Highlights |
| Escorted Package Includes |
| Inclusions |
- Flights Miami-Quito, Guayaquil-Miami.
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Flights Quito-Galapagos-Guayaquil
- 4 nights at the Swissotel Quito in Quito
- 1 night at the Hacienda Pinsaquii in Otavalo
- 1 night at the Termas de Papallacta in Papallacta
- 3 nights Galapagos Cruise on Galapagos Explorer II, Classic Suite outside cabin with 2 lower berths
- 1 night at the Hilton Colon Guayaquil in Guayaquil
- 10 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners
- Tour Manager throughout
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| Highlights |
- Small Groups
- Travel along the Pan-American Highway to Otavalo
- Relax in the Hot Springs of Termas de Papallacta
- Learn to make ceviche
- Cruise the Galapagos
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Join with fellow Gutsy companions in discovering extraordinary Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands on this trip of a lifetime. From the picturesque farm and craft communities of the Andes to the amazing endemic plant and animal species that can be found only on the Islands, this tour opens up a world that few will ever have a chance to see. On one trip, straddle the equator, take incredible photographs of stunning volcanic peaks, and see the famed giant Galapagos tortoises. Plus, by offering those unique Gutsy touches, like a visit to the thermal baths in the Ecuadorian Highlands and a ceviche culinary lesson, this package truly goes above and beyond to bring you an unforgettable experience.
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Itinerary |
DAY 1, Thursday - Depart the USA, Arrive in Quito, Welcome Dinner
Depart the USA for Ecuador. Arrive in Quito and transfer to the Swissotel. This evening, enjoy a Gutsy welcome dinner at your hotel
Overnight: Quito
Meals: Dinner
DAY 2, Friday - Travel to Otavalo with Sightseeing En Route
Today, journey to Otavalo via San Antonio and Guayllabamba. Travel along the Pan-American Highway north of Quito and watch as a magnificent array of landscapes and vistas unfold before your eyes. Not far past the equator lies the small village of Calderon, known for its unique bread dough figures. Beyond Calderon, pass through the deep valley of Guayllabamba, abounding in fruit trees and flowers. Stop at Cayambe, the most important town en route to Otavalo, a place noted for its dairy industry. Upon reaching Otavalo, enjoy dinner at your hacienda-style hotel
Overnight: Otavalo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3, Saturday - Morning in Otavalo, Return to Quito
Spend the morning at leisure in Otavalo, a scenic town dominated by the remarkable Imbabura volcano. Though primarily a farming community, Otavalo is also known for its high quality traditional handicrafts. This afternoon, return to Quito
Optional: Full Day Otavalo
Overnight: Quito
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Sunday - Travel to Termas, Thermal Baths
This morning drive from Quito to Termas de Papallacta. In the Highlands of Ecuador, take the opportunity to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the thermal waters of the Andean Mountains, long believed to help people with respiratory and cardiovascular problems. In addition to the baths, other spa treatments are available for optional purchase locally. Then, discover the adventurous spirit within you by walking or riding on horseback at over 10,000 feet above sea level for a chance to observe condors, bears, pumas and other fascinating species unique to this zone
Overnight: Papallacta
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Monday - Pakakuna Gardens, Ceviche Culinary Lesson
Return to Quito via the Pakakuna Gardens, whose name means "hideaway" in Quechua. This 45 hectare country property, situated 7500 feet above sea level in Pichincha province, is one of the hidden treasures of Ecuador, offering a fabulous variety of plants in gardens that are open year round. This diversity is made possible by the special soil and climatic characteristics of the area including an average temperature which is about 8°F warmer than Quito. The Gardens offer the visitors one of the most spectacular biodiversity experiences in continental Ecuador and possibly in Latin America, while having the added benefit of being very close to Quito and easily accessible. Upon returning to Quito, learn how to make ceviche, a traditional Ecuadorian dish that is cooked using citric acid from fruit rather than heat, and take the technique home with you to dazzle your friends and family
Overnight: Quito
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 6, Tuesday - Quito City Tour, Middle of the World
Drive along the broad avenues of Quito's modern district to see the Ecuadorian House of Culture, the Congress building, and Alameda Park before entering Quito's colonial section. Walk along the narrow cobblestone streets and feel the charm of this 16th-century city. Visit Independence Plaza, the beautiful French-styled square bordered by the Cathedral and Government Palace. Explore San Agustin, with its Moorish cloisters, and Chapter Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1809. Stop in at the renowned La Compañia Church, whose ornate gold leaf interior and elaborately carved altars have recently been renovated to recapture their days of glory. Visit the wide open plaza and impressive church of San Francisco, the Escorial of the Andes, built in the 16th century by the Indians of St. Andrew's School. Stroll up Calle La Ronda to reach El Panecillo Hill for a beautiful and impressive view of the Andean landscape. Just 13 miles north of Quito stands the monument marking the equatorial line as established by the 18th-century expedition of the French/Spanish Geodesic Mission. Stand in both hemispheres simultaneously or try to stand right on top of the Equator. Climb to the top of the monument for a fantastic view of the Andes mountains and, finally, enjoy a tour of the Ethnographic Museum
Overnight: Quito
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, Wednesday - Arrive in the Galapagos
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to San Cristobal, the Galapagos archipelago's oldest and easternmost island. Upon arrival, transfer to the pier and board the Galapagos Explorer II. Settle in for a visit to Cerro Brujo, where a wet landing gives you a chance to possibly view pelicans and a variety of sea birds, including Blue and Red-footed Boobies, Common Gallinules, and Frigates. Then, enjoy plenty of free time for snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing
Overnight: Galapagos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8, Thursday - Sail to Bahia Gardner
Sail to Punta Suarez (Española Island) for a dry landing, allowing you to watch sea lions surfing the waves and marine iguanas basking in the equatorial sun. If you are feeling like a little exercise, hike further inland to view the Blowhole, a fissure in the lava cliffs where sea water jets high into the air. In the afternoon, arrive at Bahia Gardner for a wet landing to view one of the most pristine beaches in all of the Galapagos, home to many sea lion colonies and endemic mocking birds. Then, venture to Gardner Rock for wall dives, where you can encounter tropical fish, rays, cactus finch and other colorful sea-dwellers while snorkeling
Overnight:Galapagos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9, Friday - Sail to Santa Cruz Island
Today, arrive at Santa Cruz Island for a dry landing. Here, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, a specialized breeding and rearing center for the endangered Galapagos Giant Tortoise. The Darwin Station is a working branch of the international, non-profit Charles Darwin foundation, which works to protect and maintain the Galapagos' precious ecosystems. Afterward, walk through Puerto Ayora, the largest town on the islands. In the afternoon, make a wet landing at the small island of Rabida, located to the south of Santiago. The isle is home to a central volcano with some of largest and most variegated types of lava in the island chain. A small saltwater lagoon provides occasional sights of Flamingos feeding on pink shrimp larva, while the beach holds a large sea lion colony. There is a short walk to the top of the trail where you will have opportunities to photograph the striking volcanic peaks
Overnight:Galapagos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10, Saturday - Morning in Las Bachas, Farewell Dinner
This morning, following a wet landing, enjoy the white-sand beaches of Las Bachas. The beaches acquired their stark tone and consistency from the decomposed coral of which they are made, a tone and consistency which also makes them a favorite nesting site for sea turtles. Then, transfer to the airport for your flight from Baltra to Guayaquil on the mainland. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the balance of the day at leisure. Tonight, join your fellow Gutsy women for a farewell dinner as you reflect, share your experiences, as you prepare to say hasta luego to beautiful Ecuador
Overnight:Guayaquil
Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 11, Sunday - Depart for the USA
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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Optionals |
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Full Day Otavalo
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Day #3
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Depart from your hotel and set off for Cotacachi, a town that is famous for its leather products. Here, find shops where you can browse for jackets, wallets, belts and other finely crafted leather goods, all hand made by local manufacturers. Then, continue to the famous Otavalo market, said to be the largest market of its kind in South America, offering a wide variety of arts and crafts from local indigenous communities. After ample shopping time, depart to Puerto Lago for a hearty lunch with a beautiful view of the San Pablo Lake and the Imbabura Volcano. Following lunch enjoy the scenic drive back to Otavalo before returning to Quito.
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Rates & Hotels |
Click On A Date To Book Online
* All Prices are in USD
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| 2009 | Land/Cruise Only | Air & Land/Cruise |
| Jul 23 | 5029 | 5459 |
*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, Ecuador departure taxesdeparture taxes, Galapagos National Park fee of $100 (subject to change), Galapagos Transit Card fee of $10 and gratuities.
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, but does include flights Quito-Galapagos-Guayaquil.
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Swissotel Quito  | Quito |
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 | This deluxe hotel is located in a beautiful residential and commercial area right in the middle of the city. [more] |
Hacienda Pinsaqui  | Otavalo |
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 | This unique first class hotel is in the heart of Ecuador's stunning Lake District of Imbaburarelax with equestrian facilities. The Hacienda is a sprawl of Spanish colonial buildings, terraces and walkways, baronial sitting and dining rooms, surrounded by gardens that have been cultivated for two centuries. [more] |
| Termas de Papallacta | Papallacta |
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 | This first class hotel is known for it's thermal baths located on the banks of the Papallacta river in a unique natural environment accommodating nine hot thermal pools and three cold water pools. Only fourty miles east of Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, the spa/resort offers its visitors a unique setting for health, relaxation, recreation, and adventure. [more] |
| Galapagos Explorer II | Galapagos |
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 | The M/V Galapagos Explorer II is a dedicated cruise ship that navigates the Galapagos Islands. The ship sports 53 outside suites and offers numerous amenities such as diving equipment, swimming pool, jacuzzi, solarium, lounge, bars, and massage suite. Expert nature guides provide daily shore excursions to explore the unique Galapagos ecosystems. While on board, enjoy magnificent views of the islands from the observatory deck. [more] |
| Hilton Colon Guayaquil | Guayaquil |
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 | This deluxe class hotel is located in the new financial and commercial sector situated by the Guayas River. [more] |
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
| Ecuador and Galapagos - Passport required. For US citizens, a visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
| | Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you’ll need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| Ecuador and Galapagos - While no inoculations are required for travel to Quito or Guayaquil, vaccination against yellow fever is required if traveling to the Ecuadorian Amazon. Please consult your physician before traveling to Ecuador.
Quito is situated at an altitude of 9,400 feet above sea level. Therefore, you should allow a few hours to adjust to the high altitude by resting and eating lightly. Other areas of Ecuador are also situated at high altitudes including Riobamba (9,000 feet), Ambato (8,500 feet) and Cuenca (8,200 feet).
| | Climate & Clothing | Ecuador and Galapagos - The climate varies widely according to geographical area. The highlands are cool and dry. Along the coast it is warm and sunny year round. The Amazon rain forest is tropical and humid. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Ecuador Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/americas/default.aspx#ecuador-weather
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| E-tickets | Most airlines now require that we provide e-tickets in place of paper tickets. At check-in, you should be ready to provide your e-ticket itinerary and ticket numbers, as well as identification (valid passport) to the agent. In a few cases where e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive your tickets in a paper form.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
| Galapagos Explorer Cruises - Please label your luggage clearly with your first and last name, the ship's name, cabin number, date, and port of embarkation. Please be aware that there is a per person luggage weight limit of 44 lbs.
| | Ecuador and Galapagos Flights | Amazon Flights: Due to the size of the plane to and from the Amazon, passengers may only bring up to 25 lbs of luggage. Additional luggage can be stored at your hotel in Quito for no additional charge. Please bring a photocopy of your passport to be given to airport authorities upon check-in for your flight to Kapawi.
Galapagos Flights: Due to the size of the plane to and from the Galapagos, passengers may only bring up to 44 lbs total of luggage.
A mandatory process known as disinsection is used to prevent invasive species from accidentally being transported to the Galapagos ecosystem. After the plane's doors have been shut, d-phenothrin (2% dissolved in a 98% neutral propellant) will be sprayed throughout the plane.
This chemical has the approval of the World Health Organization. The sprayed component has no negative effect on humans, does not trigger allergic reactions, and does not stain clothing.
This procedure reduces the risk of introducing diseases and invasive invertebrate species to the islands and is an important part of ensuring the area's ecological balance.
Please note that for any intra-Ecuador flight, your tickets will be issued locally.
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| Arrival Procedures | If your program includes airport arrival transfers, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. You will be met by our local representative after you pass through customs. Look for someone holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. If you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| Departure Tax: Ecuador and Galapagos -
Guayaquil: $26 to be paid in USD upon checking in for international flight.
Quito: $40.80 to be paid in USD upon checking in for international flight.
Shell: $3 to be paid in USD upon checking in for domestic flight to and from Kapawi.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
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| Hotels | | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard. | | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| Ecuador and Galapagos - Duty-free shops and artisan's shops offer visitors the opportunity to buy Ecuadorian handcrafts such as ponchos, tapestries, ceramics, jewelry.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus.
| Ecuador and Galapagos - The US Dollar is the currency of Ecuador and Galapagos.
| Galapagos Explorer Cruises - The US Dollar is the currency on board.
Incidental expenses can be paid in cash or by credit card (American Express, Visa, or MasterCard). Personal checks are not accepted.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally |
On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them.
Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below.
This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information.
http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day - *Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day - *Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours) - *River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European, Russian, and Ukrainian River Cruises) - *Private car tours(small groups of 2-14 passengers):
$12 to $16 per person per day for each day of sightseeing - *Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person - *Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner) - *Chamber maid:
$1 per person per day
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| Ecuador and Galapagos - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists.
| Galapagos Explorer Cruises - A gratuity of $12 per person per day for the cruise staff and $6 per person per day for the ship's expert naturalists is suggested.
| | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| Galapagos Explorer Cruises - You are on a ship with a high safety standard and reliable crew. In case of emergency, we ask you to follow the instructions of your crew.
| | Cruise Embarkation / Disembarkation - Galapagos Explorer Cruises | | After flying into San Cristobal or Baltra, you will be assisted and transfered to the pier to embark your cruise.
| | On Your Cruise - Galapagos Explorer Cruises | Attire:
On board, comfortable, casual clothing is appropriate. Guests are asked to refrain from wearing jeans, shorts, t-shirts, or tennis shoes to dinner.
Shore excursions will involve both dry and wet landings. During a wet landing, you will have to step off the boat into shallow water. For these times, rubber clogs, sandals, or thongs are recommended.
Meals and Dietary Restrictions:
Meals are open seating.
All dietary restrictions, particularly for medical reasons should be advised at time of booking. While every effort will be made to accommodate, Gate 1 cannot guarantee every restaurant will be able to comply to the fullest extent. Coffee is provided at breakfast. Drinking water is provided at all meals. Additional beverages are not included.
Language:
English is the official languages on board. All announcements and information sheets will be provided in both languages.
Smoking:
Smoking is only permitted in designated areas on the sun deck. Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the Galapagos Islands.
Amenities:
Hairdryers and mini fridges are provided in the cabins for your convenience. There is also a television with three channels showing relevant documentaries, movies, and the daily program.
Excursions:
Shore excursions to the islands are included with your cruise and will be by zodiac boats and involve both wet and dry landings. The tours themselves can be physically demanding, and passengers should be in good condition. As such, these excursions are not suitable for people with physical limitations.
Telephone:
Cabins are not equipped with direct dialing. If you need to be contacted while on board the ship, please provide the emergency numbers outlined in your documents to family and/or friends.
Email:
Email can be sent and received at the Internet Center on board for a fee. Wireless Internet access is available for passengers who choose to bring their laptops along. There is a fee for this service.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | Ecuador and Galapagos
- Ambulance: 131
- Police: 101
| | Languages | Ecuador and Galapagos - Spanish is the local language. Quechua is spoken in some areas as well. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| Ecuador and Galapagos - The voltage used is 110 volts.
| Galapagos Explorer Cruises - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | Ecuador and Galapagos - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Modest casual dress is appropriate. Request permission before photographing people. Common courtesies should be observed.
In the Galapagos: Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the Galapagos Islands. Please respect efforts to keep the islands in their pristine condition.
| | Holidays - Ecuador and Galapagos |
| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
| Apr 9 |
Holy Thursday |
Apr 10 |
Good Friday |
Apr 12 |
Easter |
May 1 |
Labor Day |
May 24 |
Battle of Pichincha |
Jul 24 |
Birthday of Simon Bolivar |
Aug 10 |
Independence Day |
Oct 9 |
Independence of Guayaquil |
Nov 2 |
Day of the Dead |
Nov 3 |
Independence of Cuenca |
Dec 6 |
Independence of Quito |
Dec 25 |
Christmas |
Dec 31 |
New Year's Eve |
| | INGALA Transit Control Card | | A new Transit Control Card to Galapagos is required for all passengers visiting the Galapagos Islands. There are two documents related to this procedure. A card with your general information regarding name and length of stay will be provided to you at the airport by an agent, having already been shown to the INGALA representative. You will then obtain a second document upon arrival in the Galapagos, a TCT Card. This card costs $10, to be paid directly to the INGALA representative. |
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