HIGHLIGHTS ECUADOR'S AMAZON JUNGLE MARCH 17-22, 2019 TRIP SUMMARY Immerse yourself in the amazing biodiversity of the Amazon Jungle Stay deep in the jungle, awaking to exotic bird calls Learn about the customs and culture of the people who have lived here for centuries Watch for birds, learn the medicinal uses of plants, and fish for piranha Phone: 877-439-4042 Outside the US: 410-435-1965 Fax: 410-435-3084 Email: info@goodadventure.com
TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Mar 17-22, 2019 Location: Ecuador's Amazon Jungle Cost: $1,325.00 Activities: Multisport Arrive: The first meeting is 5 pm on March 17 in the lobby of the hotel in Quito. The airport has a shuttle. Depart: You can depart after 3 pm on March 22 TRIP OVERVIEW The Amazon Jungle is known for its exceptional biodiversity and the peoples who have lived there for centuries. The trip starts and ends in Quito, Ecuador's capital which sits high in the Andean foothills at an altitude of 9,325 feet. From there a flight to Coca City and an hour canoe ride down the Amazon starts the adventure. You'll spend four days in the jungle learning about the flora and fauna as you walk on different trails, led by the local guide who knows the area intimately. You'll learn about the customs of the people who live there, the medicinal uses of plants, and how to use a blowpipe and fish for piranha. And even if you're not a birdwatcher now, the chance to see birds in the forest and above the forest canopy may turn you into one. RATING This trip is appropriate for women in good physical condition who want to spend 3 to 5 hours every day actively exploring the Amazon Jungle. None of the days are strenuous; however, the days are full and some will involve early mornings. Please note, as in all international travel, flexibility is an absolute must and the ability to set aside our western expectations and enjoy the culture and country will make for a wonderfully enjoyable trip. Rating: 1 [2] 3 4 5 WHAT'S INCLUDED A dedicated local guide in the Amazon and a customer service representative in Quito. There will not be an AGC guide on this trip. Internal flights to Coca City and transport by motorized canoe Double occupancy lodging 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners All activities on the itinerary Gratuities for lodge staff Not included: Travel to and from Quito, alcoholic beverages, gratuities for the guide and assistant guide, travel insurance, meals not noted on itinerary, optional activities not on the itinerary.
OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 MARCH 17, SUNDAY If you're just joining us, your trip starts in Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ecuador's Capital City. At over 9,000 feet, Quito is the highest capital city in the world and it is likely you'll experience some symptoms of breathlessness as you walk around. The hotel is conveniently located near the airport and the front desk can help you organize transport into the city center if you arrive early and want to explore. You'll meet in the afternoon with the group coming from the Galapagos and a representative from our local partner for a trip orientation. We recommend eating at the hotel restaurant as you have an early start tomorrow. Overnight Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel or similar. DAY 2 MARCH 18, MONDAY Your adventure starts with an early morning transfer to the airport for our short 30 minute flight to Coca City. You'll be greeted by our hosts from Yarina Eco Lodge (http://www.yarinalodge.com), an ecolodge situated on the Napo River in the Amazon RainForest. Started 10 years ago as a program to teach the importance of conserving wildlife and the environment and located in an area of great diversity of micro-habitats, the lodge has steadily expanded its services and is part of one of best rescue centers of wildlife in the Ecuadorian Amazon. After an hour long ride in a motorized canoe, you'll arrive in time to settle in before lunch and an introductory briefing. Your exploration of the Amazon starts this afternoon with a walk on the Socali Path, a perfect introduction to learning about the different flora and fauna that is found in different types of forest. You'll return in time for a little downtime before dinner and then be lulled to sleep by the sounds of the jungle. Overnight Yarina Lodge. B, L, D
DAY 3 MARCH 19, TUESDAY Today and each of the following days, you'll be offered a morning and afternoon activity, with return to the lodge for lunch. You might choose to do both, just one, or neither if you'd rather relax and soak up the ambience - the choice is completely yours. After breakfast the morning activity is a hike on the Capibara Path. Named after the small guinea pig like rodent that we are likely to see, the path traverses several swamps and you'll see palm trees that aren't possible to see any place else. After lunch and some downtime back at the lodge, in late afternoon the guides will teach you how to use a blowpipe (don't worry, you aren't allowed to shoot poisoned darts at each other). Following that you'll take a small canoe upriver to try your hand at pirhana fishing. Even if successful, however, they won't be on your menu when you return to the lodge for dinner. Overnight Yarina Lodge. B, L, D DAY 4 MARCH 20, WEDNESDAY There are two different hikes today that showcase different aspects of the jungle. After breakfast you don rubber boots for a canoe trip up river. On our way the guide will point out birds, butterflies, orchids, and amphibians. You then have a short hike on the trail 'Dos Ramas' as the guide teaches you about medicinal plants, birds, and animals. After lunch at the lodge you'll set out on the Tucan trail. This trail leads to one of the tallest birdwatching towers in the Ecuadorian jungle. At the top of the tower you'll be in the jungle canopy, where you can see birds that are hard to see from the jungle floor - really an amazing experience! You'll return to the lodge for dinner and some down time. Overnight Yarina Lodge. B, L, D DAY 5 MARCH 21, THURSDAY Today you'll learn more about the indigenous people of the Quichuas del Oriente community who have long inhabited the Amazon lowlands. You'll take the motor boat to visit one of the families who live there and, with the guide interpreting, you'll learn about the traditions and dress of the tribe. The afternoon's activity is a walk on the Guastos trail, learning more about how some plants, animals, and birds are traditionally used. This is the last night at the lodge and it is hard not to feel some regret at leaving the jungle, after all you've seen and done. Overnight Yarina Lodge. B, L, D DAY 6 MARCH 22, FRIDAY After a final delicious breakfast, packing up, and a short hike this morning, we'll return by canoe to Coca City for the return flight to Quito. We'll be back mid-afternoon so if you don't have time to explore this lovely city, you can plan flights home after 3 pm B
ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE You will be flying into the Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO) in Quito, Ecuador. The airport has a shuttle and you can arrive anytime. If you would like help with any travel plans we recommend our travel agent Barbara Phillip, Scan East West Travel, at barbara@scaneastwest.com or call 206-209-5831. ACCOMMODATIONS We will spend the first night at the Wyndham Airport Hotel with airport shuttle service for arrival convenience. In the Amazon we'll spend four nights at the Yarina Lodge, an ecolodge situated on the Napo River in the Amazon RainForest. Started 10 years ago as a program to teach the importance of conserving wildlife and our environment with the local community and located in an area of great diversity of microhabitats, the lodge has steadily expanded its services and is part of one of best rescue centers of wildlife in the Ecuadorian Amazon. The rooms are double occupancy with ensuite bathrooms. Vegetarian options for this trip will be limited. Other types of dietary needs cannot be accommodated unless supplemental food is brought. Please note any dietary needs on your registration form and be sure to talk with the office prior to making any non-refundable reservations. WEATHER Ecuador is on the equator and the weather varies with the location. Because Quito is at high elevation, the climate is cool with highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s. In the Amazon Rainforest, it's normally hot, humid, and sunny with average high temperatures in the mid-80s to 90s. Rainstorms can occur at any time of the day and April is about average for rainfall. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use 20-0016 as your location number on the Get A Quote page.
PACKING LIST Please note: This packing list is for the Galapagos trip, items that may be needed for pre-trip time in Quito and for the Amazon Jungle extension. As you will see, it is divided into 3 areas you will be/maybe visiting (Quito, Galapagos Islands, Amazon Jungle). Please concentrate on the section of the packing list that pertains to your trip. Please note: the last section lists items that are common to all such as sleepwear, etc. For those of you doing the Galapagos and the Amazon extension, there will be a secure place to store items between trips. Having the ability to leave items in Quito is especially important on this trip since there are several inter-island flights and luggage is limited to 35 total pounds/person - this includes your checked luggage and your carry on backpack. QUITO: (only necessary if you are planning to spend some time in Quito before or after the trip) FOOTWEAR 1 pair comfortable walking shoe for touring Quito. CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT Clothing suitable for touring Quito. Temps can be quite cool, long pants/long sleeve shirts suggested. Travel Umbrella Rain Jacket or rain poncho (For Quito, the rain jacket is recommended) Warm fleece/down jacket 1 buff for use as a neck gaiter 1 pair lightweight gloves GALAPAGOS ISLANDS: FOOTWEAR 1 pair lightweight hiking boots/shoes (on the volcano hike) 1 pair sturdy tennis shoes/trail shoes 1 pair sandals for use around hotel/village/etc. (If sandals are hiking sandals (sturdy) then can use in place of tennis shoes/trail shoes) 2 pair lightweight hiking socks CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT 1 pair lightweight pants: (Supplex, or nylon/polyester/spandex blend) 1-2 lightweight long-sleeved shirts (a kayaking/surfing shirt, called a rash guard is great for snorkeling and kayaking) Rain Jacket/pants or rain poncho. (Poncho recommended lightweight but sturdy) 1-2 pairs of shorts or ¾ pants. Non-cotton and quick drying. 2 3 t-shirts, non-cotton. 1 lightweight, long sleeved shirt for sun protection (button up front is best) 1 bathing suit - some women prefer ¾ leggings and long sleeved rash guard for snorkeling, kayaking, swimming. 1 2 changes of comfortable clothes to wear around the hotels and out to dinner (e.g. pants and/or skirt, with a couple of tops) AMAZON JUNGLE: FOOTWEAR 1 pair sturdy tennis shoes, running shoes or lightweight hiking boots or trail shoes. Note: You will be wearing rubber boots supplied by our Amazon partner for hiking. 1 pair sandals for use around lodge 1-2 pair hiking socks - you might consider knee socks for use with rubber boots that are provided. The boots are calf height and many participants find that the knee socks will help with possible chafing. (Trust me, your rubber boots will become your very best friend!) 1-2 pair lighter weight socks for use around lodge.
1 pair inner soles (prescription or over the counter) for use with rubber boots. We recommend Super Feet see notes on Packing List. CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT 1-2 pair lightweight pants: (Supplex, or nylon/polyester/spandex blend) 2 3 t-shirts (non-cotton) 1 lightweight, long sleeved shirt for sun protection (button up front is best) 1 brimmed hat, for rain and/or sun. 1 2 changes of comfortable clothes to wear around the lodge. Rain Jacket/pants or rain poncho. Travel Umbrella Trekking poles ALL 3 AREAS: CLOTHING/EQUIPMENT Capacity to carry 2 liters of water 1 2 bandanas Headlamp or flashlight with extra bulb and batteries Small day pack for day use (hiking). Must be able to carry your rain gear, water, snacks, etc 1 wide-brimmed hat or baseball style for protection from sun/rain Underwear/nightwear ESSENTIALS Passport (and copy of passport) sunglasses plus retention strap: 100% UV blocking 2 3 gallon Ziploc bags (wet clothes) Watch with an alarm and/or small alarm clock Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep) Bug Repellant Sunscreen (30 or higher) Lip protection with sunscreen (SPF of at least 15) TOILETRIES (small everything) Soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, contact essentials, skin lotion, etc. Extra pair sunglasses (also glasses if you wear them) Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any personal medications Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. OPTIONAL Camera and film/extra memory card One 2mm or 3mm wetsuit of a shorty style. (For the Galapagos trip: these can also be rented prior to snorkeling) Book, notebook, journal Favorite snack and Gatorade powder Binoculars waterproof camera box/bag Dry bag for personal items when on water. Beach cover up/sarong (Galapagos trip) Small beach towel (Galapagos trip: can use hotel towels)
Trekking poles (Galapagos trip these are optional but will come in handy on the volcano hike if you normally use poles. For the Amazon Jungle trip these are highly recommended, see that packing list) NOTES ON PACKING Adventures in Good Company's packing list covers everything you need to assure your safety and comfort. You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather conditions. At the same time, you must be able to carry your own luggage, sometimes up and down stairs. Daypacks: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 1 2 liters of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), sun screen, warm layer (if needed for area) personal first aid kit, personal items such as camera, etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 24-30 Liters (1450-1850 cubic inches) with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters. Line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry, or have an elasticized pack cover that fits snuggly over it. Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all the items noted above and all personal items you like to carry. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Rain Gear: You will need a waterproof/breathable garment for this trip. Fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex is recommended. Be sure the garment you choose does keep water out. A rain jacket works best in Quito where staying warm can sometimes be the issue when it is raining. In the jungle and then in the Galapagos, a poncho (the longer style) is recommended. Ponchos aren t quite as warm and also cover not only you but your backpack as well. Umbrellas are recommended for all 3 areas of your trip. If purchasing a rain poncho be sure to buy one that is sturdy. Dry Bags: If you choose to bring waterproof bags, several companies make vinyl bags with good closures (Sea to Summit, Phoenix, Outdoor Research, Cascade Designs). Oversize zip lock bags can also be used. Bringing your camera on the trip: in regard to the Galapagos island portion of the trip, ocean water is highly corrosive to camera equipment. We suggest you consider protecting your camera from the salt by packing it in a waterproof sports bag. Many outdoor retailers and most camera shops have inflatable bags that are waterproof, float, and cushion your camera against bumps. Phoenix, Basic Designs, and manufacturers of whitewater equipment make inflatable camera bags.