Validity: 01 Jan 2011 to 31 Dec 2012
Amazing wildlife - both on land and underwater - is the drawcard of the remote Galapagos Islands. Discover the outstanding natural beauty and fascinating history of this region in an active adventure - by foot, boat and bike. Trace Darwin's Theory of Evolution. Spot a staggering array of colourful, bizarre and beautiful creatures. Enjoy an experience that is completely out of this world.
Itinerary
Day 1 Quito
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Ecuador.
Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 1pm on Day 1.
You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting; please ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader.
Sitting at an altitude of 2,850 m under the gaze of Volcan Pichincha, Quito is one of the most attractive cities in South America. Long and incredibly thin, the city stretches along a central valley formed by the east and west ranges of the Andes. Although compact, Quito's OldTown is full of historic buildings - there are more than 30 churches to explore, not to mention the fascinating museums.
La Compania de Jesus is considered by many the most beautiful in the Americas; it's certainly one of the most ornate. It's claimed that seven tonnes of gold leaf cover the interior whilst the exterior is decorated with statues, busts, sculpted heads and a jungle of carved leaves.
Take a walk down the famous Calle La Ronda, Quito's oldest street. La Ronda is a peek into the colonial past of the city. This quaint street offers the city's best in one place.
On Day 3 of this itinerary there's an opportunity to go diving. Your representative will ask during the welcome meeting if anyone is considering diving along the trip, in order to assist you make the necessary arrangements. If you intend to dive, you will need to bring your PADI/NAUI card.
Optional Activities
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La Ronda, Quito - Free
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Compania de Jesus, Quito - USD3.00
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Cotopaxi Volcano, Quito - USD70.00
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Equator
Monument, Quito - USD80.00
Accommodation
Hotel (1 nt)
Days 2-3 Isla San Cristobal
Transfer to the airport for our flight to San CristobalIsland, Galapagos (approx 3.5 hrs). Departure time will be between 8.20am and 10.30am depending on flight schedule time.
The Galapagos National Institute has introduced a Transit Control Card. This card has a cost of US$10 and it must be purchased by every person travelling to the Galapagos Islands. You will need to purchase this card upon arrival to the domestic airport on day 2, prior to checking in to your Galapagos flight.
Our flight will stop once in Guayaquil to pick up more passengers (approx 3.5 hours total). Upon arrival we will need to go through immigration and pay the Galapagos National Park entrance fee of US$100 in cash (small bills please).
We land at about midday, then meet your tour leader and transfer to your hotel.
In the afternoon, we will pay a visit to the Interpretation Centre and learn the mysterious history of Galapagos, The Enchanted Islands. Later we hit MannBeach for a swim where we can observe playful sea lions, and frigates gliding on the thermals. That evening we will have a 'welcome to Galapagos' dinner, which will include some of the islands fresh fish and produces.
Day 3 begins with a short boat ride to Leon Dormido (approx 45 mins), observing along the way the abundant marine life that Galapagos is renowned for. On the way we stop off at Isla de Lobos and Cerro Brujo beach to observe nesting frigates and blue-footed boobies, and swim/snorkel with playful young sea lions. Here we can dive (optional) and snorkel keeping an eye out below for sea turtles, manta rays and maybe the odd harmless Galapagos shark, to name a few.
In the afternoon we will make our way to the top of San Cristobal through the settlement of El Progresso, to La Soledad from where we will have panoramic views out over the Pacific towards Santa Cruz, Floreana and Santa Fe. Once at the top, we jump on mountain bikes for an exhilarating downhill ride through the lush highlands of the island, through El Progresso down to the township of Puerto Barequizo.
Included Activities
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Mountain Biking
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Interpretation Centre
·
Isla de Lobos & Cerro Brujo Beach Boat Trip
Optional Activities
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Boogy Board Hire (Half Day), Galapagos Islands - USD8.00
·
Surf Board Hire (Half Day), Galapagos Islands - USD10.00
·
Wetsuit Hire, Galapagos Islands - USD20.00
·
Scuba Diving, Isla San Cristobal - USD150.00
Accommodation
Hotel (2 nts)
Days 4-6 Isla Floreana/Isla Isabela
Early in the morning we take off to FloreanaIsland by boat (approx 2.5 hrs), before continuing to Isabela Island. Keep an eye out for dolphins and the magnificent albatross along the way
IMPORTANT:
Please note that if the composition of your group is between 1-4 travellers, the itinerary on Day 4 may be slightly revised, flying between San Cristobal and Isabela.
On Day 5, a full day tour takes us up Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos and the second largest crater in the world. Here you can experience a birds eye view of this magical landscape. After taking in the incredible views from the volcano we visit the breeding centre of the giant tortoise, the largest in Galapagos.
That evening we can kick back at the bar on the beach and enjoy a nice cold beer or cocktail.
On Day 6 we travel by pick-up truck and on foot to the Wall of Tears, built by convicts many years ago. Along the way we'll pop in and visit Pink flamingos, also stopping at the lookout and one of the many natural pools, short walking trails, beaches and mangrove swamps along the way.
After lunch we travel by dingy (approx 10 mins) to the Tintoreras, a perfect spot for snorkelling, before returning to our hotel.
Unfortunately, recycling isn't available on Isabela so please take your plastic and paper back to Santa Cruz to recycle there.
Included Activities
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Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre
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Sierra Negra Volcano
Optional Activities
·
Boogy Board Hire (Half Day), Galapagos Islands - USD8.00
·
Surf Board Hire (Half Day), Galapagos Islands - USD10.00
·
Wetsuit Hire, Galapagos Islands - USD20.00
Accommodation
Hotel (3 nts)
Day 7 Isla Santa Cruz
We have an early morning departure as we travel to Santa Cruz (approx 2 hrs)
We will visit the highlands of Santa Cruz and observe the Galapagos Giant Tortoise. Also scheduled for today is a trip to the amazing lava tunnels, some over 1 km long - all the while taking in panoramic views of the islands. Later in the day we head to TortugaBay, a stunning beach with fine white sand to see marine iguanas or try any of the optional activities such as body boarding or surfing.
Included Activities
·
Charles Darwin Research Centre
Optional Activities
·
Boogy Board Hire (Half Day), Galapagos Islands - USD8.00
·
Surf Board Hire (Half Day), Galapagos Islands - USD10.00
·
Wetsuit Hire, Galapagos Islands - USD20.00
Accommodation
Hotel (1 nt)
Day 8 Isla Santa Fe/Isla San Cristobal
Pay a visit to Lonesome George at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here we can observe many species of tortoises and land iguanas in captivity, brought back form the brink of extinction. After some last minute shopping we depart Santa Cruz for Santa Fe Island (1.5 hours approx.) for a dive (optional) or snorkel in a beautiful bay where we can observe the marine iguanas feeding off the rocks and schools of surgeonfish just below the surface.
We then return to San Cristobal by boat (approx 1.5 hrs) and to our hotel. In the evening we will have a last group dinner to celebrate a great trip.
Optional Activities
·
Boogy Board Hire (Half Day), Galapagos Islands - USD8.00
·
Surf Board Hire (Half Day), Galapagos Islands - USD10.00
·
Wetsuit Hire, Galapagos Islands - USD20.00
Accommodation
Hotel (1 nt)
Days 9-10 Quito
Bid farewell to the EnchantedIslands with a quick optional visit to La Loberia or last minute souvenir shopping.
A midday flight takes us back to Quito (approx 3.5 hrs). A representative will take you from the airport to your hotel, a quick change and it's out to enjoy the nightlife of Quito.
There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart our accommodation at any time. Please check the 'Finishing Point Hotel' section for checkout times and luggage storage possibilities.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 nt)
We also recommend
If this trip is not quite right for you, cast your eye over these alternatives:
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GGTF - Single Supplement (GGTF)
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Inca Trail (GGTBC)
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Inca Trail & Amazon (GGSEC)
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Patagonia
Trekking (GPTV)
·
Patagonia
Wilderness (GPTU)
·
Peru
Encompassed (GGSA)
·
Peruvian Pathways (GGKIC)
Itinerary disclaimer
Occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. The information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It's very important that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Please note that while we operate successful trips in this region throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route.
Culture shock rating
You'll probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.
Physical rating
This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.
Physical preparation
We recommend that you undertake regular aerobic exercise in the weeks before you travel, particularly if you are not in the habit of regular exercise. Walking, jogging, swimming or riding a bike are all good ways to increase your aerobic fitness, which will allow you to enjoy the trip to its fullest.
Included activities
Included activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary, all other activities are optional and at your own expense. If you choose not to participate in the included activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.
Optional activities
A selection of optional activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only. Prices are for entrance only and don't include transport costs to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination. Optional activities aren't necessarily endorsed or recommended by us nor included in price of this trip. If you do any optional activities, you do so at your own risk and it must be clearly understood that your participation is your own decision and doesn't form part of your contract with us.
Money Exchange
The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar (USD).
Please note that in Ecuador automatic money machines often limit the amount you can withdraw. This can be $100 or $200 per day depending on your card.
With ATMs being widely available in major towns and cities, credit and debit cards are the best way to access money in Latin America (note though that charges are made for each transaction). Please check with your bank before departure that your card is accepted in the countries you are travelling to. Also ensure your bank is aware of your travel plans as - suspecting fraud - they may cancel your cards after the first few international transactions.
Be aware that your withdrawing limit may vary from country to country (regardless of your withdrawing limit in your home country) and it can be as low as the equivalent to US$100 per day.
It's also advisable to carry some travellers cheques and cash in small denominations bills, for those times when ATMs may not be available. US$ travellers cheques and cash are the most readily changeable currency.
VERY IMPORTANT:
US$100 bills with serial number CB or BE and any other US$ bills that are old, torn, written or stamped on will not be accepted by local banks.
Spending money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, participating in optional activities, and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Tipping
If you're happy with the services provided a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations. Please note we recommend that any tips are given directly to the intended recipient by a member of your group as group leaders are prohibited from collecting cash for tips.
Restaurants: Tipping is not expected in local markets and basic restaurants. However if you wish to tip, round your bill up to the nearest 5%. In more up-market restaurants we suggest up to 10%-12% of your bill. Some restaurants already include tipping on the final amount, which should be shown on the bill as: propina, servicio or cubiertos.
Local guides: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your leader. We suggest US$2 per person per day for local guides.
Porters (if applicable): While on the Inca Trail, we suggest PEN80-120 for all porters, assistants and cook.
Drivers: You may have a range of drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days. We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group however a base of US$1-2 per day is generally appropriate.
Luggage loaders (Argentinian bus stations): It's common in Argentina to tip AR$1 for someone to load your bag on to a bus.
Your Group Leader: You may also consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline US$1-3 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Departure tax
Please allow US$44.30 for international airport departure tax in Quito.
Important notes
The Galapagos park fee (USD$100) is payable upon arrival to the islands.
The Galapagos National Institute has introduced a Transit Control Card. This card has a cost of USD$10 and it must be purchased by every person travelling to the Galapagos Islands. You will need to purchase this card upon arrival to the domestic airport on day 2, prior to checking in to your Galapagos flight.
When booking, please ensure that your details are correct, and double check them on your documents prior to departure. If your passport does not match your booking details, you may be refused entrance to GalapagosNational Park. Please make sure that your name is spelt correctly, and that you book using the name in your passport (particularly if you are recently married). If you are issued a new passport with a different number between the time that you book and the time you travel, please take both the old and new passports with you.
Group size
Maximum of 16 travellers per group.
Your fellow travellers
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.
Due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure.
Single travellers
Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and don't involve a compulsory single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same gender in accommodation ranging from twin to multishare. Some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis and where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On a selection of our Comfort and Original style trips, you have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure that you have your own room (where available). Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour - pre-trip and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.
A single supplement is available on this trip, please refer to your booking agent for further information.
Accommodation
Hotel (9 nts)
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. Please note there may be times when you share a room with passengers travelling on different trips than your own. Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
Meals introduction
While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. On our camping trips we often cook the region's specialities so you don't miss out. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though.
Meals
7 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches
Budget for meals not included: USD 150.00
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS: Should you have a special diet requirement (for example vegetarian, celiac, vegan, severe food allergies) it's essential that you inform our partner of the specific details at least 10 days prior to departure, in order to make sure the chef on board the boat or on the island can request the necessary food supplies.
Transport
Plane, Minibus, Bicycle, Boat
Group leader
All group trips are accompanied by a group leader. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Our partner endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.
Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. Our partner aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you were interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
On this trip you'll be met by a local representative in Quito on Days 1 and 9, and be accompanied by a group leader on the Galapagos Islands.
Joining point (subject to change)
Hotel Sierra Madre
Veintimilla No 464 y Luis Tamayo
Quito
ECUADOR
Joining point instructions
Quito
's airport is 10km north of the city. The quickest and most reliable way from the airport to the hotel is by taxi. As you exit the airport terminal there is a pick up area directly in front of you, but dont worry the drivers will have found you as soon as you open the terminal door. Unless the taxi has a meter, and is willing to use it, you will need to bargain - you will likely pay US$10.
Most drivers will speak a little English and your hotel is well known but in case of difficulty the following in Spanish will help you reach your destination.
Por favor me puede llevar al Sierra Madre, que se encuentra localizado en calle Veintimilla 446 y Luis Tamayo.
Arrival complications
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your group trip as scheduled, please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your group leader.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the starting point hotel, following the Joining Instructions in these Trip Notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.
No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.
Finish point
Hotel Sierra Madre
Veintimilla No 464 y Luis Tamayo
Quito
ECUADOR
Finish point instructions
If you have pre-booked a departure transfer, please inform your leader and they will notify you of your departure transfer time.
If you are making your own way to the airport the hotel will be able to help book you an airport shuttle or taxi. Please ask at reception.
Emergency funds
Please also make sure you have access to an additional US$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.
Visas
Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.
We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.
ECUADOR TOURIST VISA
Australia: Not required
Belgium: Not required
Canada: Not required
Germany: Not required
Ireland: Not required
Netherlands: Not required
New Zealand: Not required
South Africa: Not required
Switzerland: Not required
United Kingdom: Not required
United States: Not required
Issues on your trip
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the leader if you may speak to their direct manager.
We do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.
What to take
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg / 22lb.
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.
LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS:
Please note domestic airlines allow a maximum of 20kg check in luggage and 5kg hand luggage. Any excess luggage expense will be your own responsibility.
WATER BOTTLE:
Consider bringing your own water bottle to refill along the way. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion ends up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please consider water purification techniques such as iodine or micropur and use the water dispensers which are provided at some of our accommodation.
Health
All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please note that if, in the opinion of the group leader or local guide, any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, our partner reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations and anti-malarial requirements before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses) as they may not easily be obtained at the locations on this trip. For legal reasons the leaders and guides are prohibited from administering any type of drugs including headache tablets and antibiotics. Please ensure that you are adequately prepared.
YELLOW FEVER:
A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also quite common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate on your arrival back home.
Please check with your doctor before leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.
WHO REPORTS:
The World Health Organisation has countries in Latin America registered as zones affected by hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, rabies and malaria.
Safety
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trip.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Your leader will accompany you on all included activities, however during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and our partner makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
For more details on the type of conditions and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to operational safety policy on our website. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling
LIFE JACKETS:
While life jackets are generally available on water craft, there may be occasions where they are not provided and child size life jackets are not always readily available. If travelling with children and this safety issue concerns you we will be able to advise alternative methods of transport (where available) for you to travel to the next destination. You can choose to travel independently for this leg of the journey. This would be at your own expense.
BIKE HELMETS:
Please note that helmets aren't provided for sightseeing on bicycles.
AIRPORT TAXIS:
If you're taking a taxi from the airport by yourself, agree on the price before you get in and insist that the driver bring you directly to your hotel because you already have a reservation. The tourist information booths at the airport, as well as independent taxi drivers, receive commissions to persuade you to go elsewhere by using any type of argument.
There have been some cases of theft to taxis coming from the airport. The thieves' usual trick is to watch at the airport parking lot for passengers who keep their bags with them inside the taxi, and then they follow that car. When it stops at a red light, they break the window and snatch the passenger's bag from their lap. The best way to avoid this is to put ALL your valuables inside the trunk at the airport.
PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY:
While travelling in this part of the world there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
MONEY WITHDRAWAL:
In order to avoid fraud, it is advisable that you withdraw money from ATMs located inside banks or guarded shops during business hours only.
TRAFFIC AND DRIVING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD:
Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware!
SEAT BELTS:
Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in the western world or from your home country and not all the transport which we use provides seat belts.
FIRE PRECAUTIONS:
Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
When travelling on a group trip, you won't be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number has been seen by your leader.
If you have credit card insurance your group leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.
Responsible Travel
We believe strongly in low impact or rather positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects.
Latin Americans can be very conscious of appearance so try to be casual but conservative in your dress. Outside of beach areas halter tops and very short shorts should not be worn. When visiting churches or religious sites shoulders and knees should be covered.
A couple of rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land, but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular, the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. The group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.