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- Frequently Asked Questions
- Costa Rica
- General Information
- 1. Do I need a passport for a Costa Rica trip?
-
A valid passport is mandatory for everyone. The passport has to be valid for 6 months past your date of entry into the country. If you are an American or Canadian citizen a visa is not required.
- 2. How do I replace a lost or stolen passport?
-
You will need to go to the American Citizen Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy, Monday 8:00 AM-11:30 AM and 1:00 PM-3:00 PM or Tuesday-Friday: 8:00 AM-11:30 AM except during U.S. and Costa Rican Holidays, and fill out a form DS-64, Statement Regarding Lost or Stolen Passport. At that time you can fill out an application for a new passport. Please bring the police report, if you have one. You will also need to bring 2 passport-sized photos and a fee of $85 (age 16 and over) or $70 (15 and younger) to replace your lost or stolen passport.
- 3. Do I need any shots?
-
Medical advice should be sought by consulting your doctor or an international health clinic before you travel. The following medical suggestions should not be substituted for consultation with a physician.
No inoculations or vaccinations are required as a condition for entry for a Costa Rica tour unless you are coming from or passing through contaminated areas. For your personal protection it is recommended that your Tetanus, Diphtheria and Polio booster shots are current. Consult your doctor or clinic for further information.
Costa Rica has occasional outbreaks of dengue fever (both classic and hemorrhagic), although the incidence remains lower than in other Central American countries. Dengue is transmitted by mosquito bite and there is no vaccine. Anyone planning to travel in affected areas should take steps to avoid mosquito bites. These include wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin, and sleeping under mosquito netting.
For additional health information, travelers may contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international traveler’s hotline at (404) 332-4559
- 4. Should I purchase travel insurance?
-
Your program cost includes the Elderhostel “Travel Assistance and Insurance Plan.” This plan operates on a reimbursement basis for covered expenses. Neither the Group Leader nor other staff is authorized to make cash outlays to Elderhostelers for such expenses. The primary purpose of this plan is to provide 24-hour assistance for medical and other emergencies. In addition, the plan provides insurance coverage in the event of accidental death or dismemberment. The plan also provides limited, supplemental, medical and baggage insurance. We recommend purchasing additional travel insurance in case of trip interruption or cancellation etc. Holbrook Travel recommends Travel Insured International. You may contact them via email at www.travelinsured.com or by phone toll free 1-800-243-3174. They may ask you for a vendor ID number. Holbrook Travel’s ID is 15849.
- 5. How far in advance should I check in prior to departure?
-
International Travel
We recommend that you check into the international ticket counter at least two hours before departure or as soon as you arrive from your home city. If Holbrook arranged your domestic flight, we will have scheduled your arrival at the Departure City within time set by the airline for the connection.
Domestic Travel
If you are flying on separate domestic and international carriers, in most cases, you will still have the option of checking your luggage all the way to San José. However, if you prefer, you may collect your luggage at the international gateway and recheck it to your final destination. If you choose this option, please advise your air agent to make sure that you have ample connection time.
- 6. What type of luggage is recommended for this trip?
-
The amount of luggage allowed on the international flight from the United States to Costa Rica is two pieces of checked luggage, each weighing no more than fifty pounds. Please keep in mind that your luggage will be loaded on top of the bus for transfer from place to place. It is recommended that you take two smaller pieces or one medium sized duffel bag versus one large piece of checked luggage. A carry-on is also allowed, which must fit under the seat or in the overhead compartment of the aircraft. (If you must have exact dimensions, please call the airline.)
- 7. What should I put in my carry on luggage?
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Passport and photocopy of documents
• Toiletries
• Tickets
• Prescription medications with copy of prescription
• Extra eyeglasses/lenses, hearing aid batteries
• Change of clothing
• Camera
• Other valuables
- 8. What is not allowed in your carry on luggage?
-
Please consider putting the following items in your checked luggage for the international flights. Be aware that items such as pocket knives, all purpose tools, tweezers, scissors, razor blades, pencil/ make-up sharpeners, aerosol cans and batteries will not be allowed in your carry on luggage. Also note that all liquid containers such as shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, toothpaste etc. must be carried in a separate clear plastic, zip-top bag that does not exceed 8 inches x 8 inches (20 cm x 20 cm) or is quart size. Items must fit in the bag comfortably and the bag must be completely closed.
- 9. Can I bring my prescription medicine?
-
Yes, just be sure to bring a written copy of your prescription. All prescription medication(s) should be placed in your carry-on bag.
- 10. What to pack?
-
Travel as lightly as possible but be sure to bring anything that is important to you. Costa Rica enjoys "shirt sleeves and shorts" weather, but in the highlands the night time temperatures may feel relatively cold. We suggest you bring a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. Casual and informal lose-fitting clothing is appropriate when traveling in the country. Bring clothes that wash and dry easily. Below is a list of recommended clothing.
Shirts and Blouses: Take clothing that will be comfortable for the activities. Include one lightweight, cotton, long sleeved shirt for sun and mosquito protection. Synthetics hold the heat and are very uncomfortable in the tropics.
Shorts: Shorts are advised for traveling days, and can be worn in the field and in towns.
Trousers: If you take slacks, lightweight cotton slacks, safari pants, or jeans are recommended. Slacks are advisable in the evening for protection against mosquitoes.
Jackets and Sweaters: A sweater, lightweight jacket, or windbreaker and a sweatshirt may be needed in the mountains, or early morning or evening. T-shirts are comfortable during the daytime, especially in the lowlands.
Underclothing: Take adequate since nothing dries easily in the high humidity after washing out.
Bathing Suit: Take one or two bathing suits.
Socks: You will be walking in a rainforest, so you may expect to hike in mud and water on occasion. Although laundry facilities are available, it is advisable to include extra pairs of socks.
Shoes: Take a pair of walking shoes for cities and non-field wear and, of course, a pair of shoes suitable for hiking. Hiking boots are not necessary, a good sturdy pair of tennis shoes will do. You may want to take some reef runners ie: Tevas or Keens.
Sandals: A pair of strap-sandals should be brought in case your shoes become wet, or in case you do not want to wear shoes in the rain.
Headgear: A light hat with a wide brim is very useful.
Rain gear: A collapsible umbrella is as good for blocking the sun as it is the rain. Also, a light poncho may be useful.
Toiletries: Also a washcloth, sun block/sunscreen, insect repellant containing DEET.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, Binoculars, Blow dryer, large Ziplock bags (for wet clothing or dirty laundry)
- 11. Will I need to have a lock on my suitcase?
-
The Transportation Security Administration requests that you leave your checked baggage unlocked should security personnel need to inspect the contents of your luggage more closely. However if you decide to lock your luggage prior to departure we recommend a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) approved lock. The TSA has a master key that can be used to unlock this type of lock. These locks can be purchased at any local Wal Mart or Target type store. Once you reach Costa Rica we highly recommend that you keep your luggage locked if it will be left unattended ie; in your hotel room, during transfers from one location to another etc.
- 12. How much is the departure tax?
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The departure tax is $26, and can be paid in US Dollars, colones or with a credit card. Please note that in some instances a service charge will be added if you use a credit card.
- 13. Will someone be picking me up at the airport in San José?
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If you paid for air as part of your Elderhostel program you will automatically be transferred to and from the airport. After you have completed customs there will be a representative holding an Elderhostel sign waiting for you as you exit Customs.
If you have made your own flight arrangements there are a few options available to you. If your flights are arriving at the same time as Elderhostelers who have purchased their air through us and if there is space available, you are welcome to transfer with the group. If you are arriving at a different time there is a local airport taxi service we recommend, Taxis Unidos Aeropuertos. These taxis are orange with the company logo displayed prominently on the front doors. The cost of a transfer is usually around $20 per transfer and can be paid in US dollars. . You can make arrangements ahead of time via their website at www.taxisunidosaeropuerto.com. You may also have Holbrook Travel arrange a private transfer for you at a cost of approximately $20 per person.
- 14. Do I need a converter/ adaptor for the electricity?
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Costa Rica uses 110 volt, 60 cycle electricity, the same as the US. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat type so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adaptor.
- 15. What is the local currency, exchange rate, etc.?
-
The local currency is the colon. Most restaurants, markets, and other service providers readily accept US dollars as long as they don't have any rips. They will generally give you change in local currency.
- 16. Should I bring cash or Traveler's checks? Are ATMs available? Can I use credit cards?
-
Most travelers bring a small amount of US cash with them and withdraw from ATMs as they need it along they way. ATMs are readily available in the larger towns and cities. Travelers can withdraw US dollars or local currency at fair exchange rates. Traveler's checks are fine, but we do not recommend them because they can be more difficult to exchange and you will usually receive a poorer rate or be charged an additional fee. Visa and MasterCard are accepted at most large hotels, tourist-class restaurants and stores. Although it is helpful to bring a credit card along for emergencies, don't count on using it for most purchases and keep in mind there is a 7% fee to use them for purchases.
- 17. How do I report / replace lost or stolen credit cards or travelers checks?
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You will need to contact the bank that issued the credit cards or traveler’s checks directly. Following are contact numbers for selected credit card companies:
American Express
(800) 012-3211 (locally)
(800) 992-3404 (U.S. PHONE)
Diners Club
(506) 295-9393 (locally)
(800) 234-6377 (U.S. PHONE)
Master Card
(800) 011-0184 (locally)
(800) MC-ASSIST (U.S. PHONE)
Visa
(800) 011-0030 (locally)
(800) 847-2911 (U.S. PHONE)
- 18. What type of food is typical of Costa Rica?
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Rice, beans, tortillas, chicken, beef, fish, tropical fruit, and fresh vegetables are some of the standard foods that travelers can expect in Costa Rica. International specialties are also widely available.
- 19. Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
-
We can accommodate some special dietary needs at no additional charge. Unfortunately, Elderhostel may not be able to accommodate all special dietary needs requested. Please contact us to go over details.
- 20. Are there laundry facilities at the hotels we will be staying at?
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In Costa Rica it is not common to find laundry facilities at the hotels. However, almost all of the hotels have laundry services available. Please make sure that you will have enough time (more than one night) to use these laundry services.
- 21. Is internet service available at the hotels we will be staying at?
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Most of the larger hotels in San José have internet accessibility. As a rule the smaller local hotels do not but there are exceptions. Please contact us for further information.
- 22. Do all the hotels provide blow dryers?
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Some of the hotels do, but not all of them. We suggest you bring a travel sized blow dryer with you
- 23. I have 35mm camera equipment should I buy my film here or buy it there?
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Film and batteries are more expensive in Costa Rica so you should purchase film before you leave the US. We recommend two speeds, 64-100 ASA for scenery shots; 200-400 ASA or higher for forest and other shots.
- 24. Is tipping included in the price of the program?
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There is a moderate tip included in the price of your program. You may add an additional tip at your discretion but it is completely voluntary.
- 25. Is the water safe for us to drink?
-
In most parts of the country the water is safe to drink. The coastal areas can be questionable. Bottled water is recommended mostly because of taste. Bottled water is not included in the cost of your program but is easily available throughout your program.
- 26. How is the weather In Costa Rica?
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The "Summer Season" (or dry season) is between December and May. There is almost no rain and it is perfect for traveling throughout the country.The "Winter Season" (or rainy season) is between June and Nov. It will rain almost every day and in October and November it can actually rain for several days nonstop.In the San Jose area the weather stays between 65 F at night and 80 F during the day year round.
- 27. When is rainy season?
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Rainy season, euphemistically called "Green Season” usually starts in May and lasts through November. October and November witness the real rainfalls, but May and June are quite pleasant. June often sees veranito, a "little summer" of several weeks with little or no rain. Typically you will experience afternoon rain showers.
- 28. What time zone is Costa Rica?
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Costa Rica is six hours behind GMT (same as CST). They do not observe daylight-savings time so during these months (April-October), Costa Rica is on MST.
- 29. Can I use my cellular phone in Costa Rica?
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The only way to do so is if you have an International coverage plan with your phone company in the United States. We highly recommend that you purchase an international phone card. These can be purchased at the Juan Santa Maria airport upon arrival in Costa Rica or ask your program leader for other locations.
- 30. What sort of souvenirs and gifts can I find there?
-
There are some really neat locally made products that make great souvenirs or gifts. Costa Rican coffee is among the best in the world and makes a great, affordable gift. Other popular items are hot sauces, hand made wood and ceramic crafts, hammocks, leather rocking chairs and jewelry. There are also plenty of tourist shops in downtown San Jose.
- 31. What does ecotourism mean?
-
The International Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." This means that those who implement and participate in ecotourism activities should follow the following principles:
Minimize impact
Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect
Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts
Provide direct financial benefits for conservation
Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people
Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social climate
Support international human rights and labor agreements
- 32. Can I extend my vacation beyond the Elderhostel Program?
-
Yes, you may stay in Costa Rica before or after our itinerary and explore more of what the area has to offer.
- 33. Who should my family contact in case of an emergency?
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Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 5:30pm EST please have them call Holbrook Travel at 1-800-866-7111. After hours please call 352-377-7111 and our answering service will take the call. There is someone on call after hours.
Our tour operator in Costa Rica is Best Adventure Travel. They can be reached by dialing (011) 506-253-1611.
- Program Specific Questions
- CRD 15114 - Digital Photography in Nature: Capturing the Best of Costa Rica
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Should each person bring their own digital camera?
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A digital camera is required for this program however each individual does not need his or her own individual camera. For instance a couple can bring one camera to share.
-
What camera equipment is recommended for the program?
-
Our workshops are designed for photographers with a digital SLR camera with interchangeable lenses (e.g., the Canon Digital Rebel, 10D, 20D, 30D, 5D, 1Ds, etc.; Nikon D70, D100, D200, D2x, etc.; Pentax *stD series). Nonetheless, if you have a non-SLR digital camera, there are also a number of concepts and techniques both in camera and on the computer that will help you to improve your photos by leaps and bounds. Suggested lenses or adapters for your workshops include a wide-angle or wide-angle zoom lens, a macro or mid-range zoom or fixed lens with closeup filters, and a telephoto or telephoto zoom. An external flash is also very helpful to produce more interesting lighting. A circular polarizing filter will help you to deepen blue skies and saturate green rainforest foliage. A tripod will help you to obtain sharper pictures
and to improve your composition. And be sure to bring the instruction manual for your camera so that we can help you to get the most out of your equipment!
-
Will I be able to buy extra batteries for my camera in Costa Rica?
-
They are available however we recommend they be purchased in the US. They are more readily available as well as being less expensive.
- CRI 3636 - Costa Rica: Tropical Paradise (An Intergenerational Program
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Are there any additional documents that I need to have while traveling with my grandchild to Costa Rica?
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You will need to bring the Parental Consent Form that is included in the preparatory materials for your program. It needs to notarized and signed by the parents of the child you are traveling with.
- CRIS 12262 - Cultural Interaction Through Soccer in Costa Rica
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Are there any additional documents that I need to have while traveling with my grandchild to Costa Rica?
-
You will need to bring the Parental Consent Form that is included in the preparatory materials for your program. It needs to notarized and signed by the parents of the child you are traveling with.
-
What type of soccer equipment does my grandchild need to bring?
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Your grandchild will need to bring his or her soccer shoes as well as their own shin guards. All of the rest of the required equipment will be provided.
-
Is there a certain soccer skill level that my grandchild needs to have for this program?
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This program is open to soccer players of all skill levels. Soccer is the biggest national sport in Latin America so the children there play all the time. One of the purposes of this program is for the children of each country to interact with each other as well as learn new skills.
-
How will the soccer teams be set up?
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Each team will be comprised of a combination of Costa Rican and American children.
- Galápagos
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General Information
- 1. Where are the Galapagos Islands?
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600 miles west of Ecuador
- 2. How many islands are in the Galapagos Islands?
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There are 13 main islands (5 of which are inhabited), and 6 smaller islands, as well as 107 rocks and islets.
- 3. What is the climate like?
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Despite being at the equator, the weather is quite pleasant. Due to winds originating from as far away as Antarctica, it
helps cool off the entire area.
- 4. What is the best time of year to visit the Galapagos Islands?
-
Between December and May, which is considered the warm/rainy season, you will find the islands are generally much greener and
the land birds most active. The ocean temperature is warmer during this period. The downside is the afternoon rain showers which are very common. Between
June and November, the cool/dry season, the sea birds and sea mammals are most active.
- 5. Do I need any vaccinations to travel to the Galapagos Islands?
-
There are no vaccinations required, nor recommended. If you are planning to extend your stay on the mainland of Ecuador,
especially in the Amazon or rainforest area, vaccinations would be strongly recommended. Look at www.cdc.gov for recommendations. Keep in mind the CDC’s
information is the most conservative.
- 6. Are there any luggage restrictions for the flights to the Galapagos Islands?
-
Yes. There is a limit of one suitcase (no more than 40 lbs.) and one carry on bag allowed per person on the plane.
- 7. How long are the flights to the Galapagos Islands?
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From Quito, there is a 30 minute flight to Guayaquil, where the plane stops to pick up and drop off passengers. That flight
will then continue on to the islands with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.
- 8. What currency is used in the Galapagos Islands?
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In 2000, Ecuador adopted the US Dollar as the national currency.
- 9. Are there any banks on the islands?
-
Yes, there is one bank on the islands, El Banco del Pacifico. They will cash Travelers checks for a 5% commission. There
are also ATM’s but they are not considered reliable. You may go into the bank and take a cash advance on your MasterCard.
- 10. Are credit cards accepted on the islands?
-
Yes, however MasterCard is the most widely accepted credit card. Visa and American Express are accepted in very limited
places while Discover is not accepted at all.
- 11. What kind of wildlife will I see on the islands?
-
The most common wildlife will be the numerous species of birds, mammals, reptiles as well as numerous species of vegetation.
(Check each island’s info sheet to see which species are common to which islands)
- 12. What are the walking conditions on the islands?
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Walk conditions are considered easy to moderate. Some islands have very flat surfaces which make walking very easy, while
others have lava terrain which makes for more of a moderate walking experience. It is very important to have comfortable shoes with appropriate support in
your arch and around your ankle to avoid injury.
- 13. Are they any bathrooms on the islands?
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A few islands have inhabitants (e.g. Santa Cruz, Baltra, San Cristobal and Isabela) and therefore have bathroom facilities.
However, most of the Galapagos Islands are kept in their natural state and do not have any facilities.
- 14. What kind of animals should I expect to see while visiting the Galapagos?
-
The islands offer an array of wildlife, many of which are endemic only to the Galapagos Islands. These include 11 species of
Giant tortoises, 3 endemic iguanas, 58 species of birds, 400 species of fish and numerous species of mammals.
- Boat Information - Tip Top II
- 1. How do I get to the boat from Ecuador?
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99.9% of people travel by air. You will fly from Guayaquil in Ecuador to Baltra in the islands. Total travel time is
approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes from the mainland to the islands. Once on the islands you are transferred to the dock to
board small boats to bring you to the vessel.
- 2. What is the luggage allowance on board?
-
You are able to bring any luggage you brought on the flights. 40lbs of luggage per passenger is the maximum allowed.
- 3. Do I have to lock my luggage when it is left in the room?
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It is not required but a good idea to keep valuables locked and secure anytime they are not in your possession.
- 4. What is the electricity? Do I need a converter?
-
110/220 V. AC Current. No converter is required.
- 5. Are there stairs or elevators on the boat? Are they easy to get up and down?
-
There is a steep set of stairs from the main deck to the cabins must be negotiated very carefully. There are railings on
both sides. There is no elevator on the boat.
- 6. Can I request a specific cabin or location?
-
We can always put a request in your reservation. Keep in mind this is only a request and not a guarantee.
- 7. What kind of staff is provided? Is there a doctor on board?
-
The ship has a staff of 8 people. Captain, multilingual guide, engineer, cook, barman, waitress, and two sailors. There is
no doctor on board.
- 8. Will I get seasick? What can I do to prevent it?
-
Some people do and some people don’t get seasick. If you are subject to motion sickness you may want to speak to your doctor
about many over the counter medicines or possible prescription medicines available for motion sickness.
- 9. Is smoking allowed on board?
-
No smoking is allowed on the boat.
- 10. I have special dietary needs. Can I request special meals on the boat?
-
Yes. If you have special needs we can forward that information to the boat and they will be able to accommodate most dietary
needs.
- 11. Is the water ok to drink on the boat? Is bottle water provided or must I purchase it?
-
There is bottled water on the boat that is free for guests.
- 12. Is there internet access on board?
-
No, there is no internet access on board.
- 13. Are there laundry facilities on board?
-
There are no laundry facilities on board.
- 14. Can I purchase items on board? (i.e.medicine, post cards, etc.)
-
The only thing available for purchase on board is alcoholic beverages which can be purchased by the glass or bottle. There
are no shops on board.
- 15. Do they accept American dollars? Is there an ATM on board?
-
American dollars are accepted all over Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Bring clean, smaller bills. There is no ATM on
the boat.
- 16. Is tipping included?
-
Yes, a moderate tip is included in your program.
- 17. How do we get from the boat to the island for the excursions?
-
You will be transported on smaller boats from your ship to the shore. Some arrivals will require you to walk in the water so
don’t forget to bring aqua shoes!
- 18. Can I bring my own wetsuit, snorkel gear or diving equipment? Is there somewhere to store
them?
-
You are welcome to bring your own wetsuit or snorkel gear however there is limited space on the boat. Previous participants
have used the sun deck or the extremely limited space in the bathroom in the cabin. Unfortunately, scuba diving is not allowed from your boat as it is
limited to specific boats approved through the government for diving. Diving is not permitted from the vessel, however, snorkeling gear is included in your
program. If you opt to bring a wetsuit, please keep in mind there is a 44lb weight limit on the flight to the islands. Wetsuits are best stored on the
sundeck due do to limited space in the cabins.
- 19. Can I rent a wetsuit, snorkel gear or dive equipment?
-
Wetsuits are available to rent, however, require a 30 day advance request. Snorkel gear is included in the program price.
Unfortunately, scuba diving is not permitted from the vessel.
- 20. Will I need to bring mosquito repellent?
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You are welcome to bring repellent however most participants find it not necessary.
- 21. What kind of shoes will I need to bring for wearing on the boat and during the onshore
activities?
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As much of the terrain is uneven, sturdy sneakers like cross-trainers are suggested as walking sneakers lack some of the
support. Also, due to some of the water landings on excursions, don’t forget to bring some aqua shoes that can get wet.
- 22. What amount of physical exertion is anticipated during the shore excursions?
-
Walking unassisted up to three miles, approximately three hours at a time, during field trips and excursions; trails include
rough volcanic rock and loose stones. The high altitude in Quito (9,600 feet) requires that anyone with heart and/or respiratory difficulties consult a
physician prior to enrollment.
- Island Specific Information
-
Baltra Island
- A. Basic Information
- Home to the Galapagos Islands main airport, Seymour Airport (GPS)
• Originally built by the United States to serve as a military base to protect the Panama Canal
• Baltra is currently an Ecuadorian naval base and is not within the boundaries of the Galapagos National Park
- B. Wildlife
- Most wildlife and vegetation on the island was exterminated during World War II.
• Recently the Galapagos Land Iguana has been successfully reintroduced to the island.
-
Bartolome Island
- A. Basic Information
- Located east of Santiago and northwest of Santa Cruz.
• Home to the Galapagos Islands main airport, Seymour Airport (GPS)
- B. Wildlife
- Sea turtles
• Lava lizards
• Galapagos Penguins
- C. Attractions
- Pinnacle Rock
• Summit Trail
• Bartolome Beaches
-
Daphne Island
- A. Basic Information
- North of Santa Cruz and west of Baltra
• Made up of Daphne Major and Daphne Minor Islands
- B. Wildlife
- Albatros
• Blue-Footed Boobies
• Masked Boobies
• Red-Billed Tropicbirds
• Magnificent Frigatebirds
• Finches
• Short Eared Owls
• Galapagos Martins
• Galapagos Penguins
- C. Attractions
- Hike up steep trail to the crater rim. (Not available on the TIP TOP II as they do not stop on the islands, only navigate
around them)
- D. Landing Type
- Don’t land on the islands. Only navigate around them to observe some of the tropical bird species
-
Española Island
- A. Basic Information
- One of the smaller islands
• The oldest island in the Galapagos
• Largest known colony of waved albatrosses
• Made up of the northern two thirds of a volcano with the southern coast being a 100m cliff created
from being faulted into the sea
• Best island for bird watching
- B. Wildlife
- Waved Albatross
• Blue-Footed Boobies
• Red-Billed Tropicbirds
• Masked Boobies
• Galapagos hawks
• Mockingbirds
• Marine iguanas
- C. Attractions
- Gardner Bay
• Punta Suarez
• Bird watching
• Swimming
• Snorkeling
- E. Terrain
- Ranges from beach walking (Gardner Bay) to level ground (Punta Suarez) to lava and rough terrain
-
Floreana Island
- A. Basic Information
-
Also called Santa Maria Island
• Located in the most southeastern part of the archipelago
• Remains an active volcano to this day
• One of the few islands with a constant freshwater supply
• One of the older islands of the Galapagos
- B. Wildlife
-
Boobies
• Galapagos penguins
• Sea lions
• Flamingos
• Sea turtles
• Galapagos sharks
• Hammer head sharks
• Sting rays
• Tree finches
- C. Attractions
-
Post Office Bay
• Punta Cormorant
• Devils Crown (best snorkeling in the Galapagos)
• Hiking
• Bird watching
• Snorkeling
• Scuba diving
- D. Landing Type
- Wet Landing (easy beach landing).
- E. Terrain
- - Easy level ground walking
-
Genovesa Island
- A. Basic Information
-
Made up of a single volcano emerging only 200 feet above sea level
• Geologically unusual due to its lavas that are virtually identical to the lavas that erupt in the mid-ocean
ridges
• Also called “Tower Island”
- B. Wildlife
-
Red Footed Boobies (best island to see these)
• Frigate birds
• Storm petrels
• Tropic birds
• Sea lions
• Hammerhead Sharks
• Short-eared Owls
- C. Attractions
-
Hiking
• Bird watching
• Swimming
• Snorkeling
-
North Seymour Island
- A. Basic Information
-
Uplifted (as opposed to volcanic) island
• Generally flat and strewn with boulders
- B. Wildlife
-
Blue footed boobies
• Frigate birds
• Sea lions
• Swallow-tailed gulls
• Garden eels (diving)
• Pacific green sea turtle
• Hammerhead Sharks
- C. Attractions
-
Bird watching
• Scuba diving (one of the best spots)
-
Santa Cruz Island
- A. Basic Information
-
In the center of the Galapagos Islands Archipelago
• Third largest island in the archipelago
• It is the center for all of the human activity
• The only island to have a road running through its center
- B. Wildlife
-
Blue herons, sea turtles, rays, whitetip sharks, herons, Galapagos giant tortoises, vermilion flycatchers, tyrant flycatchers, Galapagos hawks, short-eared
owls, woodpecker finches, many species of finches, Galapagos dove, petrels, pelicans, manta Rays, golden rays, marine Iguanas, land iguanas, blue footed
boobies, and sea Lions.
- C. Attractions
-
Playa de Las Bachas Beach (Flamingo lagoon)
• Charles Darwin Research Center
• Lava Tunnels
• Galapagos National Park Highland Tortoise reserve
• Puerto Ayora (the capital)
• Santa Cruz Highlands
• Swimming and/or snorkeling
-
Santa Fe Island
- A. Basic Information
-
Also called “Barrington Island”
• Located in the central part of the archipelago
• One of the oldest islands in the Galapagos
• Not volcanically active
• No fresh water on the island
• Relatively untouched by humans
- B. Wildlife
-
Frigate Birds
• Galapagos hawks
• Land Iguanas
• Manta rays
• Sea turtles
• Sea lions
• Opuntia Cactus (vegetation)
• Scalesia (vegetation)
- C. Attractions
-
Excellent scuba diving
• Snorkeling
• Hiking
• Swimming
- E. Terrain
- Steep and uneasy trails. Strenuous hike.
-
Santiago Island
- A. Basic Information
-
Located in the west central part of the archipelago
• Fourth largest island
• One of the most volcanically active islands
- B. Wildlife
-
Sally light-foot crabs, Galapagos penguins, Galapagos hawks, lava lizards, sea turtles, marine iguanas, mockingbirds, sea lions, shore birds, fur seals, and
blue herons
- C. Attractions
-
Buccaneer Cove
• Espumilla Beach
• Puerto Egas
• Sullivan Bay
• Hiking
• Bird watching
• Swimming
• Snorkeling
- E. Terrain
- Range from beach walking to uneven rocky conditions.
-
South Plaza Island
- A. Basic Information
-
Also called “Plaza Sur”
• One of the smallest islands to visit
• Numerous amounts of vegetation and wildlife
• A bit over visited
- B. Wildlife
-
Sea lions
• Swallow tail gulls
• Tropic birds
• Land Iguanas
• Brown Pelicans
• Red Sesesuvium (vegetation)
• Opuntia Cactus (vegetation)
- C. Attractions
-
Hiking
• Snorkeling
• Bird watching
• Walking
- E. Terrain
- Uneven terrain but easy to walk on
Travel Insurance:
Travel Insured - We encourage our clients to consider Travel Insurance for financial coverage in the event of an unforeseen emergency before or during your trip.
Passport & Visa Information:
Foreign Entry Requirements – to learn about medical and travel documentation you may need for your trip.
Passport Application – for instructions on how and where to apply and to print passport applications.
Visa Information and Applications – to learn whether you need a visa for your trip and to print visa applications.
Travel Document Systems – for help in obtaining your visa and/or passport in a hurry!
Health & Safety Information:
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) – CDC recommendations for medical preparation and current health alerts.
Travel Health Online – to learn how to avoid or treat common travel maladies before you go.
US State Dept. Travel Warnings – for a current listing of US State Department travel warnings.
General Travel Information:
Flight Tracker – See a flight's position at any given time!
Currency Converter – see what your money is worth your destination.
US State Dept. Country Background Notes – to learn more about the general details.
Traveling Safely – tips from the US State Department to help you plan a safe trip.
CNN World Weather – find out what the weather looks like when you are scheduled to travel.
United States Embassies List – learn where the nearest US Embassy is.
Transportation Security Administration – for last minute advisories about flying and traveling safely.
Your Dictionary – discover what a word means in any language.
Language Translator – allows you to insert 10,000 characters for translating correspondence quickly.
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