Guayaquil - Post Report Question and Answers
Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
All of us take extra security measures when we are out and about, especially at night. There are sections of the city that are fine, but larger areas are not safe (nor is there any reason to visit them). We drive with safety in mind (proofing WAZE routes before we follow blindly). In the neighborhoods where we live and work, the concerns are present but minimal. The main parts of town and central tourist area are quite safe during the day, but always be mindful of petty theft. In a number of parts of the city where we do not normally need to go to, the crime and violence is worse. To be honest, my hometown in the US is quite unsafe in many areas. There is no difference! Every big city has these issues. As for discrimination, I have not seen much other than economic disparity (upper class gets treated much better than the poor). - Aug 2022
Yes, many. Guayaquil is known for being dangerous, and things have devolved significantly in my time here. We have heard of many violent crimes near the housing, although these are not typically broadcast to staff. We are prohibited from traveling to half of the city, and in recent days it feels like it's unsafe to go anywhere other than work. There are murders daily, a few weeks ago there was an unexploded bomb about 10 minutes from the housing. This is an extremely unsafe city and the current 15% differential does nothing to communicate how serious things are here. - Jun 2022
There is petty crime in Guayaquil but not more than any other urban city. You should always be careful with your valuables, keep your door locked, etc. - Oct 2020
Yes. Petty crime is high. Most parts of the city aren't safe enough to walk outside, so you're kind of limited within Guayaquil. However, there are some safe areas to walk around, dine, etc. - Feb 2019
Guayaquil is a critically rated city for crime - there are all sorts of issues with security here. It is not advisable to travel during the night outside of Guayaquil, and constantly be on the alert when going into Guayaquil or surrounding barrios. Use common sense and listen to the security alerts that are given by the consulate to Americans. The security problem causes a lot of stress among the expats here in Guayaquil. - Jun 2013
Public transportation is not authorized for US Consulate people; only vetted cabs. Some Americans have been robbed. - May 2013
No problems with security personally, but many foreigners do have problems getting robbed. If you just choose to never hail a cab off the street or take a public bus and don't go out partying late at night, you shouldn't have a problem. A couple females who hailed a cab in the middle of the city in the afternoon ended up getting raped recently. Taxis aren't safe. - Jan 2012
robberies, car jacks are serious issues. Post is ranked 'critical' for crimes. In one particular case in 2011, the robbery took place in broad day light in front of the Consul General's residence. Apparently, they had been following a lady from the bank when she took out the cash. One of the armed robbers kept the CG's security guard from intervening while the other two robbed the lady at gun point and they took off with $5000. Another incident occurred inside one of the gated neighborhoods, Puerto Azul, 5 armed robbers tied up a local family in their own home and robbed them. There have been some protests with rock throwing at the Consulate. Local buses are not allowed and only vetted taxis are. - Jan 2012
It is more dangerous than I thought it would be. Beware of taxis off the street. Do not ride buses. - Aug 2011
