Starts | Cartagena, Colombia |
---|
Ends | La Paz, Bolivia |
---|
Region | South America |
---|
Duration | 60 days |
---|
Tour Operator | Gadventures |
---|
Tour Code | SMCG 23381 |
---|
Overview PDF | Download PDF |
---|
View DatesItinerary
Day 1 - Starting: Cartagena & Finishing: Cartagena
Arrive at any time.
Day 2 - Starting: Cartagena & Finishing: Cartagena
Free day to explore this coastal colonial city. Wander the historic old town, check out the San Felipe fortress, or get dirty with a mud bath and massage at Totumo Volcano.
Day 3 - Starting: Cartagena & Finishing: Santa Marta
Travel by public bus to this coastal port town. Free time to visit the Gold Museum with its collection of Lost City artifacts, chill out on the beach and pick up any last minute necessities for the upcoming trek.
Instructions
Please note hot water is uncommon in the Caribbean region of Colombia. Showers are likely to only have cold water while visiting this area.
Day 4 - Starting: Santa Marta & Finishing: Adán Camp
Transfer to Machete Pelao, where the trek to the Lost City of Teyuna begins. Trek for 4-5 hrs each day through farmland, steamy jungle, and rural Kogi communities. Get a glimpse into the local way of life in the remote river valleys of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Day 5 - Starting: Adán Camp & Finishing: Wiwa Camp
The route starts along the Buritaca River, taking you further into the vivid green jungle past small villages en route to the camp for the evening. After a long day of trekking, enjoy a refreshing dip in one of the natural swimming pools.
Day 6 - Starting: Wiwa Camp & Finishing: Teyuna Paraiso Camp
Continue trekking along the route to Ciudad Perdida. Today is a tough portion of the trek with a lot of steep inclines, make sure to rest and take in the beautiful views.
Day 7 - Starting: Teyuna Paraiso Camp & Finishing: Wiwa Camp
Get started early to climb the 1,200 steps up to the Lost City. The view of the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains makes it well worth the hike. Explore the Lost City and learn what is known of its origins from the indigenous guide, before making the descent back to Wiwa Camp for the night.
Day 8 - Starting: Ciudad Perdida & Finishing: Taganga
After a final morning trek back to Machete Pelao, transfer to the fishing village of Taganga for an afternoon of rest and relaxation.
Day 9 - Starting: Taganga & Finishing: Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona
Enjoy an overnight excursion to beautiful Tayrona NP. Explore the park's lush greenery, extended beaches and turquoise Caribbean waters.
Day 10 - Starting: Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona & Finishing: Taganga
Enjoy a half-day in the park, then return to Taganga for one more night on the Caribbean.
Day 11 - Starting: Taganga & Finishing: Medellín
Fly inland to infamous Medellín, now one of Latin America's safest cities. Enjoy an orientation walk upon arrival and an optional night out with the group.
Day 12 - Starting: Medellín & Finishing: Bogotá
Opt to go paragliding over the city or catch a ride on the cable car. Board a night bus to Bogotá.
Day 13 - Starting: Bogotá & Finishing: Bogotá
Orientation walk around the vibrant La Candelaria area. Free time to explore Colombia's capital city; check out the riches at the Gold Museum, take a funicular car up Monserrate Hill for sweeping views of the city, or catch a fútbol (soccer) match if it's game day.
Day 14 - Starting: Bogotá & Finishing: Bogotá
Enjoy a second day to explore Colombia's capital.
Day 15 - Starting: Bogotá & Finishing: Otavalo
Fly to Quito and transfer to Otavalo and spend one night at an indigenous community. Interact with the locals and learn about their traditional ways during a homestay. Opt to enjoy a cultural evening and show with typical food.
Day 16 - Starting: Otavalo & Finishing: Cotopaxi
Visit the famous Otavalo artisan market for a morning perusing colourful textiles, art, carvings and jewelry made by people from nearby communities. Afternoon bus to Cotopaxi to enjoy a couple of nights in Andean beauty.
Day 17 - Starting: Cotopaxi & Finishing: Cotopaxi
Opt to visit a lagoon at elevation, hike national park trails or go down Cotopaxi Volcano by mountain bike.
Day 18 - Starting: Cotopaxi & Finishing: Quito
Enjoy the morning in Cotopaxi before travelling back to Quito for an orientation walk and optional night out.
Day 19 - Starting: Quito & Finishing: Santa Cruz Island
Fly to the Galápagos Islands and transfer to Puerto Ayora. Enjoy free time to explore the town before taking a speedboat to Floreana Island in the afternoon. Stay in a G Adventures-supported guesthouse, the first community tourism project on the island.
Instructions
Fly from Quito to Baltra to meet a G Adventures representative who will assist in getting you from the Baltra airport to Puerto Ayora. Enjoy a bit of free time before taking a speedboat to Floreana Island in the afternoon.
Day 20 - Starting: Floreana Island & Finishing: Floreana Island
Enjoy an included snorkelling excursion to Loberia, and visit the highlands of Floreana.
Day 21 - Starting: Floreana Island & Finishing: Isabela Island
Take a speedboat over to Isabela Island, Hike the Sierra Negra Volcano for views from above.
Day 22 - Starting: Isabela Island & Finishing: Isabela Island
Enjoy free time in the morning for optional activities, opt to go snorkelling, surfing or hit the beach. In the afternoon, visit the Flamingo Lagoon and the Tortoise Breeding Centre.
Day 23 - Starting: Isabela Island & Finishing: Santa Cruz Island
Transfer by speedboat back to Santa Cruz Island, where home is a camp in the highlands. Head to the highlands to see giant tortoises in the wild. In the afternoon, visit the Charles Darwin Station.
Day 24 - Starting: Puerto Ayora & Finishing: Santa Cruz Island
Hike to beautiful Tortuga Bay, and opt to go kayaking or just lounge on the beach.
Day 25 - Starting: Santa Cruz Island & Finishing: Quito
Say goodbye to the Galapagos Islands, and take a morning flight back to Quito. Upon arrival in Quito, transfer to the hotel and enjoy a night in the city.
Day 26 - Starting: Quito & Finishing: Quito
Enjoy a free day to explore Ecuador's capital. Stay in the city, take a day trip to the equator, or mountain bike down a volcano.
Day 27 - Starting: Quito & Finishing: Tena
Travel overland to Tena, located on the edge of the Amazon. From there, transfer for 45 minutes by truck to the local community of Pimpilala that will be our home for 3 nights. Stay with a Quichua family, enjoy the hospitality of these wonderful people, and experience life in the jungle first-hand.
Day 28 - Starting: Tena & Finishing: Tena
Spot wildlife on nature walks and learn about local traditions at an overnight homestay.
Day 29 - Starting: Tena & Finishing: Tena
Spot wildlife on nature walks and learn about local traditions at an overnight homestay.
Day 30 - Starting: Tena & Finishing: Baños
Baños is the perfect setting for outdoor pursuits, including horseback riding, canyoning, hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and rafting in the surrounding mountains and on the River Patate.
Day 31 - Starting: Baños & Finishing: Baños
Opt to soak in the nearby hot springs or get active by hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking.
Day 32 - Starting: Baños & Finishing: Cuenca
Ecuador's third largest town, Cuenca, retains a pleasant provincial air with its colonial architecture, art galleries, and museums. The surrounding countryside is an outdoor playground. Visit national parks, take walks in the beautiful countryside, and see Ecuador’s only Inca ruin site.
Explore the city’s sights including cobbled streets, red-tiled roofs, art galleries, flower markets, shady plazas, and museums.
Day 33 - Starting: Cuenca & Finishing: Cuenca
Enjoy a free day to visit Cajas NP or the Inca ruins of Ingapirca.
Day 34 - Starting: Cuenca & Finishing: Máncora
The adventure continues as we travel from Cuenca through the busy border town of Huaquillas and across the Peruvian border into Mancora. We follow the Pan-American Highway south to the seaside town of Mancora, a village populated by fishermen and surfers from around Peru and the world. Enjoy the relaxing beach atmosphere.
Day 35 - Starting: Máncora & Finishing: Máncora
Opt to relax on the beach, discover Mancora, go horseback riding, or take a surf lesson.
Day 36 - Starting: Máncora & Finishing: Huanchaco
Free time in Mancora. Overnight bus to Huanchaco.
Day 37 - Starting: Huanchaco & Finishing: Huanchaco
We continue heading south along the coast to Trujillo, the largest city in northern Peru. It is known for its beautiful colonial structures and nearby attractions of Chan-Chan ruins and the resort town of Huanchaco, where we spend the night.
Day 38 - Starting: Huanchaco & Finishing: Lima
Full day in Huanchaco before boarding a night bus to Lima.
Day 39 - Starting: Lima & Finishing: Lima
To get a feel for colonial Lima, take a cab to the Plaza de Armas and watch the changing of the Palace Guard in the afternoon. Walk around the streets surrounding the Jirón de la Unión for great examples of Spanish-colonial architecture and to experience life in a large South American city. There are many fine museums in and around the city, including the Museo Rafael Larco Herrera. An optional city tour visits many of the cities highlights.
Day 40 - Starting: Lima & Finishing: Lima
Enjoy the day exploring the city.
Day 41 - Starting: Lima & Finishing: Paracas
Savour a pisco sour while staying in Pisco's neighbouring town of Paracas.
Day 42 - Starting: Paracas & Finishing: Nazca
There is time in the morning for an optional excursion to the popular Ballestas Islands, which provide an excellent chance to view a lively sea lion colony, pelicans, penguins, and other varieties of birdlife.
Back on land, catch a bus south to Nazca. On the way, pass by the pleasant colonial town of Ica.
Ica enjoys a dry, sunny climate year-round and is known for its huge sand dunes. Located around the nearby oasis of Huacachina, the dunes are perfect as subjects for photographs and for a favourite local past time: sandboarding. Apart from the dunes, Ica is famous for its wines and there are several wineries and distilleries in the area.
Day 43 - Starting: Nazca & Finishing: Arequipa
Opt for a flight over the Nazca Lines. Overnight bus to Arequipa.
Day 44 - Starting: Arequipa & Finishing: Arequipa
Those with an interest in history and architecture may opt to visit the Convent of Santa Catalina, which offers a brief respite from the outside world and a unique view into a bygone way of life. Other optional excursions include rafting and mountaineering.
For spicy food lovers, checking out one of the “Picanterías” is a must. Arequipa has a variety of regional food: alpaca, shrimp, pork, lots of soups, and spicy sauces.
Day 45 - Starting: Arequipa & Finishing: Chivay
Enjoy an overnight excursion to the impressive Colca Canyon - one of the deepest canyons in the world. Stop in fascinating villages and at “miradors” (scenic lookouts), where, with a little luck, visitors can see Andean condors soaring over the majestic Andes. Other unusual animals that can be spotted in the Andean landscape include three different species of camelids: alpaca, llama and vicuña.
Day 46 - Starting: Chivay & Finishing: Chivay
Get an early start to go on the lookout for flying condors. Travel from Chivay town to a condor viewpoint to admire these magnificent birds in the air. On the way back, stop by some local villages and viewpoints to see old terraces and sections of Colca Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world.
Day 47 - Starting: Arequipa & Finishing: Cusco
In the morning head back to Arequipa and enjoy a free day. Overnight bus to Cusco.
Day 48 - Starting: Cusco & Finishing: Cusco
Free time to explore Cusco. Opt for a city tour or go whitewater rafting, horseback riding or mountain biking.
Day 49 - Starting: Cusco & Finishing: Cusco
Enjoy another free day in Cusco.
Day 50 - Starting: Cusco & Finishing: Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is a major Inca ruin site and a first taste of what lies ahead. For those craving more before they head out on the Trail, opt to take a Sacred Valley tour which includes not only Ollantaytambo and the ruin site of Pisac, but also a visit to a G Adventures-supported women's weaving co-op.
Day 51 - Starting: Ollantaytambo & Finishing: Wayllabamba Camp
Trek through beautiful scenery, with a variety of flora that changes with the seasons, passing several smaller ruin sites like Llactapata.
Instructions
A crew of local porters, cooks, and guides will take care of all the details for the duration of the hike. Porters carry the majority of the gear so you’ll only need to carry a small daypack with water, rain gear, snacks, a camera, etc.
Day 52 - Starting: Wayllabamba Camp & Finishing: Paqaymayo Camp
Start early to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, better known as Dead Woman’s Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with ample time to rest and relax.
Day 53 - Starting: Paqaymayo Camp & Finishing: Wiñaywayna
Cross two more passes and ruins along the way. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through cloud forest on the gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley.
At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the "town above the clouds." Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the Wiñay Wayna ruins ("forever young") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft).
Day 54 - Starting: Wiñaywayna & Finishing: Cusco
The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Wake up around 03:30 and walk to the checkpoint. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the site and free time to explore. Opt to visit the Inca Bridge, if time allows.
Catch the bus to Aguas Calientes to meet any non-hiking members of your group. Eat and relax before your train back to Cusco in the afternoon.
Day 55 - Starting: Cusco & Finishing: Cusco
Free day to explore more of Cusco or just relax.
Day 56 - Starting: Cusco & Finishing: Puno
Travel through the high Altiplano region to travel to Puno on Lake Titicaca.
Day 57 - Starting: Puno & Finishing: Lago Titicaca
Head out by boat across Lake Titicaca. Visit the community on Taquile Island and enjoy a local lunch with spectacular views.
After, cruise to another village for an overnight homestay on the shores of the lake (the homestay location can vary based on community availability). This experience provides an opportunity to learn more about rural life in the Peruvian highlands and to participate in local traditions. Eat with the family, learn some Quecha and Spanish language skills, try on traditional costumes, and help out with daily chores around the village.
Day 58 - Starting: Lago Titicaca & Finishing: Puno
Leave the homestay families late morning, and visit the Uros Islands on the way back to Puno. A popular optional activity in Puno is a visit to the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site only a short drive away.
Day 59 - Starting: Puno & Finishing: La Paz
Enjoy a full-day drive around the lake and through the Altiplano to La Paz. Bolivia is filled with spectacular views of the countryside. La Paz sits nearly 4,000m (13,120 ft) above sea level, so be prepared for cool evenings and mornings.
Day 60 - Starting: La Paz & Finishing: La Paz
Depart at any time.
View Dates
More Information
What’s Included
5-day Lost City of Teyuna trek. Overnight excursion to Tayrona NP. Visit to Otavalo Market. Full-day hike of Sierra Negra Volcano (Isabela). Highlands visit (Floreana). Loberia snorkelling excursion (Floreana). Visit to Flamingo Lagoon and Tortoise Breeding Centre (Isabela), Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz), lava tunnels (Santa Cruz). Opportunities for snorkelling, swimming, and Incredible wildlife encounters. Orientation walks in Medellin, Bogotá, and Quito. Beach time in Taganga, Mancora, and Huanchaco. Pachamanca ceremony (Nazca). Guided tour of Machu Picchu. 4-day Inca Trail hike with a local guide, cook, and porters. G Adventures-supported handmade biodegradable soap products for use on the Inca Trail. Amazon Jungle and Colca Canyon excursions. Lake Titicaca excursion with overnight family homestay. Internal flights. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Trek to the Lost City of Teyuna, snorkel with sea lions in the Galapagos, experience local life in an Ecuadorian and Peruvian homestays, conquer the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Dossier Disclaimer
Itinerary Disclaimer
Important Notes
1) Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. Some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour after your trip concludes.
2) Galapagos notes:
ITINERARY
The itinerary is subject to further changes dependent upon new regulations made by the Galápagos National Park or seasonal points of interest.
GALÁPAGOS ISLAND PARK ENTRY FEE
The Ecuadorian government currently levies a Galápagos Islands Park entry fee of $100 USD per person. This is payable at the airport upon arrival in the park. It is not included in the cost of the tour, and must be paid in CASH. This fee funds Park maintenance and supervision in Galápagos, as well as ecological study, conservation and infrastructure development in Ecuador’s other National Parks. Entry fees and the funds they generate for the National Park System are among measures taken by the Ecuadorian government to protect its natural heritage.
TRANSIT CONTROL CARDS
The Galapagos National Park authorities have implemented a system of Transit Control Cards at a fee of $20 USD per person. This card is to be purchased in CASH at a counter in the Quito airport before boarding the flight to the Galapagos. Please retain this card along with your passport as you will be required to present this upon arrival to the Galapagos Islands. Please note that this applies to all tourists entering the Galapagos Islands and is a supplement to the existing entry fee to the National Park and is not controlled by tour operators or travel agencies. It is the first of a number of initiatives to track, control and maintain the sustainable tourism targets set out by the Galapagos National Park and the Ecuadorian government in an attempt to preserve the fragile environment of the archipelago.
MUNICIPAL TAX
There will be a municipal tax of $5 USD per person charged locally upon departure from Isabela Island.
3) In our continued effort to support the rights of the porters on the Inca Trail, we would like ensure that they never exceed the weight limit for their packs as set out by the Peruvian authorities. Porters are allowed to carry no more than 6kg of personal belongings per hiker (for all other Peru treks the limit is 8kg). That means that including your sleeping bag, toiletries, clothing, etc, you are allowed a total weight of 6kg for the hike which will be carried in a duffle bag provided by our local office. Any additional weight must then be carried by you in your day pack. To help achieve this goal we recommend that you carry travel sized toiletries, that you bring sport sandals that can be worn with socks (which are lighter than running/walking shoes) and that you limit electronics to those that you are willing to carry. Any additional baggage can be left in Cusco, but is advised that you bring anything of value (eg. money, passport, credit cards, camera, etc) with you on the trek.
If at the end of your trek you felt your trekking guide and support team did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline, we suggest each hiker contributes the following to a collective pool. We suggest a tipping amount of $40 per person for the Inca Trail and $35 per person for the Lares Trek.
Group Leader Description
ll G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEOs), a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it’s the best of both worlds.
Our CEOs leading tour tours in the Galápagos are all certified naturalist guides.
Group Size Notes
Max 18, avg 14.
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. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Meal Budget
Allow USD1065-1385 for meals not included.
Transport
Local bus, 4×4, boat, truck, public speedboat, van, motorized canoe, train, hiking, plane, minibus.
About our Transportation
This trip combines a variety of transportation types. At G Adventures, we believe that getting there is half the fun. When it comes to getting around, public transport is often the best and most colourful way to go. You’ll be using a combination of public buses, private vans, ferries, boats and taxis to get from here to there.
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.
Solo Travellers
Accommodation
Simple hotels (35 nts, some multi-share), camping (9 nts), hammock or rustic bunks (5 nts), overnight buses (5 nts), homestays (5 nt).
My Own Room Exceptions
Nights 4-7: Lost City trek, Night 9: Tayrona Park (Hammocks), Nights 19-20: Floreana camping, Nights 27-29: jungle homestay, Nights 54, 56 and 59: overnight buses, Nights 45-46: Colca Canyon, Nights 52-54: Inca Trail, Night 57: Lake Titicaca homestay
About Accommodation
Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Latin America (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.
Please note if you are a single traveller, you can expect to share accommodation with one or two other travelers of the same sex for the duration of your trip. Using multi-share accommodation when available helps us to keep our operating cost down, and these savings are passed onto you. If you are traveling with a friend or companion, we will attempt to keep your accommodation on a twin or double basis, however, ask you to be open to the idea of occasional multi-share rooms.
Joining Hotel
Hotel Villa Colonial
Address: Media Luna 10 # 89, Cartagena, Bolívar 13001, Colombia
Phone:+57 5 6605497
Joining Instructions
To take a taxi to your destination, pick up a taxi voucher from the official stand in the baggage area before getting into a cab which will have the price printed on it depending on where you’re headed. The price to get to the old city or anywhere in the “Centro” area Zone 1 including hotels in Getsemani should not cost more than COP $18,000.
————————————————
The supply of yellow taxis in Cartagena is abundant and cheap so if needed they are the preferred choice. This said, one does not need them within the boundaries of the old town so what is left are the so called Boca Grande development and Convento de la Popa /Castillo San Felipe direction. The first makes sense but the Convento is a bit awkward and the taxi drivers know it so tough negotiations are a prerequisite for not being gauged on the way. Airport rides are regulated and cost no more than 5USD.
Arrival Complications
What to Take
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. It’s best to layer clothes rather than bring a heavy parka so that you can take layers off.
We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.
Checklist
Documents:
– Airline tickets (with photocopies)
– Passport (with photocopies)
– Travel insurance (with photocopies)
– Airline tickets (with photocopies)
– Credit or debit cards (see personal spending money)
– Cash in US Dollars
– G Adventures vouchers and trip details
– Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Suggested items:
– Sleeping bag or sleep sheet & pillow (for Galápagos)
– Camera and memory card(s)/charger
– Reading/writing material
– Small daypack for excursions – for water, camera etc
– Cover for backpacks
– Fleece top
– Windproof/waterproof jacket
– Small towel and swim wear
– Shirts/t-shirts
– Sun hat
– Shorts
– Long trousers
– Hiking pants/track pants
– Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes
– Sturdy footwear for hiking
– Sport sandals
– Sunblock
– Sunglasses
– Insect repellent
– Watch or alarm clock
– Water bottle
– Flashlight or headlamp
– Binoculars (optional)
– First-aid kit(should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
Hiking equipment is available to rent locally if desired (prices subject to change):
-Walking pole 15 soles each (30 per pair)
-Sleeping bag 45 soles
-Air mattress 45 soles
Laundry
Laundry availability is dependent on the location you’re in or the amount of time spent in that location.
We suggest packing enough clothing in case laundry is not available and/or packing laundry soap so you can wash things if needed.
Laundry is available on this trip in Cartagena (Day 1-2), Bogotá (Day 13-14), Floreana (Day 19-20), Isabela (Day 21-22), Santa Cruz (Day 23-24), Quito (Day 25-26), Baños (Day 30-31) and Cusco (Day 48-49).
Spending Money
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, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank.
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. Please bear in mind that cost of living in the southern cone countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile) is much higher than the rest of South America, and in the case of Argentina, more comparable with Europe. Always take more rather than less, as you don’t want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
We do not recommend bringing travellers cheques as they are very difficult to change in country.
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
Tipping
It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, 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. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.
Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used.
Optional Activities
Optional activity prices are subject to change dependent on seasonality or min and max numbers (where applicable). Low season is Feb, Mar, May, Sept, Oct and Nov and high season is Jan, Apr, June, July, Aug and Dec.
Availability may depend on the season or weather conditions.
La Paz activities are only available when booking post stays. Post-trip activities can be booked through your CEO.
All prices are per person (pp) and are based on local currencies, listed in approximate USD amounts.
COLOMBIA
Cartagena
Castillo de San Felipe $8 pp
La Popa Hill $4 pp
Guided Boat Tour to El Rosario Islands (Incl. Lunch) $30 – $35 pp (Low/High Season)
Optional Aquarium Show on El Rosario Islands $8 pp
Totumo Mud Volcano Bus Tour (Incl. Lunch) $25 – $35 pp (Low/High Season)
Totumo Mud Volcano Bus Tour (Without Lunch) $20 – $32 pp (Low/High Season)
Chiva Rumba Ride $24 – $32 pp (Low/High season)
Palace of the Inquisition $6 pp (With Eng. Guide $11)
Boat Tour from Cartagena to Isla Baru $50 pp
Modern Art Museum $27 pp
Naval Museum $27 pp. Eng. Guide $20 pp
Tayrona National Park
El Pueblito – 2hr Jungle Trek & Ruins. 1hr trek to the Beach. Free Time at the Beach. $20 pp
Medellin
City Tour $25 pp
Pablo Escobar Tour $35
Modern Art Museum – No Charge
Rafting the Cauca River (Class III Rapids) $20
El Peñol – Monolith/Lake Visit $40 pp
Bogotá
National Museum of Colombia $2 pp
Botero Art Museum (Botero, Picasso, Renoir, Monet, Dali) – Donation
City Tour $22 pp
Bike Tour (Half Day) $11 pp
Bike Tour (Full Day) $20 pp
ECUADOR
Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi Volcano National Park – Cotobike Tour & Trekking to the First Refuge $45 pp
Cotopaxi Volcano National Park – Trekking to the First Refuge & Limpiopungo Lake $40 pp
Note: Park Entrance Fee of $40 is Split Between the Number Interested.
Otavalo
Peguche Waterfalls $10 pp
Bicycle Rental (per hour) $8 pp
Indian Community Visit $30 pp
Quito
City and Equator Line Tour $60 pp + ($6 Entrance Fee for Churches & $6 for the Equator Line Museum)
2 pax – City and Equator Line Tour $45 pp + ($6 Entrance Fee for Churches & $6 for the Equator Line Museum)
Middle of the World (Equator Line Tour) $50 pp
Taxi from the Hotel to the Teleferico (Cable Car) $3 pp
Teleferico (Cable Car) Ticket $8 pp
Mindo Cloud Forest (Incl. Eng. Guide & Transportation) $100 pp (+ $10 Lunch & $20 Entrance Fee)
2+ Pax Mindo Cloud Forest (Incl. Eng. Guide & Transportation) $70 pp (+ $10 Lunch & $20 Entrance Fee)
Papallacta Hot Springs – Full Day (Incl. Transportation) $100 pp + $7 Entrance Fee
2+ Pax Papallacta Hot Springs – Full Day (Incl. Transportation) $50 pp + $7 Entrance Fee
ECUADOR – GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Floreana
Snorkelling at Lobery Islet – Swim with Sea Lions and Lava Lizards $5 pp
Visit to Playa Negra – Swimming and Snorkelling with Sea Turtles $5 pp
Isabela
Los Tuneles Snorkelling – Snorkel with Sharks, Sea Lions, Penguins, and Mantas. (incl. lunch) $80 pp
Tintoreras Tour – Snorkel with Penguins, Sea Lions, Tropical Fish, Marine Iguanas, and Blue Footed Boobies $40
Surf Lessons with Surfboard Rental $30 pp
Surfboard $20 pp
Bicycle Rental – Visit Wetlands, Lava Tunnels and Flamingo Lagoon (per hour) $3 pp
Santa Cruz
Water Taxi to Las Grietas / Punta Estrada Beach – Marine Life, Beautiful Landscape and Cliff Jumping $0.60 pp
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Centre – No Charge
Bicycle Rental (per hour) $3 pp
Baños
Horseback Riding $15- $20 pp (Low/High Season)
Whitewater Rafting $15- $20 pp (Low/High Season)
Bungee Jumping $15 pp
Canyoning $25 pp
Salsa Lessons $5 pp
Cuenca
Horseback Riding $25 pp
City Tour $25 pp
Ingapirca Ruins $6 pp
Gualaceo & Chordeleg Tour $30 pp
PERU
Mancora/Huanchaco
Lima
Pachacamac
Paracas / Nazca
National Reserve Visit (Lagunillas Beach, Paracas Museum & Flamingos) $25 pp
Arequipa / Colca Canyon
Horseback Riding in Colca Valley $35 pp
Thermal Hot Springs in Colca Valley $5 pp
Cusco
Boleto Turistico – Full Day Visiting City & Sacred Valley Tour + Selected Museums $50 pp
Boleto Turistico – Half Day Visiting City Tour or Sacred Valley Tour $27 pp
City Tour $6
Sacred Valley Tour $10
Private Horseback Riding Around Sacred Valley Ruins (With Guide) $50
2+ Pax Horseback Riding Around Sacred Valley Ruins (With Guide) $45
Whitewater Rafting (6+ Pax Private G Adventures’ Group) $55 pp
Whitewater Rafting (Less Than 6 Pax with Non-G Adventure’s Rafters) $50 pp
2-Day Mountain Biking Tour of the Sacred Valley $155
Bungee Jumping (With Transportation) $85 pp
Inca Museum $4 pp
Quad Biking- 4 hrs (With Guide) $50 pp
Via Ferrata Zipline (Incl. Lunch) $100 pp
Via Ferrata Zipline $75 pp
Sacred Valley Tour with Planeterra Supported Women’s Weaving Co-op (1-4 Pax) $163 – $70 pp
Sacred Valley Tour with Planeterra Supported Women’s Weaving Co-op (5-7 Pax) $67 – $79 pp
Sacred Valley Tour with Planeterra Supported Women’s Weaving Co-op (8-12 Pax) $57 – $50 pp
Sacred Valley Tour with Planeterra Supported Women’s Weaving Co-op (13-16 Pax) $50 – $47 pp
Sacred Valley Tour with Planeterra Supported Women’s Weaving Co-op (17-18 Pax) $48 pp
Puno
Sillustani archaeological site $12
La Paz:
Chacaltaya tour $18
City tour $20
City Tour and Moon Valley $25
Mountain biking $60-$100
Tiwanaku ruins $17.5
Tiwanaky museum $13 entrance
Museum of Pre-Colombian Precious Metals entrance $1
Casa de Don Pedro Domingo Murillo entrance included in ticket above
Activities are not limited to the above mentioned list. Please ask your CEO for more information.
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 trip 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
Medical Form
A Couple of Rules
Travel Insurance
Planeterra-The G Adventures Foundation
Feedback
Newsletter
Group Leader
Chief Experience Officer (CEO). Local naturalist guide for included activities in the Galápagos Islands (certified by the Galápagos National Park Service). Specialist Inca Trail CEO on hike. Local guides.
Day 2 Optional Activities
- Cartagena City Tour -
- Volcan Tutumo -
- Islas del Rosario National Park -
Day 8 Optional Activities
Day 10 Optional Activities
- El Pueblito Ruins Visit -
Day 11 Optional Activities
Day 12 Optional Activities
Day 13 Optional Activities
- Gold Museum Visit -
- Paloquemao Market Visit -
- Bogotá City Tour -
Day 14 Optional Activities
- Bogotá City Tour -
- Gold Museum Visit -
- Paloquemao Market Visit -
Day 15 Optional Activities
Day 17 Optional Activities
- Biking Cotopaxi Volcano -
Day 20 Optional Activities
Day 22 Optional Activities
- Islote Tintoreras Snorkelling -
- Snorkelling -
- Swimming -
Day 26 Optional Activities
- Quito City Tour and Equator -
- Quito City Tour -
- Biking Cotopaxi Volcano -
- Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos -
Day 30 Optional Activities
- Hot Springs -
- Horseback Riding -
- Mountain Biking -
Day 31 Optional Activities
- Hot Springs -
- Canyoneering -
- Horseback Riding -
- Hiking -
- Mountain Biking -
- Whitewater Rafting -
Day 33 Optional Activities
- Ingapirca Ruins Visit -
- Cajas National Park Visit -
Day 35 Optional Activities
- Surfing -
- Horseback Riding -
Day 37 Optional Activities
- Trujillo Visit -
- Chan Chan Ruins Visit -
Day 38 Optional Activities
- Trujillo Visit -
- Chan Chan Ruins Visit -
Day 39 Optional Activities
- Lima City Tour -
- Lima Paragliding -
Day 40 Optional Activities
- Lima City Tour -
- Lima Paragliding -
Day 42 Optional Activities
- Ballestas Islands Excursion -
- Sandboarding in Ica -
Day 43 Optional Activities
- Flight over Nazca Lines -
- Nazca Desert Cemetery and Potter's Studio Guided Tour -
Day 44 Optional Activities
- Santa Catalina Monastery Visit -
- Arequipa City Tour -
Day 45 Optional Activities
Day 47 Optional Activities
- Santa Catalina Monastery Visit -
- Arequipa City Tour -
Day 48 Optional Activities
- Whitewater Rafting Urubamba -
- Horseback Riding -
- Mountain Biking -
- La Merced Visit -
- Cusco Cathedral Visit -
- La Compañía Visit -
- San Francisco Visit -
- Coricancha and Santo Domingo Visit -
- Archaeological Museum Visit -
- Cusco City Tour -
Day 49 Optional Activities
- Whitewater Rafting Urubamba -
- San Francisco Visit -
- Cusco City Tour -
- Mountain Biking -
- Archaeological Museum Visit -
- Coricancha and Santo Domingo Visit -
- Cusco Cathedral Visit -
- Horseback Riding -
- La Merced Visit -
- La Compañía Visit -
Day 50 Optional Activities
- Sacred Valley Tour -
- Ccaccaccollo Community and Women's Weaving Co-op visit -
- Ollantaytambo Ruins Guided Tour -
Day 55 Optional Activities
- Horseback Riding -
- Mountain Biking -
- Whitewater Rafting Urubamba -
Day 58 Optional Activities
- Sillustani Burial Towers Tour -
Day 2 Optional Activities
- Cartagena City Tour -
- Volcan Tutumo -
- Islas del Rosario National Park -
Day 8 Optional Activities
Day 10 Optional Activities
- El Pueblito Ruins Visit -
Day 11 Optional Activities
Day 12 Optional Activities
Day 13 Optional Activities
- Gold Museum Visit -
- Paloquemao Market Visit -
- Bogotá City Tour -
Day 14 Optional Activities
- Bogotá City Tour -
- Gold Museum Visit -
- Paloquemao Market Visit -
Day 15 Optional Activities
Day 17 Optional Activities
- Biking Cotopaxi Volcano -
Day 20 Optional Activities
Day 22 Optional Activities
- Islote Tintoreras Snorkelling -
- Snorkelling -
- Swimming -
Day 26 Optional Activities
- Quito City Tour and Equator -
- Quito City Tour -
- Biking Cotopaxi Volcano -
- Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos -
Day 30 Optional Activities
- Hot Springs -
- Horseback Riding -
- Mountain Biking -
Day 31 Optional Activities
- Hot Springs -
- Canyoneering -
- Horseback Riding -
- Hiking -
- Mountain Biking -
- Whitewater Rafting -
Day 33 Optional Activities
- Ingapirca Ruins Visit -
- Cajas National Park Visit -
Day 35 Optional Activities
- Surfing -
- Horseback Riding -
Day 37 Optional Activities
- Trujillo Visit -
- Chan Chan Ruins Visit -
Day 38 Optional Activities
- Trujillo Visit -
- Chan Chan Ruins Visit -
Day 39 Optional Activities
- Lima City Tour -
- Lima Paragliding -
Day 40 Optional Activities
- Lima City Tour -
- Lima Paragliding -
Day 42 Optional Activities
- Ballestas Islands Excursion -
- Sandboarding in Ica -
Day 43 Optional Activities
- Flight over Nazca Lines -
- Nazca Desert Cemetery and Potter's Studio Guided Tour -
Day 44 Optional Activities
- Santa Catalina Monastery Visit -
- Arequipa City Tour -
Day 45 Optional Activities
Day 47 Optional Activities
- Santa Catalina Monastery Visit -
- Arequipa City Tour -
Day 48 Optional Activities
- Whitewater Rafting Urubamba -
- Horseback Riding -
- Mountain Biking -
- La Merced Visit -
- Cusco Cathedral Visit -
- La Compañía Visit -
- San Francisco Visit -
- Coricancha and Santo Domingo Visit -
- Archaeological Museum Visit -
- Cusco City Tour -
Day 49 Optional Activities
- Whitewater Rafting Urubamba -
- San Francisco Visit -
- Cusco City Tour -
- Mountain Biking -
- Archaeological Museum Visit -
- Coricancha and Santo Domingo Visit -
- Cusco Cathedral Visit -
- Horseback Riding -
- La Merced Visit -
- La Compañía Visit -
Day 50 Optional Activities
- Sacred Valley Tour -
- Ccaccaccollo Community and Women's Weaving Co-op visit -
- Ollantaytambo Ruins Guided Tour -
Day 54 Optional Activities
Day 55 Optional Activities
- Horseback Riding -
- Mountain Biking -
- Whitewater Rafting Urubamba -
Day 58 Optional Activities
- Sillustani Burial Towers Tour -
Day 2 Optional Activities
- Cartagena City Tour -
- Volcan Tutumo -
- Islas del Rosario National Park -
Day 8 Optional Activities
Day 10 Optional Activities
- El Pueblito Ruins Visit -
Day 11 Optional Activities
Day 12 Optional Activities
Day 13 Optional Activities
- Gold Museum Visit -
- Paloquemao Market Visit -
- Bogotá City Tour -
Day 14 Optional Activities
- Bogotá City Tour -
- Gold Museum Visit -
- Paloquemao Market Visit -
Day 15 Optional Activities
Day 17 Optional Activities
- Biking Cotopaxi Volcano -
Day 20 Optional Activities
Day 22 Optional Activities
- Islote Tintoreras Snorkelling -
- Snorkelling -
- Swimming -
Day 26 Optional Activities
- Quito City Tour and Equator -
- Quito City Tour -
- Biking Cotopaxi Volcano -
- Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos -
Day 30 Optional Activities
- Hot Springs -
- Horseback Riding -
- Mountain Biking -
Day 31 Optional Activities
- Hot Springs -
- Canyoneering -
- Horseback Riding -
- Hiking -
- Mountain Biking -
- Whitewater Rafting -
Day 33 Optional Activities
- Ingapirca Ruins Visit -
- Cajas National Park Visit -
Day 35 Optional Activities
- Surfing -
- Horseback Riding -
Day 37 Optional Activities
- Trujillo Visit -
- Chan Chan Ruins Visit -
Day 38 Optional Activities
- Trujillo Visit -
- Chan Chan Ruins Visit -
Day 39 Optional Activities
- Lima City Tour -
- Lima Paragliding -
Day 40 Optional Activities
- Lima City Tour -
- Lima Paragliding -
Day 42 Optional Activities
- Ballestas Islands Excursion -
- Sandboarding in Ica -
Day 43 Optional Activities
- Flight over Nazca Lines -
- Nazca Desert Cemetery and Potter's Studio Guided Tour -
Day 44 Optional Activities
- Santa Catalina Monastery Visit -
- Arequipa City Tour -
Day 45 Optional Activities
Day 47 Optional Activities
- Santa Catalina Monastery Visit -
- Arequipa City Tour -
Day 48 Optional Activities
- Whitewater Rafting Urubamba -
- Horseback Riding -
- Mountain Biking -
- La Merced Visit -
- Cusco Cathedral Visit -
- La Compañía Visit -
- San Francisco Visit -
- Coricancha and Santo Domingo Visit -
- Archaeological Museum Visit -
- Cusco City Tour -
Day 49 Optional Activities
- Whitewater Rafting Urubamba -
- San Francisco Visit -
- Cusco City Tour -
- Mountain Biking -
- Archaeological Museum Visit -
- Coricancha and Santo Domingo Visit -
- Cusco Cathedral Visit -
- Horseback Riding -
- La Merced Visit -
- La Compañía Visit -
Day 50 Optional Activities
- Sacred Valley Tour -
- Ccaccaccollo Community and Women's Weaving Co-op visit -
- Ollantaytambo Ruins Guided Tour -
Day 54 Optional Activities
Day 55 Optional Activities
- Horseback Riding -
- Mountain Biking -
- Whitewater Rafting Urubamba -
Day 58 Optional Activities
- Sillustani Burial Towers Tour -
Day 2 Optional Activities
- Cartagena City Tour -
- Volcan Tutumo -
- Islas del Rosario National Park -
Day 8 Optional Activities