Overview
Key facts
- Duration:13 nights
- Suitable for: Children aged 6 years and over (younger children may join the holiday, but may not be able to participate in all the activities). Please see terms for details
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What's included?
- Flights: Internal return flights from Quito to the Galápagos Islands and one inter-island flight is included
- Transfers: Group airport and activity transfers (private airport transfers may incur a supplement), as well as inter-island ferry transfer, are included
- Accommodation: 13 nights accommodation (3 nights Ibis Quito, 1-night Hacienda El Porvenir (Tierra del Volcán), 1-night Hacienda Leito, 2 nights Huasquila Jungle Lodge, 2 nights Casa Opuntia, 2 nights Iguana Crossing, 2 nights Angermeyer Waterfront Inn)
- Meals: 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 9 dinners
- The following activities are included: Páramo hiking and mountain biking through Cotopaxi National Park, Hacienda horseback experience, Patate River Gorge cycling, mountain biking at Tungurahua Volcano, visit a Kichwa indigenous community, white-water rafting in the Amazon Basin, Papallacta Hot Springs visit, Galápagos Interpretation Centre, hike to Tijeretas and snorkelling at Carola Beach, sea kayaking, snorkelling and Kicker Rock visit, Wall of Tears mountain biking and Tintoreras Islets visit, Sierra Negra Volcano hike, hiking with giant tortoises and lava tunnel visit on Santa Cruz, sea kayaking and Tortuga Bay, Charles Darwin Research Station visit (order subject to change)
- All equipment, tuition and supervision from fully qualified instructors
- Ingala Transit Control Card and Galápagos entrance fee
- Services of our representatives or local guides
NOTICE: THIS TRIP IS OFF SALE DUE TO THE CURRENT STATE OF EMERGENCY IN ECUADOR.
Updated 10 January 2024
Ecuador is one of the smallest countries in South America but it has more than its fair share of the continent’s diverse wonders. From the dramatic Andes and the Amazon Rainforest to the wealth of history in its fascinating indigenous cultures and Inca remains, Ecuador is a remarkable land of contrasts with so much to offer adventurous families.
We have included all the activities in the holiday price to help you and your family appreciate these natural surroundings in a thrilling way. Get mountain biking down volcanoes, explore the lush cloud forest, ride on horseback through the Cotopaxi National Park, and white-water raft through the Amazon Rainforest. There will also be time to explore the capital of Quito with its colonial buildings and bustling markets.
The family activity itinerary then moves you to the incomparable Galápagos Islands. The world-famous wildlife and award-winning national parks need little introduction, surpassing all expectations.
You will spend six nights on the islands, in specially designed eco-friendly hotels, experiencing a range of activities including snorkelling, mountain biking, and hiking amongst the area’s stunning land and marine wildlife.
This adventure to an extraordinary part of the world is sure to create holiday memories your family will cherish forever.
Image credits: Totypix, Neotropic Expeditions
Agenda
Agenda
Show full agenda-
Day 1 Arrival and Transfer
Today your thrilling family adventure begins! Upon arrival at Quito Airport, a guide will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. On the way, they will provide you with an introduction to this remarkable city, which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Included Meals: None -
Day 2 Hike and Mountain Bike at Cotopaxi National Park
This morning, you will journey south from Quito along the Pan-American Highway through the famed “Avenue of Volcanoes.” Upon arrival at Cotopaxi National Park, you will head off into the surrounding páramo for a scenic hike. ‘Páramo’ is elevated, level ground with alpine vegetation, providing outstanding vistas of the surrounding natural beauty. Your short hike will take you around Limpiopungo Glacier Lake providing an opportunity to observe the wealth of highland waterfowl and a chance to learn about the park’s highland ecosystem.
Your adventure will continue on mountain bikes as you set off from the base of Volcan Rumiñahi, across the high plain and around to the south side of Cotopaxi, then on to the Pucara Inca ruins. Here, you will explore the ruins and learn more about the western hemisphere’s most powerful ancient civilization and their history in Ecuador. You will take a well-deserved break for a scenic picnic beside the stunning volcano before travelling to the hacienda where we will spend the night.
Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner -
Day 3 Horseback Riding at Hacienda & Explore Andean Forest
Following breakfast, your guide will deliver a safety briefing before you embark upon a charming Hacienda horseback experience towards the western cordillera bound. Here, you will have the chance to observe chacras (small farmlands), adobe houses and livestock such as sheep and llamas. You will learn more about the tradition and customs of the Chagras (Andean cowboys) whose skill on horseback and knowledge of the Ecuadorian outback are legendary. The indigenous way of life, the occasional view of volcanoes Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, Illiniza, Chimborazo and Altar will accompany you throughout this journey in the spectacular trails that cross hills, ravines and dirt roads.
Your journey will continue on a drive up to the Leito Valley where you can appreciate breath-taking views of the Tungurahua Volcano and the Patate River. In the afternoon, you will bike ride along Patate River gorge which boasts beautiful landscapes and quaint towns before reaching the cosy Andean Hacienda. This evening, you will have time to relax and enjoy a delicious dinner.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 4 Biking to the Amazon and a Visit to the Famous Waterfall Route
This morning, your guide will drive you to the edge of Llanganates National Park, gaining altitude until you reach an area with one of the best views of the – often fuming – Tungurahua Volcano. Here, you will set off on mountain bikes for a picturesque ride through highland paramo. Notice how the landscape gradually melts into mountain cloud forest, and then lowland rainforest. You will pass through a dry basaltic gorge; a superb spot to look for wild orchids. You will continue riding along the Pastaza River Gorge, one of the principal waterways that feed into the Amazon Basin. There will be plenty of opportunities to admire the dramatic scenery from deep cloud forest canyons to remarkable waterfalls such as Pailón Del Diablo (Devil’s Cauldron) and Manto de la Novia (Bride’s Veil.)
Afterwards, you will travel along the Amazon highway to the Huasquilla Amazon Eco Lodge and if time allows, you will visit a Kichwa indigenous community. Here, you will discover their way of life, culture, traditions, and customs of the Amazon. At the end of the day, you will have the chance to settle into your jungle lodge ready for a peaceful evening surrounded by rainforest sounds.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 5 Jungle Rafting on the Jatunyacu River
After a delicious breakfast in the lodge, you will drive to Llanganates National Park, which extends from the high Andes down into the Amazon basin and is part of an area declared a Biosphere Zone by the United Nations. The water that collects in this area forms the Jatunyacu River, which is considered Ecuador’s best one-day river run. These crystal-clear waters provide big waves and lots of fun but there are also quieter stretches where you can catch glimpses of the local communities and wildlife that live on the shore. The day will begin with a walk in the jungle to reach naturally formed swimming pools.
Upon your return and after a safety briefing, your whitewater rafting adventure begins. A trip down the Jatunyacu River offers spectacular jungle scenery, crystal-clear water, and glimpses into indigenous communities that live along the shores in small bamboo and wood houses. The group will navigate the Jatunyacu, whose waters carry you through breathtaking landscapes with abundant bird life.
In the evening, there will be times to relax and explore the rainforest surrounding the Huasquila Jungle Lodge if you wish.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 6 Papallacta Hotsprings and transfer to Quito
After breakfast, you will be driven back up into the Andes, climbing from 1,500 to 10,000 feet (500 to 3,000 meters) in altitude and passing through a national park and nature reserve until you reach the Papallacta Hot springs Resort and Spa. Indulge in the dreamy therapeutic waters and world class spa overlooking a small village, high in the lush cloud forest and surrounded by verdant mountain slopes, hummingbirds, and tropical flowers.
After lunch, you will complete the journey to Quito, with the afternoon and evening free to make the most of the city.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
Day 7 Interpretation Center, Hike and Snorkel Tijeretas
Today your Galápagos Islands adventure begins as you take a short flight after breakfast, transferring from Quito to the beautiful island of San Cristóbal. Following lunch and a quick introduction, you will commence your journey at the fascinating ‘Galápagos Interpretation Centre’ to learn about the unique wildlife, geology, history, and social dynamics of the archipelago.
After your visit, you will hike to Tijeretas along natural trails formed of lava rocks which offer scenic views over the rugged coastline and potential encounters with the famous frigate birds which live here along with gulls, herons and pelicans. The path is surrounded by native plants like Galápagos cotton, palo santo, acacia, and cacti.
Cool off from your hike with a refreshing snorkeling session at postcard-worthy Carola Beach, which is home to a remarkable array of sea creatures including basking sea lions, turtles, colourful crabs and shoals of tropical fish.
This evening, we would recommend heading to the boardwalk close by to greet the neighboring colony of Galápagos sea lions that have made a home there.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
Day 8 Kayak And Snorkel in San Cristobal’s Northern Coast
Wake up to another day in paradise and prepare for another day of ticking off bucket-list dreams. The morning will be filled with a kayaking expedition exploring some of the most beautiful routes along the coastal bays and coves of San Cristobal’s north coast. Keep a lookout for blue footed boobies, frigate birds, sea lions, and sea turtles. You will visit the impressive rock formations at Leon Dormido, also known as Kicker Rock, where you might see spotted eagle rays, golden rays, hammerheads, and white-tipped sharks.
After lunch, you will spend the afternoon snorkelling in a bay popular with turtles and marine iguanas – just magical! You will swim with spotted eagle rays, golden rays, Galápagos sharks, starfish, clams, and fish of every shape, size, and color. With luck, you might even see some menacing but harmless hammerhead sharks! After a full day spent exploring the seas, you will head back to town for a delicious dinner and a well-earned rest.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 9 Bike the Coastline and Explore Tintoreras Islets
After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to San Cristobal and take a light aircraft across to Isabela Island, the largest island of the Galápagos Archipelago. Isabela is one of the most volcanically active spots on the planet and is still being formed by six active shield volcanoes. Upon arrival, you will embark on a mountain bike ride with a specialist guide who will lead you through the inland trails to the Wall of Tears: a link back to the days when the island was a penal colony. Prisoners built this wall to give themselves a purpose and distract themselves from the madness of isolation – an impressive construction with a tragic history. The cycling route is varied and passes white sand beaches, lava features, and mangroves. You may even bump into a giant tortoise or flamingo as they cross your path!
After lunch, you will explore the beautiful Tintoreras Islets, home to the recognisable Galápagos Penguin. After that, it will be time to unwind at the Iguana Crossing Hotel and its outdoor Jacuzzi with panoramic views of the sea and volcano. Dinner will be served in the on-site restaurant where you can expect a gourmet menu of regional specialities. The hotel prides itself on their impressive grill carved out of lava stone. Here, the chef creates delicacies accompanied by organic vegetables grown and harvested in their own hacienda in the highlands.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 10 Hiking in Isabela’s Highlands
Following breakfast, you will be driven up the flanks to one of the most enchanting spots on the islands. The active Sierra Negra Volcano has dramatic landscapes of spectacular lava formations and puffing fumaroles. It is the second largest active caldera on the planet, over six miles at its widest point. Reaching the rim of the gigantic caldera is incredibly rewarding. If you’re feeling energetic, it will be possible to hike further to the Chico Volcano caldera, an otherworldly landscape of vibrant hues created by sulfur deposits.
Returning from the volcano, you will stop at an idyllic tortoise reserve for lunch. This afternoon you are free to relax - we highly recommend relaxing on the perfect beaches and soaking up the island-life atmosphere. Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 11 Hike The Santa Cruz Highlands
Wake up with the sea breeze as you travel by speedboat or internal flight to Santa Cruz Island. Whales and dolphins are commonly seen on this crossing so be sure to keep an eye out for these impressive sea mammals.
Docking at the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn, you will drop off your bags before being taken to the island’s highlands to walk alongside its famous giant tortoises in its natural habitat. It is truly an honour to walk in the stately presence of these gentle giants, who can live to be over 175 years old. You will then explore some of the island’s wonderful lava tunnels which were historically used by pirates to allegedly hide their plundered Incan gold stolen from Spanish ships. A hike will also be made to two immense sinkholes known as ‘Los Gemelos’, or ‘The Twins’. Your path will lead you through a forest of endemic Scalesia trees, where you will be on the lookout for the elusive short-eared owl. The trees are covered with ferns and epiphytes, and lend the forest a quiet, eerie feel.
Towards the end of the afternoon, you will head back to the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn. Enjoy dinner here and look out over the beautiful bay.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 12 Kayak in Lava Wall Channels and Hike to Tortuga Bay
This morning you will use sea kayaks again to explore a very different coastline as you explore the unique landscape of Punta Estrada and Divine Bay. Following breakfast, you will paddle across turquoise waters and through dramatic lava caves. Below the surface, you might see rays and white-tipped reef sharks swimming around whilst. Keep a look out for the crabs, iguanas and birds which perch along the cliffs.
Lunch leads into a hike through a distinctively dry forest to the picturesque Tortuga Bay - one of the most beautiful locations in the Galápagos Islands. Here you and your family can enjoy the idyllic white sandy beaches, pristine waters and picture-perfect views of the ocean. What a way to end your time on the islands!
If time allows, you will stop for a visit at the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn from local scientists about the ongoing conservation efforts on these enchanted islands. The Research Station rears endemic plants, land iguanas, and giant tortoises for educational, scientific, and conservation purposes. Here, you can discover more about the diverse evolutionary paths and characteristics of the animals and plants that you have encountered during your trip.
A final Galápagos dinner will be had at the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 13 Transfer to Baltra’s Airport
Today, you will transfer to Baltra Island for our return flight to the mainland and bid a fond farewell to the Galapagos. You will have a free afternoon in the capital and overnight at Hotel Quito.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
Day 14 Departure
Following your last Ecuadorian breakfast, it will be time to fly back home. If you would like to extend your stay in South America then please speak to our Travel Experts to discuss your options.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
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Ibis Quito
Nights: 1,6,13-14
Located just 750 yards from the beautiful green space of Carolina Park, this 3-star hotel also puts you within walking distance of many different restaurants so you can sample the delicious local food. There are plenty of facilities to enjoy inside the hotel too, including the dining area, fitness centre and bar.
This Ibis Quito, with its excellent location and friendly staff, will give you and your family a brilliant welcome to Ecuador.
Hotel facilities
- Enjoy breakfast in the dining area
- Keep up your fitness in the well-equipped gym
- Make use of the free Wi-Fi available throughout the hotel
Room type
DOUBLE OR TWIN ROOMS
These spacious, air-conditioned rooms come with either a double or two single beds and a private bathroom. In some rooms, there is also a sofa bed.
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Hacienda El Porvenir (Tierra del Volcan)
Nights: 2
This friendly Hacienda accommodation is set in 1000 hectares of private land and provides a fantastic welcome that is sure to make you feel like one of the family.
Built from locally-sourced materials, the hacienda has been designed to be in keeping with traditional architecture and colour palette throughout. The thatched roof and the unique furniture create a cosy atmosphere and the log fires (in addition to the heating) add to the feel.
Families can enjoy stunning views over the Rumiñahui volcano from the accommodation’s privileged position (at an altitude of over 3600 metres).
Hotel facilities
- The restaurant here specialises in traditional Andean recipes with a touch of international cuisine. It uses locally-sourced produce where possible in the menus and meals are served in a relaxed, family-style atmosphere
- The products used are fresh and locally-grown and all the bread, jams and dairy goods served at breakfast are produced on the farm
- There are also numerous lounge areas with fireplaces to enjoy in the evening and a bar will also be open to purchase drinks
- Internet access is available at the hacienda
- A neighbouring playground and a garden for children to enjoy
Room type
Hacienda rooms: There are only 22 rooms here and they offer various styles of accommodation. Our families will stay in the traditional hacienda rooms which are fully heated and beautifully furnished in a rustic and comfortable style.
The rooms are en-suite and have two queen-size beds.
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Hacienda Leito
Nights: 3
Close to the Llanganates National Park and at the base of Tungurahua Volcano, Hacienda Leito is a calm and cosy spa resort surrounded by mountainous beauty. Outside, there are close to five acres of gardens with some 200 different types of local plants. Take in the scenery while relaxing after a day of activities.
Hotel Facilities
- Spend time splashing around as a family in the swimming pool
- Parents will love visiting the Turkish Baths or treating themselves to a gentle massage
- Enjoy delicious local and international cuisine at the hacienda’s ‘El Rey de la Leña’ restaurant
- The bar has an excellent selection of drinks from different parts of the world
Room Type
Double or triple room: These have a double bed or three single beds, an en-suite bathroom with a bathtub, a fireplace and a private balcony with views of the gardens or mountains.
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Huasquila Amazon Eco Lodge
Nights: 4-5
This unique family-friendly hotel is right in the heart of the Amazon rainforest for a truly authentic stay. With panoramic jungle views from your charming cabin, this is an unbelievable way to enjoy the nature around you.
Hotel facilities
- Sample the food from the restaurant and sit out on the deck with incredible jungle views.
- Relax in the pool and Jacuzzi.
- Explore the surrounding gardens filled with lush tropical plants.
Room type
Your two night’s stay will either be in a bungalow or cabin depending on the size of your family. Combining traditional architecture with modern amenities, these are eco-lodges with all the comforts you need.
Family bungalows for 3-5 people
These spacious cabins come with a large bathroom, hot showers and balconies with hammocks to relax in.
Double bungalows for up to 2 people
These smaller cabins come with a modern and private bathroom and, a balcony with a hammock to soak up the wonderful surroundings.
Lodge villas
These large villas come with three double rooms with the option to add an extra bed to make them triple occupancy. Each spacious room comes with its own private bathroom and balcony. The villa is ideal for families as it includes a private kitchen and internal living room. The highlight, however, is the large deck that offers brilliant views of the Antisana Reserve. Make sure you look out for the variety of bird species flying around.
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Casa Opuntia
Nights: 7-8
Named after the local prickly pear cactus, Casa Opuntia is a small cosy hotel located right at the end of the boardwalk on San Cristobal Island. Its location, only a few metres from Playa de Oro beach, offers one of the best locations on the island in our opinion.
The hotel has strong environmental practices, with a focus on recycling and using sustainable resources to help to maintain its unique and beautiful local environment.
Hotel facilities
- The open-air terrace area at the front of the hotel is where you will enjoy your meals, looking out across the waterfront. These are a mix of traditional and locally-sourced seafood dishes (such as the hotel’s famed ceviche) and some international flavours. Fresh produce and delicious tropical fruits feature throughout
- The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool with terrace and enjoys close proximity to the beach (very popular with the local sea lion colony in the late afternoon and evening) ensuring a relaxing hideaway with lots of opportunities to photograph the local wildlife
- We also highly recommend taking a walk along the boardwalk to pick up some souvenirs, and enjoy a refreshing cold drink
- Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas
- The hotel has an honour system for the bar (including alcoholic drinks) so we would recommend bringing some cash if you would like to indulge in a cold drink around the hotel swimming pool
Room type
Hotel rooms: The hotel only has 13 bright and modern rooms in total. All rooms are en-suite and offer air-conditioning and an in-room safe for valuables. They are very bright and the decor is in keeping with their beachside location.
The rooms at the hotel vary in size and can accommodate between two and four people in double, triple and family rooms (subject to availability).
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Iguana Crossing
Nights: 9-10
This boutique-style hotel boasts a beautiful location opposite one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos Islands, which, as you would expect from the name, is home to native marine iguanas. These animals can regularly be seen crossing the road to take a quick dip in the lagoon behind the hotel before wandering back into the sea when the tide changes.
The hotel has a strong environmental focus and has a strict policy throughout. During construction of the hotel, local materials were used wherever possible and all were sustainably sourced.
Hotel facilities
- There is an infinity pool on the terrace area and a rooftop Jacuzzi and bar area at your disposal. These are wonderful places to relax in after a day’s exploration
- The restaurant serves a delicious range of cuisines including some excellent regional dishes such as sancocho (an authentic Ecuadorian soup) and dishes regularly feature locally-grown, organic vegetables and freshly caught seafood. The restaurant also boasts a carved lava stone grill
- Downstairs there is a games room for the children and the beautiful lounge area is a wonderful place to watch the sunset over the beach
Room type
Double/twin rooms: The hotel offers both volcano and ocean-view rooms – either is a very special option – with twin beds or a king size bed.
The rooms have been designed with large windows to help maximise your enjoyment of your surroundings. All rooms are spacious and modern and have air-conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone.
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Angermeyer Waterfront Inn
Nights: 11-12
This hotel is based in the south of Santa Cruz Island, sat looking out over the water at the town of Puerto Ayora. Just a short walk from Alemanes Beach, it has its own docking area for taxi boats and can only be accessed by water. Built around the famous Angermeyer ‘Cave’, a home constructed by early Santa Cruz settler Gus Angermeyer, the hotel keeps its heritage very much alive, welcoming families from all around the world.
Hotel Facilities
- Gaze over the sea as you dine in the waterfront restaurant
- Unwind in the comfy bar and lounge area, which is part of the original ‘Angermeyer Cave’
- Look out from the deck at marine iguanas and sea lions swimming by
Room Type
Triple room: three single beds or one double and one single bed, a private bathroom with a bathtub, air-conditioning, a cable television, ceiling fan and minibar.
Dates & Prices
We include more, no hidden costs
Minimum Numbers: The prices listed below are based on a minimum of four people travelling but two people sharing a room throughout. If you have any other requirements, please contact one of our Travel Experts for a quote.
Private departures: This tour can be run as a private departure on any date (subject to availability) based on min 2 people travelling. Please contact our Travel Experts for a quotation.
Deposit Payment: please note that a 20% deposit payment per person is required to secure your place.
Dates
Terms
For our full booking terms and conditions please click here
The Specifics
Holiday group size (approximate)
Minimum 2 persons, maximum 20 persons (approximately)
Group Size
We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.
Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.
Minimum numbers required for a holiday to operate
Some of our holidays require a minimum number of participants to operate (as listed in the ‘Group Size’ section). If your holiday departure has not yet reached the minimum number, you will be told at the time of booking. In the unlikely event that your chosen date is not guaranteed by nine weeks before your scheduled departure date, we will contact you to discuss the available options as per our booking conditions.
Minimum and maximum age
The minimum age for this holiday can be found in the ‘Key Facts’ section of the holiday overview.
Younger family members may be able to participate but may not be able to take part in all activities. Please contact one of our Travel Experts if you have any questions.
Itinerary amendments
The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only, your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which are uploaded into your online account around a week prior to departure) or upon arrival.
Medical History and Advice
We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.
In order to give us the best possible chance to do this we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.
In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.
Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.
It is vitally important that you advise us prior to departure of any medical or dietary condition relating to any member of your party so that we may notify our local staff before you arrive. We recommend only drinking bottled water from bottles with unbroken seals and be vigilant about the use of ice in drinks and ice cream.
Insurance
Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.
It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.
If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.
The UK Foreign Office Advice
Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice
We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.
The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html
If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.
If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.
If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.
If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.
Booking activities locally
Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).
When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern.
In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time. You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are correctly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc.) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.
Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.
Flight schedule changes and connecting transportation
On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.
Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.
Booking your own flights cancellation disclaimer
If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.
If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.
Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.
Terms - payment and cancellation terms (Ecuador & Galapagos)
Payment and cancellation terms:
Please note that the following payment and cancellation terms supersede those mentioned in sections 2 and 7 of our general booking terms and conditions.
Payment terms:
- A deposit of 20% of the total holiday cost is required at the time of booking. Full payment is required 60 days prior to departure.
- If your booking is less than 59 days before departure, full payment of the holiday cost is required.
Cancellation terms:
- More than 60 days prior to departure - Loss of 20% (including the full cost of flights or other services where paid at the time of booking and a handling fee)
- 59 to 45 days prior to departure - 50%
- 44 to 30 days prior to departure - 75%
- 29 or less days - 100%
Ecuador & Galapagos - travel insurance compulsory
Travel insurance
Whilst travel insurance is always a prerequisite to travelling with the Artisan Travel Company. On the 1st May 2018, a new law came into power which states that all tourists entering Ecuador are required to have travel insurance that covers them in Ecuador for the duration of their stay. This policy must include cover for any necessary medical treatment (including emergencies) during your stay. This is now an entry requirement from the Ecuadorian Government and evidence must be provided at Immigration at all of the major airports and ports to be granted entry to the country. Failure to do so is likely to result in entry to the country being denied. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of all necessary travel and health documents before departure. All costs incurred in obtaining such documentation must be paid by you. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry correct documentation.
Terms and Conditions
Our full booking terms and conditions can be found on our website: https://www.activitiesabroad.com/booking-conditions
Please note: our payment and cancellation terms will be unique to each booking – they will be confirmed with you at the time of quotation. The terms listed above are noted as a guide only
Reviews
Traveller Reviews
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We couldn't pick a single fault 04 July 2015 by The Newman Family