“Wilderness is not a luxury but necessity of the human spirit.”

EDWARD ABBEY

Trek Preparation VOLCANOES OF

Congratulations! You are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime, and we are honored you have chosen us to show you the truly inspiring landscape and culture of this beautiful country. Ecuador hosts a wide variety of adventures, and we’re excited to show off its many treasures. We know a trip like this is both exciting and perhaps a bit daunting, so we want to ensure you have all the information you need for the safest, most comfortable, most rewarding journey possible. This overview should answer many of your basic pre-trip questions; it includes general information you will need to know in the months prior to your trip. Expect to see final details opproximately 2-4 weeks prior to departure with final specific logistical and contact information for arrival in Ecuador.

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 1 IN THIS DOSSIER Overview 3

A LITTLE ABOUT ECUADOR 3

Before your Trip 4

PRE-DEPARTURE TIMELINE 4 GETTING TO ECUADOR 5 RECOMMENDED GEAR LIST 6 TRAINING 8 Common Questions 9

HOW IS THE TRIP SET UP? 9 HOW HARD IS IT? 9 WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE? 9 DO I NEED A VISA? 9 DO I NEED INSURANCE? 10 DO I NEED IMMUNIZATIONS? 10 IS ALTITUDE A RISK? 10 WHAT IF I CAN’T FINISH THE CLIMB? 10 CHANGING OR CANCELLING MY TRIP 10 CAN I EXTEND MY TRIP? 10 WHAT IS A TYPICAL DAY LIKE? 10 WHAT IS THE TERRAIN LIKE? 10 WHAT IS THE SLEEPING ARRANGEMENT? 11 WHAT DO WE EAT? 11 WHAT ABOUT SANITATION AND HYGIENE? 11 WHAT ABOUT COMMUNICATION BACK HOME? 11 IS THERE ANY WILDLIFE? 11 HOW BIG WILL THE GROUP BE? 11 WILL WE BE CLIMBING WITH ROPES OR OTHER GEAR? 11 WHAT HAPPENS BEFORE AND AFTER THE CLIMB? 11 DO WE TIP? 11 CAN WE LEAVE THINGS IN ? 11 ABOUT ACCOMMODATIONS 11 ELECTRICITY INTERNET 12 LAUNDRY 12 TRANSPORTATION 12 MONEY 12 EMERGENCY FUND 12 SAFETY AND SECURITY 12 RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL 12 GIFTS 12 About Embark 13

WHAT SETS US APART 13 CONTACT INFORMATION 13

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 2 OVERVIEW Ecuador has it all: snow-capped peaks, some of the world’s highest volcanoes, the world-famous Galapagos Islands, topaz-colored beaches, thick jungles and indigenous Ama- zon tribes- just to name a few. And we’re excited to help you discover the best of what Ecuador has to offer. The beauty of Ecuador is that you can have intimate cultural experiences, challenging high-altitude hikes and the summit of ; but you can do it in style with comfortable lodging, your bags ferried from point to point and delicious food.

This document should help showcase Ecuador’s appeal, break down your itinerary, offer tips for trip preparation and explain how Embark will guide you through the experience- both before and during your trip. Many questions should be answered in this document; but don’t be shy about reaching out- we are happy to offer peace of mind and help out however we can.

A Little About Ecuador Ecuador sits in northwesetern South America, bordered on the made of wool sold at the famous Saturday Market. Although west by the Pacific Ocean, Peru on the east and south, and Co- the largest market is on Saturday, there is a wide variety of wares lombia on the north. You’ll also find the Galapagos Islands some available throughout the week as well; you can find handmade 620 miles west of the mainland. blankets, tablecloths, clothing, and much, much more. Quito, sitting at 9,350 feet above sea leavel, is Ecuador’s capital San Pablo Lake: San Pablo Lake is one more of the beautiful city- and behind, Guayaquil, the second most-populated city in areas in the province of Imbabura, 4 km west of the town of the country. Quito’s well-preserved old town- the least-altered in and 8,760 feet above sea level. La Laguna de San Pablo South America- was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage is an ecosystem that includes herons, ducks, amphibians and Site in 1978 and, today, attracts travelers from all over the world. many aquatic plants. It is also found at the foot of Imbabura Just south of Quito sits Cotopaxi, one of the world’s highest volcano, from which flows the water discharged by the waterfal active volcanoes (at 19,347 feet above sea level). In recent years, Peguche. Cotopaxi has become a world-class recreation destination with Zuleta: Zuleta is a small village in the beautiful highlands of Im- many visitors opting to conquer the mountain’s summit, while babura Province. This agricultural area is famed for its tradition- others choosing to bike or hike the slopes of it and surrounding al embroidery, dairy products, alpaca farming and highland crops mountains. such as wheat, maize, potatoes, lentils and quinoa. The village Broadly speaking, Ecuador can be broken down into four geo- is home to Hacienda Zuleta, a large farm once owned by an graphic regions: La Costa (“the coast”) sits west of the Andes and ex-president of the country, Galo Plaza Lasso, for over a century is where much of the country’s banana and rice crops are grown. and his descendents still own and run the hacienda today. Many La Sierra (“the highlands”) covers the Andes, the country’s tallest people in Zuleta wear their traditional costmes on a daily basis peaks, and the city of Quito. La Amazonia (“the Amazon”) hosts and the village is known for tranquility. several Amazon jungle provinces and national parks. And La Re- Cotopaxi National Park: Just 35 miles from Quito city, it is gion Insular hosts the world-famous Galapagos Islands, roughly located in the Central Sierra, near the eastern flank of the Andes 620 miles west of the mainland in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. which cuts through the great massif that forms the volanoes of Here is some more details information regarding each of the Cotopaxi and Ruminahui, and through the northeastern part of regions our land-based itinerary will encounter: the Pita River that constitutes a natural boundary. The charac- Otavalo: The captial of Otavalo Canton is a largely indigenous teristic flora is represented by the sigse, dear horn, sisan grasses, town in the . The town has about 90,000 Valeriana pilosa, varies moss species, lichens and others. Fauna inhabitants and is surrounded by the peaks of Imbabura (15,190 to be found is 17 different species of mammals (including wild feet), Cotacachi (16,388 feet) and Volcanoes. The horses) and 37 bird species. It is very sparcely populated. indigenous Otavalenos are famous for weaving textiles, usually

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 3 UPON REGISTRATION » Copy of your passport » Confirmation of overseas medical and/or travel insurance » See below for more

6 MONTHS » Finalize your travel dates, including air travel. Buy your plane tickets 3-9 months in advance » Invite friends/family you’d like to join you » Schedule an appointment with your doctor, or a travel clinic, for immunizations » Organize and begin your training program. See below for details

4 MONTHS » Confirm who is going with you » Shop for and begin testing your gear » Keep training

3 MONTHS » Send final payment to Embark

2 MONTHS » Be sure your immunizations are up to date. Some immunizations have long lead times and require multiple doses. Further details on immunizations is below » Keep testing your gear » Keep training!

1 MONTH Before » Make sure all logistics are in place » Finish purchasing all necessary gear Your Trip » Keep training! For many people , planning a trek to the volca- noes of Ecuador seems like a highly daunting 1 WEEK task, with countless details and variables to » Taper your training consider. Embark has developed a checklist of » the most important highlights when planning an Pack expedition to Ecuador. » Rest

PRE-DEPARTURE TIMELINE Get excited for your big adventure! Any trip to South America, but especially one that includes climbing Cotopaxi, involves several steps to be taken several months prior to departure. This time line is a rough but reliable guideline for when you should tackle your to-dos.

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 4 Going to ECUADOR To find the best rates, start looking for your flights at least 4 to 9 months in advance of your trek. Typical rates average anywhere from $1,000-$1,500. You will need to book your flight to arrive into Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) . It is the closest, most easily reached destination and is located 45 minutes outside of Quito city center, where you will be based prior to your trek. Flights service UIO regularly from many different international locations but the easiest, most efficient, flight routing is through Atlanta, GA and Fort Lauderdale, FL and down to Quito’s Airport, arriving late in the evening- perfect timing to beat that jet lag and to immediately head off to your hotel and go to sleep. There are a few other routes to Quito airport:

FROM THE UNITED STATES Delta via Atlanta JetBlue via Fort Lauderdale (East Coast) American via Miami (East Coast)

FROM EUROPE KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

» International flights allow one checked bag free of charge, provided it weighs no more than 50 pounds. Additional bags, or any that are over 50 pounds, will incur a charge. » On domestic flights to the Galapagos, you can bring one bag weighing no more than 25 kg, or about 55 pounds.

NOTE: If you choose a flight arrival/departure time outside of the predetermined transfers; we will be happy to accommodate your transfer and hotel arrangements at an additional cost.

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 5 CLIMA / WEATHER VOLCÁN COTOPAXI Puedes ascender las montañas del país durante todo el año; verifica las condiciones climáticas. Las temporadas más visitadas son: junio-agosto: (6268 msnm / 20 564 ft) CARA NORTE / NORTH FACE - cielos despejados y días soleados - posibilidad de vientos fuertes - refugio: temperatura media 0 a 4 °C / sensación térmica -2°C - cumbre: temperatura media -3°C / sensación térmica -14°C noviembre-enero: - poco viento - manto de nieve más grueso CUMBRE - refugio: temperatura media 3 a 7 °C / sensación térmica 0°C SUMMIT - cumbre: temperatura media -2°C / sensación térmica -8°C 5897 msnm / 19 347 ft Kilimanjaro (5895 msnm / 19 340 ft) You can climb the mountains of Ecuador all year round; 5800 msnm / 19 030 ft verify the weather conditions. The high seasons are: (5790 msnm / 18 996 ft) RAMPA DE YANASACHA June-August: YANASACHA RAMP - clear skies and sunny days - possibility of strong winds - refuge: average temperature 0 to 4 °C (32 to 39 °F) / wind chill -2°C (28°F) ARISTA DE YANASACHA - : average temperature -3°C (27°F) / YANASACHA SPUR summit wind chill -14°C (7°F) 5550 msnm / 18 210 ft YANASACHA November-January: (roca negra / black rock) - less wind - heavier snow cover - refuge: average temperature 3 to 7 °C (37 to 44 °F) / 5400 msnm / 17 720 ft wind chill 0°C (32°F) - summit: average temperature -2°C (28°F) / wind chill -8°C (18°F) RAMPA ROMPECORAZONES HEARTBREAKING RAMP

Illiniza Sur (5245 msnm / 17 208 ft) ALTA MONTAÑA 5200 msnm / 17 060 ft (más de 5000 msnm) RUTAS / ROUTES HIGH MOUNTAIN (above 16 400 ft) Ruta parqueadero-refugio / parking lot-refuge route Illiniza Norte (5105 msnm / 16 749 ft) 1 kilómetro (0.6 miles) / 45-60 minutos (45-60 minutes)

5000 msnm / 16 400 ft GLACIAR BAJO Ruta refugio-glaciar bajo / refuge-lower glacier route LOWER GLACIER 0,7 kilómetros (0.4 miles) / 40-45 minutos (40-45 minutes) 5100 msnm / 16 730 ft Ruta antigua (refugio-cumbre) / old route (refuge-summit) Mont Blanc (4807 msnm / 15 771 ft) MEDIA MONTAÑA REFUGIO JOSÉ F. RIBAS 4,4 kilómetros (2.8 miles) (3000-5000 msnm) JOSÉ F. RIBAS REFUGE Rucu (4696 msnm / 15 407 ft) MID MOUNTAIN 4864 msnm / 15 960 ft Ruta Rompecorazones (refugio-cumbre) / (10 000-16 400 ft) Heartbreaking route (refuge-summit) 4 kilómetros (2.5 miles)

6-7 horas (6-7 hours) PARQUEADERO Refugio-cumbre / refuge-summit: Mount Rainier (4392 msnm / 14 410 ft) PARKING 1100 metros + / 3609 ft + 4500 msnm / 14 765 ft ZONA DE AVALANCHAS AVALANCHE AREA PARQUE NACIONAL COTOPAXI COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK ZONA DE SERACS (DESPRENDIMIENTO DE HIELO) SERAC AREA (ICEFALL) N ! O E ZONA DE EMISIÓN DE GASES VOLCÁNICOS Y POSIBLES EXPLOSIONES FREÁTICAS EL PEDREGAL IMPORTANTE / IMPORTANT S AREA OF VOLCANIC GAS EMISSIONS AND POSSIBLE PHREATIC EXPLOSIONS CONTROL NORTE NORTH ENTRANCE CAMINATA Para actividades de alta montaña te recomendamos VOLCÁN TREKKING contactar una operadora de turismo autorizada RUMIÑAHUI TAMBOPAXI MONTAÑISMO o unirte a un club de montaña reconocido.

LIMPIOPUNGO MANANTIALES CLIMBING LA RINCONADA RecommendedALOJAMIENTO For high-mountain activities, we recommend you to ACCOMMODATION contact an authorized tour operator or to join a SANTO DOMINGO ALIMENTACIÓN recognized mountain climbing club. CONTROL CASPI RESTAURANT CASPI ENTRANCE VOLCÁN COTOPAXI PARQUEADERO PARKING

Límite Parque Nacional Cotopaxi / CNP limits CICLISMO DE MONTAÑA 3000 msnm producido por: GearPanamericana Sur / Panamerican Highway ListMOUNTAIN BIKING 10 000 ft Caminos / Roads Ecuador’s varied climates- not to mention its remember, they need to fit with liner socks and your hiking socks, location on the equator make it a bit challenging so that’s what you need to wear when hiking more than 100 miles to predict what to pack; therefore, you will want in your boots to break them in. (We mean it!) to consider a wide range of items to fit the regions If you are buying a new pair of hiking boots, consider doing so you will visit and the hikes you will do. Whatev- at an established outdoor store; the store’s employees can usually er you pack, make sure your gear is appropriate, provide a handful of options to meet your needs and offer alter- serviceable and in good working order. Consider natives based on your feedback. both standard and personal demands for comfort When shopping, test the boots for toe room by lacing them and safety before embarking up the mountain or completely and then moving your toes as far forward as possible. out on a hike: Do you have warm hiking pants for At that point you should be able to slip a finger behind your heel. high elevation treks? Good rain gear? Trekking Walk around in them, making sure they don’t crease on the top. poles? Have you hiked more than 100 miles in Toes crammed? Too small. Heel slipping? Too big. Then take your boots to break them in? them home and wear them around the house only . If you find they don’t fit and you haven’t scuffed them by walking outside, Each person we ask names a different item you should be able to take them back; confirm with the store as the most important piece of equipment before trying! to bring, from the perfect jacket to a specific brand of baby wipes. Ask around, think about LUGGAGE what it takes to keep yourself comfortable and You will need a pack/duffel bag; it must hold all your gear for the happy, and get your checklist in order well be- entire trip, as well as keep it dry. We recommend a size of about fore your departure date. 95 liters, without wheels or any stiff parts. This will be ferried by car from lodge to lodge during the day, and you carry a smaller day HIKING BOOTS pack with food, water, rain gear, and your camera. Be sure to test and clean all your gear in advance. The worst thing you can do is If your boots don’t work, not much else matters. You need real leave this preparation until the last minute. trekking boots, not sneakers or “trail runners.” But we can’t tell you which boots to buy. The essential elements you need are You should also consider a smaller bag to use if leaving anything ankle support, a stiff sole, and waterproofing - but you need in Quito while you’re hiking. the boots that meet all these criteria and fit comfortably. And

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 6 Clothing & Gear List □ 1 PAIR UV-BLOCKING SUNGLASSES WITH SIDE-GUSSETS. Should be self-explanatory, but do not go cheap on these! Maximum NOTE: “Synthetic” below means definitely no cotton! Once UV-blocking is critical. The best options are sometimes called cotton is wet, it’s useless or worse. You want materials that dry “glacier glasses.” quickly, provide warmth even when damp, and wick moisture □ SUN BLOCK We recommend the highest possible SPF rating away from your skin. SWIMSUIT □ 2 SYNTHETIC SHIRTS, LONG SLEEVE. These are also good for □ starting on layers, for all sorts of weather. □ A TRAVEL WALLET □ 2 SYNTHETIC T-SHIRTS, SHORT-SLEEVED. Remember, “all □ EAR PLUGS IN CASE A ROOMMATE SNORES sorts of weather” includes warm. □ SMALL FIRST AID KIT. Mainly something to have with you during □ 2 PAIRS OF SYNTHETIC HIKING SHORTS. It’s nice to have a the day, guides will have a larger one. backup pair in case one gets extremely dirty or damaged. □ PASSPORT/MONEY BELT. □ 1 PAIR OF SYNTHETIC TREKKING PANTS. Look for the kind with zip-off leggings, so that these can be short or long pants, and it’s □ SPARE CAMERA MEMORY CARD AND BATTERIES. easy to switch during the day. □ 1 PAIR OF WARMER HIKING PANTS. Don’t go too heavy with Other Equipment Specifically these; remember the idea of layers. Lightweight wool or a synthetic for the Climb like fleece recommended. □ 1 WATERPROOF DUFFEL BAG, PREFERABLY NORTH FACE □ 1 OR 2 PAIRS OF FLEECE LONG UNDERWEAR/ TROUSERS. BASE CAMP. See above. Again, we suggest lightweight, because you will want to layer without getting overheated while hiking. □ MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS. The are the hard-sole boots designed to be fitted with crampons. □ 1 PAIR OF LEG GAITERS. Make sure these fasten securely to your boots to keep rocks and snow out. □ 1 DAY PACK. COMFORT AND FIT ARE IMPORTANT, AS IS DURABILITY. You don’t want this to fall apart during the trip. A □ 1 PAIR OF SOCKS PER TREKKING DAY, WITH AT LEAST 2 good size is about 25 to 30 liters. PAIRS OF LIGHTER (SYNTHETIC) SOCKS AS LINERS. It’s nice to have a fresh pair each day; we also like to keep one in the sleeping □ RAIN COVER FOR YOUR DAY PACK. Make sure it’s the right bag, to be worn only at night. Dry, clean socks at night are a must. size! □ 1 PAIR OF UNDERWEAR PER DAY. Again, no cotton! □ PLASTIC BAGS OF DIFFERENT SIZES (TO PROTECT CLOTHES AGAINST RAIN). Ziploc sells multiple sizes larger than □ 1 WARM FLEECE OR WOOL SWEATER. Zip-up is preferred the standard gallon size and are an excellent way of organizing and over pullover (for flexibility in conditions. It’s okay to go at least medi- waterproofing your things. um-weight here, as this is largely for relaxing in camp. □ 2 TREKKING POLES. These are very important for balance and for □ 1 MEDIUM-WEIGHT INSULATION LAYER. This is a down spreading the effort of balancing oneself throughout the body. We or synthetic insulated jacket with an integral hood that can be used recommend the types that “telescope” down to size. It makes them during rest breaks or lunch and around camp. On summit night can easier to carry and also lets you adjust the length for different circumstances. be worn in conjunction wiht multiple insulating layers, as conditions may warrant. □ 1 HEAD LAMP WITH EXTRA BATTERIES. Better than a flashlight, because you can keep your hands free. □ 1 RAIN/WIND SHELL + 1 PAIR OF RAIN/WIND PANTS. Look for Goretex or other such materials which repel moisture but also allow □ 1 POCKET KNIFE (BE SURE TO CHECK IT ON ALL for ventilation. Without that feature, you’ll just get soaked with sweat. FLIGHTS!). This could also be a Leatherman or Swiss Army Knife with other tools. □ 1 DURABLE PONCHO. This is nice for covering you and your pack, and also for sitting on during rest breaks or lunch. □ 3 ONE-LITER WATER BOTTLES , OR SUBSTITUTE WITH HYDRATION PACK. The latter might come with a hose to drink □ 1 PAIR OF FLEECE GLOVE LINERS. These should also be out of without taking off your pack. (If you get that, consider a liner to lightweight; think about them fitting into your mittens or waterproof keep the hose from freezing.) Whatever you get should be rugged. outer gloves. □ 1 EMERGENCY FOIL BLANKET. AKA the “Space Blanket.” □ 1 PAIR OF COLD WEATHER GLOVES OR MITTENS. These are the bigger, warmer ones for cold, dry situations - and as a backup pair. □ 1 WARM HAT. This would be the knit, wrap-around style designed for warmth. Rain protection comes from your rain gear. □ 1 SUN HAT. It is very important that this is wide-brimmed. Remember, common places for sunburn include the back of your neck and tops of your ears. □ 1 BALACLAVA. This can double as a hat and a neck/face guard. Some pull down into a three-hole “ski mask” configuration; others leave the whole face clear. □ 1 PAIR OF WALKING/CAMP SHOES. These can be as lightweight and comfortable as you wish.

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 7 Rental Gear » SLEEPING BAGS

» CRAMPONS

» ICE AXE

» HARNESS

» HELMET

» GAITERS

TRAINING Summiting Cotopaxi and/or trekking the high peaks around it at higher elevation, the better accustomed you will be to navigate is a huge mental and physical challenge. Getting to 19,347 feet the pitfalls that can come with altitude sickness. above sea level is not easy in any sense and should be recognized If you live where there are no major hills or mountains, the next-best as a serious undertaking. choice is repetitive hiking. One or two hikes on the weekend are Therefore, it is important to develop a comprehensive training fine, but try hiking every day. Add weight to your pack to make program – 4-6 months in advance – to help increase your odds it more difficult, keep a training log, and try to find small hills to of making it to the summit. The general rule for training for a climb. When time permits, try to hike seven to nine miles per day, Cotopaxi or high-altitude climb is that the more you exercise and and try to do this multiple days in a row. prepare, the more you will enjoy the climb. Perhaps most importantly: start your training program If you do not exercise on a regular basis, you need to begin now. immediately. The body will not adapt well if you wait to start Also, since training with a partner increases accountability and training until shortly before your trip. For example, it takes about makes it more fun, we suggest you look for a training partner - four months of solid training to finish a marathon, and the vast perhaps someone else from your trek. majority who do not properly train never finish. The same can be Your goal in training should be that, ultimately, you will feel said for mountaineering. For more detailed instruction and a comfortable walking over rough terrain for 10 days on end. It is step-by-step 4-month training guide see our Ecuador Training all about endurance: Most people, when pressed, can push their Plan; which can be found at your group’s resource page through bodies to do something physically strenuous for one day. But to Embark’s website. put your body through that same strain for multiple days on end is much more challenging. Of course, your cardiovascular conditioning is paramount. However, since this itinerary will challenge your body in many ways, aim for variety in your training. Try to incorporate jogging, overnight hikes, walks, swimming, or biking into your weekly routine. The more cardio development you build into your exercise routine, the better. And the more variety you can work in, the less likely you are to get bored. If possible, hiking at higher altitudes to see how your body reacts to altitude is extremely beneficial. The more time and experience

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 8 Some Common The sun is strong in Ecuador and you can Please note that if you are choosing to also Questions burn in a relatiely short period of time. purchase travel/trip cancellation insurance This is especially true in the mountain re- this can often be time-sensitive. Many We have been doing this a gions: the higher you go, the more intense insurance companies will require you to long time, and here are some the ultra violet radiation. We strongly purchase their travel insurance within a of the most common ques- recommend that you bring sunscreen with certain time period of giving a deposit for tions we get. If you have more, at least SPF 30. the trip. This policy is established to please get in touch with us! In Quito and the Andes, the winter/dry prevent people from realizing they cannot season lasts from June through Septem- go on a trip and then purchasing insurance HOW IS THE TRIP SET UP? ber, featuring cool and dry conditions. to get reimbursed. This trip is considered an Trek, which Temperatures depend on elevation but in DO I NEED IMMUNIZATIONS? means it includes walking that rang- general, average in the 60s and 70s during The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) es from moderate to strenuous, and the day pretty much year-round and 50s at says that, in addition to routine vaccina- requires minimal mountaineering night but can drop to freezing depending tions such as measles/mumps, tetanus, experience. We will experience fairly on elevation. Throughout the rest of the and chickenpox, all travelers to Ecuador moderate temperateres throughout most year, rain is possible, peaking in March should be up-to-date on Hepatitis A and of the trek and very cold temperatures and April. Typhoid. They also suggest you speak if summiting Cotopaxi. to your doctor about potentional vacci- HOW HARD IS IT? DO I NEED A VISA? United States citizens do not need a visa nations for Hepatitis B, Malaria, Rabies While we believe that anyone in good for entering Ecuador when staying for less and Yellow Fever. We highly recommend physical condition can accomplish these than 90 days in any 12-month period. If you get the latest information from this climbs, this trip is considered strenuous. you are not a US citizen is is your respon- website: While travel always entails some level sibility to check on the entry requirements http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destina- of adventure and challenge, when we for your nationality. tions/traveler/none/ecuador say “strenuous” we mean there will be DO I NEED INSURANCE? long, difficult hikes; occasional significant WHAT ABOUT PREVENTING MALARIA? physical barriers such as climbing and Yes. Given the remote destinations and the chance of falling or some other injury. conditions encountered on this trip, and If you plan to visit the Amazon or coastal To complete this trip, especially with any the fact that random things can happen region, you will need malaria prophylaxis, enjoyment, one must be in peak physical that are beyond anyone’s control, we all other regions are free of malaria. shape. require that everyone who tours with us IS ALTITUDE SICKNESS A RISK? have overseas medical/travel insurance: WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE? The official name for “altitude sickness” $50,000 for medical insurance and is Altitude (or Acute) Mountain Sickness, Weather in Ecuador is hard to categorize $50,000 for evacuations. by season as each region is quite different! or AMS. It is the result of the body trying However, as an equatorial country, the You can find our requirements as well as to adjust to a decreased level of oxygen. differences between the seasons and tem- a few company recommendations here: The symptoms of AMS include vomiting, peratures are relatiely subtle, with altitude https://embarkexplorationco.com/ dizziness, headaches, and loss of appetite. being the biggest influence on weather. need-travel-insurance/ They can vary from mild to severe. It’s often been cited as “feeling like a bad

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 9 hangover.” Embark highly recommends you purchase the foot of Imbabura volcano, from which Almost everyone will have some level of trip cancellation insurance in case you flows the water discharged by the waterfall AMS on this trip, most often in the first need to cancel your trip. Be mindful that Peguche. couple of climbing days. In fact, your some travel insurance companies require Zuleta: Zuleta is a small village in the fitness level and experience in climbing has that you purchase insurance within a beautiful highlands of Imbabura Province little do with whether you will have some certain period after paying a deposit on in Ecuador. Many people in Zuleta wear AMS. your trip, often 10 days. Check the terms their traditional costumes on a daily basis of the proposed coverage carefully! We want to stress that it is common to get and the village is tranquil. This agricul- mild forms of AMS and continue hiking CAN I EXTEND MY TRIP? tural area is famous for its traditional em- after allowing for time to acclimatize. If Absolutely. If you wish to show up early broidery, dairy products, alpaca farming you start to feel sick, tell your guides im- or stay late, that is at your expense. Let us and highland crops such as wheat, maize, mediately. The best response is to rest and know if we can help arrange or book any potatoes, lentils and quinoa. The village descend to a lower elevation if needed. additional activities above and beyond is home to Hacienda Zuleta, an authentic Most often this will result in your feeling what is offered on the trip. If you would working colonial farm that produces a better, getting better acclimated, and being like to add a Galapagos extension or other range of crops. Hacienda Zuleta has been able to continue your trek. You might also adventure through Embark Exploration owned by the family of ex-president Galo consider taking, before going to elevation, Co., just get in touch! Plaza Lasso for over a century and his de- scendants still own and run the hacienda a medication called diamox. Diamox thins WHAT IS A TYPICAL DAY LIKE? today. the blood, making it more able to absorb You can expect to meet your guide after oxygen. Diamox, taken properly, can be of breakfast every morning before departing Cotopaxi National Park: This park is great help; like any medication, it can also for the day’s trek. The guide will go with located 60km from Quito and is in the have side effects. The most common side you to the trailhead, provide a boxed Central Sierra, near the eastern flank effects we see are a metallic taste in the lunch and return to the hotel with you in fo the Andes. The park boundary goes mouth and increased urination. time for dinner. through the great massif that forms the Contact us or consult your doctor for volcanoes of Cotopaxi and Ruminahui WHAT IS THE TERRAIN LIKE? more information. and continues through the northeastern Plan on hiking through arid grassy land- part of the Pita river. Characteristic We have included a self-assessment for scapes, fertile farmland ripe with wheat, flora of Cotopaxi national park are sisan, AMS (The Lake Louise AMS Self-Diag- quinoa and vegetables, forested pine trees, grasses, Valeriana pilosa, mosses, lichens. nosis Worksheet) in your group resource and rough volcanic rock on Cotapaxi- the Fauna includes 17 species of mammals link, which should guide you in determin- terrain we will visit is very diverse. (including wild horses) and 37 bird species. ing if your symptoms are cause for alarm. WHAT ARE THE DETAILS OF THE It is sparsley populated and tourism is Feel free to print and bring it with you. REGIONS WE ARE VISITING? limited by the government to promote the WHAT IF I CAN’T FINISH THE TRIP? Otavalo: The capital of the Otavalo health of the national park. Should you need to return to town early, Canton, is a largely indigenous town in HOW MUCH CAN OUR BAGS WEIGH? due to physical limitations or an inability the Imbabura Province of Ecuador. The to complete the climb for any reason, we town has about 90,000 inhabitants and Because this trek does not use porters to will assist you in making the necessary is surrounded by the peaks of Imbabu- carry our gear, you are only limited by arrangements. Any extra nights at a hotel ra (15,190ft), Cotacachi (16,388ft) and your flight baggage weight restrictions. or additional airport transfer will be at Mojanda volcanoes. The indigenous your own expense. Otavalenos are famous for weaving tetiles, WHAT IS THE SLEEPING ARRANGE- WHAT IF I HAVE TO CHANGE OR usually made of wool, which are sold at MENT? CANCEL MY TRIP? the famous Saturday Market. Although Typically we sleep two to a hotel room. If the largest market is on Saturday, there is a Please give Embark as much notice as you would like to sleep solo, this can be ar- wide range of wares available throughout possible for any trip cancellations. Official ranged, but we will need some notice. This the week. cancellations must be in writing. applies to all of our stops except Cotopaxi Cancellation charges are based on the San Pablo Lake: This is one of the where you will be sleeping in group bunk date of the receipt of written notification more beautiful areas in the province of room and a single room is unavailable. as follows: Imbabura, located 4 km west of the town » 0 - 59 days before trip begins: no refund of Otavalo and 8760ft above sea level. La WHAT DO WE EAT? » 60 - 90 days before trip begins: 25 percent Laguna de San Pablo is an ecosystem that of the total price paid includes some representative species such Outside of Quito, you will be served three as herons, ducks, some amphibians and meals per day, with plentiful portions. » 91 days and more: loss of trip deposit many aquatic plants. It is also found at Specialty diets such as vegetarian or glu-

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 10 ten-free are available on request. Break- wild horses in Cotopaxi national park but ABOUT ACCOMMODATIONS fast will include things like eggs, toast, gra- they keep their distance. As we are leaving our cultural as well as nola and yogurt, fruit, milk, coffee or tea geographical home, we will stay in accom- HOW BIG WILL THE GROUP BE? and always a choice of Ecuador’s famous modations, which might not fit our usual We try to limit group size to 10-12 partic- juices- they are very passionate about thier standards. Embark chooses places which ipants. You will have one driver and one homemade juices. are safe and secure, and as comfortable as guide. On Cotopaxio you will have one possible within our financial realities as Lunch, often boxed, will typically include lead guide for every two/three climbers. well as the bounds of the places we are a sandwich, fruit, a chocolate bar and visiting. Accordingly, please plan to be juice. WILL WE BE CLIMBING WITH flexible and patient, and embrace your For dinner you can expect soup, potatoes, ROPES OR OTHER GEAR? away-from-home experience. rice or pasta, chicken, fish or beef, vegeta- Aside from those climbing Cotopaxi, you ELECTRICITY bles and milk, coffee or tea. will not need any technical climbing gear Like North and Central Ameria, Ecuador Not included are snacks for the trail such in Ecuador. On Cotopaxi you will rent uses 120v/60hz eletricity. As such, you as bars, trail mix and electrlyte drink crampons, an ice axe, mountaineering won’t need a special adapter for most mixes. If you like to hike with these, bring boots, harness and helmet. You are fee to modern electronic devices (iPhones, them! bring your own gear as you see fit. laptops, e-readers). If your device does WHAT ABOUT SANITATION AND WHAT HAPPENS BEFORE AND not support 120v/60hz, you will need a HYGIENE? AFTER THE CLIMB? power converter (this applies primarily to You will have full access to flush toilets at Upon arrival you will be spending one day our participants who will be bringing their all of our lodging; if you need to relieve and two nights in Quito. You will have a 1980s hair dryers with them on trek, ha yourself on our hike, you will need to go guided city tour the second day of your ha). outdoors on most days; although on some itinerary. You will spend the final night at INTERNET days we will be walking through villages the base of Cotopaxi and return the next Internet service will be available at your and will be able to find a toilette. We do day to the airport for your flight home. hotel. Occasionally, there are power not recommend drinking tap water in DO WE TIP? outages and connection issues so it is Ecuador (ice cubes will be safe in most Tipping is not a big focus as the staff are not guaranteed 100 percent of the time. large hotels and restaurants). Rather, we paid livable wages and are able to work most There is ample wireless access in Ecuador. suggest making use of the widely available of the year, as opposed to other locations filtered water at your hotels and lodges. like the Himalayas. If you choose to tip our LAUNDRY You will be able to fill water bottles and staff, you are encouraged to do so based on Laundry service is available at our lodges bladders for your hikes at your lodges. performance are not required to tip. If you and hotels at your own expense. want to tip, here are the people you might WHAT ABOUT COMMUNICATION want to account for: TRANSPORTATION DURING BACK HOME? YOUR TRIP » Quito City guide-1 Most people contact their service providers You will be transported in a minivan » and get an international calling, messaging, Otavalo/Zuleta/Pasachoa/Ruminahui throughout your trip. With groups that Guide- 1 data plan for their travels. Some people exceed five, we will use a small private purchase a cheap phone upon arrival, with » Cotopaxi Guide- 1 for two people bus to transport between various loca- a local SIM card and use that phone for » Driver- 1 or 2 for the duration tions. We are not immune to the realities calls/text messaging. Cell serivce is largely of travel in Ecuador- come prepared for » Hotel/Lodge staff- 1 waiter, 1- 2 cooks available everywhere except Chilcabamba/ everything from big city traffic jams to Cotopaxi region where you definitely will The tipping process is quite informal and can small country windy bumpy roads! We not have cell serviee. You will have wireless be done on an individual basis as you see fit. always prioritize safety and comfort when If you bring $200-$300 for tips that should be internet at Chilcababma lodge but not at the we can, but leaving our home may well more than adequate. lodge on Cotopaxi. mean driving on rough roads in vehicles that fall short of ‘luxurious’. Remember, IS THERE ANY WILDLIFE TO CAN WE LEAVE THINGS AT THE WORRY ABOUT? OFFICE IN QUITO WHILE WE this is adventure travel! TREK? The biggest concern will be family dogs MONEY & MONEY EXCHANGE If you are doing a trip extension and will that protect property. They are mostly an return to Quito (rather than going straight The US dollar is the primary form of annoyance as they bark incessantly when to the airprot from the Cotopaxi region), currently in Ecuador. Credit cards are we pass by on our daily hikes in the lower you can leave your things at our office in accepted in hotels, souvenir shops and elevations; however they are harmless. If Quito. restaurants throughout Ecuador. there does happen to be an aggressive dog, EMERGENCY FUND your guide will deal with it. There are

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 11 We recommend that you bring an with a particular guide or local person, it is able to take their picture. emergency fund on the trip, should you perfectly acceptable to exchange a small gift not be able to access money or unplanned as a token of your appreciation- preferably situation arises. We typically recommend something small and significant to you or DOSSIER DISCLAIMER $200 - $300 in US Dollars as an emergency your home. The outlined itinerary is a guide that Em- fund. bark will adhere to. The final itinerary may differ in the order that you visit areas and SAFETY AND SECURITY PHOTOGRAPHS the places where you stay overnight. We There are no safety and security issues in All people in all cultures are entitled to their reserve the right to make changes based on Ecuador. The US State Department rec- privacy and dignity. With this in mind, it is weather, road and/or operating conditions ommends that travelers in Ecuador exercise critical that we ask permission before photo- imposed by owners of accommodation normal precautions- and to avoid visiting graphing someone, and we must immedi- facilities, etc. the provinces of Esmeraldas, Carchi and ately respect a “no,” should it be the answer. Sucumbios. Even after we have received permission, we must be respectful of personal space, time, Responsible Travel and local custom. Never pay someone to be In our role as cross-cultural liaisons, we take the issue of cultural sensitivity very seriously. Words & Phrases ENGLISH SWAHILI Hello Hola The lens through which we see Your guide will speak fluent English, but Okay Bueno the world is colored by our his- many of the local people in Ecuador only know a bit of English and rely on Spanish. Maybe Tal vez tory and our own culture; please All staff at tourist establishments speak En- How are you? Como estas be aware of this when traveling glish. Your driver will generally not speak I’m fine/good Estoy bieni overseas. English. It’s a lot of fun to learn some Yes Si basic Spanish, as it allows you to interact No No GIFTS with the locals. These are the main words Good Bueno/Bien to help enjoy your time. While it may be tempting to give out gifts, Thank You Gracias especially to children, it is important to keep Goodbye Adios things in the proper context. What seems Please Por favor like a small item to us may be quite signifi- My Name is … Me llamo cant to a local person, and we do not want to create a culture of dependence upon our handouts. If you’ve formed a bond

WWW.EMBARKEXPLORATIONCO.COM | 503.922.1050 ECUADOR PREPARATION | 12 WHAT SETS EMBARK APART About Embark FROM THE REST Exploration Co. EXPERIENCE We are a team that lives and breathes travel; we know what our Embark is an adventure travel company that clients want, and as such we see them as travelers, not tourists. offers once-in-a-lifetime adventures for those We have organized hundreds of adventures around the world, who want to explore the most remote corners focusing on destinations we know and understand. Ask us for of the planet, navigate the world’s great frontiers, some of our references. summit some of its highest peaks, trek through the most emote of villages, and interact with HANDCRAFTED TRIPS locals on a level most tourists only dream of. Many companies provide region-standard trips; Embark goes above and beyond. We organize unique itineraries along the Embark specializes in custom adventure travel; roads less traveled, designing adventures that allow our travelers each group typically has a unique itinerary, to be pioneers and explore the depth of any given destination. works with us to develop that itinerary, and picks the dates of travel. Occasionally we have LEADERSHIP pre-planned departure dates the we can fit We focus on finding and training the best guides in the industry, individuals into. with specialists who are prominent in several fields – mountain guides, historians, archaeologists, cultural anthropologists, and Embark is always working toward two main much more. priorities: developing trips that are both active and cultural, with an extreme focus on interact- SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ing with local communities and crossing cultur- First and foremost, we believe in paying fair wages and supporting al barriers. the people and the environments where we travel. We believe in the places we travel, and invest money back into these communities by supporting local non-governmental organizations. Embark is not just a company – it is a philosophy.

CONTACT INFO Embark Exploration Co. https://embarkexplorationco.com/

PHONE 503-922-1050

MAILING ADDRESSW 1327 SE Tacoma Street #273 Portland, OR 97202

FEEDBACK After your trip ends, we will follow up with you to determine what you enjoyed about the trip and how we can make it better. Embark is eager to build better adventures around the world through your advice and insight.

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