Guayaquil - Post Report Question and Answers
What kind of vehicle(s) including electric ones do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, infrastructure, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car or vehicles do you advise not to bring?
Anything from a compact to an SUV. If you want to travel around the country, a small or regular SUV is good, but my compact made it up the mountain roads on a recent trip. Roads are paved and in fairly good condition, but there can be landslides and road sinking that can block and temporarily shut down the roads. It's better to bring international brand cars (Toyota, Honda) as parts will be more readily available. You have to keep your car locked at all times and not leave anything within view from the windows - put everything in the trunk. Otherwise, you risk having your window smashed. - May 2025
I am glad I brought an all-wheel drive vehicle with good clearance, especially during the rainy season which can get muddy and flooded. Ecuadorian insurance is arranged through the consulate, but paid for by the employee. I brought my own car oil, filters, windshield wipers, etc. and am glad I did because there are very few Subarus down here. - May 2025
Small Asian SUVs are most common. Most major brands have dealerships here. - May 2025