As your Trip Leader, I will be coordinating all of your activities in the Galápagos Islands, so get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! You will be with me throughout your Galápagos experience.
This Ecuador and Galápagos trip has been specifically designed by Overseas Adventure Travel in order for you to have a unique travel experience in this beautiful and remote part of the world. At Overseas Adventure Travel, we seek out unusual experiences in places that are off the beaten track. So, it’s important to be prepared to leave your comfort zone in order to get a real feel for the local culture and nature.
FLEXIBILITY and a POSITIVE ATTITUDE are crucial characteristics to have during this unique journey. You never know what we’ll encounter, from AIRLINE DELAYS to unpredictable weather, as we head south towards the equator.
Below, you’ll find information regarding the OAT Philosophy, Tips for Travel, and a Recommended Packing List.
OVERSEAS ADVENTURE TRAVEL PHILOSOPHY
You will be visiting a fascinating new world, unlike the one you’re accustomed to at home. Your journey will begin with a flight south towards a destination halfway across the globe. Upon your arrival, look forward to spend some time discovering the wonders of Quito before continuing on to experience one of the most pristine ecosystems in the world, Galapagos.
The next leg of your journey begins with a two-hour flight (plus a one-hour layover in Guayaquil) which will take you to the famous and awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands, one of the highlights of our travel experience. Where I call HOME. During this portion of the trip, you will be living on a small ship and explore the wonders of the various islands. Once your time in the Galapagos has come to an end, we will fly back to the mainland of Ecuador.
We appreciate your flexibility and readiness to deal with any unexpected situations which may arise as we do our best to turn any potential negatives into positives.
At Overseas Adventure Travel, we believe that we travel in order to expand our horizons, to improve the world we all share, to improve our lives and to help others improve theirs. We think that we become better people by opening our hearts and minds, by sharing our experiences and cultures, as well as by supporting the people and local economies of the countries we visit. We certainly know that through travel, we can reach an understanding of the world that we share with others, and that this is the first step in accepting our differences and growing beyond them.
Trust me that this trip will reward you with unique and meaningful experiences, as well as the opportunity to discover a whole new world full of natural wonders. So prepare yourself, in mind and body, for this once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.
Should you need any additional information, you may reach me by email: pauli76@yahoo.com. It may take me a while to answer because in Galápagos the access to Internet is not throughout the entire archipelago.
You will be visiting a fascinating new world, unlike the one you’re accustomed to at home. Your journey will begin with a flight south towards a destination halfway across the globe. Upon your arrival, look forward to spend some time discovering the wonders of Quito before continuing on to experience one of the most pristine ecosystems in the world, Galapagos.
The next leg of your journey begins with a two-hour flight (plus a one-hour layover in Guayaquil) which will take you to the famous and awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands, one of the highlights of our travel experience. Where I call HOME. During this portion of the trip, you will be living on a small ship and explore the wonders of the various islands. Once your time in the Galapagos has come to an end, we will fly back to the mainland of Ecuador.
We appreciate your flexibility and readiness to deal with any unexpected situations which may arise as we do our best to turn any potential negatives into positives.
At Overseas Adventure Travel, we believe that we travel in order to expand our horizons, to improve the world we all share, to improve our lives and to help others improve theirs. We think that we become better people by opening our hearts and minds, by sharing our experiences and cultures, as well as by supporting the people and local economies of the countries we visit. We certainly know that through travel, we can reach an understanding of the world that we share with others, and that this is the first step in accepting our differences and growing beyond them.
Trust me that this trip will reward you with unique and meaningful experiences, as well as the opportunity to discover a whole new world full of natural wonders. So prepare yourself, in mind and body, for this once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.
Should you need any additional information, you may reach me by email: pauli76@yahoo.com. It may take me a while to answer because in Galápagos the access to Internet is not throughout the entire archipelago.
TIPS FOR TRAVEL
Before traveling, you will need to know the following information.
WEATHER:
You will experience a range of different temperatures, which can be unpredictable.
In Quito, our temperature is usually in between 56 to 78 degrees and without humidity. Our Dry Season runs from the end of June through the end of September. The rest of the year is our Rainy Season. Please note that there’s not a big difference in temperature between the two seasons.
In the Galapagos, we are just like Quito right on the Equator, so the sun is very strong. Next to that the saline environment makes getting a sunburn very easy, so prepare yourself for that. The islands are misty from June through November, this mist is called, “garua.” It tends to be very warm and humid from December to May, so be sure to dress accordingly and don’t forget your sunglasses, sun block, hat, and a rain jacket!
Before traveling, you will need to know the following information.
WEATHER:
You will experience a range of different temperatures, which can be unpredictable.
In Quito, our temperature is usually in between 56 to 78 degrees and without humidity. Our Dry Season runs from the end of June through the end of September. The rest of the year is our Rainy Season. Please note that there’s not a big difference in temperature between the two seasons.
In the Galapagos, we are just like Quito right on the Equator, so the sun is very strong. Next to that the saline environment makes getting a sunburn very easy, so prepare yourself for that. The islands are misty from June through November, this mist is called, “garua.” It tends to be very warm and humid from December to May, so be sure to dress accordingly and don’t forget your sunglasses, sun block, hat, and a rain jacket!
max. temp. | min. temp. | hrs. Clears | sea temp. | ||||
C | F | C | F | skies | C | F | |
January | 28.0 | 82.4 | 22.8 | 73.0 | 5.3 | 24.4 | 75.9 |
Februery | 29.6 | 85.2 | 23.2 | 73.7 | 7.5 | 25.2 | 77.3 |
March | 30.6 | 87.0 | 22.7 | 72.8 | 6.0 | 24.9 | 76.8 |
April | 29.5 | 85.1 | 22.7 | 72.8 | 7.5 | 25.0 | 77.0 |
May | 27.9 | 82.2 | 22.1 | 71.7 | 5.2 | 24.5 | 76.1 |
June | 26.0 | 78.8 | 19.1 | 66.3 | 4.4 | 23.1 | 73.5 |
July | 24.6 | 76.2 | 19.8 | 67.6 | 2.8 | 22.0 | 71.6 |
August | 24.2 | 75.5 | 19.1 | 66.3 | 3.3 | 21.5 | 70.7 |
September | 24.3 | 75.7 | 19.6 | 67.2 | 2.9 | 21.8 | 71.2 |
October | 25.3 | 77.5 | 19.5 | 67.1 | 3.8 | 22.3 | 72.1 |
November | 25.8 | 78.4 | 20.4 | 68.7 | 3.5 | 23.0 | 73.4 |
December | 26.7 | 80.0 | 20.9 | 69.6 | 4.0 | 23.3 | 73.9 |
CLOTHING:
In Quito, anything is fine. Just make sure to bring trousers, shorts, comfortable shoes, a rain jacket, sunglasses, and sun block.
In the Galapagos, you will have snorkeling opportunities, be sure to remember and bring your swim suit. We will only have regular snorkeling masks on board, so I highly recommend bringing your own they are small and pack well (if your a pro and don't want to have any trouble), especially if you need a prescription mask!
Galapagos walks will include terrain covered in sand, lava, boulders, and compacted volcanic ash.
Island landings will include both wet (on beaches) and dry (on lava), so you will need a good pair of shoes. Since you will not be permitted to wear the same shoes on excursions and on the boat, a pair of flip flops or sandals are also suggested.
I normally take three pairs of shoes for the Galapagos portion of the trip:
1. Footwear for wet landings (sandals, aqua shoes, Tevas)
2. Good shoes for dry landings and lava trails (tennis shoes or other closed shoes, closed Tevas)
3. Something to wear on board the boat
PLEASE also see the OAT Handbook Tips and be prepared for heavy mist, and hot or windy days!
CURRENCY:
In Ecuador, the local currency is the same as in the USA (dollars). On mainland Ecuador, credit cards are widely accepted, but in the Galapagos Islands none of our privately chartered boats accept them. So be sure to bring enough cash for your on board expenses and small change for items such as payphones, beverages or non included tips, etc.
Small bill denominations are very important! Ecuadorians love two dollar bills, so they can be a fun option to bring along.
We also suggest that you contact your bank and your credit card issuing company and inform them about your travel plans and inquire as to any specific fees that might be associated with this.
You might also want to ask them the best local bank option for ATMs. (Sometimes ATM cards don’t work very well.) Also be aware that travelers’ checks are impossible to change.
Don´t forget to get your ATM pin number.
ELECTRICITY:
The electricity in Ecuador is 110 volts.
MISCELLANEOUS:
It is suggested that you have copies of your passport, airline tickets (if not electronic tickets), and of your Travel Protection Plan.
Do not carry or wear expensive jewelry or valuables while walking around the cities we visit.
We at OAT suggest that you bring a duffle bag for luggage to take to the Galapagos. (You can leave the larger bag in Quito.)
Please be aware that there is a airport departure tax of $40.80 before you flight back to US.
If happened to have any inconveniences before arriving in Ecuador don´t hesitate contacting me via email.
Binoculars are extremely useful for spotting birds and other wildlife.
Seasickness pills or patches might be useful in the Galapagos.
For our home hosted meal, you may bring a small gift for the hosts if you would like to do so. Magnets, coffee cups, or dishes related to the area that you’re from are always very much appreciated. (Please don’t bring t-shirts.)
In Quito, anything is fine. Just make sure to bring trousers, shorts, comfortable shoes, a rain jacket, sunglasses, and sun block.
In the Galapagos, you will have snorkeling opportunities, be sure to remember and bring your swim suit. We will only have regular snorkeling masks on board, so I highly recommend bringing your own they are small and pack well (if your a pro and don't want to have any trouble), especially if you need a prescription mask!
Galapagos walks will include terrain covered in sand, lava, boulders, and compacted volcanic ash.
Island landings will include both wet (on beaches) and dry (on lava), so you will need a good pair of shoes. Since you will not be permitted to wear the same shoes on excursions and on the boat, a pair of flip flops or sandals are also suggested.
I normally take three pairs of shoes for the Galapagos portion of the trip:
1. Footwear for wet landings (sandals, aqua shoes, Tevas)
2. Good shoes for dry landings and lava trails (tennis shoes or other closed shoes, closed Tevas)
3. Something to wear on board the boat
PLEASE also see the OAT Handbook Tips and be prepared for heavy mist, and hot or windy days!
CURRENCY:
In Ecuador, the local currency is the same as in the USA (dollars). On mainland Ecuador, credit cards are widely accepted, but in the Galapagos Islands none of our privately chartered boats accept them. So be sure to bring enough cash for your on board expenses and small change for items such as payphones, beverages or non included tips, etc.
Small bill denominations are very important! Ecuadorians love two dollar bills, so they can be a fun option to bring along.
We also suggest that you contact your bank and your credit card issuing company and inform them about your travel plans and inquire as to any specific fees that might be associated with this.
You might also want to ask them the best local bank option for ATMs. (Sometimes ATM cards don’t work very well.) Also be aware that travelers’ checks are impossible to change.
Don´t forget to get your ATM pin number.
ELECTRICITY:
The electricity in Ecuador is 110 volts.
MISCELLANEOUS:
It is suggested that you have copies of your passport, airline tickets (if not electronic tickets), and of your Travel Protection Plan.
Do not carry or wear expensive jewelry or valuables while walking around the cities we visit.
We at OAT suggest that you bring a duffle bag for luggage to take to the Galapagos. (You can leave the larger bag in Quito.)
Please be aware that there is a airport departure tax of $40.80 before you flight back to US.
If happened to have any inconveniences before arriving in Ecuador don´t hesitate contacting me via email.
Binoculars are extremely useful for spotting birds and other wildlife.
Seasickness pills or patches might be useful in the Galapagos.
For our home hosted meal, you may bring a small gift for the hosts if you would like to do so. Magnets, coffee cups, or dishes related to the area that you’re from are always very much appreciated. (Please don’t bring t-shirts.)
 |
| sea lion pups play with you while snorkeling |
 |
| just hatched green sea turtle |
 |
| a just born(not yet so) giant tortoise in the breeding center |
 |
| Sierra Negra in action |
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| Kicker Rock amazing formation |
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| Lava flows are very impressive |
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| Nazca Boobie |
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| Galapagos penguins |
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| Blue footed boobies a must in Galapagos! |
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| Redbilled Tropic bird |
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| Marine Iguana another must |
Yellow tail Surgeon fish, snorkeling worth to try it !
Please consult the OAT Pre-trip Material Booklet for further information.
RECOMMENDED PACKING LIST
• MOSQUITOS REPPELENT
• RAINCOAT OR LIGHT WIND BREAKER
• BATHING SUIT
• SHORTS
• LIGHT TROUSERS
• LONG SLEEVES T-SHIRTS
• T-SHIRTS
• FLASHLIGHT OR HEAD LAMP
• SANDALS / TEVAS
• TENIS SHOES
• SUNGLASES
• CAPS / HATS
• SUN LOTION No 30+
• DARK CLOTHING FOR ACTIVITIES IN THE RAIN FOREST
• BINOCULARS
• FLEECE
• OPTIONAL GIFTS FOR SCHOOL
• GIFTS FOR HOME HOSTED LUNCH
• KNEE-HIGH SOCKS
I’ll see you in Ecuador where our real Travel Experience begins! Hope you have a great flight!
My best wishes,
Paulina AguirreTrip Leader
Overseas Adventure Travel
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