Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
travel budget, as airline tickets from Quito cost nearly $400 during
peak season, and the least-expensive five-day tours cost almost as
much. There is a broad range of quality in cruise vessels and guide
services, so it really depends on what you are looking for. Fortu-
nately, there are countless travel agencies in Quito that can provide a
variety of options tailored to your budget and travel parameters. See
Chapter 13, Galápagos Islands
for detailed information on tours and
the islands themselves.
Tour Operators & Guides
T
our operators in Ecuador vary across the quality and price spec-
trum. You get what you pay for, so be sure to research the com-
pany well. Ask for references and a contract of services provided for
what you are paying. Be sure that the company and guides are li-
censed, though this does not insure quality. Other than recommenda-
tions in this topic, a good source of recommended tour operators and
guides is with the SouthAmericanExplorers Club inQuito (
and fax
2-225-228, explorer@seac.org.ec). Note that though Quito-based and
sometimes foreign-owned tour operators may offer the highest qual-
ity services, the most genuine experiences and benefit to local com-
munities are had with locally operated community-based ecotourism
projects, discussed in the appropriate sections within this topic.
Eco-Rating
Throughout this guidebook, I have highlighted accommo-
dations and tour operators that incorporate at least some
elements of true ecotourism and sustainable travel. Under
the
Where to Stay
sections of each chapter, note that certain
ecolodges will be highlighted with a
symbol to designate
that it offers a standard of ecological responsibility. Lodges
that incorporate renewable energy, recycle programs and
environmental education are highlighted appropriately.
Tour guides and operators whose primary goals include en-
vironmental preservation, promoting community develop-
ment, local guide training and use of such guides will also
be highlighted with the symbol. Any tours, packages and
accommodations listed as Community-Based Ecotourism
(CBE) projects rank at the highest level of responsible
travel.
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