Ecuador travel: Is it safe to visit and what are your rights if you have a trip booked?

Following the outbreak of violence and the decree of a state of emergency in Ecuador, concerns have been raised over the safety of prospective visitors and foreign nationals currently in the country.

A popular destination with those visiting South America, the nation has been rocked by violence in recent days after the apparent escape of a powerful gang leader from prison.

There have been reports of explosions in cities such as Quevedo and Quito, the capital. On 9 January, in the city of Guayaquil, just one day after the president declared a 60-day state of emergency.