Plan

Drone rules: Ecuador

Last checked: October 5, 2026

Travel check for EcuadorChecklist for your trip: registration, insurance, drone and batteries on the plane.

Maximum altitude

122 m

Registration

Not required

You must register drones over 250 g online with the DGAC, also as a foreigner; the German registration does not apply there.

Insurance

Not required

No insurance is required for recreational flights in the open category up to 4 kg, but it is in the specific category.

Depending on drone weight

From 251 gAllowed with conditions· Registration: RequiredOver 250 g online registration with the DGAC with identification number and QR code on the device
From 4 kgPermit required· Insurance: RequiredOver 4 kg only in the specific category with operator approval, pilot course and liability insurance

For tourists

In the protected areas of Galápagos, flying for recreational or tourist purposes is prohibited, so leave the drone at home for that part of the trip. On the mainland you register drones over 250 g online with the DGAC before the first flight; a new aviation law was published on 2 October 2026, so check the current situation with the DGAC before you travel.

Further rules

Since 5 May 2025, drones over 250 grams in Ecuador must be registered online with the aviation authority DGAC – also by foreigners; after registration the device receives an identification number with QR code, which must be visibly attached as a sticker or plate. A new aviation law (Ley Orgánica de Aviación Civil) was published in the Registro Oficial on 2 October 2026; what it means for drones, for example regarding registration or insurance, has not yet been clarified.
The RDAC 101 regulation distinguishes two categories: the open category for recreational flights up to 4 kilograms take-off weight (minimum age 14) requires no operating permit, pilot licence or proof of insurance; for the specific category (commercial or professional use), however, a remote pilot course, an operator certificate (UOC) and third-party liability insurance are mandatory.
Important special case for travellers: in the protected areas of Galápagos, flying a drone for recreational, private or tourist purposes is prohibited under a 2026 resolution of the park administration. Flights there are only allowed with authorisation for specific purposes, such as science, search and rescue, environmental management and commercial, news or educational photo and film work – always with liability insurance.
Flights over prisons, government buildings and other security-sensitive facilities are also prohibited, as are recordings that violate the privacy of others.
The maximum height is 122 metres (400 feet) above ground; this also applies to approved flights in Galápagos National Park.

Sources

This overview is not legal advice and not an official statement — laws change, and we cannot guarantee that every entry is fully up to date. Before your flight, please also check the official source or the local civil aviation authority.