Kapawi Lodge

Accommodation in the lodge, all meals and guided excursions in the rain forests, visits to Achuar communities, trips in motorized canoes or excursions on inflatable kayaks or rafts. Birdwatching activities and lectures are also offered.

Cost of transportation from Quito - Kapawi- Quito (Approx $224 per passenger), Achuar community fee: US$10.00 for entrance US$2.50 per night, per passenger. Fuel surcharge of US$42.00 per person. Any other National or International tax. Fee for overnight in Achuar territory US$2.50 per night, per person. Soft beverages, alcoholic drinks or souvenirs. Government taxes are not included.

AMAZON RAIN FOREST – KAPAWI ECOLODGE & RESERVE
General Information / Frequently Asked Question (Updated November 2005)

What does my excursion rate include? The excursion rate includes accommodation in the lodge, all meals and guided excursions in the rain forests. Visits to Achuar communities, trips in motorized canoes or excursions on inflatable kayaks or rafts. Birdwatching activities and lectures are also offrered.The transportation rate includes transportation Quito-Kapawi-Quito and baggage handling.

What does my excursion rate do not include? Achuar Community fee $10. Any airfare, whether on schedule or charter flights; government taxes (including departure tax), charges for excess of baggage and all items of personal nature such us laundry, personal purchases, drinks or gratuities.

How to get there? Despite its isolation, Kapawi offers one of the easiest access of all lodges in the Amazon.

Where is Kapawi located and how far is it from populated towns? Kapawi is located near the Ecuadorian and Peruvian border in the Southern Ecuadorian Amazon Basin, on the Pastaza River, a major tributary of the Amazon. Kapawi is one of the most pristine and isolated places in the Amazon Basin and is accessible only by air. The closest town is within ten days walking distance.

What may I expect to see in Kapawi?
• Many, many birds (more than 540 species in the area).
• Many species of insects, including brightly colored butterflies; many of which have not been identified by scientists.
• Several thousand plant-species, many used for medicinal purposes by the Achuar.
• Mammals such as fresh water dolphins, monkeys, bats and several kinds of rodents (including capybaras) that you may see depending on the time of year. Since they are mainly nocturnal, mammals like jaguars, ocelots, jaguarundis and other cats are difficult to spot. It is common to find animal tracks.
• It is possible to see amphibians and reptiles such as frogs, caimans and snakes. Certain reptiles like snakes are rather hard to find because they run away when they feel ground vibrations.

What kind of programs does Kapawi offer and which one should I choose? The great advantage of being in Kapawi is that you do not have to adjust your interests to fixed programs. In company of your group and with the advice of your guide, you can decide what to do every day.

How safe is the Lodge and its programs? Kapawi (and the Tropical Rain Forest) is as safe as a temperate forest or walking in a big city. Very few animals are dangerous. They are generally shy and prefer to run than attack (like the poisonous snakes). This is why it is so hard to see them in the forest. Kapawi has Achuar and naturalist guides who are well versed in the environment. They have first aid training and carry first aid kits for emergency purposes. Life jackets, well-maintained paths and motorized canoes guarantee security for our visitors. An evacuation protocol is available upon request.

Is there any possibility of getting malaria or any other disease due to mosquito bites? As in nearly every tropical country, there is a risk of getting malaria. However, mosquitoes are uncommon in the lodge and the use of provided mosquito nets reduce the risk. The use of repellent is also encouraged. While the risk is low here, prophylaxis is essential and we recommend that you visit a physician for advice.

What is the minimum and maximum age requirement to go to Kapawi? It is not recommended to come with children under three years old, but there is no upper age limit. The oldest person to visit Kapawi was 85 years old and thoroughly enjoyed her stay!

Can I go to Kapawi if I am disabled? Yes , it is possible. Nevertheless, it is necessary to confirm your reservation and necessities 30 days in advance so the Lodge can arrange a suitable logistic for you.

How should I act when I visit a community? There are some rules to follow when you visit a community. For example, photographs are not allowed of either the Achuar people or their homes. It is necessary to respect their corporal and visual space. Your guide will provide more information before visiting a community.

Do the Achuar still wear their traditional clothes? They presently wear western-style clothing. The Achuar still use many of their traditional accessories like necklaces, headbands and bracelets, and paint their faces for special occasions. They live in traditional houses and use blowguns for hunting.

Which day of the week can I travel to Kapawi? The scheduled days to travel to Kapawi are Mondays and Fridays.

If I cannot travel one of the scheduled days, could I get to Kapawi on my own? Yes you could, but special arrangements should be made in advance. Note: There is an additional price for flight expenses.

How many visitors per guide normally form a group? Our policy is to have a maximum of 10 visitors per guide.

Can I go fishing in Kapawi?Yes, though it can be very challenging. Please remember that the Achuar do not accept "catch and release" practices. This means that if you catch it you eat it, or give it to your guide.

What is the best time of the year to go to Kapawi? It always rains in the Tropical Rain Forest: However, the rainiest months are from February to May. During this period, wildlife sightings are increased and this is why we recommend longer programs.

What makes Kapawi so special? Kapawi is different from other ecotourism projects for many reasons:

• With an initial investment of two million dollars, it was built to be operated by Canodros S.A. for fifteen-years

• By the year 2011, Kapawi will belong entirely to the Achuar. In the meantime, they are being trained in different areas like management, house keeping, mechanics, maintenance, etc. .

• Kapawi incorporates low impact technologies such as solar energy, trash management and waste water treatment.

• Kapawi accommodates seventy people, including guests and employees, making it like a regular sized Achuar community!

Transportation is not included but must be purchased from provider

Other (Please see transportation description box)

HOW TO GET THERE

One of the most unique and attractive things about the Kapawi Ecolodge & Reserve is its remoteness. This remoteness both adds complexity and challenges to the travel arrangements to reach Kapawi, and also provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a unique part of Ecuador and to see the tropical rainforest from the air, flying in small planes, low over a vast expanse of green. We will endeavour to make your journey to Kapawi as easy and rewarding as possible and to embrace you in Achuar hospitality from the moment your journey begins at Quito airport.

From Quito to Kapawi

The standard travel route to Kapawi is to fly mid-morning from Quito to Shell, a town located on the frontier of the Amazon and a 35 minute flight from Quito. Depending upon the number of guests travelling to Kapawi that day, one of several commuter airliners will be used. This flight takes a southerly route from Quito down the valley of the volcanoes and on a clear day the view is breathtaking. Even on cloudy days you can often see the snow covered peaks of the volcanoes through the clouds.

Once in Shell, you will be met by a Kapawi representative who will assist you as you change to smaller airplanes able to operate on the shorter dirt airstrips in Achuar territory. In Shell, the waiting time is normally from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the number of guests flying into, and returning from, Kapawi. Our representative will arrange a variety of activities for you and snacks or lunch depending on the anticipated waiting time.
The flight from Shell is a 50 minute flight over miles and miles of unbroken pristine rainforest, arriving at the Achuar community of Wachirpas, located on the banks of the Pastaza River. There you will be welcomed by your Kapawi guides who will escort you on the final leg of your journey, a beautiful 30 minute canoe ride into the majesty and tranquillity of this remote part of the world. You will travel up the broad expanse of the Pastaza River, then into the smaller Capahuari River, and moments later arrive at your destination, Kapawi Ecolodge & Reserve.


Returning to Quito

The travel process is reversed and you will normally leave the lodge mid-morning by canoe, then fly by small plane from Achuar territory to Shell and there transfer to the larger airplane for the flight back to Quito. The flight to Quito is planned to arrive by early afternoon. Your entire return journey will provide one final opportunity to experience the beauty of this unique part of the world.

Please note: Our scheduled travel days to and from Kapawi are each Monday and Friday. If you are unable to travel on these days, we may be able to arrange special charter flights to accommodate you.
* * * * * *

Note 1: Depending upon weather conditions and/or the availability of specific airplanes, the standard travel route may be changed. At times, for the first leg of your journey we will fly from Quito via Montalvo or use commercial flights to Macas or Coca rather than travelling through Shell. We will endeavour to keep you fully informed of the planned travel itineraries. However, weather conditions in the Amazon are unpredictable and can change quickly so please bear with us as at times we will need to change itineraries on the day of travel or even in-route.

Note 2: In exceptional cases, usually due to weather conditions, we may operate the route from Quito to Shell, or vice-versa, by land using a chartered bus, van or auto service.

Note 3: In the event that weather conditions prevent us from getting all guests into Kapawi on the scheduled day, we will provide accommodations at a comfortable hotel in Puyo ( a 10 minute drive from Shell) and reschedule the flights to Kapawi as early as possible the next morning.

Note 4: No later than the day before your journey to Kapawi begins, we will deliver a packet of information to you at your hotel, or wherever you are staying in Quito, telling you exactly where to be at the Quito airport, and at what time, on the morning of your travel. If you have any questions about the travel itinerary, you can call our operations staff (593 9) 8344 032 (from within Ecuador dial 098 344 032).


The Planes

Depending on the number of people, we use different aircrafts for example: Beech craft 1900 (19 seater) or Embraer 120 (30 seater), both aircrafts are property of SAEREO. We also use the Dash-8 (37 seater) or Fokker 28 (60 seater), both property of ICARO. We also use commercial flights from Quito-Macas or Quito-Coca. Whichever route we take we always use small aircrafts to land on the airstrips in the jungle either at Kapawi or Wachirpas communities. We use a combination of smaller planes for example, Islander (9 seater), or Cessna 206 (5 seater) or a Helio (5 seater) or Piper (5 seater), or Cessna172 (3 seater).

Small airplane

The lodge accommodates up to 50 guests and was built in accordance to the Achuar concept of architecture. We offer 20 double and triple rooms with private bathrooms, sun heated showers and electricity provided by a solar panel system. Every room has a wide terrace. One thing you should kept keep in mind during your stay here at Kapawi is that you are in the “jungle”. Insects are by far the most numerous form of life in this habitat, even though the rooms are screened through the walls and floors, you may have some unwanted “guests” in your cabin.

4 Nights Jungle Lodge

Kapawi, developed together with the Achuar community itself, is the largest community-based project developed in Ecuador.

The goal of Kapawi is to provide a monthly means of economic support and jobs to the Achuar located in Kapawi as well as in other communities. In 2008 all installations will belong entirely to the Achuar Indians. The lodge accommodates up to 40 visitors and was built in accordance to the Achuar concept of architecture (not a single nail was used!).

Kapawi utilizes environmentally friendly power sources and waste management systems such as solar energy, biodegradable soaps, and trash-recycling systems.

Our canoes are equipped with four-stroke outboard engines, which reduce noise and pollution considerably. Electric outboard motors for small and sensitive rivers are also available. The entire lodge is powered by solar energy. Seventy-two 75 watt solar panels cover 80% of all the lodge's energy needs. Our solar-heated showers provide 5 gallons of hot water per person each day.

• The lodge was built at the edge of the Kapawi Lagoon. The houses were built on stilts in order to minimize the impact caused to the surrounding vegetation.
• Sewage goes through a three-step drainage process and pumped onto the forest floor. The sewage drains into a cesspool and the excess of water runs into a second cesspool and then into the last from which it is pumped onto the forest floor. Yeast is spread on the ground to accelerate decomposition.
• Garbage is sorted into three types: plastics, glass and metal, paper and biodegradable garbage.
• Our canoes are equipped with four-stroke outboard engines, which reduce noise and pollution considerably. Electric outboard motors for small and sensitive rivers are also available.
• The entire lodge is powered by a hybrid system of solar energy and a diesel generator .
The 75 watts obtained from the solar panel cover 60% of all the lodge energy needs.
• Our solar-heated showers provide daily 5 gallons per person of hot water depending on weather conditions.

At the lodge our naturalist guides are Spanish and English speaking, if you required a different language, you need to specify this once you confirm your reservation.
* Groups of 10 or more passengers, we will warranty a bilingual guide.
* Groups of less than 10 passengers, check with the Reservations Department if it is possible to join your reservation to another group of passengers in need of the same language.
* We can provide a translator for groups with less than 10 passengers at an additional cost of US$70.00 per day per reservation (not per passenger), this extra charge will be paid previous to the excursion departure date.
* We are also able to provide groups with less than 10 passengers, bilingual guides who can offer the tour explanation to the group in the different languages requested, for example, a tour in English and in German.
* Birding Specialist Guides*
At the lodge we have Achuar guides that are birding specialist, this guides are not always available so we need to know in advance if you will like a birding guide for your excursion at Kapawi, this needs to be inform at the time of the confirmation of your program. If you will like an English speaking birding specialist guide for your group during your excursion, below please find the conditions:
* Groups of 10 or more passengers, we will warranty a bilingual guide.
* We can provide a bilingual birding specialist for groups with less than 10 passengers at an additional cost of US$100.00 per day per reservation (not per passenger).
* The Achuar guides are part of our staff, if you inform in advance we will make the arrangements at no additional charge.

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Kapawi is situated in the Tropical Moist Forest Life Zone. The average temperature is about 25°C (77° F), and relative humidity is close to 90%. Being at the equator, Kapawi doesn't have any yearly seasons as in temperate areas, yet it presents a rainy and a "less rainy" pattern. Normally, the temperature is slightly lower during the rainy season and higher in the "less rainy season". We don't have temperature registers in Kapawi, but we do have rain fall records. The rainiest, months are February, March, April, and May and the driest and warmest are December, January and August. In June and July the "cold spell" occurs in Kapawi, where cold masses arrive from Antartica dropping the temperatures in Kapawi to 15ºC (59° F). Rainiest months are from February to May. During this period, we recommend longer programs. The less rainy season is from June until January, when the water in the rivers goes down, which is also good to watch certain wildlife that get closer to river edges to obtain water.
Remember that Kapawi is located in the Tropical Rain Frorest and the rain could arrive suddenly even if it is the less rainy season.

Canodros

Through the years we have acquired a great prestige for excellent service to our passengers, creating a familiar atmosphere inside our locations. Our purpose is to promote Ecuador as a privileged destination for tourism, we offer innovative and high quality products while maintaining a permanent practice of business ethics and respect for mankind and the environment.

KAPAWI

What does my excursion rate include?
The excursion rate includes accommodation in the lodge, all meals and guided excursions in the rain forests. Visits to Achuar communities, trips in motorized canoes or excursions on inflatable kayaks or rafts. Birdwatching activities and lectures are also offrered.The transportation rate includes transportation Quito-Kapawi-Quito and baggage handling.
What does my excursion rate do not include?
Achuar Community fee $10. Any airfare, whether on schedule or charter flights; government taxes (including departure tax), charges for excess of baggage and all items of personal nature such us laundry, personal purchases, drinks or gratuities.

How to get there?
Despite its isolation, Kapawi offers one of the easiest access of all lodges in the Amazon.

Where is Kapawi located and how far is it from populated towns?
Kapawi is located near the Ecuadorian and Peruvian border in the Southern Ecuadorian Amazon Basin, on the Pastaza River, a major tributary of the Amazon. Kapawi is one of the most pristine and isolated places in the Amazon Basin and is accessible only by air. The closest town is within ten days walking distance.

What may I expect to see in Kapawi?
• Many, many birds (more than 540 species in the area).
• Many species of insects, including brightly colored butterflies; many of which have not been identified by scientists.
• Several thousand plant-species, many used for medicinal purposes by the Achuar.
• Mammals such as fresh water dolphins, monkeys, bats and several kinds of rodents (including capybaras) that you may see depending on the time of year. Since they are mainly nocturnal, mammals like jaguars, ocelots, jaguarundis and other cats are difficult to spot. It is common to find animal tracks.
• It is possible to see amphibians and reptiles such as frogs, caimans and snakes. Certain reptiles like snakes are rather hard to find because they run away when they feel ground vibrations.

What kind of programs does Kapawi offer and which one should I choose? The great advantage of being in Kapawi is that you do not have to adjust your interests to fixed programs. In company of your group and with the advice of your guide, you can decide what to do every day.

How safe is the Lodge and its programs?
Kapawi (and the Tropical Rain Forest) is as safe as a temperate forest or walking in a big city. Very few animals are dangerous. They are generally shy and prefer to run than attack (like the poisonous snakes). This is why it is so hard to see them in the forest. Kapawi has Achuar and naturalist guides who are well versed in the environment. They have first aid training and carry first aid kits for emergency purposes. Life jackets, well-maintained paths and motorized canoes guarantee security for our visitors. An evacuation protocol is available upon request.

Is there any possibility of getting malaria or any other disease due to mosquito bites? As in nearly every tropical country, there is a risk of getting malaria. However, mosquitoes are uncommon in the lodge and the use of provided mosquito nets reduce the risk. The use of repellent is also encouraged. While the risk is low here, prophylaxis is essential and we recommend that you visit a physician for advice.

What is the minimum and maximum age requirement to go to Kapawi? It is not recommended to come with children under three years old, but there is no upper age limit. The oldest person to visit Kapawi was 85 years old and thoroughly enjoyed her stay!

Can I go to Kapawi if I am disabled? Yes , it is possible. Nevertheless, it is necessary to confirm your reservation and necessities 30 days in advance so the Lodge can arrange a suitable logistic for you.

How should I act when I visit a community? There are some rules to follow when you visit a community. For example, photographs are not allowed of either the Achuar people or their homes. It is necessary to respect their corporal and visual space. Your guide will provide more information before visiting a community.

Do the Achuar still wear their traditional clothes? They presently wear western-style clothing. The Achuar still use many of their traditional accessories like necklaces, headbands and bracelets, and paint their faces for special occasions. They live in traditional houses and use blowguns for hunting.

Which day of the week can I travel to Kapawi? The scheduled days to travel to Kapawi are Mondays and Fridays.

If I cannot travel one of the scheduled days, could I get to Kapawi on my own? Yes you could, but special arrangements should be made in advance. Note: There is an additional price for flight expenses.

How many visitors per guide normally form a group? Our policy is to have a maximum of 10 visitors per guide.

Can I go fishing in Kapawi?Yes, though it can be very challenging. Please remember that the Achuar do not accept "catch and release" practices. This means that if you catch it you eat it, or give it to your guide.

What is the best time of the year to go to Kapawi? It always rains in the Tropical Rain Forest: However, the rainiest months are from February to May. During this period, wildlife sightings are increased and this is why we recommend longer programs.

What makes Kapawi so special? Kapawi is different from other ecotourism projects for many reasons:
• With an initial investment of two million dollars, it was built to be operated by Canodros S.A. for fifteen-years
• By the year 2011, Kapawi will belong entirely to the Achuar. In the meantime, they are being trained in different areas like management, house keeping, mechanics, maintenance, etc. .
• Kapawi incorporates low impact technologies such as solar energy, trash management and waste water treatment.
• Kapawi accommodates seventy people, including guests and employees, making it like a regular sized Achuar community!

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EXPLORER II

ACTIVITIES

What is the physical condition required for the cruise?
Mature people and those with physical ailments may have some issues on the more difficult hikes. You should be in fairly good shape because some of the hikes are in ascendant terrains or with lots of sun and have some difficulties. Most hikes require a moderate physical condition and a calm pace giving the naturalists guides enough time to describe what you are seeing.

How long it takes to make a visit?
The visits takes around 2 to 4 hours in every point of visit, this allow the passengers the opportunity to make the excursion and have some free time.

Until what time we can use the social areas?
Solarium has access until 12 pm, the jacuzzi is available from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm. The library is open 24/7. If you have some inconvenience the hospital will be open 24/7 as well. The massage service is available through by appointment.

What should I bring for hikes?
For short hikes wear comfortable clothes, hats, sun block lotion, sneakers (avoid to use new ones), wind breaker jacket, binoculars, camera.

What difficulties may appear when doing snorkel?
Snorkeling requires some physical and mental preparation. If you do not have experience with this activity your guide will show you how to do it. On board a vest will be fitted and a release form should be signed in order to make the activity.

What happens during the excursions on the islands?
In the islands you have to stay inside the path marked by the Galapagos National Park. The guides will explain the unusual signs that you may see.

What security tips can you provide for snorkeling and diving?
Diving and snorkel requires some physical and mental preparation. That is why it is important to listen carefully to the instructions given by the guide. The marine currents in Galapagos are not reliable especially when you are at open sea. Be extremely careful when doing lots of immersions. The waters can change quickly from clear to dark especially in the first 50 feet. This makes it easier to loose points of reference.

I am not sure to make the hikes, what else can I do?
If you are worried about your ability to perform any of the hikes please talk to our Coordinator guide. He/She will give you an alternative program so you can enjoy your stay to the fullest.

Do you provide the snorkeling equipment?
The masks, fins are available for your use on board in average sizes during the entire cruise. There is a renting fee that will be charge at the end of the cruise. We also have wet suits available for rent.


FOOD AND BEVERAGES

When are the meals served?
The meals are informal and served in one space for all passengers. The Schedule for small meals may have some changes. The breakfast is served at 7:00 am, lunch at 12:30 pm, and dinner at 8:00 pm. The menu is international with a touch of our Ecuadorian specialties. Delicious snacks and appetizers will be served after the excursions.

Is it reliable to drink water on board?
Yes, the water is filtered and purified by a system of inverse osmosis; in addition it has an ozone filter, which makes it ready for consumption. This allows us to guarantee the quality us of the water that we offer, without causing environmental impact.

If I have a special requirement on my diet what could I do?
If you are vegetarian or allergic to some food or prefer a particular diet please let us know these details at least 30 days in advanced so we can make the arrangements. Your travel agency will provide you with the correct documents to fill out. When you receive your cruise documents you will also receive a register card. This should be filled with personal information and special requirements in food whether is for allergies or special diets. You have to give this card to the waiter the first day of the cruise.


CABINS

What is the difference between the suites?
The Renaissance and De Luxe suites offer private balconies and are located in the upper decks. The Premium and Classic suites are similar in their distribution, decoration and amenities; however, they are not located in the upper deck. All the cabins have panoramic windows, with the exception of Classic – Magellan; they have portholes.

What is the bed size?
The single and queen bed is of 2.10 x 3 meters and the twin is 2.10 x 1.50 meters.

Is there a safety box inside the suites?
There is a safety box and can only be opened with your keys that will be given by the front desk at your arrival. This service does not have an extra charge.

Are there single and triple accommodations available?
In case of requiring a single cabin or one for three people, you can make the request to the Reservations Department of Canodros S.A. The suites that you may have are: Renaissance, Deluxe Balcony, Premium or Classic.

All suites are exterior and with windows?
Yes all suites are in exteriors. In the Magellan deck the suites have portholes; in the other decks the suites have windows.


DESTINATION

How do I pay the Galapagos National Park Tax?
You need to have your passport, the transit control card from INGALA, and cash to pay the tax to the Galapagos National Park. The park authorities will receive the payment at your arrival and will give you a receipt.

What is the distance (in miles) between Quito or Guayaquil and the Galapagos Islands?
The distance between Guayaquil and San Cristobal is 572 miles.

When is the best time of the year to visit the Galapagos Islands?
Galapagos is a sub-tropical destination. Most seabirds and reptiles nest throughout the year, which is why you can see the courtship, mating, and hatchlings emerging from their eggs at any time of year.

How many tourists travel to Galapagos annually?
Actually there are around 150,000 people from around the world that visit the islands every year. You can find the statistics of the tourists’ entrance on the Galapagos National Park website www.galapagosonline.com

In what time zone are the Galapagos?
Ecuador is located in the oriental time zone (GMT -5 in mainland). The Galapagos is one hour less than Ecuador mainland time. On board we use continental time.

It is possible to find rough sea or bad weather?
Due to strong currents, it may give moderate movements while the ship is sailing. Most passengers are not affected by this fact, if you have a tendency to motion sickness; we recommend bringing medication to prevent aches and diseases.

What type of weather we can find?
There are two seasons in which there is some rainfall. Galapagos, receiving only ten inches of rainwater for years is not considered a rainy area. During the months of December to May fresh flows decrease and the temperature rises so the weather is warm and sunny, with occasional drizzle. In June the temperature begins to turn cool and there are moderate breezes, which continue until November, this period is also called "Garua".


CRUISE DOCUMENTS

When do I receive my travel documents?
In Quito and Guayaquil airports you will find our personnel who will proportionate the cruise documents and final information you may need. Our staff will be located at the national departures counters and 1 hour 45 minutes before the departure of your flight.

Do I need passport or a visa to go to Galapagos?
You will need your passport. Your travel agency will tell you if you need visa to travel to Ecuador.

Who will receive me at the Galapagos airport?
At your arrival to Puerto Baquerizo or Baltra in the San Cristobal or Baltra airport the passengers will be receive by our guides (they have a sign with the GEII logo) and will be transferred to the ship in private buses. Once you are on board you will receive instructions for safety and orientation.


LUGGAGE

Is there a baggage allowance?
The local airline that operates the flight to San Cristobal and Baltra Island allows 20 kilos (approximately 44 pounds). We recommend locking your luggage.


ON BOARD EXPENSES

How do I pay my personal expenses on board?
Expenses can be paid in US dollars, American Express, Visa, Master Card


PAYMENTS AND BOOKING

How do I make the cruise payment?
You can make a transfer to our bank or you can make your payment with credit card, please check with you travel agency for the available credit cards.

When should I do my booking?
We recommend you book at least six months ahead of the departure of the cruise and 12 months ahead for holiday dates.

Is there a discount for people over 60 years old?
We do not offer any type of discount

Is there something else I should know?
Upon your arrival to the Galapagos airport you will be asked to sign the “Terms and Conditions” for your trip. It is recommended to read them very carefully.


PROGRAM

How is the transfer and disembark to the points of visits?
You are transferred to the islands by zodiacs/small boat/dinghy (locally called “Pangas”). Landings can be wet, meaning you must step into the water close to shore (usually no higher than mid-calf) or dry, meaning you will dock and not have to step in water. There will always be someone there to assist you in getting out of the boat.

What are the arrival and departure days?
4 day / 3 night cruises operate Wednesday to Saturday
5 day / 4 night cruises operate Saturday to Wednesday.
8 day / 7 night cruises operate Wednesday to Wednesday and Saturday to Saturday

Is the cruise itinerary subject to change?
The terms and conditions of the flights, itinerary, and connection stops are the ones included in the contracted CRUISE, for the exception of the itinerary changes that the Galapagos National Park authorities can make in the exception cases expected in the regulations; however the ship Captain is authorized to make route selections, ports of call, and sea lanes that are most convenient in order to preserver the passengers and the ship safety.

Is allow to travel with children?
Children under 7 years old are not allowed on board. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.


FLIGHT TO GALAPAGOS

How long does the flight takes from Quito or Guayaquil to San Cristobal or Baltra?
The flight from Quito stops in Guayaquil and typically takes thirty minutes. From Guayaquil to San Cristobal or Baltra the flight lasts about an hour and a half.

In what airline should I book spaces for my cruise?
All the international connections are to Ecuador continental. The passengers of the Galapagos Explorer II are automatically confirmed in the flight to the Galapagos Islands. Once your cruise had been confirmed with us we will take care of booking your flight locally to Galapagos, please consult your travel agency for more information.

Since we use a small aircraft to fly to Kapawi, it is imperative to limit your luggage to a basic minimum as listed below. We recommend backpacks instead of suitcases. Maximum weight allowed is 25 pounds per person.

The following conditions are to confirm a Tour Guide in a specific language or a naturalist bilingual guide specialist in birding programs:
Language Guide At the lodge our naturalist guides are Spanish and English speaking, if you required a different language, you need to specificy this once you confirm your reservation.* Groups of 10 or more passengers, we will warranty a bilingual guide.* Groups of less than 10 passengers, check with the Reservations Department if it is possible to join your reservation to another group of passengers in need of the same language.* We can provide a translator for groups with less than 10 passengers at an additional cost of US$70.00 per day per reservation (not per passenger), this extra charge will be paid previous to the excursion departure date.* We are also able to provide groups with less than 10 passengers, bilingual guides who can offer the tour explanation to the group in the different languages requested, for example, a tour in English and in German.* Birding Specialist Guides* At the lodge we have Achuar guides that are birding specialist, this guides are not always available so we need to know in advance if you will like a birding guide for your excursion at Kapawi, this needs to be inform at the time of the confirmation of your program. If you will like an English speaking birding specialist guide for your group during your excursion, below please find the conditions: * Groups of 10 or more passengers, we will warranty a bilingual guide.* We can provide a bilingual birding specialist for groups with less than 10 passengers at an additional cost of US$100.00 per day per reservation (not per passenger).* The Achuar guides are part of our staff, if you inform in advance we will make the arrangements at no additional charge.
This alternative is not available once the passenger has arrived at Kapawi, you must request this special service to our reservation department, and the additional cost will be billed with your excursion package.

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EXPLORER II

For Individuals and FITs
All reservations require a minimum deposit of $600 per passenger according to the following table:

* Reservations made within 120 days or more prior to the excursion departure date:
-Deposit within a maximum of 10 days after date of request.
-Total payment maximum 60 days prior to the excursion departure date

* Reservations made between 119 and 90 days prior to the excursion departure date:
-Deposit within a maximum of 10 days after date of request
-Total payment maximum 60 days prior to the excursion departure date.

* Reservations made between 89 and 0 days prior to the excursion departure date:
-Total payment should be made immediately.


CANCELLATIONS AND PENALTIES

- Cancellations made 90 days or more prior to the excursion departure date have no penalties.
- Cancellations made between 89 and 60 days prior to the excursion departure date have a $200 per passenger service charge.
- Cancellations made between 59 and 26 days prior to the excursion departure date, 50% of the total excursion rate will be forfeited.
- Cancellations made between 25 and the day of the excursion departure date, 100% of the cost of excursion rate and the transportation Quito - Kapawi- Quito will be forfeited.
- Cancellations for medical reasons or due to death of an immediate family member, received 59-30 days prior to the cruise departure date, will have 50 % of reimbursement and will require the presentation of a medical certificate.
- Cancellations for medical reasons or due to death of an immediate family member, received between 29-0 days prior to the cruise departure date, 100% of the total cruise rate will be forfeited.

Canodros S.A. does not accept changes in the cruise reservation date or passenger’s names. In case the passenger(s) change the cruise reservation, we will consider it as a new reservation. In other words, we will cancel the first reservation and the passenger(s) will be subject to all the applicable penalties.

NOTE: All reservations of individuals and fit's have status "RQ" (Request) until the reception of the required deposit when the reservation(s) will be changed to a "KK" (confirmed) status.



For Groups (10 or more passengers)

* Reservations made within 120 days or more prior to the cruise departure date:
- A deposit of 10% must be paid 15 days after date of request to confirm the
reservation.
- 50% of cruise, 90 days prior to the cruise departure date.
- Balance of the total payment should be made 60 days prior to the cruise departure
date.

* Reservations made between 119 and 90 days prior to the cruise departure date:
- A deposit of 10% must be paid immediately to confirm the reservation.
- Balance of the total payment should be made 60 days prior to the cruise departure
date.

* Reservations made between 89 and 60 days prior to the cruise departure date:
- A deposit of 10% must be paid immediately to confirm the reservation.
- Balance of the total payment should be made 60 days prior to the cruise departure
date.

* Reservations made between 59 and 0 days prior to the cruise departure date:
- Total payment should be made immediately.


CANCELLATIONS AND PENALTIES:

- Cancellations made 120 days or more prior to the cruise departure date have no penalties.
- Cancellations made between 119 and 60 days prior to the cruise departure date have a USD $200 per passenger service charge.
- Cancellations made between 59 and 26 days prior to the cruise departure date, 50% of the total cruise rate will be forfeited.
- Cancellations made between 25 and 0 days prior to the cruise departure date, 100% of the total cruise rate will be forfeited.
- Cancellations for medical reasons or due to death of an immediate family member, received 59-30 days prior to the cruise departure date, will have 50 % of reimbursement and will require the presentation of a medical certificate.
- Cancellations for medical reasons or due to death of an immediate family member received between 29-0 days prior to the cruise departure date, 100% of the total cruise rate will be forfeited.

Canodros S.A. does not accept changes in the cruise reservation date or passenger’s names. In case the group change the cruise reservation, we will consider it as a new reservation. In other words, we will cancel the first reservation and the group will be subject to all the applicable penalties.

NOTE: All reservations of groups have status "RQ" (request) until reception of the required deposit when the reservation(s) will be changed to a "KK" (confirmed) status.

If the travel agent does not send the total payment to our office or our bank account on the date imposed by our office, Canodros S.A. is entitled to cancel the reservation, and will not be held responsible for the cancellation towards the passengers.