To ensure that you have the best possible holiday experience, we ask you to read the following information carefully. If you have any questions, please discuss them with us before you depart.
Hand Luggage – pack essential items for a day or two in your hand luggage, in case your bags go astray and take a few days to catch up with you, especially if you have any tight connecting flights.
Documents – take a copy of your travel insurance policy with you, and leave a copy of your passport with a reliable contact at home, in case the originals are lost or stolen.
Electronic Devices – ensure these are all fully charge before travel, as you may be required to switch them on at airport security.
Mobile Phones – make sure they are set up for international calls and if you plan to use travel apps such as Google Translate (which is invaluable when travelling in Latin America) or Google Maps, ensure you check your data package with your provider in advance. Alternatively turn off date roaming to avoid large phone bills. Be aware that some rural areas may not have mobile or WiFi coverage.
Clothing – because of the difference in altitude between the Andean Higlands and the tropical coast, you need to pack in layers for all seasons. Take T-shirts, shorts, jeans, sunhat, sunglasses, bio-degradable sunscreen, swimming costume and flip-flops for the beach, as well as a warm fleece, gloves, beanie and scarf. If you are visiting the Amazon, pack lightweight but long sleeved shirts and long trousers to protect against mosquitos (safari clothing is ideal for this). Take proper walking shoes, a day pack, good head lamp and long socks (so you can tuck in your trouser legs and keep the insects out). Take a generous supply of insect repellent to spray on your neck, wrists and ankles and avoid using perfume, as this attracts mosquitos. Also rain gear in the wet season, including both a rain jacket and lightweight waterproof trousers. In the interests of protecting the pristine environment of the Galapagos, we suggest using only biodegradable shampoo, body wash & sunscreen. Sanitising hand cleaner and eye drops can be handy, especially if you wear contact lenses.
Medicines - if you travel with prescription drugs, carry an adequate supply in their original bottles/packaging & keep them in your hand luggage, as if lost they may be difficult to replace.
Accessories – pack your phone (with charger and a spare battery pack), camera (with spare memory cards and batteries – a 200 mm zoom lens is good for wildlife photography) and binoculars (large 8x40 is best). We suggest one pair per person, as it can be frustrating to share.
Plastic Restrictions - be aware that the following items are prohibited in the Galapagos: plastic bottles, plastic straws, plastic bags with handles & all styrofoam utensils.
Plugs – mainly Type A (two flat blades as in USA). A few type B and C too. Pack a universal adapter as well as a hand basin plug/stopper, as these are not always provided.
Books – pack a good travel guide and a Spanish phrase book. Knowing a few simple greetings will go down well. Also pack a generous supply of English reading material for quiet evenings and when waiting for flights, as these will be hard to come by.
Blood Type - if you travel to the Galapagos Islands by boat (instead of flying there), you may be required to advise your blood type so be sure to know this.
Water – tap water is generally safe for brushing teeth, but drink only bottled water.
Food – cuisine is excellent and varies widely by region, with fresh seafood along the Pacific coast. Vegetarians and food allergies are well catered for.
Respect the Local Culture – always take into account the wishes of the local people, some of whom do not wish to be photographed.
Taxis – in cities use only regulated taxis.
Self-Drive – driving is on the right, although we do not recommend self-driving in Ecuador.
Safety – take all sensible precautions. Leave valuable jewellery/watches at home, wear a money belt and be alert when outside your hotel. In particular avoid taking out large wads of cash in public view and keep your spare cash, passport and a spare credit card in your hotel safe.
Indemnities - please be aware it is likely you will be required to sign indemnities for any potentially hazardous activities.
Pack for a Purpose - if you have a little space in your suitcase, local schools & communities always appreciate gifts of pens & pencils, stationery, deflated footballs etc. Specific requests from communities can be seen on the 'Pack for a Purpose' website.
Tipping – this is not compulsory, but if you wish to tip because you have received good service, we suggest the following per adult:
- guides/drivers: $7/$3 = $10 per day (can be reduced for shorter stays).
- Galapagos cruise: $10 per day.
- photographs in local villages: $1 each.
- waiters: 10% (if not already added to your bill).
- porters: $1 per bag.
It is not necessary to tip drivers doing short transfers (eg to the airport).
Be aware that Americans generally tip twice the amount that British people do, so when in an environment geared to Americans (eg a Galapagos cruise) don’t feel obliged to tip the excessive amount often suggested.
Travel Advice – consult the UK Foreign Office website for the latest travel advice www.fco.gov.uk.