Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

CURRENCY AND CUSTOM

Accepted Answer

Travelers must declare currency in amounts greater than $10,000.

Question 2

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Accepted Answer

January 01: New Year.February 12: day of discovery of the Amazon Rainforest (Día del Oriente).May 01: day of work (Día del trabajo).May 24: battle of Pichincha (Batalla de Pichincha).July 24: Simón Bólivar's day of birth (Nacimiento de Bolívar).August 10: Independence Day of Quito (Primer grito de Independencia/in Quito).October 09: Independence Day of Guayaquil (Independencia de Guayaquil/in Guayaquil).October 12: discovery of America (Día de la Raza).November 02: All Soul's Day (Día de los difuntos).November 03: Cuenca – Independence Day (Independencia de Cuenca/in Cuenca).December 06: foundation of Quito (Fundación de Quito/only in Quito).December 25: Christmas (Navidad).

Question 3

FESTIVAL

Accepted Answer

01 January: New Year's Day (Año Nuevo) American music and dances.06 January: nationwide celebration of the tree Magi with traditional folkloric dances.February: carnival in Ecuador (varies).24 June: Otavalo and Guamote – St. Johan's day, with dances and other performances.03 – 05 August: Esmeraldas – Independence Day with Marimbas and afro-American folklore.02 – 05 September Otavalo: Yamorfestival with many attractions and traditional music dances.08 – 09 September Sangolqui: dances and bullfights.03 November: Cuenca – Independence Day with music and dances.01 – 06 December: Quito – celebrations in Quito with many attractions, bullfights and many other attractions.28 December: National processions of the Fools Day.31 December: New Year's – dances and burning of politician-dolls on a national level.

Question 4

INDIGENOUS MARKETS

Accepted Answer

In the highlands, there are traditional markets almost on a daily basis. Otavalo has the largest and the most famed traditional market, but the others are definitely worth visiting as well. Monday: Animal market in Ambato (the biggest in Ecuador)Tuesday: LatacungaWednesday: Pujili (goods and food)Thursday: Saquisili (food, goods, art)Saturday: Otavalo (art, food, goods, animals), Riobamba (goods, art), Latacunga (Goods and bags made of Agave fabric)Sunday: Pujili, Machachi, Gualaceo (food and goods), Sangolqui (art), Cotocachi (leather works), Salasaca (textiles and jeans)

Question 5

INTERNET

Accepted Answer

There are many Internet Cafés in Quito and in all big cities in Ecuador. They charge you about $1 Dollar per hour. You can also use the Internet to make cheap phone calls to Europe or other parts of the world. Most of these Internet Cafés can be found in la Mariscal. In this area also there are many bars.

Question 6

TRAVEL SEASON AND CLOTHING TO TAKE

Accepted Answer

The climate is appropriate for traveling all year long. On the coast, the Oriente, and the Galápagos Islands; light and breathable clothing are recommended. When traveling to the highlands, you should consider taking warmer clothes. A raincoat is always suitable. Those planning to do mountain-climbing need special equipment, which can also be rented in Quito.

Question 7

LANGUAGE

Accepted Answer

The language spoken in Ecuador is Spanish. Many indios of the highland are bilingual. They speak Spanish as well as Quechua. Indigenous people living in the rainforest speak their languages and dialects.

Question 8

BEGGARS

Accepted Answer

In front of the churches and historic sights, you occasionally find old and disabled people, who get alms from the locals. In the major cities, numerous children are walking through the streets begging for money, children working as shoeshine-boys at the age of four or five are a common encounter.  In the end, it is up to you if you wish to give them money and how much. To give these kids an opportunity to earn money, you can let them clean your shoes without needing to have a guilty conscience.

Question 9

TRANSPORT

Accepted Answer

City buses and taxis in Quito are not expensive. In the front glass of the buses, it is indicated where they go to. They stop when you wave your hand on almost all roads. It is possible to get off the bus at every time. A single ticket costs about 25 to 35 cents, no matter how far you want to go, as long as it is within the city center.  There are also many taxis available. Taxis will stop on a hand signal. During the day the price is based on a taximeter. After 8 in the evening, the price should be negotiated beforehand.

Question 10

TIME DIFFERENCE

Accepted Answer

The time difference compared to middle Europe is 6 hours in winter (Galápagos minus 7 hours) and 7 hours in summer (Galápagos minus 8 hours).

Question 11

PLUGS AND POWER CONNECTORS

Accepted Answer

One of the things we cannot miss during the planning of a trip is how electricity works in Ecuador to keep our phones, cameras, and other electronic devices ready and fully charged! Ecuador operates on a 110v supply voltage and 60Hz. Ecuador has two associated plug types and sockets. The types are A and B: Plug A – It has two flat parallel pins (the left pin can be slightly larger than the right pin) Plug B – It has two flat parallel pins, the same as Plug A, but also has a grounding pin in the lower center part. * Plugs A & B are the types of plugs used in the United States of America, Canada, Japan, and Mexico. We always suggest that if you use a different type of plug or socket, you bring your own adapter. However, you can always purchase one in different locations, such as airports, and even some hotels can lend you these adapters during your stay. Also, USB sockets have become more common, and even charging stations are available in different touristic locations.

Question 12

PHOTOGRAPHY

Accepted Answer

It is not allowed to take pictures of military zones and police stations. Please be sensitive when taking pictures of people. Please ask them kindly and explain why and for what reason you would like to take a picture.

Question 13

CONSERVATION

Accepted Answer

The beauty and the variety of the Galápagos Islands can only be protected if tourists follow the rules given by the National Park. These rules are the following: Do not touch the animals, as they will smell differently and therefore be left by their parents.Do not give food to the animals, as this has a negative impact on the animal's behavior.Do not chase animals, and especially not those that are in their nesting place.Do not remove animals or plants from the island.Do not buy souvenirs that have been made from animal or plant parts.Do not bring plants or animals from the mainland to the islands, or from one to another, as each island has its unique ecosystem.Do not throw garbage away.Do not leave your name or initials on trunks or rocks.Please inform careless visitors about the park rules.

Question 14

BEHAVIOR

Accepted Answer

Respect local customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection. Be mindful of local norms and behaviors.

Question 15

MONEY AND MONEY EXCHANGE

Accepted Answer

It is recommended to exchange money in Ecuador, as the exchange rate is much better here than in Europe. You should take USD in cash with you or traveler's checks. The most common credit cards to pay with or to draw cash are American Express (Banco de Guayaquil), Euro/MasterCard (MasterCard Bank) and Visa (Banco de Guayaquil). In the cities, you will be able to use your credit card in many places, but when paying cash you can save up to 10%.

Question 16

MEDICAL ISSUES

Accepted Answer

Unless you enter Ecuador from a country where yellow fever is a risk, vaccinations are not mandatory when traveling to Ecuador. However, we recommend the following vaccinations: Tetanus and PolioYellow Fever and Typhoid (if you plan to stay for more extended periods in the jungle)Hepatitis A+BMalaria prophylaxis (if you plan to stay in the coastal areas and Amazon Basin)CholeraPlease contact your family doctor or visit the nearest tropical diseases Institute to make all the necessary arrangements before coming to Ecuador.

Question 17

LITERATURE

Accepted Answer

South-American-Handbook (annually new edition).Ecuador and the Galapagos-Islands (Lonely-Planet).Ecuador & Galapagos-Handbook (Footprint).Climbing and Hiking in Ecuador (Bradt Publications).Background information.Birds of Ecuador, Crespo Greenfield & Matheus, Ecuador, 1990.

Question 18

SAFETY

Accepted Answer

Ecuador is quite a safe country to travel to. Nevertheless, you should not leave your valuables unguarded. Thefts could occur especially in places that are frequently visited by tourists, such as the historic center of Quito. It's best to carry your valuables in money-belts, which can be worn underneath your clothes. It is also recommended to join a group of other people when traveling alone.

Question 19

Where can I get more information about Responsible Travel’s sustainability actions?

Accepted Answer

For more information about our sustainability actions and programs, please contact us at mariapaula@egt.ec

Question 20

How can I send comments, complaints, or suggestions about Responsible Travel’s actions?

Accepted Answer

Any stakeholder may contact Senior Management and the Sustainability Team directly by writing to opiniones@egt.ec with their comments, complaints, or suggestions. All messages are reviewed confidentially and handled in accordance with our principles of transparency, continuous improvement, and responsible engagement with our stakeholders.

Question 21

GALAPAGOS TRAVEL PACK LIST

Accepted Answer

The most important: if you are on any treatment that requires regular intake of any medicines or allergic, please make sure you have enough of the medicines for the period of your stay. Please also consult your physician and follow his recommendations related to the trip. Do not forget the prescription copy in case the medicines require it.DocumentsCheck the set of papers to take with you: passport, travel documents, tickets, travel insurance (it is absolutely necessary to travel in Ecuador), vaccination certificates (if any).LuggageOne large backpack or one duffel bag or suitcase (max. 20 kg)One small daypack (max. 6 kg)If you use several means of transportation (aircrafts, buses, canoes etc.) during your travel in Ecuador, it is imperative to limit your luggage. Luggage not needed can be stored in your city hotel.  If going into the jungle or doing active travel, it is also better to travel with backpacks instead of suitcases.Clothing recommendations:Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended aboard the ships.Windbreaker type jacketLong pants, shortsLight sweater (nights could be colder)T-shirts,Shirts/blousesSocksUnderwear (avoid synthetics)1 Brim hatBathing suit.Sunglasses with a strap.Footgear1 pair of comfortable walking or hiking shoes or sandals1 pair of sneakers or sports footwear1 pair of thongs or TevasMedicineExtra eyeglasses/contact lenses.Sun block lotion (at least protection 8).Insect repellent.Toilet kit.Tampons or sanitary towels (available in the cities)EquipmentWe recommend bringing your own snorkel equipmentFlashlight (headlamps models are better).Alkaline batteries (available in the cities)Self-sealing plastic bags.Dry bagsReading materialSmall notebook and pencil.Cameras & Binoculars:Films and batteries can be purchased in Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal. Do not forget the chargers for your cameras. We also recommend you to have an extra memory card for your cameras with you. Water-resistant padded cases are a necessity.

Question 22

HOW TO GET TO CUYABENO

Accepted Answer

QUITO – CUYABENO – QUITO ROUTEPUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: CARCELÉN / QUITUMBE TERMINALSTransportation to Lago AgrioBus companies: Esmeraldas, Baños, Occidental and Loja.PRICE: The bus ticket costs USD 25 round trip from Quito.Buses depart at every hour during the day.Travel Time: 12 hours approximatelyRecommendations: Travel by night (departure 11pm)The buses follow the Quito-Puerto-El Carmen route, so they can drop off passengers at the bridge over the Cuyabeno River or from the terminal, it is about $3 USD in a taxi to Hotel D&#8217;mario for pick up at 9 am for your Cuyabeno program. SHARED TOURIST BUSS&S TRANSPORTES Departures:  Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and ThursdayDEPARTURE FROM BLUE HOUSE HOSTEL Direction:  Mariscal Foch y Av. Leonidas PlazaHour of departure: 23:00DEPARTURE FROM SECRET GARDEN Direction:  Quito Antepara E4-60 y Los Rios 170136Hour of departure: 23:30PRICE:  USD 30 per route and per adult and USD 25 per childThe buses follow the Quito-Cuyabeno route, time of arrival at Cuyabeno Bridge 9:00 &#8211; 10:00 AM PRIVATE TRANSPORTATIONCUYABENO LODGE1 &#8211; 3 PAX USD 180 per route4 &#8211; 7 PAX USD 300 per route7+ PAX USD 350 per route PATRICIO SOLANO // S&S TransportesPRICE:  1-3 PAX USD 220 per route FLIGHTSInternational Airport Mariscal Sucre:Route: UIO-COCA-UIOProviders: AEROREGIONAL / LATAM AEROREGIONALPrice: USD 200- 260 approximatelyEvery day at 09:30 a.m., except Sunday QUITO-COCAFLIGHTROUTEDEPARTUREARRIVALFREQUENCYSTATUS7A 841Quito-Coca09h3010h05Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday-Thrusday-Friday-SaturdayOperatingCOCA-QUITOFLIGHTROUTEDEPARTUREARRIVALFREQUENCYSTATUS7A 840Coca-Quito10h3011h05Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday-Thrusday-Friday-SaturdayOperatingLATAM Price: USD 80 approximatelyEvery day at 09:13 a.m., except Tuesday QUITO-COCAFLIGHTROUTEDEPARTUREARRIVALFREQUENCYSTATUSLa1397Quito-Coca09h1309h51Monday -Wednesday-Thrusday-Friday-Saturday-SundayOperatingCOCA-QUITOFLIGHTROUTEDEPARTUREARRIVALFREQUENCYSTATUSLA1396Coca-Quito10h3111h05Monday -Wednesday-Thrusday-Friday-Saturday-SundayOperatingQUITO TO EL COCA They sleep in El Coca.Next day transportation to Cuyabeno.Provider: CUYABENO LODGETravel time: 3 hoursPrice:1 &#8211; 3 PAX $180 per route4 &#8211; 7 PAX $140 per route7 + PAX $170 per routeQUITO TO LAGO AGRIO  They sleep in Lago AgrioTransportation to Lago AgrioProvider: CUYABENO LODGEIf they arrive in Lago Agrio on a public busTransfer to the D’Mario HotelNext dayDeparture at 9:00 a.m. to the Cuyabeno Bridge (transportation is included from this point, in case there are at least 2 passengers). Arrival at Cuyabeno Bridge at 11:00 If they arrive on a private bus or car:Pick-up at the hotel where they are staying. Return to El CocaThey will return to D’ Mario Hotel, where they can take a taxi to the Coca Airport, the cost is US$30 &#8211; $40 and the time to travel is 1 hour approximately WANDERBUS Wander Pass ExpressDepartures Monday, Tuesday, Thrusday, Friday, Saturday.Price: USD 249 per personIncluded:Departure Quito, visit Cotopaxi and Quilotoa LagoonFree day in Baños.They get off the bus in Tena.The quickest way to get from Tena to Cuyabeno is to bus via Loreto which costs $13 &#8211; $35 and takes 8-9 hours approximately RECOMMENDATION TO TRAVELCuyabeno requires to be always comfortable and light clothing. Quick-drying clothes are recommended because of the intense rains (depending on the time of year) and the transfer by river. Clothing &#8211; Cotton pants and shorts&#8211; T-shirts with sleeves&#8211; Sneakers, sandals or closed shoes and rubber boots.&#8211; Hat or cap&#8211; Raincoats and rain gear. Extras &#8211; Insect repellent&#8211; Sunscreen&#8211; Water&#8211; A first aid kit with essentials&#8211; Cameras&#8211; Binoculars&#8211; Flashlights&#8211; Portable chargers  GUAYAQUIL – CUYABENO ROUTEFLIGHTSInternational Airport Jose Joaquin de OlmedoRoute: GYE-UIO-OCC LATAM GYE-UIO-OCCPrice: USD 117-259 approximatelyFlights every day except Tuesday**If you arriving from Galapagos you will take an afternoon flight and will have to sleep in Quito and the morning take your next flight to Coca. GUAYAQUIL A QUITOFLIGHTROUTEDEPARTUREARRIVALFREQUENCYSTATUSLA1362Guayaquil-Quito06H1007H00Every DayOperatingQUITO A COCAFLIGHTROUTEDEPARTUREARRIVALFREQUENCYSTATUSLA1397Quito-Coca09h1309h51Monday -Wednesday-Thrusday-Friday-Saturday-SundayOperatingPUBLIC TRANSPORT GUAYAQUIL TERMINALTransportation to Lago AgrioBus companies: BañosPRICE: The bus ticket costs USD 24.15 per routeBuses depart 13:50 or 18:30Travel Time: 13 hours approximatelyThe buses can drop off passengers at the terminal, it is about $3 USD in a taxi to Hotel D&#8217;mario for pick up at 9 am for your Cuyabeno program.

General Destination Information