Our tour to Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands is your chance to experience one-of-a-kind wildlife watching. Get unusually close to sunbathing iguanas, playful sea lion pups and male frigate birds who proudly display theirred pouches. Swim with turtles, marvel at the majestic volcanoes and be taken aback by the magical charm ofthe islands. City tours of Quito and Guayaquil give an excellent insight into the country’s vibrant past. This tour allows you to access one of the most exclusive travel destinations in the world.

This document aims to give you all the information

that you require for a smooth and comfortable trip to

Ecuador and the Galapgos Islands. Please take the

time to read this dossier to familiarise yourself with

all the aspects of our tour. It includes important

information such as flight details, visa requirements

and travel insurance.

DAY 1: UK to Quito, Ecuador

Depart London on your scheduled flight to Quito.

DAY 2: Quito

Upon arrival you will be met by your guide and

transferred to your hotel.

DAY 3: Quito B/L

In the morning enjoy a half day walking tour of the

UNESCO World Heritage Site of the historic old town.

Visiting Independence Square, stop at the Cathedral

and Presidential Palace before passing the church of

La Compania and San Francisco. Finishing at El

Panecillo Hill, here you will have panoramic views over

the capital city whilst enjoying a well-deserved lunch.

DAY 4: Quito to The Galapagos Islands B/L/D

Fly to Baltra Island this morning where you will be

met and transferred to Santa Cruz via a short ferry

crossing. After a welcome drink and a leisurely lunch,

your guide will take you to see the island's famed giant

tortoises. These gentle giants roam freely between the

national parks and boast lifespans of over a hundred

years. Next visit the lava tunnels; formed by rivers

of fast flowing liquid lava, a walk through these

passageways will take you on an exciting journey back

in time to the very formation of these volcanic islands.

DAY 5: The Galapagos Islands B/L/D

Today, take a boat trip out to one of the bio-diverse

Galapagos isles. Here you have the opportunity to

view a selection of wildlife the islands are so revered

for. Spot iguanas lazing in the shade of cacti,

blue-footed boobies and sea lions perched on top of

rocky outcroppings or frigate birds showing off their

vibrant red pouches. Before lunch get a sea lion's view

of these magnificent creatures and other marine life

such as sea turtles, rays and tropical fish as you

snorkel around the bay.

DAY 6: The Galapagos Islands B/L/D

After breakfast, journey on foot through arid, aromatic

forests that hug the spectacular white sandy coastline

of Tortuga Bay to arrive at hidden blue lagoons.

These natural pools are perfect for swimming or

snorkelling in, or rent a kayak and paddle close to

white tip sharks, turtles and schools of rays on the

tranquil lagoon of Playa Mansa.

DAY 7: The Galapagos Islands B/L/D

Embark on another boat trip to a different island today

to enjoy more wildlife spotting and snorkelling, where

you can observe flamingos, frigates, mocking birds

and blue-footed boobies.

DAY 8: The Galapagos Islands B/D

This morning, travel to the viewpoint at Cascajo,

where you can enjoy phenomenal views over Santa

Cruz and the other islands of the archipelago.

Continue on to Trapiche, a local farm where you can

watch the fascinating process that locals use to

produce alcohol from sugarcane. Next, visit beautiful

Garrapareto beach for time to relax on its soft sands

and enjoy some birdwatching and snorkelling.

In the afternoon, take an optional excursion with the

Plant a Tree volunteering programme. Leave your eco-

signature on the island as you clear a patch of land

and plant an indigenous tree, adding a personalised

plaque to your newly-planted sapling.

DAY 9: The Galapagos Islands to Guayaquil B/L

Returning to Baltra Island, you will catch a flight to

Guayaquil, Ecuadors largest city known as the

gateway to Pacific beaches and the Galapagos

Islands. Stretching along the Guayas River is the

waterfront Simón Bolívar promenade, home to

La Rotonda monument. Transfer to your hotel to

rest and relax, the rest of your day is at leisure to

meander round the large selection of cafes and art

galleries.

DAY 10: Guayaquil B

Embark on a guided morning walk of the city.

Starting at the Malecon 2000, an impressive

boardwalk overlooking the Guayas River, you will then

visit the picturesque neighbourhood of Las Penas

before strolling down Avenue 9 de Octubre, the main

downtown district. Finish at Parque Bolivar, one of the

only parks in the world to have land iguanas.

DAY 11: Guayaquil to the UK or Extension

Transfer to Guayaquil airport for your flight to the UK,

or continue on to your chosen extension.

PLEASE NOTE: The order of your itinerary may

vary during your time.

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

Quito, the Galapagos Islands & Guayaquil

1

ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

Visas

A visa is not required for entry into Ecuador and theGalapagos Islands for UK passport holders. Furtheradvice should be sought from the applicable touristauthority for other nationalities and for general queries.We strongly advise you check with your destinations’Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-dateguidelines regarding required passport validity.Your transit card (worth $110) is included for entranceinto the Galapagos Islands.

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you and all members ofyour party are suitably insured as soon as you book yourholiday. It is a condition of booking that you must havesuitable travel insurance. It is important that youpurchase travel insurance that suitably covers yourparticipation in whatever activities you may undertake atthe time that you make your booking. To assist you withthis, we have arranged travel insurance in partnershipwith Holiday Extras. To arrange your travel insurance withHoliday Extras, please call 0800 781 4237 and quote‘WK830’ for preferential rates. Please ensure you provideus with the name of your insurer, policy number and their24 hour emergency contact number as soon aspossible. Sunspot will not be liable for any costs incurredby you due to your failure to take out suitable travelinsurance from the date of booking.

Tour Guides

This is a fully escorted tour, meaning that you will be meton arrival in each destination and will have a regionalguide with you during your stay at each place, ensuringthat you have first-hand knowledge at all times.

Tipping

Tipping is at your discretion, however we wouldrecommend approximately £2.00 ($3.00) per person perday for your driver and guide. Tips are accepted in USdollars, however should you wish to pay these on acredit card you can do so when you pay for personalexpenses on board.

Health and Vaccinations

It is your responsibility to check any health andvaccination requirements applicable to your bookedarrangements. We can only provide general informationabout this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risksvary from country to country. You should take healthadvice about your own needs as early as possible and ingood time before your departure. Sources of informationinclude; www.fco.gov.uk, www.travelhealthpro.org.uk,www.hpa.org.uk, your General Practitioner or a specialistclinic.VERY IMPORTANT

Please note that due to new regulations from the Ministryof Tourism in Ecuador, you will be provided to state anypre-existing medical conditions and your blood type onarrival into the Galapagos Islands. This information can be given to your tour guide onarrival. Please be aware that failure to provide thisinformation by the time you arrive in the GalapagosIslands may result in you being refused entry.

Physical Accessibility

This tour is accessible to most people with an averagelevel of fitness and normal mobility. It involves full days of sightseeing, often on foot and includes some climbingof stairs and getting on and off coaches and boats. This

tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.

Group Size

The minimum number of travellers in your group will be10, and the maximum will be 30. If in the unlikely eventthere are less than 10 people booked on your tour datethen you may be asked to change to a different date. A full refund will be made available to you should thisalternative not be suitable.

Currency Exchange

The currency in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands isthe US Dollar. Cash machines are available in Quito andGuayaquil, but there will not be a chance to exchangecurrency during your cruise.

Personal Expenses

You will need to take some extra money with you tocover any drinks and personal purchases such assouvenirs, laundry, and any extra snacks. Approximately£400-£500 will be sufficient for the duration of the tour.

Credit Card Information

As normal practice you will be asked for your credit carddetails on check-in at the hotel in order to cover anyextras incurred during your stay. If you do not have acredit card you may be asked for a cash deposit.American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in hotels.

Itinerary Changes

The order of events and sightseeing may vary accordingto local conditions or for operational purposes. For thisreason, we have indicated approximate times only. Your local guide will inform you of any schedule changesas they are informed of them. Some road constructionand/or weather conditions may lengthen the drivingtimes. Our intention is to adhere to the day-to-dayitinerary as printed; however order of events andsightseeing may vary according to local conditions.

What to Pack

• Loose fitting t-shirt or tank top and shorts for

your island adventures

• 2 pairs of old comfortable walking shoes as

these can get damaged from saltwater,

volcanic rock and sand

• High factor waterproof sunscreen and lip balm

• 2 swimsuits and a towel • Wide brim hat

• Snorkelling equipment if you would prefer to

use your own

• Camera and spare batteries

• Travel plug adapter - the voltage is 120 volts

and is a 2 or 3 flat pin plug

• Binoculars • Sunglasses

• Waterproof, light poncho or rain jacket

• Personal first aid kit containing travel pills,

rehydration powder, plasters,stomach settlers,

antiseptic creams, aspirin etc

All accommodation is 4H and features an en suite bathroom and air

conditioning. Sunspot has visited and inspected all hotels used, as well

as the cruise, to ensure that they meet the high standards of service

which we require for our clients. If the hotels or cruise detailed are not

available, alternatives will be used of a similar standard.

Please note: the hotels listed are provided for guidance only and final

confirmation of your accommodation will be sent in a document,

along with your final flight information, approximately 10 days before

you travel.

2

CoachAirBoat

1 Number of nights spent

<

2

<

2

•

Quito

Guayaquil

GalapagosIslands

South America

•Santa Elena

On your arrival

On your arrival in Quito you will be met by a

representative from our local agent, Pure! Ecuador,

holding a sign displaying: “Sunspot”.

The Sunspot/Pure! Ecuador representative

will show you to your transfer vehicle.

Your representative available 24 hours a day should

you have any queries.

If you need to contact Pure! Ecuador during your stay

the details are:

Pure! Ecuador

Muros N27-94 y González Suarez

Quito

Ecuador

Contact number: 00593 2 5123358/2 2234336

Emergency contact information

Please find below the emergency contact details

Pure! Ecuador

24 hour contact number: 00593 98448414

•5 ••

Your hotel information

Quito (2 nights): 4H Dann Carlton Hotel - República Del

Salvador N34-377 e Irlanda, Quito, Ecuador,

Contact number: +593 2-397-2600

Santa Cruz (5 nights): 4H Royal Palm Hotel - Km 18 Via

Baltra Isla Santa, Cantón Santa Cruz, Ecuador.

Contact number: +593 2-252-0000

Guayaquil (2 nights): 4H Unipark Hotel -

Clemente Ballén 406 y Chile, Clemente Ballen y Millán 406,

Guayaquil 090313, Ecuador

Contact number: +593 4-232-7100

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

Weather and Climate

Weather can vary quite considerably throughout the year, so please familiarise yourself with the climate charts below.

4

Airport Extras

If you wish to arrange Airport car parking, lounges or accommodation at preferential rates, we recommend you book this in advance with Holiday Extras

- Tel. 0871 360 2000, quoting HX313.

Baggage allowance (per person): Each passenger is entitled to 23kg of hold luggage plus one item of hand luggage providing the exterior dimensions

(height + length + width) do not exceed 115cm and 10kg in weight. Weight restrictions will be finalised on your e-ticket receipt. Should you wish to take

additional luggage you will need to pay extra at check-in. Heathrow Airport advises that check-in should be three hours before your flight departure time.

Final flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 10 days before

departure.

Baggage Allowance

Flight and Airport Information

Your flight is to Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito with Avianca (AV), departing from London Heathrow Terminal 2.

Santa Elena

The beautiful costal province and town of Santa

Elena provides a relaxing setting to complete

your tour.

Enjoy the wide range of facilities on offer at your

resort, unwind on the many beaches or explore

some of the area’s sights.

Hotel

Your stay will take place at the below resort:

4H Royal Decameron Punta Centinela on All-Inclusive, an excellent resort boasting anoceanfront location along a pink coral beach.

Hotel information: Km. 10.5 vía Santa Elena,Manglaralto, Urbanización Punta Centinela. Contact number: 00593 43716200

Any alternative hotels or board basis will havebeen confirmed at booking. Please speak to our

reservations department if you are unsure.

Personal Expenses

You will need to take money with you to cover any snacks, as well as personal purchases, suchas souvenirs, laundry and drinks.

Tour Guides

Your stay in Santa Elena is not escorted by a tourguide. All internal transfers are included.

Please note

This extension takes place after your main tour.

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

YOUR SANTA ELENA BEACH STAYSanta Elena, Ecuador

This document aims to give you all the information which you will require during your extension to Santa Elena.

Weather and Climate in Santa Elena

Your add-on to Santa Elena offers a relaxing end to your journey in Ecuador. Unwind on this province’s

beautiful beaches, enjoy the calm weather of the Pacific Coast and reflect on your wonderful tour memories.

Please note: Final hotel and flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately

10 days before departure.

If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact 0843 224 0723

Your included meal guide: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch

DAY 11: Guayaquil to Lima

After a day at leisure in Guayaquil, take an evening flight

to Lima. Your guide will meet you on arrival and

accompany you to your hotel.

DAY 12: Lima and Cusco

This morning you will fly to Cusco. In the afternoon

your guide will commence your half day tour, taking

you around all the most important sites.

DAY 13: Cusco & Machu Picchu B/L

Today is the highpoint of this extension – a visit to

the world renowned Machu Picchu. Board the

Vistadome train to climb up through the Andes,

then a bus to the summit of the archaeological site.

Constructed on a saddle between two Andean peaks,

Machu Picchu was one of the greatest achievements

of South American civilisation.

DAY 14: Cusco B

After breakfast at your hotel the rest of the day is

free for you to relax and explore Cusco.

DAY 15: Cusco to UK B

After breakfast return to the UK via Lima and Madrid.

Hotel Information

Lima (1 night): 3H Hotel Casa Andina Classic Centro

- Petir Thouars 5444, Lima 00000, Peru, Contact

number: 0051 1 4470263

Cusco (3 nights): 3H Casa Andina Koricancha

- Calle San Agustin 371, Cusco, Peru

Telephone Number: +51 84 252633

Personal Expenses

You will need to take money with you to cover

additional breakfasts, lunches, dinners & purchases.

Visas

British passport holders are not currently required

to obtain a visa in order to travel to Peru.

Tipping

Tipping is a common practice in Peru and it is

customary to top on average £2-£3 per person per

day. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip.

Currency Exchange

The currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol, the symbol is

S/. We recommend that you exchange your currency

before you leave the UK. Cash machines are available

in all the major cities to withdraw local currency.

Shanghai, Wuzhen, Xi’an &

YOUR TOUR DOSSIER

Lima, Cusco & Machu Picchu

This document aims to give you all the information which you will require during your Highlights of Peru tour.

Your extension to Peru is the perfect way to see a little more of South America. You will visit the traditionaltown of Cusco, as well as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World - Machu Picchu.

If you have not yet booked this fabulous extension, there is still time to do so, please contact 0843 224 0723

Please note: Final hotel and flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately

10 days before departure.

HIGHLIGHTS OF PERU