Drone Laws in Ecuador
Last update on 29.09.2023 | 13 Kommentare
On this page, you will find the current laws for the use of drones in Ecuador.
In Ecuador, flying a drone is allowed. However, upon entry, substantial import taxes (approx. 35% on the new value of the drone) must be paid. Drones with a value of up to US$1000 are exempted. You can also be exempt from tax if you can prove that you are using your drone for professional purposes. The following statement is from the Embassy of Ecuador:
“If the person uses a drone as working equipment, they must prove that the equipment is also intended for it. Therefore this person has to carry a document with him, which shows which activities are planned. If the photographer is a photographer, he/she must have proof of qualification or a copy of the diploma indicating that he/she is dedicated to the profession. It should be emphasized that the drone must leave the country as soon as the work is completed.
If the person does not wish to use the drone for professional purposes, the drone will not be exempt from duty, and the taxation will have to be continued.
We recommend that you contact the International Arrivals Hall:
Guayaquil: (04) 2924454/2924519
Quito: (02) 3945830-305 “
Overview: Drone rules in Ecuador
Drone labels can be ordered here
Rules for flying drones in Ecuador
The following minimum coverage amounts are set for liability insurance:
- MTOW 2 to 25 kilograms: US$ 3,000
- MTOW more than 25 kilograms: US$ 5,000
Operating a drone is allowed in Ecuador only within the direct line of sight and between sunrise and sunset.
Around airports, drones should be at a distance of 9 kilometers (5 miles).
There is a strict drone ban on the Galapagos Islands.
Automatic maneuvers may only be used if you can intervene as a pilot at any time during the operation.
We have researched the listed drone regulations for Ecuador to the best of our knowledge. We cannot guarantee the correctness of the information. If you want to be on the safe side, contact the competent aviation authority. Alternatively, you can also ask the embassy in your country for further information about the regulations. Please leave us a comment when you receive news and/or gain experience with your copter in Ecuador!
Very interesting info. We’re traveling to Ecuador in Feb with a Mavic Air. Where might we source the liability insurance from?
Hi Steve,
It depends on the country you live in. Where do you come from?
Hello, I’m planning to take my Mavic pro to Ecuador. Just for recreational purpose. Is there a way we don’t need to pay for the taxes.
Hello Astrid,
Of course, you can hope that the customs officers will not detect your drone at the airport or ignore it. A few readers reported that they did not have to pay the tax. But I cannot guarantee that you are among the lucky guys. I am sorry!
Hey Francis,
Is it possible to fly my drone (DJI Mavic 2 pro) in the Galapagos island if I’m shooting a film about the sustainability problem of the island for a school project? (would that be considered a scientific research?)
Hi, I Am From Puerto Rico. I am going to Ecuador Quito and Baños. Have Mavic Pro I have to paid taxes and what more I have to know
Did not get charged any import tax when I arrived in Quito December 2019. Mavic 2 folded in my backpack with props on and 2 batteries. Is there a source for this import tax info or is it just based on past experience? Doesnt seem to make sense that a rec drone would be taxed but a commercial one would be let in tax free most places I’ve been the opposite is true
HI Everyone, I just went to Quito in January 2020 and walked right through customs. They did not look in my bags and did not have scanners to put your bags on so they never looked at any of my camera equipment. I didn’t see anything about paying any taxes either. I’m going back in Feb, 2020 and will have my drone then and let you all know if it changes, but I don’t see how they would know I have a drone in bag. I do the same when I go to Dominican Republic and they don’t scan my bags.
Hi, im going to Ecudor (Quito) for 1 Week and I want to bring my DJI Mini 3 pro, but im unsure.
Some people says, that we have to pay taxes because the drone is worth more than 500 € and some people are telling that they never paid taxes.
Hi, well to know. How much are the taxes?
So i just found out that very recently, on 18 September 2023, Ecuador changed its rules on import taxes on drones for travelers! It use to be 35% on any drone over $500, that has been pushed to $1000. So Mini 3 pro and Mini 4 Pro owners are good to go for Ecuador!
Hi David,
Thank you for letting us know the great news!
I am currently visiting Cuenca, Ecuador with my DJI Mavic 3 Pro drone. The controller says, “No GPS”. Is there no GPS service available that the drone can use? Thank You for any info you can provide.