Is Quito Safe? All You Need To Know

Quito is relatively safe for travelers, with decreasing homicide rates and few reported crimes against visitors. However, you’ll need to exercise caution in certain areas like Old Town, low-income neighborhoods, and parks after dark. Stick to licensed taxis, avoid displaying valuables, and stay alert on public transportation. Recent drug trafficking has increased gang activity and extortion schemes. Despite improvements under “Plan Fénix,” your awareness remains essential to navigate Ecuador’s capital safely.

Key Points

• Quito is among the safer South American capitals with decreasing homicide rates and relatively low crime against travelers.
• Avoid high-risk areas like low-income settlements, transport hubs, parks after dark, and Old Town markets.
• Common threats include pickpocketing, bag snatching, extortion schemes, and drug-related violence in certain neighborhoods.
• Always use authorized taxis or ride-hailing apps, especially at night, and stay on well-lit, populated streets.
• Despite security improvements under “Plan Fénix,” visitors should remain vigilant and follow local safety advisories.

The Current State of Safety in Quito

While many travelers express concerns about visiting South American capitals, Quito is notable as one of the region’s safer destinations. Recent statistics show a positive trend, with a 19% decrease in homicides in 2024 compared to the previous year, and a homicide rate of 9.7 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2024.

You’ll be encouraged to know that out of over 357,000 visitors between January and July 2024, only 175 crimes against travelers were reported—a 40% decrease from 2023. Most visitors enjoy their time in Ecuador’s capital without incident.

The city’s lower crime rates compared to other Latin American capitals make it a relatively secure choice for international travelers, though standard urban precautions remain necessary. Tourist-friendly neighborhoods like La Mariscal and the historic center are particularly safe for visitors during daylight hours.

High-Risk Areas to Avoid in Ecuador’s Capital

Despite Quito’s relatively good safety record compared to other South American capitals, certain areas demand extra caution from visitors.

You’ll want to avoid low-income settlements and informal neighborhoods, especially after dark, as these zones experience higher rates of violent crime and gang activity.

Areas near major transport hubs attract opportunistic thieves targeting travelers and commuters.

City outskirts and border neighborhoods often have increased organized crime presence.

Tourist zones with minimal security present particular risks for foreigners, while neighborhoods that have experienced recent gunfights deserve wide berths.

Parks after sunset become considerably more dangerous, regardless of their daytime safety profile. It’s recommended to only visit parks during daylight hours when they are significantly safer.

Be especially vigilant around ATMs, banks, and when using transportation, as these are prime locations for “saca pintas” gangs and express kidnappings.

Understanding Street Crime Patterns in Quito

Understanding the patterns of street crime in Quito gives you a strategic advantage when traversing Ecuador’s capital. Petty theft dominates tourist areas and public transit hubs, with pickpocketing and bag snatching particularly common in crowded spaces.

Stay vigilant in Quito’s tourist zones and transit hubs—pickpockets thrive where crowds gather.

Armed robberies target pedestrians after dark, while gang-related activity has introduced “vacunas” (extortion schemes) that affect local businesses. Reports of these extortion schemes have doubled since 2022, with over 4,600 cases reported to police in just the first half of 2023. Crime isn’t evenly distributed—certain neighborhoods experience territorial gang control, though central areas remain primarily affected by opportunistic theft.

You’ll notice demographic patterns too: young adults are both perpetrators and victims, while women and children sometimes face targeted exploitation. For safety, observe how locals behave—their movement patterns often reflect unspoken knowledge of high-risk zones.

Police presence varies markedly by neighborhood, so adjust your vigilance accordingly.

The Impact of Drug Trafficking on Visitor Safety

Ecuador’s transformation from a simple transit point to a major cocaine distribution hub directly impacts visitor safety in Quito. While travelers aren’t typically targeted by drug cartels, you might encounter indirect consequences of this illicit trade.

Areas near trafficking routes or gang territories experience unpredictable violence, including shootouts and explosions. The surge in cartel activity has coincided with increased street crime, extortion, and gang presence throughout the city.

You should exercise particular caution in neighborhoods with limited police presence, where criminals operate with relative impunity. The Albanian criminal networks have established significant operations through banana export companies, creating sophisticated transportation channels that affect overall security. The weakened law enforcement capacity, undermined by corruption and budget cuts, means response times to emergencies involving travelers can be delayed.

Despite these concerns, most visitors experience Quito without incident when following safety precautions and avoiding high-risk areas.

Safe Transportation Options Throughout the City

Successfully traversing Quito safely requires knowledge of the transportation landscape and its associated risks. The city’s high traffic mortality rate and frequent criminal activity on public transit demand caution. Never hail taxis randomly on the street, especially at the airport, and always use authorized taxi services or carefully vetted ride-hailing apps.

• Avoid traveling alone in taxis at night and always verify driver identity before entering.
• Choose reputable bus companies and protect valuables when using public transportation.
• Stay vigilant in high-risk areas near banks and ATMs where “Saca pintas” criminal groups operate.
• Stick to well-lit, populated routes if walking or cycling, and avoid parks after dark.

For women and vulnerable travelers, additional precautions may be necessary as public transit often presents heightened safety concerns. When choosing transportation, look for taxis with safety features like taximeters, cameras, and panic buttons which are more reliable options in the city.

Practical Safety Tips for Travelers to Quito

While Quito offers travelers an affluent cultural experience with its stunning architecture and vibrant markets, staying vigilant remains essential for a safe visit. Keep valuables concealed and maintain awareness in crowded areas like markets where pickpockets operate. Always carry identification as Ecuador requires visitors to carry ID at all times and comply with instructions from authorities during security checks.

Choose accommodations with 24-hour security and in-room safes. Research hotel locations before booking to ensure they’re in safer neighborhoods.

After dark, stick to well-lit areas and travel in groups. Always use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps rather than hailing from the street.

Carry emergency contact numbers and know the location of nearby hospitals and police stations. Consider registering with your embassy for safety updates.

With these precautions, you’ll enjoy Quito’s beauty while minimizing risks – the city’s decreasing crime rates make it one of Latin America’s safer destinations.

How Organized Crime Has Changed Quito’s Security Landscape

Once considered a relatively safe haven compared to other Latin American capitals, Quito has experienced a dramatic shift in its security landscape over the past year.

Organized crime groups have infiltrated areas previously untouched by such influence, with a 30% increase in violent crimes in recent months leading to a state of emergency.

The changes you’ll notice include:

• Territorial control by crime groups in certain neighborhoods, resulting in gunfights that were previously uncommon
• A rise in extortion, armed assaults, and kidnappings targeting both locals and officials
• Increased security measures and military presence under the government’s “Plan Fénix”
• A palpable atmosphere of tension, as residents adapt to this new reality

Many Quito residents have joined the approximately 90,000 Ecuadorians who chose to emigrate in 2024 rather than live under the constant threat of violence.

When and Where to Exercise Extra Caution in Quito

Despite the recent improvements in Quito’s crime statistics, with homicides dropping 19% in 2024, you’ll still need to exercise caution in specific areas and during certain times.

Be especially vigilant in Quito’s Old Town and crowded markets where pickpocketing occurs frequently. While using public transportation, keep your belongings secure, particularly during rush hour when buses are packed. Quito offers dedicated Tourist Security service to assist visitors with safety concerns and emergencies.

After dark, avoid walking alone in dimly lit or isolated areas. Stick to well-populated streets and consider using licensed taxis for nighttime travel rather than wandering on foot.

During heavy rainfall, be extra cautious as empty streets can create opportunities for criminals. When attending special events or festivals, remain aware of your surroundings despite the increased security presence.

The Sum Up

You’ve now got the essential knowledge to navigate Quito safely. Remember Maria, a Canadian tourist who followed these guidelines during her 2022 visit? Despite initial concerns, she explored the historic center, rode secure transportation, and returned with only wonderful memories. Stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and don’t flash valuables. With proper preparation, you’ll likely experience Quito’s incredible culture while keeping risks to a minimum.