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A magnitude 5.5 earthquake hit 55 km east of Santa Elena early Saturday morning, April 4. The tremor was felt across six provinces including Guayas, but caused no structural damage, injuries, or tsunami alert. Here's what happened and what expats on the coast should know.
President Noboa signed Decreto 353 on April 2, declaring a 60-day state of exception across nine provinces and four cantons. Warrantless searches are now legal in affected areas, though no curfew has been imposed. Expats in Pichincha, Guayas, Manabi, and other covered provinces should understand what rights have been suspended.
Ecuador's Semana Santa holiday generated an estimated 800,000 domestic trips and $70 million in economic activity. Manta led all destinations with 158,000 visitors and 80% hotel occupancy, while Amazon lodges hit 90%. A temporary VAT cut to 8% for tourism services sweetened the deal.
President Noboa signed a decree suspending work on April 30, creating a 4-day weekend alongside May 1 (Labor Day). Banks, government offices, and many businesses will close April 30 through May 3. Expect heavy domestic travel, booked hotels, and coastal congestion.
President Noboa signed Decree 353 on April 2, declaring a 60-day state of emergency across 9 provinces and 4 additional cantons. Unlike the previous emergency that ended March 30, this renewal does not include a curfew -- but it does authorize police raids and suspends home inviolability in affected areas.
A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck off Ecuador's coast near Santa Elena and Guayas early Saturday morning, April 4. The quake was felt across 6 provinces but caused no damage, injuries, or tsunami alert. It follows a 4.1 magnitude tremor near Loja on April 2.
Ecuador's government announced intentional homicides dropped 28% in March 2026 year-over-year, following a two-week nightly curfew in four provinces. The curfew provinces -- Guayas, Los Rios, El Oro, and Santo Domingo -- are not major expat areas, but the security trend is nationally significant.
Ecuador shipped 125,200 tonnes of shrimp in January 2026, a 23% increase year-over-year. China remains the top buyer at 49.5% of volume, though its share has declined from 54.2% in 2024. The industry projects a 15% increase for the full year.
Holy Week runs Palm Sunday (March 29) through Easter Sunday (April 5). Good Friday April 3 is the national holiday. Holy Thursday April 2 is NOT a holiday unless the government issues a special decree. Banks, government offices, and most businesses close April 3.
Holy Week runs March 29 through April 5 this year. Good Friday (April 3) is a non-recoverable national holiday. Holy Thursday is NOT a public holiday. Here is what expats need to know about closures, events, and travel.
Semana Santa runs from March 29 to April 5 this year, with Good Friday on April 3 as the national holiday. Expect bank closures, alcohol restrictions, packed beaches, and one of Ecuador's most significant cultural celebrations.
Semana Santa runs March 29 through April 5 this year, with Good Friday (April 3) as the national holiday. Banks close, alcohol sales may be restricted, and beach towns fill up fast. Here is everything expats need to know.
