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Itinerary

Day 1 - Starting: Quito & Finishing: La Selva Lodge

At the Quito International Airport you will be met by a La Selva representative in the national departure area in order to assist you with the check-in process and give you a short briefing about the journey. Transfer to the port to board a motorized canoe which will take the group to La Selva's main dock. Continue on a short 15-min jungle walk leading to a creek. Enjoy a paddle across “Garzacocha” (the heron´s lagoon) in a small canoe in order to reach the lodge area. Upon arrival at the lodge, have a welcome drink and take part in an introductory briefing and a short activity to be introduced to the rainforest.

Instructions

A G Representative will meet you at the Quito hotel (not included) on the night prior to Day 1 of this tour. Itineraries depend on weather and natural conditions. For the rest of the days at La Selva, activities will be designed in accordance to the number of groups at the lodge, weather, facilities, logistics, and specific season of the year. We offer a certain number of activities that will be provided in different schedules for each group.

Day 2 - Starting: La Selva Lodge & Finishing: La Selva Lodge

See the canopy of the rainforest from a tower 43m (141 ft) in height, and choose from dozens of walks of varying lengths and difficulties; several routes can only be accessed by canoe. Choose from a variety of activities: wake up early for some bird watching or stay up late and go out on a boat to view caimans by flashlight. Learn about the environment and wildlife from a naturalist guide, who accompanies the group to ensure you get the most out of the excursions. The opportunities for birding, botany, hiking, herpetology, canoeing, photography, entomology, fishing, relaxing, and swimming at La Selva Lodge are boundless. Below is a sample of what may be available: MATAPALO TRAIL: This trail was named after the Spanish name for the famous strangler fig (Ficus aurea), one of the many remarkable trees that can be found during this short introductory walk. Native and naturalist guides will share their knowledge about the flora and fauna of the tropical rainforest. NIGHT WALK: A flashlight and a camera will be the only things needed to enjoy all of the insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals that can be seen during an hour walk in the darkness of the forest. NIGHT CANOE RIDE IN GARZACOCHA LAGOON: Guides will take you in a paddle canoe around the lagoon looking for caimans, boas, bats, owls, night mammals, and more nocturnal wildlife with the help of a spotlight. If the sky is clear, have the chance to do some star gazing. DAY CANOE RIDE IN GARZACOCHA LAGOON: Take a 1.5 to 2 hour canoe ride to observe the biodiversity around the Garzacocha lagoon, where the famous hoatzin stinkbird can be seen as well as fish, monkeys, and the beautiful trees that grow inside the black waters system. CHAGUAMANGO TRAIL: The trail begins at the lodge and finishes at the edge of the lake. At the end of the walk, head back to the lodge by canoe. If lucky, see big troops of squirrel monkeys approaching the water, allowing you to take great photos of wildlife. CHARAPA TRAIL: This trail takes about 1.5 hours. Start at the butterfly farm and end at the edge of the lake. It's a wonderful loop that begins with a walk, returning to the lodge by canoe. Along the way, try to spot different groups of mammals, monkeys, and birds that get close to the lakeshore to look for food in the afternoon hours. It it's a clear afternoon, enjoy a beautiful sunset from the canoe. OBSERVATION TOWER: Take a 20-min walk to the tower, which allows visitors to be (37m) 120 ft above the forest floor to enjoy the canopy of the tropical rainforest. Use a telescope to see birds from the canopy, and maybe even monkeys or sloths. On the way back, hike for about 2 hrs. A native guide will show some of the medicinal plants that natives still use and the naturalist will provide information about the ecology and natural history as well. PARROT CLAY LICK: Visit the most biologically diverse spot on Earth, the Yasuni National Park. A 20-min canoe ride plus a 15-min walk will bring you back to the Napo River. Take a 10-min motorized canoe ride to one of the most amazing displays of the wild world. Hundreds of parrots and parakeets will approach the treetops and later come down to a clay bank to eat the soil rich in minerals. It is essential to have binoculars to enjoy the experience. After identifying the different species of parrots and parakeets, a naturalist guide will provide a lot of interesting information about the behavior of these spectacular birds. The motorized canoe ride will continue for approximately 30 more minutes of birdwatching along the river banks. BUTTERFLY FARM: Learn about the biology of these amazing butterflies. A farm will show the different stages of the butterfly complemented with interesting information provided by a naturalist guide. Visitors won't want to leave the butterfly flying area without taking photos of the colorful butterflies. PIRANHA FISHING: Enjoy fishing for piranhas in the Garzacocha Lake! Fishing lines will be provided by a native guide to let you catch your own piranha. Depending on the size of the fish, they are usually released back into the water. If the fish is big enough, give it to the gourmet chef and enjoy a tasty fish dinner. The fish is much more delicious when you catch it yourself! SPECIFIC TOPIC TALKS: One of the naturalists will hold an optional activity to talk about a specific topic of the rainforest.

Instructions

Every day there will be a briefing about the next day's activities. Itineraries may vary slightly to maximize wildlife sighting depending on the reports of the naturalist guides, the group's main interests, and weather conditions. MEALS Breakfast: wake-up call and breakfast according to activities Lunch: 12:30 pm Dinner: 7:30 pm

Day 3 - Starting: La Selva Lodge & Finishing: La Selva Lodge

See the canopy of the rainforest from a tower 43m (141 ft) in height, and choose from dozens of walks of varying lengths and difficulties; several routes can only be accessed by canoe. Choose from a variety of activities: wake up early for some bird watching or stay up late and go out on a boat to view caimans by flashlight. Learn about the environment and wildlife from a naturalist guide, who accompanies the group to ensure you get the most out of the excursions. The opportunities for birding, botany, hiking, herpetology, canoeing, photography, entomology, fishing, relaxing, and swimming at La Selva Lodge are boundless. Below is a sample of what may be available: MATAPALO TRAIL: This trail was named after the Spanish name for the famous strangler fig (Ficus aurea), one of the many remarkable trees that can be found during this short introductory walk. Native and naturalist guides will share their knowledge about the flora and fauna of the tropical rainforest. NIGHT WALK: A flashlight and a camera will be the only things needed to enjoy all of the insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals that can be seen during an hour walk in the darkness of the forest. NIGHT CANOE RIDE IN GARZACOCHA LAGOON: Guides will take you in a paddle canoe around the lagoon looking for caimans, boas, bats, owls, night mammals, and more nocturnal wildlife with the help of a spotlight. If the sky is clear, have the chance to do some star gazing. DAY CANOE RIDE IN GARZACOCHA LAGOON: Take a 1.5 to 2 hour canoe ride to observe the biodiversity around the Garzacocha lagoon, where the famous hoatzin stinkbird can be seen as well as fish, monkeys, and the beautiful trees that grow inside the black waters system. CHAGUAMANGO TRAIL: The trail begins at the lodge and finishes at the edge of the lake. At the end of the walk, head back to the lodge by canoe. If lucky, see big troops of squirrel monkeys approaching the water, allowing you to take great photos of wildlife. CHARAPA TRAIL: This trail takes about 1.5 hours. Start at the butterfly farm and end at the edge of the lake. It's a wonderful loop that begins with a walk, returning to the lodge by canoe. Along the way, try to spot different groups of mammals, monkeys, and birds that get close to the lakeshore to look for food in the afternoon hours. It it's a clear afternoon, enjoy a beautiful sunset from the canoe. OBSERVATION TOWER: Take a 20-min walk to the tower, which allows visitors to be (37m) 120 ft above the forest floor to enjoy the canopy of the tropical rainforest. Use a telescope to see birds from the canopy, and maybe even monkeys or sloths. On the way back, hike for about 2 hrs. A native guide will show some of the medicinal plants that natives still use and the naturalist will provide information about the ecology and natural history as well. PARROT CLAY LICK: Visit the most biologically diverse spot on Earth, the Yasuni National Park. A 20-min canoe ride plus a 15-min walk will bring you back to the Napo River. Take a 10-min motorized canoe ride to one of the most amazing displays of the wild world. Hundreds of parrots and parakeets will approach the treetops and later come down to a clay bank to eat the soil rich in minerals. It is essential to have binoculars to enjoy the experience. After identifying the different species of parrots and parakeets, a naturalist guide will provide a lot of interesting information about the behavior of these spectacular birds. The motorized canoe ride will continue for approximately 30 more minutes of birdwatching along the river banks. BUTTERFLY FARM: Learn about the biology of these amazing butterflies. A farm will show the different stages of the butterfly complemented with interesting information provided by a naturalist guide. Visitors won't want to leave the butterfly flying area without taking photos of the colorful butterflies. PIRANHA FISHING: Enjoy fishing for piranhas in the Garzacocha Lake! Fishing lines will be provided by a native guide to let you catch your own piranha. Depending on the size of the fish, they are usually released back into the water. If the fish is big enough, give it to the gourmet chef and enjoy a tasty fish dinner. The fish is much more delicious when you catch it yourself! SPECIFIC TOPIC TALKS: One of the naturalists will hold an optional activity to talk about a specific topic of the rainforest.

Instructions

Every day there will be a briefing about the next day's activities. Itineraries may vary slightly to maximize wildlife sighting depending on the reports of the naturalist guides, the group's main interests, and weather conditions. MEALS Breakfast: wake-up call and breakfast according to activities Lunch: 12:30 pm Dinner: 7:30 pm

Day 4 - Starting: La Selva Lodge & Finishing: La Selva Lodge

See the canopy of the rainforest from a tower 43m (141 ft) in height, and choose from dozens of walks of varying lengths and difficulties; several routes can only be accessed by canoe. Choose from a variety of activities: wake up early for some bird watching or stay up late and go out on a boat to view caimans by flashlight. Learn about the environment and wildlife from a naturalist guide, who accompanies the group to ensure you get the most out of the excursions. The opportunities for birding, botany, hiking, herpetology, canoeing, photography, entomology, fishing, relaxing, and swimming at La Selva Lodge are boundless. Below is a sample of what may be available: MATAPALO TRAIL: This trail was named after the Spanish name for the famous strangler fig (Ficus aurea), one of the many remarkable trees that can be found during this short introductory walk. Native and naturalist guides will share their knowledge about the flora and fauna of the tropical rainforest. NIGHT WALK: A flashlight and a camera will be the only things needed to enjoy all of the insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals that can be seen during an hour walk in the darkness of the forest. NIGHT CANOE RIDE IN GARZACOCHA LAGOON: Guides will take you in a paddle canoe around the lagoon looking for caimans, boas, bats, owls, night mammals, and more nocturnal wildlife with the help of a spotlight. If the sky is clear, have the chance to do some star gazing. DAY CANOE RIDE IN GARZACOCHA LAGOON: Take a 1.5 to 2 hour canoe ride to observe the biodiversity around the Garzacocha lagoon, where the famous hoatzin stinkbird can be seen as well as fish, monkeys, and the beautiful trees that grow inside the black waters system. CHAGUAMANGO TRAIL: The trail begins at the lodge and finishes at the edge of the lake. At the end of the walk, head back to the lodge by canoe. If lucky, see big troops of squirrel monkeys approaching the water, allowing you to take great photos of wildlife. CHARAPA TRAIL: This trail takes about 1.5 hours. Start at the butterfly farm and end at the edge of the lake. It's a wonderful loop that begins with a walk, returning to the lodge by canoe. Along the way, try to spot different groups of mammals, monkeys, and birds that get close to the lakeshore to look for food in the afternoon hours. It it's a clear afternoon, enjoy a beautiful sunset from the canoe. OBSERVATION TOWER: Take a 20-min walk to the tower, which allows visitors to be (37m) 120 ft above the forest floor to enjoy the canopy of the tropical rainforest. Use a telescope to see birds from the canopy, and maybe even monkeys or sloths. On the way back, hike for about 2 hrs. A native guide will show some of the medicinal plants that natives still use and the naturalist will provide information about the ecology and natural history as well. PARROT CLAY LICK: Visit the most biologically diverse spot on Earth, the Yasuni National Park. A 20-min canoe ride plus a 15-min walk will bring you back to the Napo River. Take a 10-min motorized canoe ride to one of the most amazing displays of the wild world. Hundreds of parrots and parakeets will approach the treetops and later come down to a clay bank to eat the soil rich in minerals. It is essential to have binoculars to enjoy the experience. After identifying the different species of parrots and parakeets, a naturalist guide will provide a lot of interesting information about the behavior of these spectacular birds. The motorized canoe ride will continue for approximately 30 more minutes of birdwatching along the river banks. BUTTERFLY FARM: Learn about the biology of these amazing butterflies. A farm will show the different stages of the butterfly complemented with interesting information provided by a naturalist guide. Visitors won't want to leave the butterfly flying area without taking photos of the colorful butterflies. PIRANHA FISHING: Enjoy fishing for piranhas in the Garzacocha Lake! Fishing lines will be provided by a native guide to let you catch your own piranha. Depending on the size of the fish, they are usually released back into the water. If the fish is big enough, give it to the gourmet chef and enjoy a tasty fish dinner. The fish is much more delicious when you catch it yourself! SPECIFIC TOPIC TALKS: One of the naturalists will hold an optional activity to talk about a specific topic of the rainforest.

Instructions

Every day there will be a briefing about the next day's activities. Itineraries may vary slightly to maximize wildlife sighting depending on the reports of the naturalist guides, the group's main interests, and weather conditions. MEALS Breakfast: wake-up call and breakfast according to activities Lunch: 12:30 pm Dinner: 7:30 pm

Day 5 - Starting: La Selva Lodge & Finishing: Quito

The lodge staff will assist with your checked luggage. Take a motorized canoe ride upstream to go back to Coca, where a representative will take you to the airport to help with your checked luggage and boarding passes. Catch the flight back to Quito and transfer to the hotel in Quito.

Instructions

If you would like any post-night accommodation in Quito (not included), please speak to your sales CEO.

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More Information

What’s Included

Arrival transfers. Departure transfer to Quito hotel. Amazon Jungle lodge stay with activities and wildlife viewing opportunities by boat and hiking. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Highlights

Stay in a remote and luxurious Amazon lodge, explore the jungle paths and rivers by foot and canoe, learn about this diverse ecosystem with expert local naturalists, enjoy gourmet cuisine prepared by a renowned chef

Dossier Disclaimer

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Itinerary Disclaimer

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Important Notes

1. LOCAL FLIGHT
There is a maximum weight allowance on the local flight of 15 kg (33 lbs) per person. There may be an extra charge should you exceed this weight.

2. ARRIVAL
If you are arriving by flight on Day 1 of the tour (i.e. you are not being picked up from your Quito hotel on Day 1), the latest arrival flight time into Quito is 7:00am.

3. DEPARTURE
If you are planning to depart Quito on the final day of the tour, the earliest departure flight you should take is at 16:00.

Group Leader Description

This is an independent trip, as such, no G Adventures staff will accompany you. You will however, be in very good hands with the lodge staff and local guides at La Selva.

Meals

Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other’s company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On truck trips in Africa, aboard the expedition ship Explorer or our Galapagos yachts, while trekking in remote regions etc. food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.

Transport

Van, bus, local flight, canoe, walking

About our Transportation

Land Transfers & Included Tours/activities: Many of the land transfers and included tours will be by private van, car or taxi, while others may be shared with other travellers depending on availability, nature of the activity and destination. For transfers, you may have a local non English-speaking driver only, for included tours, you will be accompanied by an English speaking local guide.

Local Flights

All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.

Airline luggage restriction:
Each passenger is allowed luggage up to 20 kilos (44 pounds) for checked luggage, as well as a carry-on item such as a backpack.

Solo Travellers

We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Accommodation

La Selva Lodge (4 nts).

About Accommodation

La Selva has been in successful operation for about sixteen years. One of the first Amazon rainforest lodges in Ecuador, the award winning La Selva was completely remodeled and reopened in July of 2012, and has become the premier eco lodge in the Ecuadorian Amazon. The cabanas are inspired by native bamboo design: authentic, airy and comfortable with unexpected amenities including private bathrooms, hot showers, electricity, ceiling fans, and are immaculately cleaned daily.

The cozy private bungalows are made entirely of secondary growth rainforest materials and designed to blend with the surroundings. Each one has a private bathroom, a hammock and mosquito netting for each bed (although you will be surprised at what little need you will have for this item due to the lack of insects).

There are 12 thatched cabanas of varying sleeping configurations and several public gathering spots, including the spacious dining room with a rooftop lookout point, an open-air combined bar and a lounge with a wrap-around view of the lake.

In an effort to conserve the authentic Amazon experience and for ecological reasons, please note that there is no air conditioning in the rooms at La Selva. However, for your convenience and comfort there are fans for use 24 hours a day, and after a short period you will be surprised at how quickly your body will adapt to the change of climate. The open design of the rooms allows you to listen and enjoy the sounds of the jungle, while maintaining an genuine jungle experience in maximum comfort.

Joining Hotel

La Selva Lodge
Coca-Ecuador
Phone: (593) (2) 2 545 425

Joining Instructions

The Quito International Airport is approximately an hour outside of the city centre where your joining hotel is located.The easiest way to get there is via taxi (approximately $30-40 USD). Immediately after the customs and immigration area, as you head to the exits, you will find a taxi stand. We strongly recommend you pay for the car at set rates from the taxi stand and therefore won’t need to worry about sorting out a ride outside the airport facilities, where the situation tends to get more chaotic with many drivers vying for few clients. The taxis outside the airport area do not belong to the Taxi Airport Union and may charge higher fares.

You will be picked up from your hotel in Quito and transferred to the airport on the first day of the trip. Accommodation in Quito is not included in the price of your trip but can be arranged at the time of booking. If you have arranged your own accommodation in Quito please let us know at the time of booking where you will be staying. A G Adventures representative will contact you at your hotel in Quito and make sure you are settled comfortably. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning for your flight to the jungle. If you are arriving by flight on Day 1 of the tour (i.e. you are not being picked up from your Quito hotel on Day 1), the latest arrival flight time into Quito is 7:00am.

Arrival Complications

We don’t expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

Emergency Contact

Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

AIRPORT TRANSFER 
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:

Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. 

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Office Quito, Ecuador
During office hours (Weekdays 9am-6pm Local Time)
From outside Ecuador: +593 2250 6610
From within Ecuador: 022 506 610

After hours Emergency number
From outside Ecuador: +593 999 506 000
From within Ecuador: 0999 506 000

If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you.

Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0844 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 01805 70 90 30 00
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999

Finishing Point Instructions

If you are planning to depart Quito on the final day of the tour, the earliest departure flight you should take is at 16:00.

What to Take

This is a lodge based trip, so you don’t have to carry your bags daily. However, you do have to carry your bags into La Selva Lodge and back. The trip involves a dugout canoe trip up the river, so pack light, since you have to carry your bags. It is recommended to bring loose fitting, dark coloured clothing.

Checklist

• Passport (with photocopies)
• Travel insurance (with photocopies)
• Airline tickets (with photocopies)
• Any G Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information or trip details
• Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
– Cash in USD
– Cash, credit and debit cards

-Weather-appropriate clothing
-Windproof/waterproof jacket
-Swim wear
-Rain poncho
-Sun hat
-Shorts/skirts
-Loose-fitting, light coloured long-sleeved shirts
-Loose-fitting, light coloured hiking pants
-T-shirts
-Walking boots/sturdy shoes
-Socks
-Flip flops/sandals
-Knee-length socks
-Sunblock
-Bug repellent with DEET
-Toiletries (biodegradable)
-Watch/alarm clock
-First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking.)

-Day pack
-Camera with extra memory cards and batteries
-Personal Entertainment
-Binoculars
-Waterproof backpack cover
-Flashlight/Torch
-Outlet adapter
-Insect Repellent
-Moneybelt
-Antibacterial wipes/gel
-Reusable water bottle
-Ear plugs
-Plastic bags

Laundry

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Aboard the expedition ships Explorer and Andrea laundry facilities are provided at a charge. Aboard the Amazon Explorer laundry facilities are provided free of charge for each passenger once a week.

Visas

All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT’S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION.

Detailed Trip Notes

Important notes about visiting the Amazon:

Rubber boots are a must: Rubber boots are very good for hiking in the rainforest, they help protect feet from plants and insects close to the ground as well as deep water. The lodge offers use of boots as a courtesy to our guests, available from size 5 to size 12.

How to keep things dry:
We recommend that passengers bring zip-lock plastic bags or dry sacks for your lenses and camera equipment. A waterproof backpack will also help you to protect your camera gear or anything else you wish to keep completely dry. The humidity is high in the rainforest, however, if you follow the advice about packing appropriate belongings it should not be an issue.

Electricity is available in the bar, dining areas, reception areas and rooms (110V) to recharge batteries. We suggest that guests bring a flashlight or headlamp. The plugs for recharging batteries have three holes, two plainprongs and one circle prong just as most American plugs. However, we recommend that you bring a transformer of two plain prongs.

The weather in La Selva Amazon Ecolodge:
Year-round temperature average is 82°F (28°C), however nights can be cooler. Since Ecuador is located right on the equator, the country does not experience extreme weather changes, and the weather is surprisingly comfortable all year around. Please be prepared for rain.

For Serious Photography
A long lens, at least a zoom capable of 200 mm is recommended and an assortment of film as low as ASA 25 for out on the streams in full sun and around the lodge, to ASA 400 – pushing it if you like, for in the forest. Be sure to carry your film separately.

Digital camera users need only beware (as SLR users) that moisture can fog their lenses rapidly. Silica gel in the camera carrying case should do the job and remember to put your camera back in the case when not using it. Bring plastic zip-lock bags for protecting your gear.

In the 16th Century, Spanish conqueror Francisco de Orellana ventured from Quito into the eastern jungle, in search of El Dorado, a mythical stash of Inca gold hidden away in the jungle. While he didn’t find gold, he did discover Ecuador’s Rio Napo which, along with Peru’s Marañón, combines to create the mighty Amazon. He followed the Napo into the Amazon mainstream and travelled all the way through the dense jungle to the Atlantic Ocean on Brazil’s coast.

Consider the variety of mammals living in Ecuador’s Amazon: armadillos, honey bears, sloth, 60 varieties of bats, tapirs, peccaries, jaguar, monkeys, manatees and much more. Birds are the richest group of Amazon vertebrates, at approximately 1000 species. Visitors will see hummingbirds, toucans, macaws and tanagers on land, and darters, herons and gulls on water. If fortunate, you may catch a glimpse of the prehistoric looking Hoatzin, with its brightly coloured feathers and sharp talons.

Over 500 species of trees per acre have been recorded in the jungles of the upper Amazon. If this doesn’t seem particularly astonishing, consider that this is ten times greater than either Europe or North America, and you will begin to appreciate the significance of the conservation of this area and others like it.

The rainforest is also the traditional home of many indigenous communities, whose traditional homelands and way of life are threatened by the encroachment of 21st Century industries like mining, petroleum exploitation and large-scale cash-crop farming.

Spending Money

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Money Exchange

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available some may not accept all international credit or debit cards. You may need to try at more than one machine if the first does not accept your card. You should also check with your bank before leaving to ensure that your card works internationally. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollar cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don’t want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds. Please bring USD banknotes in denominations smaller than 100, as they can be hard to exchange in Ecuador. 100 dollar bills of certain series (e.g. CB B2) can be especially hard to cash! CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD (or equivalent). As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

Emergency Fund

Departure Tax

USD $40.80

Tipping

It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, and local guide(s) at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected – though not compulsory – component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels.

Optional Activities

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

SPA – Massages USD 80 per person
YOGA USD 30 /per hour per person
CANDLELIGHT DINNER USD 102 per couple
SUNSET CRUISE USD 90 per couple
SPORT FISHING Free
KAYAK Free
PARROT CLAY LICKS Free

1- MASSAGES
The massages are designed to restore vitality, health and wellness. These treatments also activate the reflexes to help improve circulation and to infuse well-being, so that you, our exceptional guest can exit one of our massages re-energized and refreshed.

2.- YOGA RETREAT – Maximum 8 People (per hour)
The yoga retreats we will be offering are one of a kind and range from beginner to expert regardless of your age, stamina or fitness level. Our experienced yoga instructor at the lodge will be leading the sessions in the morning or in the evening if you prefer not to go on an excursion with your guide

3.- CANDLELIGHT DINNER
Leave it to the staff at La Selva to provide and extremely romantic candlelit dinner for two. The private dinner will consist of you and your loved one, and your attentive waiter. Along with the dinner will come pleasant surprises for a special evening neither of you will forget!

4.- SUNSET CRUISE
We will have a decorated dugout canoe ready with some snacks and wine; a canoe paddler will take you and your loved one along the lagoon and you will enjoy the beauty of an Amazonian sunset.:this activity is being operated in a sustainable way without overfishing the system.5. *Sport fishing

6. *Kayak: this activity can be offered during leisure hours and not at night.

Health

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

Please note your Adventure travels to high altitude. This is medically defined as anything over 8,000 feet (2,440 meters). Most people can travel to 8,000 feet with minimal effects. However, everyone reacts to altitude differently and altitude sickness can on set with some people irrespective of fitness and age. For details on how to best prepare and what to do in the unlikely event you are effected on your Adventure, please consult your physician.

Safety and Security

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government’s advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers’ cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home – you won’t need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.

Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).

Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.

We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit:

www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/

Trip Specific Safety

Please take care when wandering about the city on your own, as pick pockets and purse-snatchers are common, particularly in the Old Town. Be safe and leave your passport, credit cards, traveller’s cheques and cash you don’t need in the hotel’s safety deposit box. Most Quiteños are honest and genuinely helpful and friendly, but be safe and enjoy the city!

Medical Form

Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility’ is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our CEOs work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day’s activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.

The medical questionnaire can be found online at:

www.gadventures.com/medical-form.

A Couple of Rules

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Planeterra-The G Adventures Foundation

Through our commitment to responsible tourism we have developed the Planeterra Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of international charities, local organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our tours. G Adventures matches all individual donations and pays all administration costs, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit www.planeterra.org

Planeterra Dollar-A-Day Program
Our Dollar-A-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar per day for the duration of their tour. 100% of these proceeds will go directly to support our G Adventures for Good projects.

To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to participate in G Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your G Adventures specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking)

Associated Planeterra Project

Amazon Jungle Lodges – While all of our lodges operate responsibly, lodges with this logo go the extra mile by supporting local indigenous communities, tropical rainforest and/or wildlife conservation projects.

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Travel Forum – The Watering Hole

Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you’re interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gadventures.com.

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Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides.

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