Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What documentation do I need to bring?

• A passport with a minimum of six months validity.

• Photocopy of your passport, airline ticket, comprehensive travel health insurance policy, and copy of your itinerary.

• Emergency contact numbers, credit cards, and cash.

2. What general equipment should I bring?

• Day pack for daily activities.

• Camera, sunglasses, refillable water bottle, and binoculars.

• Head torch, especially if visiting the Amazon or cloud forest.

3. What medicines should I bring?

• Personal medications and antibiotics (advise us of any health problems or allergies).

• Insect repellent, biodegradable shampoo and soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, water-resistant sunblock, and lip balm.

4. What clothing should I pack?

Ecuador’s climate varies greatly, so bring layers. Here are some essentials:

• Lightweight long trousers, T-shirts/shirts/blouses.

• A warm fleece or jacket for cooler evenings or Andes visits.

• Sun hat, waterproof jacket, and a swimming costume.

• Comfortable walking shoes and, if visiting the Andes, warm hat and gloves.

5. What should I bring to the Galapagos?

• A pair of sandals (Teva style or flip-flops) for short walks and onboard use if taking a cruise.

• Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes or boots.

• Two bathing suits, allowing one to dry while using the other.

• Sarong or large towel for sun protection on deck.

• Light t-shirts for snorkeling (lycra is recommended for sun protection).

• T-shirts for island walks (one per day of your trip).

• Two pairs of long light pants for sun protection or windy evenings.

• Hat to avoid sunburn.

• Backpack for carrying essentials during walks.

• Strong sunblock (minimum 30 SPF) and after-sun lotion like aloe.

• Sunglasses, prescription glasses, or contact lenses for snorkeling.

• Light rain jacket or windbreaker.

• Refillable water bottle.

• Sea sickness pills, basic first aid kit, and any personal medicine.

• Reading material (Galapagos guidebook, magazines, etc.).

• Binoculars.

• Underwater camera for snorkeling.

6. What should I know about water in Ecuador?

• Bring a refillable water bottle.

• Most hotels offer filtered or boiled drinking water for refills.

• Do not drink tap water or use it to brush your teeth.

7. What currency is used in Ecuador?

• The official currency is the US Dollar.

• Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted but sometimes incur a service charge.

• ATMs are readily available in cities and tourist towns.

• Bring small bills (USD$20, $10, $5, $1) as large bills may not be accepted.

8. What are the tipping guidelines?

• USD$5 - $10 per person per day for guides/drivers depending on service level.

• Hotel staff: USD$1 - $2 for bellboys, chambermaids, etc.

• On Galapagos Cruises: $10 per person per day for the guide and $15 per person per day for the crew.

• Restaurant service often includes a 10% service charge, but feel free to tip extra for exceptional service.

9. Is WIFI available in Ecuador?

• WIFI is widely available in hotels and restaurants in tourist towns.

• Many hotels also have business centers for printing boarding passes and using computers.

10. What should I know about electricity in Ecuador?

• Ecuador uses 110V AC (60 cycles), the same as in the USA.

• European travelers should bring power plug adapters for round-to-flat plug conversions.

11. Do I need vaccinations to travel to Ecuador?

• Check with your doctor about recommended vaccinations.

• If traveling from Brazil, a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required.

• Please consult our Biosecurity Protocols for up-to-date information regarding entry requirements.

12. Any travel tips?

• Place your home address inside your luggage and your destination address on the outside.

• Keep essential items like medicine, travel documents, and your itinerary in your carry-on luggage.

13. What are the emergency contact details?

• Outside Ecuador: +593 99 982 7383

• Inside Ecuador: 099 982 7383