<2> Is it Safe to Travel to Ecuador? The Latest on US Military Operations
<3> Overview of US Military Operations in Ecuador
Ecuador has been a key player in the fight against drug trafficking and organized crime in the region. The US and Ecuador have announced a joint military effort to combat these issues, which has raised concerns among travelers about safety.
<4> Affected Regions
The joint military operation is primarily focused on the following regions:
– < href='https://nationalgeographic.com/countries/ecuador/' target='_blank'>Ecuador’s Pacific Coast, particularly the provinces of Esmeraldas and Manabí
– < href='https://lonelyplanet.com/ecuador' target='_blank'>The Amazon rainforest, where many of the country’s major rivers originate
– < href='https://nationalgeographic.com/countries/ecuador/' target='_blank'>The Andean highlands, where many of Ecuador’s major cities are located
<3> Tips from Travel Specialists on the Ground
Despite the increased military presence, many travel specialists on the ground report that the situation remains relatively safe for tourists.
– “Ecuador is a vast country, and the areas affected by the military operation are limited,” says Maria Rodriguez