Important Notes

Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into and out of Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito.

What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?

We suggest that you arrive in Quito before 2 pm on Day 1, although we will arrange an airport transfer for you whenever you arrive.

What time should my flight depart on the last day?

There are no activities planned for the last day, so leave any time you wish. The airport is approximately 45 minutes away from your final hotel.

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.

Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and will be in groups depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.

We don’t offer a departure transfer as Flashpackers leave at different times of the day and many stay for extra nights. We will offer you support with finding a local taxi, which will cost 25-30 USD.

Do I need a visa?

You do not need a visa if you’re visiting as a tourist from the EU, UK, USA, Australia or Canada. Please check with your local consulate/embassy if the country you are travelling from requires a visa.

We recommend that you have at least six months validity remaining on your passport and can show a return ticket.

What fitness levels do I need for this trip?

We recommend having a read-through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.

Overall, this trip is moderately active with a 1.5-hour hike up the Sierra Negra volcano, as well as some shorter hikes, an easy downhill mountain bike ride and activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.

Good footwear, such as hiking boots or lightweight runners, is essential for the volcano hike as the terrain is rocky and uneven. We also recommend bringing waterproof sandals for wet landings on the islands.

Do I need to be able to swim?

This trip involves several water-based activities including snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding. If you’re not comfortable with water, there’s no obligation to take part and you can relax on terra firma.

Are there any luggage restrictions for the Galápagos flight?

Your luggage allowance for your the Galápagos islands is 23 kg in the hold and 8 kg hand luggage. This applies to both the flight and the internal boat transfers.

To protect the vulnerable and unique habitats and wildlife on the Galápagos Islands, visitors are not allowed to bring any plant materials or unprocessed food products. Small quantities of pre-wrapped items, such as chocolate bars, are fine.

Luggage is checked at the airport and you’ll be asked to fill out a form and given an approval label to attach to your bags.

Are park entry fees included?

All non-resident foreign tourists to the Galápagos Islands pay 100 USD on arrival to help fund community and conservation work. This fee is included in the cost of your trip.

What is the accommodation like on the giant tortoise reserve?

This is a simple but comfortable safari-style lodge in a stunning rural setting. There are six twin tents and four treehouses, which can booked as a single supplement, if space allows. The lodge doesn’t offer private shower facilities and there is one shower for men and one shower for women.

Will the Pack Leader be with us throughout the trip?

For this trip, you will have two different guides: one for Quito and one for the Galápagos Islands. This is because the Galápagos National Park has its own certified guides. Your Quito guide will drop your group at the airport and you will be met by your second guide on arrival at Baltra Airport in the Galápagos Islands.  

Will this itinerary change?

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll do our best to ensure it has little impact on your adventure. From time to time we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.

What are the Covid-19 requirements for visiting Ecuador?

Due to the changeable nature of Covid-19 entry requirements, we strongly advise Flashpackers to consult the travel advice issued by your local consular services well in advance of your departure date. Some countries do still require travellers to comply with pre-arrival testing and/or vaccination requirements. Links to the key consular services can be found on our Safety page.

What other vaccinations and medication will I need?

We recommend checking with your local travel clinic six to eight weeks before your trip to see if any medications or vaccinations are required.