Solo-ish Ecuador & Galapagos - 15 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the minimum and maximum age for participants on this tour?

  The minimum age for participants is 18 years old, and the maximum age is 100 years old.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 14.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation includes 12 nights in hotels on a twin-share basis and 2 nights in an Amazon Jungle Lodge. It is possible to purchase your own room for hotel stays.

• Can I get my own room if I am traveling solo?

  Yes, if you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation if they don't opt for a private room?

  Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, with no single supplement cost unless you specifically purchase the 'My Own Room' option.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 14 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 4 dinners.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes private vehicles, motorboats, bicycles, walking, and ferries.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• Are local flights within Ecuador and to/from the Galapagos included in the tour price?

  Yes, all local flights are included in the cost of your tour. Passport information is required at the time of booking to process these tickets.

• What are the baggage allowances for domestic flights to/from the Galapagos?

  The baggage allowance is a maximum of one piece of luggage per person weighing up to 23 kilograms (50 pounds), plus one carry-on piece weighing a maximum of 10 kilograms (22 pounds).

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this tour?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate. Evidence must be sighted by your leader, who will note your insurance details.

• What are the minimum requirements for travel insurance coverage?

  At a minimum, you must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

• What currency is used in Ecuador and the Galapagos, and what should I know about money exchange?

  The currency used is the US Dollar. Credit and debit cards are useful for cash advances, with Visa being widely accepted. ATMs are available, but it's best to have a combination of US dollar cash and cards. Bring USD banknotes in denominations smaller than 100, as larger bills (especially certain series) can be hard to exchange. Torn, heavily marked, or faded notes may also be difficult to exchange.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3 out of 5, indicating a moderate level of activity.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  The group will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the tour, along with a Naturalist Guide (certified by the Galápagos National Park Authority) while in the Galápagos Islands, and a local representative in Quito.

• Are there any optional activities available, and what are some examples?

  Yes, there are several optional activities. Examples include hot springs, horseback riding, hiking, canyoning, and whitewater rafting in Baños. In Isabela Island, you can opt for Los Tuneles snorkeling or a hike to the sulfur mines. Other options include snorkeling at Isla Lobos or Kicker Rock.

• What are the Galapagos Islands Park entry fees and transit control card fees?

  The Galapagos Islands Park entry fee is $200 USD per person (or $100 USD for children under 12), payable in CASH at the airport upon arrival in the park. Additionally, a Transit Control Card costs $20 USD per person, also payable in CASH at the Quito airport before boarding the flight to the Galapagos.

• Are there any specific health considerations for this trip, especially regarding altitude?

  Yes, the adventure travels to high altitude areas like Quito and the highlands (over 8,000 feet/2,440 meters). While most people have minimal effects, reactions to altitude vary, and altitude sickness can occur regardless of fitness or age. It is recommended to consult your physician for advice on preparation.

• What is Planeterra and how does this tour support local communities?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit committed to helping local communities earn income from tourism. This tour includes 'G for Good Moments' like the Shandia Biking & Community Experience, Shandia Community Lodge stay, and Floreana Community Restaurants, all of which directly support local indigenous people and sustainable practices.

• What should I know about traveling near the Tungurahua volcano?

  The Tungurahua volcano in the Baños area is constantly active. While the tour operator has operated countless tours without incident, travel to the area is at your own risk. Guests are urged to exercise caution and check their insurance coverage prior to travel to the Baños area.

• Are there any notes regarding airport closures in Quito?

  Please note that the Quito international airport (UIO, Mariscal Sucre) may have scheduled closures in 2026 for preventative maintenance. Passengers flying in or out on these dates should double-check flight schedules with their airline, as internal flights may be adjusted accordingly.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

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

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  This trip features an Ecuadorian cooking experience in Quito, standing on the equator at the Intiñan Museum, hiking in Cotopaxi National Park, a G for Good Shandia Biking experience in the Amazon, a Galapagos waterfront dining experience with ceviche, snorkeling at Garrapatero Beach, and observing Whitetip reef sharks at Las Tintoreras.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation includes Hotels for 12 nights on a twinshare basis and an Amazon Jungle Lodge for 2 nights. A 'My Own Room' option is available for single travellers who prefer their own room.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travellers are not required to pay more as group trips are designed for shared accommodation. Single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What types of transportation are used during the trip?

  Transportation includes private vehicles, motorboats, bicycles, walking, and ferries.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 14 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 4 dinners.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travellers, with an average group size of 14.

• What currency should I bring and how should I handle money exchange?

  The local currency is the US Dollar. Credit and debit cards (Visa widely accepted) are useful for cash advances, though some ATMs may not accept all international cards. It's best to bring a combination of USD cash and cards. Avoid relying solely on cards as a 5-10% fee may apply for credit card purchases. Bring USD banknotes in denominations smaller than 100, as larger or torn/marked bills can be difficult to exchange.

• What emergency funds should I have access to?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Are there any specific health considerations for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required, so consult your travel doctor. The adventure travels to high altitudes in Quito and the highlands (over 8,000 feet/2,440 meters). While most adapt, everyone reacts differently to altitude, so consult your physician for preparation advice.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all local flights are included. Passport information is required at the time of booking to process these tickets. Baggage allowance for domestic flights to/from the Galapagos is one piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs) and one carry-on up to 10 kg (22 lbs).

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour, unless specifically noted for some combo tours. You should check with your airline for baggage allowances and check-in procedures.

• What are the Galapagos Islands Park entry fee and Transit Control Card fees?

  The Galapagos Islands Park entry fee is $200 USD per person ($100 USD for children under 12) and must be paid in CASH at the airport upon arrival in the park. Additionally, a Transit Control Card costs $20 USD per person, also payable in CASH at a counter in Quito airport before boarding the flight to the Galapagos. These fees are not included in the tour cost.

• Who will be leading the group?

  The trip is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the tour, a Naturalist Guide while in the Galápagos Islands (certified by the Galápagos National Park Authority), and a local representative in Quito.

• What optional activities are available on this trip and their estimated costs?

  Optional activities include: Baños (Hot Springs: $4 USD, Horseback Riding: $25 USD, Whitewater Rafting: $30 USD, Hiking: Free, Canyoning Adventure, Visit Casa del Arbol, Pailon del Diablo Waterfall Visit), Isabela Island (Los Tuneles Snorkelling: $140-150 USD, Hike to the Sulfur Mines, Flamingo Lagoon Visit), Isla Lobos (Snorkelling: $90-110 USD), and Kicker Rock (Snorkelling: $140-160 USD).

• What should I know about travelling to Baños and the Tungurahua volcano?

  The Tungurahua volcano in the Baños area is constantly active. While the tour operator has operated many tours without incident, travel to the area is at your own risk. It is advised to exercise caution and check your insurance coverage prior to travel to the Baños area.

• What important notes should I be aware of regarding itinerary changes and required booking information?

  The itinerary is subject to changes based on Galapagos National Park regulations or seasonal points of interest. The tour operator requires your passport number, full name, and date of birth at the time of booking. You should also provide international flight details and advise of any allergies or special diets after booking confirmation.