your Travel History

If you’ve recently traveled or plan to travel through Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, or Brazil, check how many days you will spend there before entering Ecuador.

2. Get Vaccinated if Required

Visit an authorized travel clinic to receive the yellow fever vaccine at least 10 days before your trip. It’s a one-time vaccine that grants lifetime protection.

3. Carry Proof of Vaccination

Bring your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP)—commonly known as the “yellow card.” You may be asked to show it when entering Ecuador or visiting the Amazon.

4. Consult a Travel Health Specialist

If you have medical contraindications (e.g., autoimmune conditions, pregnancy, or allergies), speak with a certified travel doctor. You may be eligible for a medical exemption with official documentation.

🧭 Our Recommendation for Barefoot Expeditions Travelers

• Galápagos travelers: No yellow fever vaccination is required if you’re flying directly from mainland Ecuador or abroad without transiting through the countries listed.

• Amazon travelers (e.g., Tena, Yasuni, Cuyabeno): We strongly recommend getting vaccinated. It is mandatory for some regions, and advisable for your safety in others.

• Multi-country travelers: If your itinerary includes other South American countries before Ecuador, we’ll help you plan your route to align with health requirements.

✅ Who Doesn’t Need the Vaccine?

If you’re arriving from North America, Europe, or the Galápagos Islands, or have not spent 10+ days in those countries, you don’t need to worry about the vaccine at all.

💡 Already Vaccinated? No Worries!

If you’ve already received the yellow fever vaccine, you’re good to go! The vaccine provides lifetime immunity, and while having your vaccination certificate is recommended, it’s not required unless you’re traveling from certain countries.

🧳 What Does This Mean for You?

• Traveling to the Galápagos or the Andes? No vaccine needed!

• Going to the Amazon? The vaccine is required or strongly recommended.

• Coming from Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, or Brazil? You’ll need proof of vaccination if you’ve been there more than 10 days.

🌿 The good news: This regulation doesn’t affect most of our travelers. And for those who need it, it’s easy to get vaccinated ahead of time.

💬 Still Have Questions?

Barefoot Expeditions is here to support you. If you’re unsure whether you need the vaccine or how to schedule it, contact us directly. We’ll guide you through the process and ensure your journey is healthy, safe, and unforgettable.

📧 Email: info@barefootexpeditions.com
📍 Travel with peace of mind. Explore with purpose.