For your next trip to Ecuador, you are wondering which neighborhoods to avoid in Quito.
It is true that in recent years more and more South American cities have become more dangerous than before for tourists. It is therefore normal to question the security of the city of Quito.
Below you will find a study which assesses the dangerous neighborhoods in Quito, the areas to avoid but also the best places to stay.
You will also have a map of the main neighborhoods to more easily locate the good and bad neighborhoods of Quito.
Written by synthesizing information from serious sources (statistics, rankings, newspaper articles, forums), this article contains neither judgment nor discriminatory remarks.
State of emergency in Ecuador
Following the escape of the leader of organized crime, numerous unrest occurred in Ecuador, particularly in the country's prisons. There is currently an internal armed conflict.
Since January 8, 2024, a state of emergency has been declared throughout the country for 60 days by President Noboa. In addition, a curfew is in place every day from 23 p.m. to 5 a.m. especially in Ecuadorian territory.
The French Government and other countries are recommending that travelers not go to Ecuador at this time.
Is Quito a dangerous city?
The rate of violence in Ecuador increased sharply in 2022 (more than 4 murders), in 600 and continues in 2023. This violence is mainly linked to organized crime and drug trafficking. But it is also linked to delinquency. Indeed, delinquency has been greatly aggravated by the economic, health and migration crisis that Ecuador is experiencing.
“Attacks and sexual assaults against foreign women, including rapes and murders, have been reported across the country, particularly in tourist areas. Tourists can be victims of theft when withdrawing money from an ATM. Rape and/or extortion after use of medication or drugs have been recorded. These products can be administered without the victim's knowledge and lead to obedience to the "instructions" given by the attacker, as well as behavioral disorders (confusion, amnesia, hallucinations). » France Diplomacy
Less criminal than Guayaquil and Esmeraldas, Quito remains a dangerous city. See the article which indicates that the violent crimes doubled in Quito last year.
This is confirmed by the last Numbeo ranking which ranks the 352 most crime-ridden cities on all continents. In fact, according to these statistics, Quito is ranked 50th most criminal city in the world. With a crime index of 62.95, in comparison, Quito is more dangerous than Guadalajara, Medellin, Brasilia, Cancun, Santiago de Chile, Los Angeles ou Winnipeg.
Is it safe to travel to Quito?
Quito is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that attracts tourists from all over the world. Nestled in the Andes Mountains, it offers breathtaking views, historic architecture and a unique blend of indigenous and Spanish influences. However, tourists traveling to Quito should exercise caution and follow basic safety guidelines.
On the other hand, insecurity and crime in Quito is very concentrated in certain neighborhoods and less in others. This is why it is essential to find out about the dangerous neighborhoods to avoid and to choose your hotel in the safest neighborhoods (see list below).
Updated 10/01/2024: It is not safe to travel to Quito at this time. See details on diplomatie.gouv.fr.
Map of Quito neighborhoods
With a population of approximately 2,7 million, Quito is the second most populous city in Ecuador. It includes many districts and neighborhoods:
- The northern zone brings together the neighborhoods of Carcelén, Condado, Belisario Quevedo and Mariscal;
- The Center is made up of the historic center, the San Juan district and Itchimbia;
- The South zone has a larger number of neighborhoods including Magdale, Guamani, Chilibulo, Puengasi and Turubamba.
Here is a map that will help you better identify the neighborhoods to avoid and the best ones in Quito: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mU9nVPZB2X5etMvHA
Most dangerous neighborhoods in Quito
Among the 398 neighborhoods of Quito, here are the 17 neighborhoods to avoid because they are considered the most dangerous in the city:
- Iñaquito
- La Ecuatoriana
- Eugenio Espejo District
- Manuela Sáenz in the center
- La Delicia
- Eloy Alfaro
- La Roldós on the Quito ring road
- The Marine
- The Magdalena
- Roll
- Comité del Pueblo (see article on primicias.ec)
- the railway
- Guamani
- La Argelia
- La Ofelia
- Calderon
- Solanda
Neighborhood La Floresta is not generally cited among the most dangerous in Quito. It is a colonial district that is 105 years old and represents the cradle of culture. Until now, it was known for its security and peaceful atmosphere. Close to many restaurants and shops, it was a great choice for travelers looking for safe accommodation in Quito. However, it seems that this neighborhood has changed recently so it's up to you to be the judge. See article on expreso.ec
Quito red light district
La Mariscal, also known as Gringolandia, is a lively popular area with many bars and restaurants. But it is also the red light district of Quito which is therefore very poorly frequented and unsavory.
Although you can walk there during the day, it is a dangerous area at night and is recommended to be avoided.
Safe neighborhoods to stay in Quito
When choosing accommodation in Quito, it is important to select safe neighborhoods.
Here are some of the least dangerous neighborhoods in Quito: El Inca, Calderon, around the Eloy Alfaro college, La Carolina, Cumbayá, the Quicentro area and the historic center around the tourist areas only.
Staying in the historic center of Quito is a good choice provided you remain careful, especially at night.
Indeed, the historic center of Quito is a popular tourist area but it is also considered moderately safe. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of historical and cultural sites to visit. Many hotels and hostels are located in this area, providing easy access to the city's attractions.
Here is a very well located hotel in the heart of the historic center and with a beautiful rooftop: Friends Hotel & Rooftop.
How to visit Quito safely?
Outside of periods of conflict, if you want to visit the city in an original and safe way, you can book a trolleybus tour of the emblematic sites of Quito and the Mitad del Mundo: