Please feel free to use this general information in planning your trip. However, before making flight or other arrangements, please contact us to ensure availability on the trip you want, and to ensure that specific details, such as boarding time and location, for your trip are confirmed. Changes may occur from year to year.
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Point of Trip Start & End: |
Quito, Ecuador |
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International Flights |
You should book a flight that will get you into Quito, Ecuador on May 6, 2007.
Please note: Most flights from North America arrive in Quito around 11 pm. Our return flight from the Galapagos arrives in Quito mid-afternoon on May 16, so departing international flights can be booked for May 17 unless you want to extend your trip.
Airlines flying from the USA to Quito include:
Continental Airlines (from Houston, TX)
American Airlines (from Miami, FL)
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Extra Hotel Nights, etc. |
Our usual hotel in Quito is the Hotel Patio Andaluz in the Old Town (however this can be subject to change).
You can make additional hotel reservations through our local contact Ms Christina Merino of Metropolitan Touring in Quito: Tel: (593) 2 298 8200 or email: cmerino@metropolitan-touring.com. Just mention you are with the Maple Leaf Adventures group.
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Domestic Flights |
We will arrange your flights from Quito to the Galapagos. The cost of the tickets (approx. US $400 pp) will be included on your final invoice.
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Park Fees |
The Galapagos National Park fees of US $ 100 per person (not included in the Land Cost) are payable individually upon arrival in the Galapagos Islands.
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Passport and Visa |
You must make sure you passport is valid for the duration of the trip and beyond. Citizens of the US, Canada and UK do not need a visa.
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Insurance |
Medical insurance which covers emergency evacuation is a prerequisite for this trip. Additional travel and cancellation insurance are recommended.
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Medical Matters |
It's vital that we have your medical information form, that you update us on any new medical concerns, and that your medical and cancellation insurance policies cover any circumstances that might arise. Please be aware that during the trip hospital facilities may at times be a long way away, and that evacuation can be lengthy and expensive.
Bring whatever medicines you might need on the trip and don't forget to keep them with you in your carry-on luggage. We will have a first-aid kit for emergencies, but we do not carry prescription medicines for the group.
Although Ecuador does not require you to have any up-to-date vaccinations to enter the country, it is advisable to consult your physician on this matter. In particular, if you are going on a trip extension to the Amazon Basin, you will need to be vaccinated for yellow fever. You can also find excellent information on the following website:
http://www.mdtravelhealth.com
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Sun and Altitude |
Please consult your physician about any affects that Quito's altitude (close to 10,000 feet) might have on your health. This is particularly important if you have heart or lung problems, or sickle cell traits.
The equatorial sun can be a serious health hazard. Be careful not to get sunburned, particularly when you are on the water. While snorkeling, protect your back with a long shirt. If you are fair skinned or sun sensitive you might want to consider bringing UV-protective clothing.
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