Highlights Quito, Santa Cruz, Seymour, Bartolomé, Plazas, Santa Fé, Rabida.
Galapagos Islands Cruise
contents
- Trip style
- Service level
- Physical grading
- Itinerary
- Dossier Disclaimer
- Itinerary Disclaimer
- Important Notes
- Accommodation
- About Accommodation
- My Own Room
- Single Travelers
- Transport
- Group Size Notes
- Local Flights
- Meals Included
- Meals
- Group Leader Description
- Your Fellow Travelers
- Joining Hotel
- Joining Instructions
- Arrival Complications
- Finishing Point Hotel
- What to Take
- Emergency Contact
- Checklist
- Laundry
- Visas
- Spending Money
- Money Exchange
- Emergency Fund
- Tipping
- Optional Activities
- Health
- Safety and Security
- Trip Specific Safety
- Detailed Trip Notes
- Medical Form
- A Couple of Rules
- Travel Insurance
- Keeping in Touch
- Planeterra - The Gap Adventures Foundation
Galapagos Islands Cruise - SEV07QD
7 days: Ecuador
Print | What's Included
4 nights in Galapagos Islands with daily excursions and wildlife viewing - Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station - Daily opportunities for swimming and snorkeling - Flights to and from the Galapagos Islands - Snorkeling equipment and wetsuit onboard the Galapagos catamaran
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and Gap Adventures. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Validity: Valid for all trips departing January 1, 2010 - December 31st 2010.
Back To TopTrip style
Discovery Adventures: Inspired by Discovery Channel’s award-winning programming, Discovery Adventures are designed to engage your curiosity, expand your horizons and push the boundaries of active and intellectual exploration like nothing you’ve ever experienced.
Follow in the footsteps of history and uncover the secrets of long-lost civilizations. Span the chasms of distant cultures and come face to face with the exotic and extraordinary. Head deep into the heart of the wild and witness the awesome majesty of a world you’ve only imagined.
Service level
Superior: Experiencing the world doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. It’s your holiday and you deserve the best in life. Jetset around the country by plane, comfortable trains and private air-conditioned buses and touring vehicles. Expect unique, upscale, stylish accommodation with amenities such as a pool, mini bar and restaurant, amongst other things. The food will be exquisite and most meal are included.
Physical grading
2: 
Light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels.
Please note: Many Discovery Adventures trips include more than one 'Physical Grading' element that may increase the overall rating of a trip to a higher level. You can choose not to participate in these activities. For specific trip information, refer to the Trip Details document, or contact our sales department.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Quito
Located 9,348 ft (2,850 m) above sea level, the Ecuadorian capital of Quito enjoys a wonderful spring-like climate, despite the fact that it is only 14 miles (22 km) south of the Equator. Nestled in a valley flanked by mountains, on a clear day several snow-capped volcanoes, including nearby Pichincha, are visible from the city center. Add to its beautiful location a rich history and well-preserved colonial district, and you begin to understand Quito’s appeal to thousands of tourists every year.
In 1978, UNESCO declared Quito a World Heritage site, and any new development in Quito's old town is now strictly controlled. Life in Quito tends to be peaceful, though the drivers are fond of using their car horns! There are approximately 2 million inhabitants in the metropolitan area, but the pace is relaxed and the residents hospitable.
Since pre-Columbian times, the site of Quito has been inhabited by the Quitus, the Shyris and the Puruhas. The Inca reached this city before the Spaniards, but leveled it to the ground rather than give it up to the Spanish. The present capital was founded by the Spanish on December 6, 1534. Quito is separated into two basic sections, the old and the new cities. The old city is full of historic buildings and churches. One of the more noteworthy is the Catedral de Quito, located on the Plaza de la Independencia. Built between 1550 and 1562, it was one of the first neoclassical works in Quito. La Compañía de Jésus Church is considered one of the most beautiful in the Americas. The decorations in the Compañía contain approximately one and one-half tons of gold, and construction of the church took 170 years (1605-1775).
There are several excellent museums scattered throughout the city. The Casa de la Cultura Ecuadoriana has an interesting display of traditional musical instruments and Ecuadorian traditional dress, a large art collection, and a small natural history museum. For archeology, the best museum to visit is the Museo del Banco Central with its well displayed pottery, gold ornaments, skulls showing deformities and early surgical methods, a mummy and many other objects of interest. The small, rounded hill dominating the old town is El Panecillo, the Little Bread Loaf, a major Quito landmark. From here there are marvelous panoramic views of the entire city and surrounding volcanoes. Tourists can easily take a trolley (streetcar) or a cab between the Old Town and New Town.
Quito’s large foreign population and steady stream of travelers have given it a varied and vibrant nightlife, and salsotecas and other dance clubs abound. For a real Ecuadorian experience though, be sure and drop by a peña if you can; these are great places for meeting locals and dancing, as well as enjoying local cuisine.
Just a few hours south of Quito is Parque National Cotopaxi, home to Cotopaxi Volcano at 19,342 ft (5897 m). The beautiful cone-shaped, snow covered volcano is Ecuador’s second highest peak and the highest active volcano in the world. This is a great spot for day hiking up to the refuge on the glacier’s edge or mountain biking (downhill all the way). True enthusiasts attempt the climb to the summit on an overnight excursion. Allow yourself an extra day or two in Quito, before or after your trip, if you want to conquer Cotopaxi.
Warning: Please take care when wandering about the city on your own, as pickpockets and purse-snatchers are common, particularly in the Old Town. Be safe and leave your passport, credit cards, traveler’s checks and cash you don’t need in the hotel’s safety deposit box. Most Quiteños are honest and genuinely helpful and friendly, but be safe and enjoy the city!
Day 2 Santa Cruz (B ,L, D)
The Galapagos Islands are located about 620 miles (1,000 km) off the Pacific coast of South America. The archipelago is comprised of 13 major islands and scores of islets that served as a living laboratory for Charles Darwin, the renowned evolution theorist. Long before Darwin arrived in the Galapagos, seafarers knew these isolated islands as home to some of the strangest and most wonderful wildlife imaginable, including birds that could swim but no longer fly, aquatic iguanas, dragon-like lizards left over from prehistoric times, and the giant Galapagos tortoises for which the islands were named.
Covering nearly 3,100 square miles (5000 square km), the Galapagos Islands are now a National Park. The Galapagos National Park is the institution that controls the preservation of this environment, and is assisted by the Charles Darwin Research Station. This research station, inaugurated in 1964 and based in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, is the scientific institution that helps the Galapagos National Park with the preservation of the Islands. The station is the one place where visitors can easily see the famous Galapagos tortoises which may live up to two hundred years. This is also the training center for naturalist guides who accompany all visitors landing at more than 40 approved sites on the islands, and members of the international scientific community often come to study at the station.
The National Park charges a visitor fee of $100 USD, payable on arrival, which funds park maintenance and supervision in the Galapagos, as well as ecological study, conservation and infrastructure development in Ecuador's other National Parks. Entry fees and the funds they generate for the National Park System are among measures taken by the Ecuadorian government to protect its natural heritage.
Santa Cruz is the most populated island within the archipelago, and Puerto Ayora is its main town. The Charles Darwin Research Station is a 10 minute walk from the center of the town. Here, an exhibition displays photos of recent volcanic eruptions, charts outlining geological formations and drawings of the evolutionary development of endemic species. A corral houses adult Galapagos tortoises, and a nursery cares for young tortoises until they are about three years old, when their shells have hardened enough to resist attack from wild dogs.
Turtle Bay is a 45 minute walk from Puerto Ayora along a well established trail. This pristine, white sand beach is a tranquil place, with white surf accentuating the Caribbean blues of the deeper waters. Follow the beach to a small peninsula; on the other side you find a large lagoon.
Day 3 Dragon Hill/ Rabida (B, L, D)
Day 4 Sullivan bay / Bartolomé (B, L, D)
Afterwards, continue to Bartolomé Island (also called Bartholomew). We take a hike up to the summit of the island to get a clearer perspective of the not-too-distant volcanic origins of this area. The panoramic view from here is one of the best among the islands and a favorite spot for group pictures. From here are visible the double-sided beach of Bartolomé directly below, the volcanic tower rising out of the water next to it, and Santiago in the distance. After the summit hike, we stop at the beach to relax in semi-tropical tranquility. Here we find fantastic snorkelling among the submerged volcanic rock and around the base of the tower. A short hike to the beach on the opposite side is also worth the minimal effort. It is not unusual to see sharks in these shallow waters, and marine turtles nest here from January through March.
Day 5 South Plazas/ Santa Fé (B, L, D)
In the afternoon we continue to Santa Fé Island (also called Barrington) which is well-known as a great place for observing (and swimming with) sea lions.
Day 6 North Seymour/Quito (B)
Bird life abounds on Seymour Island, probably the most exciting island photographically. Close to the trail you will find many nesting pairs and young chicks. Seymour is also home to the Galapagos’s largest colony of Magnificent Frigate Birds. Their mating ritual is an ostentatious display: males expand the red sack at the base of their throat and perch atop a bush with wings fully extended, flapping furiously. Interested females circle overhead, and if so inclined, may join the male on terra firma. Further along the trail we can observe a colony of sea lions.
Following this we sail to Baltra and transfer to the airport for our flight back to Quito. Transfer to our group hotel upon arrival and the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 7 Depart Quito (B)
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at the time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travelers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your trip details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The trip details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Important Notes
1. Discovery Adventures is operated in conjunction with Gap Adventures, the world leader in sustainable adventure travel. An award winning company with over 800 employees and 17 operational offices worldwide, Gap Adventures has 20 years experience in creating culturally interactive travel experiences. Gap Adventures advocates a triple bottom line business philosophy where equal attention is given to the environmental, social and economic impact of tourism to achieve long-term environmentally responsible growth whilst protecting destinations & cultural heritage for future generations.
2. Discovery Adventures requires your passport number, full name and date of birth at the time of booking. Please make sure you give this information to your travel agent.
3. Once you have confirmed your booking please give us your international flight details and advise us if you have any important issues such as allergies, special diets, etc.
4. The Ecuadorian government currently levies a Galapagos Islands Park entry fee of $100 USD per person. This is payable at the airport upon arrival in the park. It is not included in the cost of the tour, and must be paid in CASH. This fee funds Park maintenance and supervision in Galapagos, as well as ecological study, conservation and infrastructure development in Ecuador's other National Parks. Entry fees and the funds they generate for the National Park System are among measures taken by the Ecuadorian government to protect its natural heritage.
5. The Galapagos National Park authorities have implemented a system of Transit Control Cards at a fee of $10 USD per person. This card is to be purchased in CASH at a counter in the Quito airport before boarding the flight to the Galapagos. Please retain this card along with your passport as you will be required to present this upon arrival to the Galapagos Islands. Please note that this applies to all tourists entering the Galapagos Islands and is a supplement to the existing entry fee to the National Park and is not controlled by tour operators or travel agencies. It is the first of a number of initiatives to track, control and maintain the sustainable tourism targets set out by the Galapagos National Park and the Ecuadorian government in an attempt to preserve the fragile environment of the archipelago.
6. Please note that the rooming on our Galapagos yachts is done on a first-come, first-serve basis, and we are not able to guarantee the specific cabin you will receive on board. The cabins are comfortable and clean, all with private bathrooms. Due to the specific location of the cabins on board, the window sizes vary as well as the noise at times when the boat is navigating, given the proximity of the cabin to the engine room. Our friendly and competent crew will ensure the smooth and comfortable journey for the duration of your tour.
Accommodation
Superior hotel (2nts), your choice while on board the catamaran of Deluxe cabins with private balcony (both twin share and double available), a Suite (double) and Standard twin share cabins (4 nts).
About Accommodation
The accommodation for this trip while in Quito and onboard the Galapagos catamaran, are of a Superior level.
The accommodation level for most Discovery Adventure tours are comfortable, in mid-range hotels, motels, lodges, guest houses, etc. You'll often enjoy air-conditioned rooms, complete with en suite bathrooms and some amenities. Accommodation and amenities can vary by Country and region and please remember that standards can be different from what you are used to in your home country, which is part of the appeal of adventure travel. Some trips may include camping, permanent tented camps or more rustic lodges, depending on the remoteness of where you are visiting. Please see your trip details for more information, specific to your tour. Porterage is not included, but can be arranged directly at most hotels.
My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops on tour.
Single Travelers
We believe single travelers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. If you prefer to have your own room, The My Own Room option is available on most tours, but some exceptions can apply). Our Independent trips are designed differently and single travelers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Transport
Local flight, Superior class Catamaran, Van, Zodiacs, Public bus, Walking
Group Size Notes
Max 16, Avg 12
Local Flights
All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.
Meals Included
6 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with Discovery Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On our Galapagos yachts, food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. The above information applies to Discovery Adventures group trips. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Group Leader Description
Your Disvovery Adventures group trip is met in Quito by a Discovery Adventures representative. The aim of the representative is to give you the required information for the rest of your journey and to assist with changing money, restaurant and excursion suggestions and general information about the city. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. For your shipboard voyage we have a highly experienced shipboard staff and crew, including a local naturalist guide in the Galapagos (certified by the Galapagos National Park).
Your Fellow Travelers
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of traveling in a group. Your fellow travelers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group. Patience with your fellow travelers 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 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.
Joining Hotel
Quito
Hotel Le Parc
República de El Salvador N34-349 e Irlanda
Quito, Ecuador
Tel: Int. Dailing Code + (593-2)2276800
Joining Instructions
An arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour and our driver will be waiting for you with a Discovery Adventures Sign with your name on it.
Your Discovery Adventures Representative will contact you at the hotel on Day 1 and make sure you are settled comfortably. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning. Your Discovery Adventures Representative will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip.
Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer 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. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Finishing Point Hotel
Quito
Hotel Le Parc
República de El Salvador N34-349 e Irlanda
Quito, Ecuador
Tel: Int. Dailing Code + (593-2)2276800
What to Take
Life aboard the yacht is very informal, making casual, comfortable clothing a must. Each cabin contains ample closet space, however you may choose to leave any unnecessary articles in your joining hotel storage room. Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags.
Also note that beach towels are provided for your convenience on board.
Please note that Galapagos is a protected National Park so your luggage will be checked before arrival and departure to and from the islands. Don’t bring with you any food, seeds or other organic material that could affect the delicate ecosystem of the islands.
Please do not bring any alcoholic beverages aboard, as your boat has a bar offering a variety of alcoholic drinks and prices are reasonable.
Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact Gap Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local office in Quito. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so we
may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
Gap Adventures Quito, Ecuador
Mariscal Foch 899 y Cordero
Quito, Ecuador
Tel: Int. Dialing Code + (593 2) 223-0791,(593 2) 223-6641, (593 2) 254-3183
Cell Phone (24 hours): Int. Dialing Code + (593 9) 9 506 000 (outside Ecuador), (09) 9 506 000 (in Ecuador)
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office in Quito, we have a toll-free line for North America, which will connect you directly with our Toronto office. In the event that you cannot get through, you can reach a member of our Operations department at the mobile number below.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 465 5600.
Calls from UK: 0844 410 1030
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Outside North America, Australia and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
Mobile: + 1 647 504 6467
Checklist
- Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- USD cash
- Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
- Discovery Adventures vouchers and trip details
- Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
- Camera
- Playing cards or other favorite games
- Reading/writing material
- Binoculars.
- Fleece top
- Windproof/waterproof jacket
- Swim wear
- 4 shirts/t-shirts
- hand sanitizers/ antibacterial wipes
- Sun hat
- 2 pair of shorts
- 2 pairs of long trousers (one pair should be comfortable to walk in)
- Sunblock
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, hand lotion and soap are provided onboard)
- Watch or alarm clock
- Walking shoes and sport sandals for excursions
- Soft-soled shoes to wear on the boat
- First-aid kit (should contain motion sickness medication, lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, and extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Visas
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION.
Spending Money
Every traveler is different, therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others while some may like to purchase more souvenirs. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Money Exchange
Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available some may not accept all international credit or debit cards. You may need to try at more than one machine if the first does not accept your card. You should also check with your bank before leaving to ensure that your card works internationally. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollar cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds. Please bring USD banknotes in denominations smaller than 100, as they can be hard to exchange in Ecuador. 100 dollar bills of certain series (e.g. CB B2) can be especially hard to cash! CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than $100 USD (or equivalent). As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Tipping
Onboard the Galapagos Superior Class catamaran, tipping the Naturalist guide and boat crew is customary. There will be two envelopes presented at the end of the voyage, one for the guide and one for crew members. The recommended amount is $20-25 USD per day from each traveller ($8-10 USD for the guide and $12-15 USD for the crew members). This is only a suggestion as we understand that tipping is a personal choice.
Optional Activities
CITY TOUR OF QUITO
We visit the new and old town of Quito, including the Palace of Congress, Presidential Palace, Independence Square and the Churches of San Francisco, La Compania and La Catedral. After this we go to the Panecillo (a lookout point in the old town), which affords the best view of Quito, then return to the hotel. This trip takes about 3.5 - 4 hours and can depart everyday at anytime.
- Entrance fees for the churches and Panecillo are not included in the price and is about $4 USD p/p.
- Price: $25 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.
CITY TOUR AND THE EQUATOR LINE
After the city tour we go to the Equator line located 45 minutes away from Quito to visit the world monument and shops. Here we also visit the Inti Ñan local museum where you can see different experiments to prove that you are at the Centre of the Earth. This trip takes about 5 hours and can depart everyday at anytime.
Optional visit to The Pululahua crater 10 minutes away from the monument.
- Entrances fees for City Tour (Churches): total approx $4 USD
- Equator line $5 USD Museums Entrance fee: Total approx $9 USD
- Price: $35U SD P/P, minimum 2 persons.
COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK
A spectacular 2-hour drive in private transport takes us to Cotopaxi Volcano, 5897m, the highest active volcano in the world. We visit a museum in the park and hike around a lagoon at the bottom of the volcano to learn about the flora and fauna found at this altitude. We then continue by car up the volcano to the parking lot, at over 4500m. Then we walk approximately 1.5hrs to the refuge at 4800m, and after a short break, continue to the glacier (if the weather holds out). We head back to the Pan-American highway to have lunch somewhere near Latacunga, or buy a box lunch on the way to have more time in the park. Return to Quito in the afternoon.
The full-day trip has departures every morning at 8AM.
- Entrance fee to the National Park: $10 USD.
- Price: $55 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons (private services)
SAQUISILI MARKET AND COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK
Saquisili is another important market close to Quito, located in the south of Quito. A wonderful scenic drive of approximately 3 hours gives you the opportunity for great views of the volcanoes. Here, the local natives bring their products from over the highlands to sell, such as handicrafts from Salasaca, Otavalo and Chimborazo. You will also find an animal market.
This is an intensive day and leaves at 6AM every Thursday.
- Entrance fee to the National Park: $10 USD.
- Price: $65 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.
OTAVALO MARKET
Otavalo market is considered one the biggest and best native markets in South America. Here you can find all the handicrafts that are made in Ecuador. We head north along the Pan-American highway for 2.5 hours. On the way we visit the village of Calderon to see the bread figures and Cayambe to taste the typical ‘biscochos’ (local biscuits). After you have explored the Otavalo market, we go to the leather market at Cotacachi or to Cuicocha Lake for a hike. The official Market Day is Saturday, but any other day is still interesting, and has less tourists. This is a full-day tour, leaving at approximately 8AM any day.
- Price: $45 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.
COTOPAXI BIKING
Your biking adventure begins as we drive south to the Coattail National Park along the Pan-American Highway. Within two hours we reach the trailhead (4600 m) at the base of the Cotopaxi Volcano. After donning our biking gear and catching our breath in the thin, high-altitude air, we begin our downward descent. Get ready for high-speed adventure and hang on tight, as the dirt road will take you on a wild ride. The road will whisk you past silvery smooth Limpiopungo Lake and eventually through a pine forest, until you reach the park's guard station, where you can see a corralled Llama herd. Our 4-wheel-drive vehicles will drive you to Inca ruins (tolas), where a box lunch will be served. After a snack we return to Quito by jeep, bikes loaded on top.
Departures daily at 7AM. We ride approximately 50 kilometres on bike (5 - 6 hours) and 4 hours in the jeep.
Included: box lunch, 21-speed mountain bikes, all transportation and veteran bilingual guides.
- Entrance fee to the National Park: $10 USD.
- Price: $45 USD P/P (pool services)
BELLAVISTA CLOUD FOREST
To see the cloud forest and to experience the changes in the temperature and vegetation, you have to go to Bellavista cloud forest.
Bellavista cloud forest reserve is located at 0,00,46 latitude in northwestern Ecuador, on the edge of Choco which is among the most diverse places in the word.Things to do:
a)Birds here are always active, from the joy of watching hummingbirds on your private balcony, to exploring in search of elusive forest species, 320 species of birds have been recorded in the Tandayapa valley.
b) Hikes through primary and secondary forest.
c) Naturalist guides and specialist birding guides available (extra cost)
This trip is a full day and starts at 7AM.
- Entrance fee to the reserve $10 USD p/p
- Price: $50 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.
DEVIL’S NOSE TRAIN
Day 1: Drive south towards the Cotopaxi Volcano. We head to the Pan-American highway to have lunch near Latacunga and then continue south, arriving in Riobamaba. We spend the night there in a basic hotel.
Day 2: Get up at 5:30am for breakfast. We need to be at the train station at 6:15am in order to get the best place on the roof of the train. The train takes approximately 5 hours to get to Alausi and the Devil‘s Nose, once the train ride has finished, a car will be waiting for you with your bags to return to Quito.Note: This is a 2 day trip and starts at 9AM only on Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays.
- Entrance fee to Cotopaxi Park: $10 USD.
- Train ticket $12 USD.
- Price: $110 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.
- The hotel in Riobamba is not included and costs around $15 USD P/P
PAPALLACTA HOT SPRINGS
Two hours drive to the east are the Termas de Papallacta. They are located on the Cinnamon trail, (65km from Quito) which is the same route that Francisco de Orellana took in 1542 when he crossed the Andean mountain range in search of spices and gold, and discovered the Amazon River. We take a short cut, passing by the church of Guapulo and have a wonderful ride in the paramo (tundra). The highest point reached is 4150m; we descend to a spectacular setting at 3300m. Things to do:
a) Hot springs (different temperatures) big and small ones, while enjoying views of the Antisana volcano 5750m. Entrance $5 USD.
b) Trekking up the river
c) Horseback rides
d) Relax in the new spa recently inaugurated (ask for details in the hotel).
Lunch at the restaurant offers typical dishes such as trout. Return to Quito in the afternoon.
This full-day trip departs daily at 8AM.
NOTE: Optional overnight at the hot spring resort $20 USD p/p
- Price: $50 USD P/P, minimum 2 persons.
1 DAY RAFTING TOUR -2 rivers in 1 day.
The Ríos Toachi and Blanco are fantastic introduction to the rivers of Ecuador. Flowing off the coastal side of the Andes they have some of the longest navigable sections of whitewater in the country. Combine this with the sights and sounds of the forest environment we pass through and you are guaranteed a day to remember.
We travel west down from Quito for about 3 hours through beautiful cloud forest to the bank of the river.
Rafting time approx 3 to 3.5 hrs. (NB. From March to May we usually run the upper Blanco river – 43km, approx. 4 hrs).
River Grading: III - IV (Depending on the time of year).
Includes: Professional guides, top of the line rafting equipment, lunch, transport to and from Quito.
-Departures: Daily with a minimum of 4 people
-Price: $ 75 USD P/P.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Transport from Quito to the Green Horse Ranch, inside the National Reserve Pululahua, about 25 miles north from Quito. Quiet sure footed mountain horses will take us through the stunning landscape of this ancient volcanic crater, the biggest one on the whole American continent and one of only two inhabited craters in the world. The constantly changing scenery and bio-diversity make for a great day.
Guided day tours are available for all standards of riders - and if you've never ridden before what better place to start than in the Andes .
- Minimum 2 person
- $75 USD P/P
NOTE: These prices are based on 2 clients but if you are a single traveller we can accommodate your trips as well. If there are more than 2 clients booking, the prices may be less than those quoted above.
Health
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes, as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. Discovery Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
Please note your Adventure travels to high altitude, in Quito. This is medically defined as anything over 8,000 feet (2,440 meters). Most people can travel to 8,000 feet with minimal effects. However, everyone reacts to altitude differently and altitude sickness can on set with some people irrespective of fitness and age. For details on how to best prepare and what to do in the unlikely event you are effected on your Adventure, please consult your physician.
Safety and Security
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. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while traveling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travelers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When traveling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer 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. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our tour leaders to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please click here.
Trip Specific Safety
Please take care when wandering about the city on your own, as pick pockets and purse-snatchers are common, particularly in the Old Town. Be safe and leave your passport, credit cards, traveller’s cheques and cash you don’t need in the hotel’s safety deposit box. Most Quiteños are honest and genuinely helpful and friendly, but be safe and enjoy the city!
Detailed Trip Notes
Gap Adventurer VI
Cruise the Galapagos in style aboard the Gap Adventurer VI, the newest and most comfortable vessel in our fleet in the Galapagos Islands, featuring special amenities such as a hydro-massage 4-person jacuzzi plus spacious outside decks for relaxing, a dining room and a bar. This brand new 16-passenger motor catamaran has 8 air-conditioned double-occupancy cabins with lower berths and private bathrooms with hot water, and all meals are provided while on board. Our staff includes a Level III bilingual naturalist guide certified by the Galapagos National Park Authority, as well as a dedicated Cruise Director ensuring you are in good hands both onboard and on land. You may purchase alcoholic beverages, water and soft drinks on the boat.
PLEASE NOTE:
At times, when the Gap Adventurer VI is being serviced, we will use another boat of equivalent standard and size.
LIFE ON BOARD
The daily schedule consists of a shore excursion immediately following breakfast, lunch aboard and perhaps a siesta before the afternoon shore excursion. In the evening after dinner, your naturalist guide will brief you on the islands to be visited the following day. You are ferried from the yacht to shore via small boats called pangas. Landings are either “dry” or “wet”, where you may have to wade ashore in shallow water. Your naturalist guide will accompany you during all excursions.
ACCOMMODATIONs
This is a Discovery Adventures Classic tour, all accommodation will be Tourist Superior Class and of a Superior service level. There are three cabin types on board the Gap Adventurer VI: Deluxe cabins with private balcony (both twin and double beds available), a Suite cabin (double bed) and Standard twin cabins - all with lower berths.
CLIMATE
Located on the Equator, the Galapagos climate is tempered by the Humboldt Current, so you do not experience extreme heat found elsewhere at this latitude. The warmest weather is from December to June, when temperatures range from 72-90°F (22-33°C), and the water temperature is in the mid 70°F (mid 20°F). From July to November, temperatures are cooler and range from 60-75°F (18-24°C), when average water temperature rarely reach 70°F (21°C).
Medical Form
Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travelers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage, as a minimum requirement. Travelers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travelers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travelers are catered to equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.
Download the the medical questionnaire.
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the law 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 it is not acceptable for our travelers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When traveling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been shown to your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy 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. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Keeping in Touch
If you need to be contacted while traveling, we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travelers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our emergency contact information in this document. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff.
Planeterra - The Gap Adventures Foundation
Planeterra is a non-profit organization with a long history of supporting sustainable community development through travel and voluntourism. By getting to know local people in the communities, Planeterra is able to help identify individual needs and act quickly to meet them.
A range of over 30 projects worldwide, from providing water tanks to families in Kenya to a women's weaving co-operative in Peru, Planeterra offers travelers with a few hours, a few days, or a few dollars to spare, a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people and communities around the world. Discovery Adventures supports the work of Planeterra and includes community project visits in many of our tours.
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