An All Inclusive Experience!
This D&D destination event is all inclusive! From the moment you embark with us to the moment we say our goodbyes - we've got you covered. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ecological and cultural adventure of a lifetime!
What's Included
What's NOT included
All meals
Hotels / Lodging
Domestic transportation
Local guides
Entrance fees
Activity fees
Tips for appropriate staff & guides
Credit card and processing fees
Covid-19 testing
Merch!
Alcoholic beverages
Snacks outside of scheduled meals
Souvenirs
Laundry service
Extra baggage fees
Traveler's insurance (recommended)
International transportation
General Logistics about the Experience
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Vegan and vegetarian diets can be accommodated! Participants will receive a form asking for information and dietary restrictions to ensure that we can provide you with the best experience!
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Some of the additional activities require you to be fit! Some of the hikes are medium to difficult. We'll be at altitude, so get ready to impress that Fitbit of yours. All hikes and excursions are optional so if you don't feel like it's right for you - enjoy your coffee by the hummingbird feeders!
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We will be travelling mainly by bus. If you are prone to motion sickness, please keep this in mind.
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You MUST be vaccinated against Covid-19 to come on this trip. Everyone who we interact with will also be vaccinated. Half of the population of Ecuador was vaccinated by September 2021 and citizens continue to vaccinate at a high rate. Some provinces achieved herd immunity (85% vaccination rate) by November, 2021.
Ecuador and Covid-19
New information will be made available as policies change in Ecuador.
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Ecuador’s National Service for Risk and Emergency Management (COE) issues mandates to keep the population safe and mitigate the risk should hospitals fill. These sanctions may close touristic attractions, limit transportation, or restrict hours of activity. Mandates can be issued and activated immediately which may affect our schedule and/or itinerary.
If there are emergency implemented sanctions, we will do our best to make sure that we still have an amazing trip! Your cooperation is much appreciated.
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These sanctions are Current as of march, 2022
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To enter Ecuador, you MUST show a vaccination card showing you have had the complete series of vaccinations with your second dose fourteen (14) days before the flight OR have a PCR or Antigen test that shows a negative Covid-19 result within 72 hours (3 days) before your scheduled flight.
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Masks are required in all buildings, public spaces, buses, cars, and taxis. You will find that most Ecuadorians are wearing a mask even if outside. You may be charged with a $100 fine if you refuse to wear your mask.
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Proof of vaccination may be required entering public places, lodges, museums, restaurants,
etc. You can be refused entry for not complying.
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Your temperature will be taken at many establishments before you enter. This is part of Ecuador’s biosecurity measures and you can be refused entry if you do not allow your temperature to be taken. Similarly, many establishments will ask you to disinfect yourself in some capacity (wash your hands, use antibacterial gel, and/or disinfect your clothing/belongings). You can be refused entry for not obliging.
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To enter private lodges, hotels, or other forms of lodging you may be required to take a rapid Covid-19 test (antigen test). Failure to comply may result in the immediate cancellation of your reservation without refund.
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Social distancing protocols are suggested and in many cases are enforced. Restaurants and hotel common areas are reduced to 30% maximum capacity and you may need to reserve a time to use common amenities like bars or pools.
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The country is slowly reopening. Some activities may be limited or partially closed due to the biosecurity measures. Exactly what measures are taken depends on what the regulations are and the status of emergency state (green, yellow, or red) of each province. Changes to the status of each city or province can happen at any time and are effective immediately.
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Ecuador has biosecurity measures in place to help keep you and everyone else safe during this unprecedented time. With your cooperation, understanding, and flexibility we’ll have a great trip!
General Advice About Ecuador
The Altitude
Quito sits at about 9,000 ft (2,800 m). It's not uncommon for you to feel more tired than usual and you might find a flight of stairs takes your breath away. This is normal - so don't worry! Just take it easy and drink a lot of water!
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other normal symptoms
• Waking up in the middle of the night
• Getting dehydrated quickly
• Tingly fingers / lips
• Headaches
• Nausea
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**Please note that alcohol may affect you differently than it normally would.
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Always communicate how you're feeling with your guide. If you need to take a breather just say so!
The Weather
While Ecuador is on the equator, only certain parts are warm! Dressing in layers is key. Always bring a jacket with you no matter how sunny it is outside! Weather can change here in an instant.
The highlands:
In the highlands, like Quito, nightly temperatures can drop below 45°F (7°C) and many hotels have neither heating nor air conditioning.
During the day, average temperatures are around 70°F (23°C) but the sun is strong! Wear sunscreen even if you normally don't. (Take it from someone who's been burned a few too many times)
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The Cloud forest:
Halfway between here and there - the cloud forest is temperate but muggy. At night it can still be cool and the humidity makes it feel colder than it is. During the day it gets up to around 80°F (27°C) and can drop to 60°F (15°C) at night.
Insects and Tropical diseases
The highlands:
The Andean Mountains in the "Sierra" region are devoid of insect vectored diseases. Right now above 7,000 ft (2,100 m) is completely safe.
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The Cloud forest:
Sitting between 4,000 - 6,000 ft (1,200 m - 1,800 m) the cloud forest is relatively safe. There have NOT been reported cases of malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya, yellow fever, or Chagas. Insect repellent (DEET is the most effective) is recommended along with long pants and long sleeves during hikes.
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Chiggers: The larval stage of mites do not carry any diseases, but having had them myself, are definitely no fun and EASILY preventable. When you get back from the field, take your clothes off and take a shower BEFORE lying in your bed.
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Mosquitoes, Midges, Black Flies, and Sand Flies: There are many biting flies to be found in the cloud forest however none of them vector diseases. Black flies and sand flies tend to bite around the ankles so rubber boots are recommended to be worn on the trails. [You will be provided with a pair of rubber boots.]
Even where it's super hot, I wear long pants and long sleeves on walks to withstand biting insects.
