Quito to Lima: Surf Towns & Hot Springs - 15 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the target age group for this tour?

  This tour is designed for '18-to-Thirtysomethings', catering to travelers typically between 18 and 39 years old.

• What is the physical activity level required for this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 2 (out of 5), which indicates a moderate level of activity. Travelers should be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum.

• What types of accommodation are provided on this tour?

  Accommodation includes simple hotels (8 nights, some multi-share), overnight buses (3 nights), rustic jungle huts (2 nights), and a G Adventures-supported community lodge (1 night). Some nights involve multi-share rooms with 4-6 group members of the same sex and shared bathroom facilities.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, the tour includes 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners. For other meals, flexibility is provided to choose where, what, and with whom to eat, with suggestions from your CEO.

• Will there be a guide accompanying the group?

  Yes, a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will accompany the group throughout the tour, providing information and recommendations. Additionally, local guides are used where specific knowledge enhances the experience.

• Which countries will this tour visit and what are some of the key experiences?

  This tour explores Ecuador and Peru. Key experiences include discovering the Andes, Amazon, and Pacific coast, spending time in a jungle community, enjoying beach time in Mancora, exploring colonial streets in cities like Cuenca, and engaging in optional activities such as mountain biking, rafting, and surfing.

• What currencies are used in Ecuador and Peru, and what is recommended for spending money?

  The currency in Ecuador is the US Dollar (USD), and in Peru, it is the Nuevo Sol (PEN). It is recommended to carry a combination of US dollar cash and credit/debit cards, as card acceptance can vary. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 is also suggested.

• Is tipping customary on this tour?

  Yes, tipping service providers like waiters (approximately 10%) and local guides/drivers ($5-10 USD per day) is customary in Latin America and is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program.

• Are there any important notes or potential challenges I should be aware of?

  Travelers should be aware that hot water shortages and power outages can be common in Peru. The Tungurahua volcano in the Baños area is constantly active, and travel there is at your own risk. Additionally, protocols in Peru may require proof of double COVID-19 vaccination for domestic flights, trains, and entry into certain venues.

• How does accommodation work for solo travelers?

  Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, as our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement.

• What is the age range for this tour?

  This tour is designed for travelers between 18 and 39 years old.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 18 travelers, with an average of 14.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  Accommodation will be varied, including simple hotels (8 nights, some multi-share), rustic jungle huts (2 nights), a G Adventures-supported community lodge (1 night), and 3 nights on overnight buses. Some accommodation will be multi-share with 4-6 group members of the same sex, and most will have shared bathroom facilities. Hot water shortages and power outages can be common in Peru.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners. Generally, meals are not included when there is a choice of eating options to provide flexibility.

• What kind of physical rating does this tour have?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2, indicating an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers must be able to walk unaided, climb stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include mingling with Amazon locals during a homestay, engaging in active pursuits in Baños, exploring towering volcanoes and colonial cities, relaxing on the beach or surfing in Mancora, and experiencing the nightlife in Trujillo.

• What kind of transportation is used on the tour?

  Transportation on the tour includes local buses, boats, trucks, and motorized canoes, in addition to overnight buses.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of medical coverage, with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage.

• Are there extra costs for solo travelers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• What currency should I use in Peru and Ecuador, and how should I handle money?

  The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (PEN), and in Ecuador, it is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are useful for cash advances, with Visa being widely accepted. However, there's no guarantee cards will work everywhere, so a combination of US dollar cash and cards is recommended. Traveler's cheques are not recommended. Bring notes in good condition and denominations lower than 100USD for easier exchange.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include a Quito City Tour & Equator Line, Cotopaxi Volcano tour, Guided Waterfall Walk and AmaZOOnico Animal Rescue Centre visit in Tena, various adventure sports in Baños (horseback riding, canyoning, mountain biking, rafting, hot springs, ziplining), Cajas National Park visit, day trips to Ingapirca Ruins, Cuenca Mud Baths & Hot Springs, or Gualaceo and Chordeleg in Cuenca, surfing in Mancora, Chan Chan Ruins visit in Trujillo, and Lima Cooking Class, Full Day Lima Experience, Bike Miraflores and Barranco, or a Lima City Tour.

• What health considerations should I be aware of for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required, so consult your travel doctor. Carry a first aid kit and personal medical requirements. The trip travels to high altitude (over 8,000 feet / 2,440 meters), and everyone reacts differently to altitude. Consult your physician for preparation. The Tungurahua volcano near Baños is constantly active, and travel to this area is at your own risk.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the tour, who will provide information, suggestions, and recommendations. Local guides are also used for specific knowledge in certain areas.

• Are there any important safety notes for this trip?

  We recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home and use hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety reasons. Be cautious when wandering alone in central Lima at night and use taxis. Avoid areas where protests or demonstrations are gathering, as they can turn violent. Water-based activities are at your own risk unless accompanied by a guide.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. You may also need to do your own laundry, so bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation is varied, including simple hotels (8 nights, some multi-share with 4-6 same-sex guests), rustic jungle huts (2 nights), and a G Adventures-supported community lodge (1 night). There are also 3 nights spent on overnight buses. Most accommodations will have shared bathroom facilities, and hot water shortages or power outages can be common in Peru.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners. Generally, other meals are not included to offer flexibility, but groups often eat together, and your CEO can suggest local restaurants.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 18 travelers, with an average of 14.

• Is there an age restriction for this trip?

  Yes, the minimum age to join this trip is 18 years. The tour is designed for 18-to-Thirtysomethings, with a maximum age of 39.

• Are international and local flights included in the tour cost?

  International flights are generally not included. All local flights within the itinerary are included unless otherwise noted; passport information is required at booking for these.

• What transportation methods are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes local bus, boat, truck, and motorized canoe.

• What are the health and physical fitness requirements for this tour?

  An average level of fitness and mobility is required, including being able to walk unaided, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry your own luggage. The trip also travels to high altitudes (over 8,000 feet/2,440 meters), and it's recommended to consult your physician for preparation. Inoculations may be required, and a medical questionnaire is needed for pre-existing conditions.

• What are the currency and money exchange details for Peru and Ecuador?

  The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol (PEN), and in Ecuador, it is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards (Visa is widely accepted) are useful for cash advances, though ATM functionality cannot be guaranteed. A combination of US dollar cash (in denominations lower than $100) and cards is recommended. A 5-10% fee usually applies for credit card purchases. Traveller's cheques are not recommended.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and luggage loss coverage are strongly recommended. Proof of insurance will be required by your CEO.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  A wide range of optional activities is available, including a Quito City Tour & Equator Line, Cotopaxi Volcano tours, Guided Waterfall Walks and animal rescue center visits in Tena, horseback riding, canyoning, mountain biking, rafting, and hot springs in Baños, Cajas National Park visits, day trips to Ingapirca Ruins and Cuenca Mud Baths & Hot Springs, surfing in Máncora, Chan Chan Ruins visits in Trujillo, and various city tours or a cooking class in Lima. Costs vary for these activities.

• What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and local guides?

  A CEO (Chief Experience Officer) accompanies the group throughout the trip, handling logistics, providing information on places, suggesting activities and restaurants, and introducing local friends. Local guides are also used for more specific knowledge where beneficial.

• What should I know about safety and security on this trip?

  It's recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is suggested. Your CEO can amend or cancel parts of the itinerary for safety reasons. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities. In cities, it's advisable to stay in small groups and use taxis at night. Avoid protest areas. For water-based activities, participation with a guide is recommended, and swimming is at your own risk. Specific caution is advised in central Lima due to pickpockets.

• Are there any specific notes about the itinerary, such as airport closures or road conditions?

  Yes, the Quito international airport (UIO) will have closures for maintenance on specific dates in 2026, which may affect flight schedules. Current landslides can also cause road closures, potentially leading to longer drive times between cities. Bus schedules may also cause changes, for example, the overnight bus on day 8 may be replaced by a hotel night in Cuenca and a day bus to Mancora on day 9.

• What is Planeterra and how does it relate to this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by supporting community-owned businesses. G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor. The tour includes a stay at a G Adventures-supported community lodge in Shandia, providing a 'G for Good Moment'.

• What are the rules regarding illegal drugs and exploitation of prostitutes on the trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and contravene local laws, risking the group. Exploitation of prostitutes is also against the tour's philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found violating these rules.

• How much should I budget for tipping on this tour?

  Tipping service providers such as waiters (approximately 10%) is customary in Latin America. For drivers and local guides, a recommendation of $5-10 USD per day is suggested, with your CEO providing specific guidance based on local customs.

• What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

  Single travelers are not required to pay a single supplement on group trips, as they are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

• Are there any specific considerations for LGBTQ+ travelers?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their dedicated LGBTQ+ page for useful resources, such as the Equaldex tool, to help with travel considerations.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. It is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap as there may be times you need to do your own laundry.

• What is the main focus of this tour?

  This tour focuses on discovering the best of Ecuador and Peru, exploring the Andes, Amazon, and Pacific coast. It includes opportunities to hit the beach, walk colonial streets, experience an Amazon jungle community, and participate in exciting optional excursions like mountain biking, rafting, and surfing.

• What is the age range for participants on this tour?

  This tour is specifically designed for travelers between 18 and 39 years old.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 18 travelers, with an average of 14.

• What types of accommodation are provided on this tour?

  Accommodation includes simple hotels (8 nights, some multi-share), overnight buses (3 nights), rustic jungle huts (2 nights), and a G Adventures-supported community lodge (1 night). Multi-share rooms may involve 4-6 group members of the same sex, and most accommodations have shared bathroom facilities. Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be common in Peru.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  Six breakfasts, three lunches, and three dinners are included in the tour price.

• What key experiences are included in this tour?

  Included experiences are a G for Good Moment at Shandia Community Lodge and a Shandia Biking & Community Experience, an Amazon Jungle excursion to a local community for a Local Living Moment, beach time in Mancora, a Discover Moment in Baños, a Barranco neighborhood visit in Lima, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• What optional activities are available during the trip?

  Optional activities vary by location and include a Quito City Tour & Equator Line, Cotopaxi Volcano tour, Guided Waterfall Walk and AmaZOOnico Animal Rescue Centre Visit in Tena, various activities in Baños (mountain biking, horseback riding, hot springs, hiking, ziplining, canyoning), Cajas National Park visit, day trips from Cuenca (Ingapirca Ruins, Mud Baths & Hot Springs, Gualaceo and Chordeleg), surfing in Máncora, Chan Chan Ruins Visit in Trujillo, and various tours and classes in Lima (cooking class, full-day experience, bike tours, city tour).

• Who leads the tour group?

  The tour is led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout the trip, accompanied by local guides in specific areas.

• What currencies are used, and what payment methods are recommended?

  The currency in Ecuador is the US Dollar (USD) and in Peru it is the Nuevo Sol (PEN). Credit cards and debit cards, especially Visa, are useful for cash advances, though their functionality can vary. It's best to bring a combination of US dollar cash and cards, preferably in denominations lower than 100USD and in good condition. Travelers cheques are not recommended.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory and must include a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Proof of insurance will be required by your CEO.

• Are there any health concerns or special preparations needed due to altitude?

  This adventure travels to high altitude (over 8,000 feet/2,440 meters). Everyone reacts to altitude differently, and altitude sickness can occur regardless of fitness or age. It's recommended to consult your physician for advice on how to best prepare. Inoculations may also be required, and carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes is advised.

• What should I know about safety and security during the trip?

  It's strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and to store them in hotel safety deposit boxes. While cities are generally safe during the day, caution is advised in central Lima at night, and it's best to stay in small groups and take taxis. Avoid protests and demonstrations. Your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel parts of the itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  It's recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used for unforeseen circumstances outside of the tour operator's control.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You should contact your GCO or booking agent for specific details, as some combo tours may include them.

• Are local flights included in the tour price?

  Yes, all local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that G Adventures has your passport information at the time of booking to process these tickets.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. If you plan to do your own laundry, it is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• Is tipping customary on this tour?

  Yes, tipping service providers such as waiters (approximately 10%) is customary in Latin America. Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day, and your CEO can offer specific recommendations.