Ecuador FAQ's
Do I need a visa?
Travelers with a US or Canadian passport do not need a visa. Visit (www.embassy.org/embassies/ec.html) for entry requirements if your passport is from another country; or (http://travel.state.gov/foreignentryreqs.html) for further details pertaining to US citizens.
Travelers with a US or Canadian passport do not need a visa. Visit (www.embassy.org/embassies/ec.html) for entry requirements if your passport is from another country; or (http://travel.state.gov/foreignentryreqs.html) for further details pertaining to US citizens.
Is my passport valid?
Your passport must be valid at least 6 months following the end of your trip for entry into Ecuador. If it expires sooner, you must get a renewal (http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/get_840.html).
Your passport must be valid at least 6 months following the end of your trip for entry into Ecuador. If it expires sooner, you must get a renewal (http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/get_840.html).
Do I need any shots?
No vaccinations are required for travel to Ecuador from the USA. Call the CDC Travelers' Hot Line at 888-232-3228 or visit the website (www.cdc.gov/travel). Most travelers take Hepatitis A, Typhoid Fever and Tetanus. If traveling to the Amazon region consider Yellow Fever and Malaria prophylaxis.
No vaccinations are required for travel to Ecuador from the USA. Call the CDC Travelers' Hot Line at 888-232-3228 or visit the website (www.cdc.gov/travel). Most travelers take Hepatitis A, Typhoid Fever and Tetanus. If traveling to the Amazon region consider Yellow Fever and Malaria prophylaxis.
When can I expect more details on my trip?
You will receive two mailings: 1. Pre-departure materials once a trip is guaranteed, typically 2-4 months prior to your departure; and 2. Final Documents sent 8-14 days before you leave.
You will receive two mailings: 1. Pre-departure materials once a trip is guaranteed, typically 2-4 months prior to your departure; and 2. Final Documents sent 8-14 days before you leave.
When is my balance
due?
Your land balance is due 90 days prior to departure. An invoice will be sent with your pre-departure packet.
Yes, if you arrive according to schedule or have arranged extra transfers through our office. Meeting instructions and local contact information will be provided with your Final Documents.
How much money should I bring?
Depending on the length of your trip, plan to bring $300-600 per person for spending money, tips, airport taxes and those meals not included in the itinerary.
Depending on the length of your trip, plan to bring $300-600 per person for spending money, tips, airport taxes and those meals not included in the itinerary.
Should I bring cash or traveler's checks?
Either is fine although cash is the easiest to use now that Ecuador has replaced its local currency with the US dollar.
Either is fine although cash is the easiest to use now that Ecuador has replaced its local currency with the US dollar.
Are ATM machines available?
Yes. There are ATM machines in the main cities such as Quito and Guayaquil. We recommend using the ones located inside some hotels, stores, restaurants or banks. Be cautious as some thieves may watch these machines and target tourists and others who take out large amounts of cash. Consult with your guide for safety recommendations on ATM's.
Yes. There are ATM machines in the main cities such as Quito and Guayaquil. We recommend using the ones located inside some hotels, stores, restaurants or banks. Be cautious as some thieves may watch these machines and target tourists and others who take out large amounts of cash. Consult with your guide for safety recommendations on ATM's.
Are meals included?
All meals when outside the main cities are included and most meals in the cities are included.
All meals when outside the main cities are included and most meals in the cities are included.
Is Ecuador safe?
We consider Ecuador a safe destination. In more than 15 years of operating trips to Ecuador, no one traveling with a Southwind group has ever had problems with safety whether in the cities or on a Galápagos cruise. An updated Consular Infomation Sheet from the US State Department's website (http://travel.state.gov/travel/warnings.html) or by calling their hotline at 888-407-4747.
We consider Ecuador a safe destination. In more than 15 years of operating trips to Ecuador, no one traveling with a Southwind group has ever had problems with safety whether in the cities or on a Galápagos cruise. An updated Consular Infomation Sheet from the US State Department's website (http://travel.state.gov/travel/warnings.html) or by calling their hotline at 888-407-4747.
What about thievery?
Petty thievery in Ecuador's cities is not higher than in any large city in the US. Common sense is important. Use the safety deposit box at your hotel for your passport and extra money (carry only as much as you might spend) and leave jewelry and expensive watches at home.
Petty thievery in Ecuador's cities is not higher than in any large city in the US. Common sense is important. Use the safety deposit box at your hotel for your passport and extra money (carry only as much as you might spend) and leave jewelry and expensive watches at home.
What will the weather be like?
Overall, its equatorial location gives Ecuador a mild climate, with temperatures varying more by altitude than by season. The country does not experience the "four seasons" as we know them, but has a "wet" and a "dry" period which varies from region to region. Quito's "dry" season is generally June-September with another spell of "dry" weather from November-January. Bear in mind that it's tropical latitude means rain should be expected year-round. Temperatures in Quito, the Lake District and the Avenue of Volcanos range from the low 40's at night to the low or mid 70's during the day. One can expect variable weather patterns, although there is generally a build up of clouds and short rain showers in the afternoons especially during the "wet" seasons. Ecuadorians are proud to point out that in the highlands you can experience all four seasons in a single day. Visit (http://weather.yahoo.com/regional/SOUTHAM.htm) for current temperatures and forecasts.
Overall, its equatorial location gives Ecuador a mild climate, with temperatures varying more by altitude than by season. The country does not experience the "four seasons" as we know them, but has a "wet" and a "dry" period which varies from region to region. Quito's "dry" season is generally June-September with another spell of "dry" weather from November-January. Bear in mind that it's tropical latitude means rain should be expected year-round. Temperatures in Quito, the Lake District and the Avenue of Volcanos range from the low 40's at night to the low or mid 70's during the day. One can expect variable weather patterns, although there is generally a build up of clouds and short rain showers in the afternoons especially during the "wet" seasons. Ecuadorians are proud to point out that in the highlands you can experience all four seasons in a single day. Visit (http://weather.yahoo.com/regional/SOUTHAM.htm) for current temperatures and forecasts.
What about political unrest?
The economic crisis of the late 1990's led to increased political unrest. A non-violent coup took place in January 2000 leading to the replacement of Jamil Mahuad with Gustavo Noboa as President. Since that time the political situation on the mainland has been stable. Political demonstrations occur sporadically and are usually in protest of the government's handling of the economy. Past demonstrations have been marked by burning tires, blocked streets, and Molotov cocktails. Rural highways are sometimes blocked by protesters. Typically strikes like these last 2-3 days or up to a week in length and are often (but not always) announced in advance. These strikes do not happen frequently and are not targeted towards tourists, and typically do not pose a threat unless someone insists upon crossing a barricade. Your local guides are capable and experienced at handling any changes that could occur due to a local strike.
The economic crisis of the late 1990's led to increased political unrest. A non-violent coup took place in January 2000 leading to the replacement of Jamil Mahuad with Gustavo Noboa as President. Since that time the political situation on the mainland has been stable. Political demonstrations occur sporadically and are usually in protest of the government's handling of the economy. Past demonstrations have been marked by burning tires, blocked streets, and Molotov cocktails. Rural highways are sometimes blocked by protesters. Typically strikes like these last 2-3 days or up to a week in length and are often (but not always) announced in advance. These strikes do not happen frequently and are not targeted towards tourists, and typically do not pose a threat unless someone insists upon crossing a barricade. Your local guides are capable and experienced at handling any changes that could occur due to a local strike.
How do I train for my trip?
If you lead an active lifestyle (walking, cycling, swimming, tennis, etc. on a regular basis) you will do fine on a Grade I or II trip. For Grade III trips you should plan to jog or stair climb for at least 45 minutes 4-5 times per week (more frequency for a Grade IV trip. View more details on Trip Ratings.
If you lead an active lifestyle (walking, cycling, swimming, tennis, etc. on a regular basis) you will do fine on a Grade I or II trip. For Grade III trips you should plan to jog or stair climb for at least 45 minutes 4-5 times per week (more frequency for a Grade IV trip. View more details on Trip Ratings.
How do I adjust to the altitude?
Gradual exposure to higher elevations and time are the best ways to acclimatize. If possible, try to arrive to Quito (elevation 9,350') a day early. Drink plenty of water, eat lightly and avoid alcoholic beverages for the first day or two.
Gradual exposure to higher elevations and time are the best ways to acclimatize. If possible, try to arrive to Quito (elevation 9,350') a day early. Drink plenty of water, eat lightly and avoid alcoholic beverages for the first day or two.
What about an emergency while traveling?
Southwind has never had a life-threatening emergency for a traveler in more than 15 years of operations. Our guides are trained in mountain/wilderness first-aid. Depending on the circumstances, a vehicle, horse or helicopter may take an injured or ill person to the nearest medical facility. English-speaking doctors and clinics are available in all major cities (Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca, etc.).
Southwind has never had a life-threatening emergency for a traveler in more than 15 years of operations. Our guides are trained in mountain/wilderness first-aid. Depending on the circumstances, a vehicle, horse or helicopter may take an injured or ill person to the nearest medical facility. English-speaking doctors and clinics are available in all major cities (Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca, etc.).
Who will be my guide?
We work with the most respected and experienced local guides, many of whom have advanced degrees in tourism, biology, Andean culture or other specialities. All speak fluent English and are knowledgeable, patient and fun to be around. Your Final Documents will provide guide details.
We work with the most respected and experienced local guides, many of whom have advanced degrees in tourism, biology, Andean culture or other specialities. All speak fluent English and are knowledgeable, patient and fun to be around. Your Final Documents will provide guide details.
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Galápagos FAQ's
