Good Practice Guidelines for Susceptible Activities and Excursions

Responsible Travel in the framework of its sustainability policy makes public a series of good practices to ensure the least negative environmental and social impact when carrying out the different activities offered within our services. We appreciate that your presence contributes to the development of responsible tourism.

Code of Conduct for Wildlife Spotting and Visits to Protected Areas and National Parks

  • Do not feed wildlife.
  • Respect wildlife and their natural habitat. Keep no less than two meters distance from the animals so as not to affect their behavior.
  • Avoid consuming disposable goods, do not throw organic waste or any kind of waste until you find a place to throw it in, as they can significantly affect the development of the ecosystem in which it is located. Try to recycle or reuse all solid waste.
  • Respect the recommendations given by the park rangers and the entrance hours of each area.
  • Stay inside the trails and respect the signs. Do not destroy infrastructure.
  • Carry out campfires, camping and other activities only in the permitted zones of each area.
  • Special care is required during the breeding, molting or rearing season. Do not place yourself between two animals, especially between a mother and her young, some species are highly protective and may attack if they suspect their young are threatened or leave the young more vulnerable to predators.
  • Hunting of animals, entry with weapons and alcoholic beverages is strictly forbidden. It is also forbidden to damage the flora, take plants, animals, or geological remains. Check the list of permitted objects for entry to the corresponding Protected Area.
  • Avoid taking flash photography so as not to alter the normal behavior of wildlife. Filming, professional photographs for commercial purposes, and the use of drones require authorization from the corresponding Protected Area’s Management.
  • Do not support illegal trade of flora and fauna species.
  • Use environmentally friendly insect repellent, completely avoid aerosols. We recommend using cream-based repellents or other alternatives.

Code of Conduct for Visits to Indigenous and Traditional Communities

  • Research and gather information about the indigenous community before the trip. Understanding the history, culture, codes of conduct and the indigenous groups link to nature will also help you to appreciate their customs. You can do it by the hand of our travel advisors and on your own initiative.
  • Refuse nor request any activity related to the commercial sexual exploitation of minors or of any kind of exploitation.
  • Report any type of related irregularity.
  • Leave as small a footprint as possible. Preserve water, fauna and flora and ask the guide what can or cannot be done.
  • Buy only those pieces made by local indigenous artisans, since many indigenous groups do not have their intellectual property registered.
  • Avoid buying handicrafts made from endangered species. Irresponsible buying can drive a demand that could lead some species to extinction.
  • Do not take any objects from archaeological sites, as this could cause irreversible damage to cultural heritage assets associated with indigenous communities and their beliefs.
  • In areas managed by indigenous communities, enter only those places open to tourists. Some spaces or rituals have spiritual significance and are therefore considered sacred or may simply be off limits or unsafe for tourists.
  • Always ask permission before taking a photograph of indigenous people, significant places, or rituals. In some communities it is considered inappropriate to be photographed.
  • Ask for the consent of community members and the service of a local guide if you wish to participate in private spiritual ceremonies and rituals.
  • Ask lots of questions. Ask the tour operator, guide, lodging establishments and indigenous communities about their environmental practices and their commitment to protecting indigenous rights.
  • Asking questions helps create a demand for environmentalism and responsible tourism throughout the tourism sector.
  • Avoid giving money or gifts to children. This does not improve their future, as it makes them dependent on the charity of tourists. If you wish to show solidarity, talk to the guide or a community leader about how to contribute.
  • Remember that indigenous cultures are constantly evolving and changing, like any other culture, and be aware that they may not meet expectations of authenticity. A visit to a community should be understood first and foremost as a learning experience.

Code of Conduct for Visits to Cultural and Historical Sites

  • Refuse nor solicit any type of activity related to the commercial sexual exploitation of minors or of any kind of exploitation. Report any type of related irregularities.
  • Not to discriminate against the local population based on race, gender, beliefs, or any other reason.
  • Avoid using language or conducts that may be offensive or intimidating.
  • Avoid consuming disposable goods, do not dispose of waste until a suitable place is found, and try to recycle or reuse all solid waste.
  • When learning about the historical and cultural heritage, purchase local and sustainable handicraft products, avoiding counterfeits or those prohibited by local and international legislation.
  • Do not take or acquire cultural or heritage property as a souvenir of your trip.
  • Do not damage the heritage infrastructure, for example, do not scratch walls. Respect it and learn from it.
  • Respect the signaling, the distance agreed upon with the heritage or archaeological objects and the advice given by the guide or local representative.

Code of Conduct for Marine Activities

  • Do not step on coral. Always pay attention to your feet and fins, if always used.
  • Avoid stirring up sediment.
  • Do not touch or chase marine life.
  • Do not feed the fauna.
  • Do not throw garbage into the sea.
  • Do not buy handicrafts made from coral or marine life.
  • Do not support fishing for sharks or other animals protected by law.
  • No harpooning.
  • Do not anchor on coral reefs.
  • Do not collect marine life, dead or alive.
  • Do not wear gloves, as this encourages divers to touch or pick up corals or marine life.
  • Wear a lifejacket on the surface.
  • Use mooring buoys
  • Report environmental violations
  • Participate in conservation projects
  • If anyone in the group, or even the guide, does not respect these rules, correct them, and report them to the organizers.
  • Use “reef safe” sun protection, e.g., sunscreen marked as such or wear rash vests / similar
  • Use environmentally friendly insect repellent, completely avoid aerosols. We recommend using cream-based repellents or other alternatives.

Code of Conduct for Visiting Captive Animal Attractions

  • The taking or harmful intrusion of fauna and flora is prohibited.
  • Do not touch or handle the animals, you could transmit diseases, infections, or parasites to them (and vice versa).
  • Do not feed the animals or lure them with food.
  • Also try not to eat during the visit (this could transmit diseases or provoke animal attacks).
  • When you finish the activity, take all garbage with you, including fruit skins or organic remains that you might consider harmless.
  • Do not provoke the animals or try to attract their attention by shouting, making noises or exaggerated movements. This may stress them, frighten them, interrupt their natural behaviors or they may even interpret it as a threat and attack.
  • Avoid eye contact with animals, for some species it can be threatening.
  • Try not to damage plants, when walking or driving vehicles, in areas or on slopes covered by mosses or lichens.
  • Minimize noise to avoid scaring wildlife.
  • Be predictable and consistent in your behavior. Avoid making sudden movements.
  • Do not introduce non-native plants or animals.
  • Respect the maximum time allowed for sighting.
  • Respect the rules regarding the maximum number of visitors allowed. Too many people can stress the animals, make them nervous and they may even move away from their area.
  • If someone in the group, or even the guide, does not respect these rules, correct them, and report them to the organizers.

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Igor Ramos
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Just left us a 5 star review

Viagem Incrível a Galápagos

Viagem Incrível a Galápagos, organizada por Joseph da Responsible Travel! Minha viagem a Galápagos, de 3 a 8 de dezembro, foi uma experiência inesquecível, graças ao trabalho excepcional de Joseph, da Responsible Travel. Desde o início, ele demonstrou um profissionalismo impressionante, planejando um itinerário perfeito, equilibrando exploração e descanso, e garantindo que todos estivessem confortáveis e bem cuidados. Joseph indicou passeios incríveis que realmente mostraram a diversidade e beleza única de Galápagos. Ele estava sempre disponível para esclarecer dúvidas e coordenou as atividades com excelente atenção aos detalhes, proporcionando uma viagem sem contratempos e cheia de descobertas. Com sua liderança, cada momento foi aproveitado ao máximo, e a viagem se tornou ainda mais especial. Recomendo de coração a Responsible Travel e Joseph para quem busca uma experiência autêntica e bem organizada em Galápagos.

Igor Ramos December 23, 2024

Superou todas as expectativas!

Nosso sonho era conhecer as ilhas de Galápagos e foi realizado graças ao Joseph que fez um roteiro incrível de viagem para nós e nossos amigos. Nós não tivemos que nos preocupar com nada, traslados, hotéis e passeios todos bem reservados e planejados. Nós recomendamos a empresa e os serviços do Joseph de olhos fechados.

Camila Inagaki December 23, 2024

Roteiro perfeito e atendimento impecável

Joseph da Responsible Travel nos ajudou a planejar nossa viagem para Galapagos. Ele montou um roteiro incrível e foi muito atencioso desde o primeiro contato, estando sempre disponível para eventuais dúvidas, inclusive durante a viagem! Ficamos impressionados com a organização de todos os passeios, todos saíram no horário estipulado e não tivemos nenhum problema. Os guias mostraram muito conhecimento sobre as ilhas, além de falarem inglês e espanhol fluentes. Galápagos é um lugar único e apaixonante, e eu não vejo a hora de voltar!

Marcela Pacheco Viana December 23, 2024

A empresa foi comunicativa desde o…

A empresa foi comunicativa desde o primeiro contato. Tivemos uma ótima experiencia com o Joseph que nos orientou sobre todos os passeios e nos auxiliou em nosso roteiro fantástico. Excelente!!!

Felipe Benatti de Cillo December 23, 2024

Fue una experiencia maravillosa desde…

Fue una experiencia maravillosa desde el comienzo. Gracias a la información y consejos de Monica de Responsible travel, hubo una excelente organización desde el aeropuerto de gye donde personas nos esperaban para agilizar el viaje. En Galapagos el crucero fue fantástico. Lo volvería a repetir visitando nuevas islas.

Paulette December 20, 2024

Todo muy bien Jazmin muy atenta y pendiente de todos los detalles Excelente viaje a Galápagos un paraíso Gracias por tu ayuda Jazmin

Guillermo Aguilar Vega December 16, 2024
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EPIC Ecuadorian Trip- Dreams Come True in Ecuador!!

The customer service/advice I received from Responsible Travel is EXCELLENT. They have always been available. Jazmin, my consultant, always answered my questions very quickly, and I had A LOT. Her local knowledge of the region was invaluable, and the key to making my trip an adventure I will never forget!! The guides they put me in contact with were excellent!! I saw so many unique and RARE wildlife in Ecuador, many endemic to their country. It was truly a dream!

Sunchaser December 13, 2024

Galapagos by la pinta provides wonderful memories

Galapagos by la pinta provides an amazing experience for everyone that we have the opportunity to share those wonderful memories in the Galápagos Islands. It all started with the sales person whose name is Monica who detailed everything about the trip with precision. The boat staff are exceptional trained and performed their duties with the outmost professionalism. One thing to say THANKS FOR THE WONDERFUL MEMORIES.

Alexy December 13, 2024

Ótimo serviço e suporte. Gaby foi a nossa consultora e estava sempre disponível para responder dúvidas, fornecer informações e foi muito flexível para adaptar os nossos planos para visitar Galápagos. O custo acabou limitando o tempo da nossa viagem, pois o nosso orçamento não era muito alto. Porém recebemos o que foi pago, com assistência constante e de alta qualidade.

Fernando Prado December 12, 2024
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Excellent experience in our Galapagos trip. Our coordinator Gabriela was very helpful and always responded immediately when we had questions. The drivers and guides were also very professional. The cost is a bit on the pricy side, but one can rest assured that the trip will run smoothly when assisted by them!

Luiza Freitas December 12, 2024
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Responsible Travel Ecuador provided excellence in all areas of the trip. Jazmin provided excellent advice, and itinerary planning based on my stated goals of observing specific wildlife! Excellent, will do business with them again in the future!

Sunchaser Photography December 10, 2024
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This agency helped us plan a memorable trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos. Cynthia was our coordinator, she was timely and professional with all communication and detailed from beginning to end. Cynthia was able to include everything we wanted to experience and open to our feedback to help create the final itinerary. The daily excursions were great, especially in Ecuador where we had Danny as our guide and Luis as our driver. Luis was safe and timely in all transportation and Danny went above and beyond at every step. At one point I wasn't feeling well and Danny went out of his way to find me some medicine. Danny was also extremely knowledgeable on everything.. history, the agriculture, the people.. 10/10 guide! Overall a great agency to work with!

Carmen Chegoz November 16, 2024
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Ha sido un viaje maravilloso, bien organizado, muy seguro, el guía Sebastián categoría premium sabe de todo, amable, responsable y maneja el coche de maravilla, prudente y ciertamente excepcional para su juventud. Yo repetiré viaje con esta agencia y haré Amazonia. Violeta Miguel

Violeta Mi November 11, 2024
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Monica from Responsible Travel Ecuador…

Monica from Responsible Travel Ecuador was extremely helpful, efficient and attentive. She found me an excellent offer for a cruise in the Galapagos and we thoroughly enjoyed our trip. Everything went smoothly and I can highly recommend Monica. She took care of every detail.

Marianne Jenni November 6, 2024

Cruise to the Galapagos

I was so lucky to find Gabriela! I was planning a last-minute trip to Ecuador and wanted to make the most of the limited time I had. Gabriela offered me a few different options to consider before I decided to join a cruise in the Galapagos. Once I made my decision, she went above and beyond to make it happen (I booked just two days before it started!). She was always available for any questions I had, even during unconventional hours, and her attention to detail was impressive. Even after I booked, she kept in touch to ensure everything was going smoothly. I would definitely recommend anyone planning a trip to Ecuador to connect with Gabriela. I’ll be sure to reach out to her again next time I return! Thank you, Gabi!

Yael Benninga October 5, 2024

I was so lucky to find Gabriela! I was planning a last-minute trip to Ecuador and wanted to make the most of the limited time I had. Gabriela offered me a few different options to consider before I decided to join a cruise in the Galapagos. Once I made my decision, she went above and beyond to make it happen (I booked just two days before it started!). She was always available for any questions I had, even during unconventional hours, and her attention to detail was impressive. Even after I booked, she kept in touch to ensure everything was going smoothly. I would definitely recommend anyone planning a trip to Ecuador to connect with Gabriela. I’ll be sure to reach out to her again next time I return! Thank you, Gabi!

Yael Benninga October 5, 2024
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Uma viagem inesquecível, onde tudo saiu conforme o esperado, sem falhas ou qualquer contratempo. Tudo, desde a recepção até o final foi um exemplo de competência e organização admiráveis. Equador não é um destino como outros, e no nosso caso teve roteiros variados, como uns dias na Amazônia, Cruzeiro para visitar as ilhas mais distantes de Galápagos e visita às principais ilhas. Bastante coisa pra ser organizada mas deu tudo certo. Galápagos foi incrível, a conexão com a natureza foi perfeita e eu só tenho a agradecer a Gabriela Cadena que conseguiu captar exatamente o que a gente queria e colocou no nosso roteiro tudo com maestria. Recomendo a agência e a Gabriela sem medo de errar.

Noilves Pelisser September 29, 2024
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One of the best trips of my life

One of the best trips of my life! I absolutely loved Ecuador and the variety of landscapes it offers (from the coast to the Andes and the Amazon rainforest). The trip was very well organized and made easy for us. The guides were all very knowledgeable and generally helped us have a great time. Would absolutely repeat.

Laura Sopeña Álvarez September 22, 2024

Genial, atención personalizada por parte de Santiago ( nuestro agente) desde el inicio hasta el fin del tour super preocupados por como se desenvuelve el viaje. Los recomiendo

Juan David Vaca August 26, 2024
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Excelente experiencia, agencia seria, disponible y cumplidora. Reservamos un crucero en Galápagos y la atención de Jazmín ha sido estupenda en todo momento, super recomendados.

francesco August 26, 2024
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A HUGE thank you to Responsible Travel and our wonderful coordinator Gabriela for making our August visit to the Galapagos and Amazon absolutely amazing! Gabriela catered the trip to our specific family's needs and capabilities, and every logistical step went very smoothly. The accommodations were top-notch, as were the local guides in each destination. We saw every animal we were hoping to see, and then some! We felt so secure and cared for in the hands of Responsible Travel that I've already recommended our exact itinerary to four additional families. This trip was incredible!!

Kristy Croushore August 25, 2024
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Excelente y personalizado servicio por…

Excelente y personalizado servicio por parte de Cynthia. El crucero fue fenomenal así como vuelos, traslados, guías y comidas. Sin sorpresas.

Enric Sol August 21, 2024

Servicio impecable, Cynthia nos acompañó durante todo el proceso de reserva, enviándonos información actualizada y resolviendo todas nuestras dudas vía WhatsApp casi al momento. Tanto los guías como los vuelos, crucero, comidas, traslados y actividades fueron perfectos. Muy recomendable para evitar sustos y despistes y conocer Galápagos con total comodidad.

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Effective, honest, and creative agency!

We could not be happier with our experience with this agency. The service provided by Maria Jose, who was our trip coordinator, was outstanding from day one. She made sure to understand our goals and vision for the trip, and was patient enough to work through multiple itinerary versions until we finalized it together. The chose the correct hotels, routes, and activities based on what we spoke about, and the guides/personnel on the ground that they reserved for us were trustworthy, puntual, and very knowledgeable. Every day they checked in on us with a text, to make sure that everything was going accordingly, which is a sign of excellent service. I highly recommend working with Maria Jose/Tamer and the entire Responsible Ecuador Travel team - I will do so for my next trip as well. 5/5, thank you!

Jose Garcia August 12, 2024

Great memories

Mónica was always for us available, all the staff of Galaxy Orion were really great and we had wonderful days in the boat and in Galapagos. Many thanks for all

Teresa Behrend August 12, 2024

Mi viaje con Responsible Travel

Al haber contratado un plan con Responsible Travel me di cuenta de su organización y de como pueden recomenrdarte las mejores opciones para conocer el Ecuador. Definitivamente los volveré a contratar para un futuro.

Mateo Camacho August 4, 2024

Al haber contratado un plan con Responsible Travel me di cuenta de su organización y de como pueden recomenrdarte las mejores opciones para conocer el Ecuador. Definitivamente los volveré a contratar para un futuro.

Mateo Camacho August 4, 2024
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Cynthia my contact of the agency Responsible Travel resolved all my doubts and questions of the trip. She keep me informed about muy bookings and updates of my itinerary. Also she ensure that everything went well.

Patricia Uribe August 3, 2024
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Visiting the Galápagos islands aboard…

Visiting the Galápagos islands aboard the Bonita yacht was the best decision I could have made while visiting Ecuador. It was an incredible experience that I will be thinking about until I am able to come back again. I want to thank my wonderful agent Anthony for his help in booking. He is very knowledgeable and ensured that the planning process was a breeze. Anthony checked in with us every step of the way to make sure that we were prepared and comfortable throughout the whole trip. I also want to thank the wonderful crew: Cris, Diana, Cap. Joffre, Diego, Carlos, Marcos, Marcelo, Jairo, Chef Homar, and Chef Danny. Without them, the trip would not have been as amazing and unforgettable as it was. Cris was an awesome, patient, and fun guide that explained the history and fun facts of the island very well! Chef Homar and Chef Danny cooked all our delicious meals and Chef Homar even shared with us a lesson in salsa dancing! Diana made sure that everyone was taken care of and the rest of the crew made sure that everything was smooth sailing! I can tell that this crew is really close and that they enjoy working together! I cannot recommend this experience enough, from the blue footed boobies, to the giant tortoises, to swimming with the hammerhead sharks! I hope to come back one day and bring my family and when I do, I will make sure to book with Anthony again at Responsible Travel Ecuador!

Adi Parreno June 27, 2024

Stunning experience

Incredible organization specially from Karen, who provided us all necessary information and tips for our travel. She is very professional and polite person. We recommend her services.

sandy pico May 31, 2024

Incredible organization specially from Karen, who provided us all necessary information and tips for our travel. She is very professional and polite person. We recommend her services.

sandy pico May 31, 2024
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I highly recommend Responsible Travel Ecuador. They are very professional and flexible to organize the perfect trip for you.Gabriela organized the trip for us to mainland, Amazon and Galapagos islands and she was excellent.She did everything for us and the entire itinerary was a unique experience. Our guide Wellington on the mainland was very helpful and knowledgeable and we really enjoyed our time with him!! We enjoyed every activity and will definitely return in the future to this beautiful country!!

George Liskas February 15, 2024
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Andres Garzon February 3, 2024
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Gaby did an incredible job helping me plan a trip to Yasuni National Park, Quito, and the Galápagos Islands. She took all of the stress out of finding good guides and all of the logistics involved in flights, lodging, transportation, and all of the other planning aspects of a big two week trip. Excellent communication with fast responses any time I had questions leading up to and during the trip as well. Highly recommend!

Adam Conard December 13, 2023
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The best of the best!

Amazing experience! Definitely recommended.

Dave Khandros December 1, 2023

Ethic, friendly and professional company

They are a super friendly and professional company that, as their name says, is working in an ethical and green way, which is super important in these times.

Carla Mazzini December 1, 2023

Paul our agent was wonderful; very friendly and went above and beyond to help us organise a dream holiday.

Bess Murray November 4, 2023
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Les Galapagos c'est le paradis !

Notre voyage aux Galapagos était super bien organisé, les jours avec visites autant que le temps libre ! Les hôtels choisis par l'agence étaient très confortables et accueillants, et les guides sur place super accueillants ! Aucun problème ... donc toute la famille n'a eu qu'à en profiter!

Douglas October 7, 2023

I planned a trip to South America at the last minute, and Gaby was incredible! She created an amazing itinerary with me where I was able to go to Quito, the Galapagos islands, and Cuzco Peru. It was a truly unforgettable trip, and I would strongly recommend that you consider Gaby for your next South American adventure. She can help as little or as much as you need and is extremely responsive. I am a big fan of hers now!

Gigi Z October 5, 2023
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Cuentan con paquetes muy buenos y se adaptaron a mis necesidades para viajar en crucero a galápagos

Andrés Perugachi August 31, 2023
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Felipe Villegas August 25, 2023
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Gran tour en barco de última hora

Fue una reserva de última hora de un tour en barco por Galápagos y nos ayudaron en todo momento. Grandes profesionales y el tour fue maravilloso

David B. July 19, 2023

Outstanding service

Responsible Travel Ecuador helped us find the outfit that met our needs in our visit to Galapagos. Interaction with our agent was easy and effective. She was really responsive and provided us with all the information we needed - also suggestions for further visits in Ecuador's mainland. I definitely would recommend Responsible Travel Ecuador for any travel needs in that beautiful country.

Nuria July 17, 2023

Una experiencia inolvidable con Responsible Travel: Descubriendo la magia de Ecuador

Responsible Travel es una agencia de viajes que ha dejado una huella imborrable en mi corazón. Recientemente tuve la oportunidad de explorar las maravillas de Ecuador a través de su excelente servicio, y no puedo dejar de elogiar su enfoque responsable y comprometido con la sostenibilidad. Desde el momento en que me puse en contacto con ellos, su equipo demostró una gran atención y pasión por brindar experiencias auténticas y respetuosas con el entorno local.

Gabi Ramos June 29, 2023

Fantastic Experience!

I did multiple family treks with this company and the service is impeccable. Staff always has a smile and big energy to inspire you to expand your horizons. A big shout to everyone and thank you for such a wonderful experience!

Daniel Larrea June 27, 2023

La millor experiencia per Sudamerica va…

La millor experiencia per Sudamerica va ser a L' Ecuador amb aquesta experimentada empresa que em ajudar abans, durant i despres del viatge. Totalment recomendada

Santiago Cardenas June 27, 2023

Exceptional trip to Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands

Excellent & professional services! Highly recommended.

Alexander June 27, 2023
Emilia Assa April 12, 2023
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We have booked a two day tour to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, a 5 days tour in the amazonia and also arranged some private transfers with the team. I have discussed everything with Lucia who has been very helpful, always answering on time and providing the best options. Would recommend the travel agency.

Iulian Petcu March 5, 2023
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