FAQs

• A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.

• Flexibility is key when you’re travelling in Ecuador. The itinerary will give you a good idea of what your trip is gonna look like. But routes, schedules, hotels & modes of transportation may be subject to change without prior notice because of local circumstances or events beyond Contiki’s control. 

• Parts of this trip go above 2800 metres (9200 feet) where it's common for some travellers to experience shortness of breath, nausea or light-headedness. While it's usually not severe in most cases, it’s always best to be prepared. That’s why we recommend that you carry your own medication and read a trusted health advisory for tips on how to combat altitude sickness. Plus, your Trip Managers will give you loads of helpful advice and before and during the trip.

• You’ll need to bring USD cash with you, as it’s the only way to pay for the Free Time Add-Ons on this trip. You’ll receive the cost of each option in your Welcome Email. Plus, we recommend you bring Visa and/or Master Card (American Express or Discover cards aren’t widely accepted). 

• It really depends on where you’re travelling to. Ecuador has lots of ATMs (just be wary of those sneaky fees). While in more rural places, you’re better off carrying cash.  

• You’ll usually receive a 10% service charge on your restaurant bill. But tipping isn’t a requirement. Either way, if you’re pleased with your service, a tip will always be appreciated! We recommend tipping 12% of the total bill. 

• You can bring 1 hand luggage + 1 suitcase or backpack per person.

  The maximum suitcase size is 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”) & weight of 20kg (44lbs). Remember to keep it light as you'll have to carry and lift your own luggage at times and even walk short distances with it. 

• The weather can be quite unpredictable, so it's important to pack appropriately. Please bring these items with you: 

  - Comfortable walking shoes with good traction 
  - Teva-style sandals (thongs or flip-flop sandals are not suitable for hikes) 
  - Swimming (bathing) suit & towel 
  - Light to medium fleece jacket 
  - Gore-Tex (or similar) rain jacket 
  - Shorts, T-shirts, Long pants, Long-sleeve shirt, Hat or cap 
  - Sunglasses (preferably polarised) 
  - Socks (athletic style socks for walking & hiking) 
  - First aid & medication - aloe vera gel, sunblock or sunscreen of the highest SPF possible, insect repellent, hand sanitiser or gel, moisturising cream, pain relief (e.g. aspirin etc for headaches or muscle pain) motion sickness medication 
  - Reusable water bottle 
  - Plastic Ziplock bags (to protect valuables from drizzle, rain etc) 

• Drinking tap water isn’t recommend. So, please stick to bottled water (even when brushing your teeth). There will be plenty of opportunities to purchase bottled water during the trip. 

• Ecuador’s climate is tropical but varies by altitude and region. Quito has a subtropical highland climate, with daytime temps around 70°F (21°C) and nights dropping to 50°F (10°C). It has a dry season (June - September) and a wet season (October - May). 

  The rainforest stays warm year-round at 84°F (29°C). Coastal areas, influenced by ocean currents, are hot and rainy from January to April.

• Please check the latest travel info from the Centre for Diseases Control and Prevention if you're travelling to Ecuador. We also recommend that you consult your local health clinic or doctor for more details.

• A passport is needed to enter Ecuador for all passengers unless they are residents or citizens of Ecuador. 

• Your Trip Manager brings the group together with all the info, fun facts and food recommendations you'll ever need. Plus, they’ll ensure everything runs smoothly and address any issues. They’ll be there with you throughout the trip and will be your go-to person if you need anything. They’ll also fill you in on the cultural and historical context of the places you visit with some informal talks when relevant.