Spirit of Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands

COVID-19 UPDATE
Departing the U.S.: For the safety of everyone in the group, smarTours has implemented some COVID-19 travel requirements which apply to all tours regardless of destination. To learn more, click here.

Returning to the U.S.: In accordance with U.S. entry requirements, smarTours will arrange testing for the group in destination. Full details and requirements can be accessed here. The test must be paid in cash at the testing site.

• The cost of the test is $120 USD

Note: If you are traveling with us on a land-only basis please share your travel plans with us and let us know if you will also need to be tested with the rest of the group.

Please note entry requirements are changing rapidly. For up-to-date information, please click the links below.

• Entry requirements
• State Department Travel Advisory Updates (Ecudaor)
• Center for Disease Control Updates & Information (Ecuador)

FLIGHT INFORMATION

Your departure flight to Peru and return flight from Ecuador are via LATAM Airlines. You should check-in for your flight at least 3½ hours before the scheduled departure. Please keep in mind that flight schedules are always subject to change. The current departure and return schedules are as follows:

ADVANCE SEAT ASSIGNMENT

LATAM Airlines does not accept advance seat assignment. Actual seat assignment will be provided at the airport. Please note that smarTours is not involved with your seat assignments.

LAND-ONLY TRAVELERS

International flights to/from the U.S. are not included. Land-only travelers are responsible for arranging entry and exit flights, as well as their arrival and departure transfers. smarTours cannot be held responsible for any damage caused by air schedule changes and delays. Unused land services are non-refundable.

Main Tour Only: Land-only services start upon independent check-in at the hotel in Quito on Day 2 of the itinerary listed on the tour page. Land-only services end upon arrival at the Quito Airport in the evening of Day 9 of the itinerary listed on the tour page.

PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION

You must be in possession of a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of return. American passport holders do not require a visa. Non U.S. citizens should check with the respective consulates as to the most current visa requirements to all their travel destinations. It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary travel documents before the trip.

TICKETS AND FINAL DOCUMENTS

Your airline tickets along with final instructions and travel tips will be emailed to you 7-10 days before the scheduled departure of your tour.

CLIMATE

Since Ecuador is located near the equator, the weather is temperate with average daytime high temperatures ranging from 60’s to the 80’s. However, in areas of higher elevations (Quito) as well as in the Galápagos Islands, morning, late afternoon and evening temperatures will be considerably cooler (30’s to 50’s).

NON-INCLUDED MEALS

You may dine at either of the hotels used on this tour or other nearby restaurants recommended by your guide. Average cost for dinner (excluding drinks) in the hotel’s coffee shop is about $20-25 per meal per person. Your hotel will accept credit cards for your non-included meals.

CREDIT CARDS AND LOCAL CURRENCY

Hotels and some stores accept major credit cards.  However, for “street shopping” you will need local currency or U.S. dollars.  Your hotels will be able to exchange your cash to local currency. It is recommended that you bring along cash in small denominations. The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar!

BAGGAGE

Each passenger may bring one piece of checked-in luggage (maximum of 44 lbs.) and one carry-on piece. We recommend that you do not over-pack and that you take a variety of separates with climate and comfort in mind.