It’s an exciting time to be gay in Ecuador. Though it’s a conservative, Catholic-majority nation, the millennial attitude has evolved. Most notably, in June 2019, same-sex marriage became legal. Ecuador was one of the first nations to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, and they’ve even outlawed conversion therapy. Interestingly, same-sex couples can’t adopt children, but single gay people can…though straight singles get preferential treatment. There’s progress to be made, but Ecuador is a leading light in South America.
Gay Activity: Legal
Lesbian Activity: Legal
Same-Sex Marriage: Legal
Right to Change Gender: Legal
Same-Sex Adoption: Only legal for singles
LGBT Discrimination: Illegal
Though you’re legally protected from discrimination, you’re not immune from old-fashioned machismo and religious intolerance. While things are progressing quickly, remember that our big gay welcome is new and unevenly distributed here. Be aware when you’re out, especially if by yourself: beware of drinks from strangers, and consider hailing a ride with Uber or Lyft after dark. That said, the nightlife is epic, and Ecuador is a great place to discover.
Gay Villages in Colombia
Solid communities have developed in both the capital of Quito and Guayaquil’s gateway city to the Galapagos Islands. The LGBT community may keep a low profile during the day but know how to blow their hair back once the sun goes down. With the gay scene being so young, many skip the bars and head straight for the clubs late into the night. Consider a disco nap if you’re up for the challenge. Just don’t refer to the crowd as whippersnappers.
Pride Festivals/Events in Colombia
Quito Pride: Annually, in June
Quito Gay Film Festival: Annually in November
Guayaquil Pride: Annually in June
Best Gay Bars in Colombia
Quito: Om Buda Lounge (Gay-Welcoming Lounge)
Quito: Pravda (Karaoke Bar & Disco)
Quito: Tercer Milenio (Nightclub)
Quito: Dionisios (Drag, Cabaret and Comedy)
Best Lesbian Bars in Colombia
Quito: Radar is a gay club that hosts ladies-only nights, but you’ll also feel welcome in most other gay establishments.
5. The Quilotoa Loop
If you’re a fan of hiking, this multi-day trail takes you through the Andes Mountains, beginning and ending at a stunning crater lake.
4. Guayaquil
The second largest city in Ecuador is coming into its own. It even boasts a small gay scene and a pride festival.
3. Quito & La Floresta
Off the tourist path in Quito lies this up-and-coming neighbourhood that gives you an authentic taste of life in Ecuador’s capital city.
2. Isla de la Plata – Silver Island
If time or budget is limited and you can’t make it to the Galapagos, this island is just as spectacular without the crowds and extravagant prices.
1. The Galapagos Islands
We’ve planned an entire cruise around this archipelago. The islands’ isolation has allowed biodiversity to flourish here in a magnificent way.
Best Time to Visit: There’s never a wrong time to visit Ecuador. The temperature rarely dips below 20C/70F, but the best time to snorkel the ocean is between November and June.
Electricity: Type A & Type B sockets
Time Zone: Quito Time (UTC -5), Galapagos Time (UTC-6)
Covid-19 Vaccination Requirements: We’re dedicated to ensuring our tours are safe for everyone, but it is our belief that each traveler has a responsibility to protect themselves and their fellow travellers from COVID-19. As of May 1, 2023, Out Adventures no longer requires guests to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination on most of our tours. If vaccination is a requirement for entry, or on select cruises, this will be communicated at the time a trip is confirmed to depart. Before booking, we recommend that you read our COVID-19 Information Page and our COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions to understand what we’re doing to minimize risk, and what will happen if you contract COVID-19 before or during an Out Adventures tour.
Other Vaccinations: The WHO suggests immunization against Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid, before visiting Ecuador. Talk to your doctor or a travel medical clinic to determine if you should take preventative measures.
Visas: Ecuador has an incredibly lenient visa policy. Most visitors staying less than 90 days need a passport valid for six months. There may be exceptions. Click here for more info.
Last updated on Sept 24, 2021. Disclaimer: The information provided was accurate at the time of publishing, but cannot be guaranteed.
