Issue No. 05 May - 2015
E • ALL IN ONE PL ELS
• SO CLOSE ACE
LIKE NOWHER E
www.allyouneedisecuador.travel/trade
OS
MA
AP
ZON
GAL
AG
• PA
CIFIC C O A ST • A N DE
S•
A
GALAPAGOS
[ editorial ]
A UNIQUE LOOK AT THE ENCHANTED ISLANDS THAT STRADDLE THE EQUATOR
[2]
13
Major islands, 5 medium-sized islands, and 215 islets make up the archipelago. The islands can be visited all year-round due to their position on the equator.
[ photography [ photography ]]
GALAPAGOS
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
In 1835, on the ship HMS Beagle, Charles Darwin visited the Galapagos Islands for 5 weeks.
Mintur
Latitude 0
F
or historical reasons and for convenience, the traditional way to visit the Galapagos Islands was by boat or yacht, with an itinerary that explored the national parks in different geographical locations. While these methods are very attractive, we should not rule out another that began in the 80s and reached
significant popularity in the 90s: hotel based travel. Many visitors are unaware of the human population of the islands, which currently totals 28,000 inhabitants. The distribution of the population is spread across four islands; Santa Cruz (the most
[3]
populated and commercial), San Cristobal (the provincial capital), Isabela (the largest) and Floreana (the smallest). Not included in this list is Baltra Island, a military base with an airport. BEnXpert will offer valuable information; giving an exact idea of what it means to visit and enjoy the Galapagos Islands in different ways.
[ editorial ]
www.allyouneedisecuador.travel/trade /EcuadorTravelB2B @ EcuaTravelTrade
All You Need is Ecuador/Trade EDITORIAL COMMITTEE MINISTRY OF TOURISM OF ECUADOR Dominic Hamilton, Deputy Minister of Promotion Cristina Rivadeneira, Undersecretary of Markets
Editorial
Irene Landívar, Director of International Markets
Sandra Naranjo
Rocío Castro, International Trade actions general coordinator
MINISTER OF TOURISM, ECUADOR
Revised by the Ministry’s of Tourism Communication Direction
E
cuador boasts of beautiful landscapes, and diversity of climates, people and ancient cultures that connect us to the essence of nature and man. In this edition, we present the Galapagos Natural Heritage site, a place that has displayed the wonder of evolution since ancient times. The Galapagos Islands are a place where nature, combined with the power of volcanoes and innocence of the animals, form a perfect balance. This balance was reflected in Darwin’s travel diaries and has also melted the hearts of travellers who have experienced life on these islands. In this Travel Planner we discuss the ways in which you can travel with ease within this untouched and pristine world that Ecuador cares for and maintains as a legacy to the world
and its generations. This is a comprehensive guide which shares the different options available to experience this unique journey. On the other side of Ecuador to the east, in the Amazon, we introduce the Huaorani culture which has developed alongside tourism, winning recognition from the World Legacy Awards in the category of “Engaging Communities”. A unique place that can be enjoyed safely and with quality services in this amazing region of our country. Traveling from east to west in Ecuador is to experience 4 Worlds: the Galapagos, the Pacific Coast, the Andes and the Amazon, each with its own cuisine, culture, nature and people. All in one place, so close.
For more information visit us at: www.allyouneedisecuador.travel/trade
[4]
EKOS Ricardo Dueñas, Executive President Mauricio Morillo, Executive Vice-President Verónica Sevilla, Vice-President of Projects trade@allyouneedisecuador.travel EDITORIAL STAFF Polo Vaca Jácome Toa Quirola Francisco Dousdebés GRAPHIC EDITOR Christian Toapanta Jaramillo PHOTOGRAPHY John Garate y Huaorani Ecolodge Cover: John Garate
5500 printed copies. Free distribution only, not for sale. This magazine is published for the Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador by Ekos
FAUNA
[ photography ]
With yellow flakes and a yellow tongue, a bright green back full of brown spots as well as light blue spots on its flanks, this reptile is elegantly camouflaged in the Ecuadorian jungle.
[5]
Huaorani Eco - Lodge
Anolis Puntatis
13
TRAVEL PLANNER
MAP, HISTORICAL INFORMATION, PRODUCTS, COMMUNITY.
08
FOUR WORLDS TOP 5 ORCHIDS NEWS ECUADORIAN CHOCOLATE
39
Cultura
LA HUAORANI ECOLODGE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS
39
Cultura
LA HUAORANI ECOLODGE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS
39
Cultura
LA HUAORANI ECOLODGE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS
www.allyouneedisecuador.travel/trade /EcuadorTravelB2B
[6]
@ EcuaTravelTrade
All You Need is Ecuador/Trade
EXPERTS IN GALAPAGOS
BE XPRT
31
GASTRONOMY
BEST DISHES FROM THE PACIFIC COAST.
38 HERITAGE
THE TOQUILLA STRAW HAT
20
40
TOP DESTINATION
CULTURE
HOTELS IN GALAPAGOS INHABITATED ISLANDS
HUAORANI BIODIVERSE FOREST GUARDIANS
contents [7]
04
03
02 05 01
Mintur
FOUR! WORLDS
[ four worlds ]
TOP 5 ORCHIDS, COLOURS AND FRAGRANCES
OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SPECIMENS IN ECUADOR
T
he Top 5 starts with: 1. ATTELYA MAXIMA ALBA grows in areas on the Pacific coast
ORCHIDS
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
Orchids have been documented in Ecuador since colonial times.
leaf-covered stems. They grow in the soil and on Ecuadorian trees between 600 and 3200m
near Guayaquil between 100 and 1800m (330 to
(1970 to 10,500 feet). When they have access to
6000 feet).
bright light, they can live for several months.
2. ODONTOGLOSSUM CRISTATUM meaning
4. ANDINIA SCHIZOPOGON blooms from
tooth and tongue in Greek, is a green and yellow
autumn to spring in the cloud forests north of
flower with shiny brown petals. It grows in
Loja at altitudes of around 3000m (9800 feet).
cold regions of the cloud forest in the northern
5. DRACULA SODIROI means “little dragon”
Ecuadorian Andes between 1000 and 2000m
because of its unusual appearance and is
(3300 to 6500 feet). 3. EPIDENDRUM are dozens
named after Father Sodiro, an Ecuadorian who
of very fragrant tiny flowers that grow on
discovered it in 1900.
[8]
E
xperience Latin America organized by the Latin American Travel Association is a B2B travel event in London which brings together the main tourism service providers in Latin America and buyers from the UK and Europe. This will be an important opportunity for Ecuador to showcase itself as a tourist destination. This event is organized by the largest commercial travel association and will be held from June 15 - 17, 2015. In 2014, 12 private companies promoted tourism in Ecuador and the region, in addition to the Cruise Train and tourism in Quito. This year that number will increase considerably and will receive significant support from the Ministry of Tourism.
WORLD TRAVEL MARKET
COTTM 2015, CHINA
LATIN AMERICA 2015
ACTION IN ASIA
F
rom 22 to 24 April, 19 companies and the Ministry of Tourism promoted the “All You Need is Ecuador” campaign, the country trademark “Ama la Vida”, and Ecuador as a tourist destination at the WTMLA in Sao Paulo. In 2014, 21,784 Brazilians visited Ecuador.
F
rom April 14 -16, the China Outbound Tourism & Travel 2015 was held in Beijing. An Ecuadorian delegation participated in forums and meetings. They also presented tourist attractions, activities and cuisine to agents, airlines, and Chinese tourism authorities.
[9]
BE n XPRT
ECUADOR WILL BE THERE
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
EXPERIENCE LATIN AMERICA
The campaign “All You Need is Ecuador” has a strong component aimed at the international travel industry; more than 30 000 tourism wholesalers from target markets throughout America, Europe and Asia. Many of them have visited the country to experience it directly. For those who cannot participate in these trips, they can access the specialized training seminars about Ecuador online at www.allyouneedisecuador.travel/trade
[ four worlds ]
CHOCOLATE
[ four worlds ]
»
A CHOCOHOLIC’S HEAVEN
THE FINEST AND MOST APPRECIATED AROMA IN THE WORLD
C
hocolate is an ancient product for the country as evidenced by microscopic remnants of cacao detected in a ceramic pot that was used more than 5,000 years ago. This archaeological evidence showed that chocolate originated in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Today, Ecuador produces the best chocolate in the world using fine cacao called “arriba” or “up”. It earned its name because when the producers were asked
[ 10 ]
where the cacao came from, they responded “rio arriba” or “upstream”. This type of cacao is extremely rare around the world, but 70% is cultivated in Ecuador. Through its production, the cacao becomes so fine that it is one of the most appreciated in the world. Each Ecuadorian brand of chocolate is different and each is unique in terms of its manufacturing and the ingredients used in its production.
PRODUCTS
República del cacao
AND PERCENTAGES OF CACAO
REPÚBLICA DEL CACAO 65%-75% DARK CHOCOLATE PROFESSIONAL CHOCOLATE www.republicadelcacao.com
PACARI
REPÚBLICA DEL CACAO offers a fine cacao-based chocolate made up of a variety of aromas, and combined with ingredients such as milk, cape gooseberries, chifles (thinly-sliced fried plantain) or even organic rose petals. What sets this chocolate apart is its aroma and purity. Products are also available for professional use. PACARI sources its ingredients from the local region. Lemongrass is one such ingredient that is used in its most famous chocolate, a favourite of Oprah Winfrey. The Andean blueberry, the cape gooseberry and the molasses toffee chocolates have won 70 gold and silver medals at the International Chocolate Awards (London). HOJA VERDE produces gourmet products such as chocolate bars made from a fine aroma Ecuadorian cacao, combined with guava, mint, mandarins and passion
Caoni
Pacari
70-100% DARK CHOCOLATE 60-72% ORGANIC CHOCOLATE
fruit. The production of these ingredients conforms to the rules of conservation of natural resources. CAONI includes 100% natural and exotic ingredients such as cape gooseberry, macadamia nuts, passion fruit, coffee or “cacao nibs”. One of the brand´s innovations is a chocolate bar with dried natural banana, called Frutka. PAKAL its high quality, modern gourmet products, are made using cacao and domestic raw materials. The ingredients are tropical fruits such as banana, pineapple or mango, fused to the cacao flavour. BIOS is the company with the finest chocolatemaking tradition, with over 100 years of experience. They produce confectionery chocolate, chocolate bars and chocolate sweets. Raspberry, orange, pineapple, lemon, coconut and rum combine pleasantly with this dark chocolate.
Ecuadorian cacao, is known as “Pepa de oro” or “golden seed” may be because the seeds were used as a currency of exchange, has floral and fruity features, with flavours that distinguish it from other types such as nutty, almond or spice. These give the chocolate a special flavour when you taste it. Today, this product contributes to sectors of the economy such as trade and agriculture.
[ 11 ]
www.pacarichocolate.com
HOJA VERDE 100% DARK CHOCOLATE CHOCOLATE AND COFFEE GRAINS www.hojaverdegourmet.com
CAONI 55-77% DARK CHOCOLATE MILK CHOCOLATE www.caonichocolate.com
PAKAL 70% DARK CHOCOLATE ORGANIC CACAO GRAINS www.pakal.com.ec
BIOS 63% DARK CHOCOLATE WITH MILK AND ALMONDS www.chocolatesbios.com
LEGEND
[ four worlds ]
KUARTAM TOAD AMAZON/SHUAR
A
shuar couple was hunting, when the husband heard the call of the Kuartam,
a large variety of toad or frog that lives in the trees of tropical forests. The man began to imitate its distinctive sounds for fun. “Kuaaarr taaaamm, kuaaarr taaaamm”repeated the man. His wife warned him of the danger, you shouldn’t bother a Kuartam by imitating it as it could turn into a tiger and eat you. The man, with an even more mocking tone continued:
“Kuaaarr taaaamm, kuaaarr taaaamm, let’s see if you eat me kuaaarr taaaamm.” Before the young shuar woman could react, she saw a tiger launch itself from behind the nearest tree and devour half of her beloved’s body. Not a sound was heard during the attack. The woman waited until dawn to kill strangled the animal with great strength. Kuartam, now in toad form with a huge stomach, laid dead at her feet. The woman cut its stomach and the remains of her dead partner spilled at her feet. Revenge did not return her beloved, but it served as a warning that it is ill advised to imitate the Kuartam. Far away in the jungle, a new “Kuar taaam kuar taaam” could be heard. It was unclear whether it was a toad or a Shuar waiting for a tiger.
[ 12 ]
io Ch Jorge Chicaiza Molina
the animal. She returned to same tree and
BE XPRT GALAPAGOS EXPERTS
HISTORY THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
TRAVEL PLANNER
Map and technical information to promote the Galapagos. Information about permits, flights, special conditions, hotels and cruises.
John Garate
were declared a World Heritage Site in 1978 by UNESCO.
GALAPAGOS
[ travel planner ]
MAP
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
On the inhabited islands you can cycle, ride horses and kayak.
2014 ©Ministerio de Turismo ©Dirección del Parque Nacional Galápagos
[ travel planner ]
+INFORMATION
[ travel planner ]
COUNTRY
LOCATION
928 km / 501 nautical miles from San Cristobal Island to mainland Ecuador.
DISTANCE FROM MAINLAND
8,010 km2 / 3,090 square miles of land dispersed over 45,000 km2 / 17.000 square miles of ocean, which cover a total area of 138,000km2 in the Pacific Ocean.
TIME ZONE
UTC (GMT) -6
AREA
CLIMATE
ECUADOR
The islands are located on both sides of the equator; in the northern and southern hemispheres. The Galapagos archipelago consist of 13 large islands (< 10 km2), 5 medium-sized islands (between 1 and 10 km2), and 215 islets.
From December to June: Hot tropical rainy season
July to November: Sub-tropical dry season
Air temperatures can climb up to 36 – 40 ° C / 96 - 104° F during the day. Water temperatures are warm, with an average of 23 - 27° C / 73 - 80+° F.
20 - 24° C / 68 - 75° F during the day and 17 - 20° C / 64 - 70° F at night. Water temperatures are between 18 20° C / 65 - 70° F
POPULATION
FLIGHT TIME
ADDITIONAL FEES
ACTIVITIES
CLOTHING
26,640 (2012).
The flight time between Quito and Guayaquil is 40 minutes. There is a 40 minute stayover in Jose Joaquin del Olmedo airport for all flights.
The flight time from Guayaquil to the islands is 1h40. There are two airports on the islands; one on Baltra and the other on San Cristobal.
The Galapagos transit card costs $20 (TCT) and must be paid in cash before check-in.
$100 – Children $50 and are valid for the duration of your stay. Credit cards are not accepted. All visitors must comply with migratory controls and procedures, and the rules and regulations regarding the introduction of species SICGAL.
The entrance fee for the National Park must be paid in cash upon arrival at the airport in Baltra. FOREIGN VISITORS – Adults
Observe wildlife on a walk, snorkel, scuba dive, kayak, go on a boat ride, swim at the beaches, go on a glass-bottom boat ride and more depending on the operator and infrastructure.
Shirts, shorts, zip-off at the knee cargo pants, swimwear, outdoor shoes (trainers, hiking shoes), long trousers for evenings, a couple of button-up shirts, hat, sunglasses, a lot of sunscreen, camera, small backpack for daily walks, water bottle, and windbreaker.
[ 16 ]
[ travel planner ]
FLIGHTS
AIRLINES: AV Avianca / Aerogal, EQ Tame XL Lan Ecuador. Flights and schedules are subject to change by the airline.
AND CONNECTIONS TO THE GALAPAGOS Quito - Baltra (Galapagos) Scales Days
Baltra - Quito Days
Departure
Arrival
Flight
Scale
8:40
11:50
XL1556
0
Exc. Mon Wed
9:40
14:05
AV1639
GYE
Monday
10:00
14:30
EQ190
GYE
GYE
Tues - Wed - Sat
10:00
14:25
AV1633
GYE
Wed - Tues Thurs
10:10
14:35
AV1633
GYE
Sunday
10:25
14:50
AV1633
GYE
Saturday
10:30
14:55
AV1633
GYE
Friday
10:30
14:55
AV1639
GYE
Daily
11:20
15:55
XL1550
GYE
Sunday
12:00
15:05
AV1697
0
Exc. Friday
12:30
17:00
EQ192
GYE
Departure
Arrival
Flight
Scale
Sunday
6:35
9:00
Av1638
GYE
Sunday
Exc. Mon - Wed
6:35
9:00
EQ191
GYE
Monday
6:55
9:20
AV1632
GYE
Tues - Wed - Sat
6:55
8:05
XL1557
0
Wed - Tues Thurs
7:05
9:30
AV1632|
Sunday
7:20
9:45
AV1632
GYE
Saturday
7:25
9:50
AV1638
GYE
Friday
7:25
9:50
AV1632
GYE
Daily
9:00
11:30
EQ193
GYE
Sunday
9:05
10:15
XL1557
0
Exc. Friday
9:25
12:05
XL1553
GYE
Sunday
10:15
11:20
AV1686
0
Saturday
10:20
12:50
AV1634
GYE
Thurs - Friday
10:25
12:50
AV1684
GYE
M o n - Tu e s d ay
12:35
13:4 0
AV 1 6 8 8
0
Sunday
12:45
17:20
XL1552
GYE
Saturday
13:30
16:35
AV1685
0
San Cristóbal - Quito
Quito - San Cristóbal (Galapagos) Days
Days
Departure
Arrival
Flight
Scale
10:50
15:00
EQ194
GYE
15:50
XL1560
GYE
17:00
AV1637
GYE
16:50
EQ194
GYE
12:55
17:30
XL1560
GYE
Departure
Arrival
Flight
Scale
Saturday
7:30
9:50
EQ195
GYE
Saturday
Saturday
8:05
10:40
XL1561
GYE
Saturday
11:20
GYE
Sat - Sun
12:30
GYE
Tues – Friday
12:40
Sat - Sun Tues – Friday
9:00
11:30
9:30
11:40
AV1636 EQ195
Friday
9:40
12:15
XL1561
GYE
Friday
Exc. Sat - Sun
10:10
12:40
AV1630
GYE
Exc. Sat - Sun
13:20
17:45
AV1631
GYE
Tues - Sun
10:35
13:10
XL1561
GYE
Tues - Sun
13:45
18:15
XL1560
GYE
ANNUAL
TEMPERATURES Variations in the tropical climate of the Galapagos °C
°F
M a xi m u m a i r te m p e ra t u re
°C
°F
Minimum air
°C H o u r s of cl e a r s k y
°F
S ea Te m p rea t u re
Wind
N ave g a t io n
75.9
3
2
temperature
Hours clear sky
Sea temperature
February
29.6
85.2
23.2
73.7
7.5
25.2
77.3
2
1
March
30.6
87.0
22.7
72.8
6.0
24.9
76.8
1
1
April
29.5
85.1
22.7
72.8
7.5
25.0
77.0
2
1
May
27.9
82.2
22.1
71.7
5.2
24.5
76.1
3
2
June
26.0
78.8
19.1
66.3
4.4
23.1
73.5
4
2
July
24.6
76.2
19.8
67.6
2.8
22.0
71.6
5
3
January
Wind
Navigation
24.4
August
24.2
75.5
19.1
66.3
3.3
21.5
70.7
6
4
September
24.3
75.7
19.6
67.2
2.9
21.8
71.2
7
4
October
25.3
77.5
19.5
67.1
3.8
22.3
72.1
6
3
November
25.8
78.4
20.4
68.7
3.5
23.0
73.4
5
3
December
26.7
80.0
20.9
69.6
4.0
23.3
73.9
4
2
[ 17 ]
Places of interest: Places of interest: Charles Darwin Station, Puerto Ayora, Isla Santa Cruz Post Office Bay, Isla Floreana Punta Pitt, San Cristóbal.
http://boredomfiles.com/
Written by: Francisco Dousdebés/Galapagos Expert
THE HISTORY OF THE
GALAPAGOS
[ travel planner ]
T
he most famous explorer in the Galapagos Islands was Charles Darwin. His journey aboard the HMS Beagle was a true world-class adventure and once on the islands, his great powers of observation kept him very busy taking notes on everything he could find. These observations would leave a deep impression on Darwin, and would be the basis for his masterpiece 25 years later, his book “The Origin of Species”. Darwin’s masterpiece would not have made any sense if the Galapagos hadn’t been part of the HMS Beagle’s planned voyage. The Galapagos became the most enigmatic tropical desert of the entire trip. How could a place with tropical vegetation also have penguins? How was it possible for the sea temperature to be so tepid while the equatorial line crossed the islands from east to west? It was these observations that left Darwin
[ 18 ]
intrigued; just as a present day visitor is excited to snorkel with penguins, explore the upper reaches of the islands in search of giant tortoises, and marvel at the marine iguanas going out to sea in search of algae on the rocks or diving to great depths in search of food. The islands have many stories to tell, and today each visitor writes his own. Many, for example, remain in silence to watch the courting ritual of blue-footed boobies, or the gathering of huge cetaceans in the waters of Canal Bolivar in the west of the Archipelago. Every day the Galapagos tells a story and does so with full force and deep sincerity. It is these stories that made many explorers feel deeply connected to the islands. In the early 40s, the United States leased Baltra Island to use as a military base because it is strategically positioned to protect the famous Panama Canal during World War II.
John Garate
John Garate
[ travel planner ]
dropped drastically. Today, thanks to the efforts of the Galapagos National Park Service and the Charles Darwin Research Station, the numbers and state of the surviving populations are success stories. The methods used in the Galapagos have been utilized by other countries to develop other conservation programes. In very little time, the Galapagos Islands have become a driving example for everyone.
John Garate
Ninety-five percent of the Galapagos Islands’ biodiversity remains intact. In other words, the presence of man on the islands has only caused a 5% loss of original biodiversity. This reality makes the Galapagos the best conservation model of oceanic islands.
Two hundred years ago, the Galapagos had already been explored, and although it was discovered by accident in 1535, it was the buccaneers, pirates and whalers who took advantage of the economic possibilities the islands had to offer.
There’s no doubt that Darwin’s finches are a group of birds that may seem simple because they are not particularly attention-grabbing. However, modern studies of natural selection and evolutionary biology base their research on these groups of birds in order to prove their principles. When exploring any island in the Galapagos, it is well-worth taking the time to appreciate these birds. Some islands are perfect for understanding the differences between the 13 species of finches.
This reality demonstrated to all past explorers the strategic value in visiting the Islands. It was precisely those first buccaneers and whalers who found, in the emblematic giant tortoise a great source of food, and as a result their numbers
Islands such as Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, to Española, Isabela and Genovesa allow you not only see different species of finches but also marked differences in the size of the beaks and feeding behaviour of each. This unique bird
has been an example of evolution that Darwin observed and draw for ours and days. The key to obeserve these creatures is a good pair of binoculars and careful attention to details. The different beak sizes fit perfectly with the idea of different tools that serve several functions. This is the basis of natural selection: different available niches have been occupied by various adaptations of the original forms. This is the magical world we see and appreciate on the Galapagos islands. These islands are of course a national park, but they are also a marine reserve. The marine habitat supports most of the species we see on land since their survival is dependent on the ocean. It is in the sea where albatrosses, boobies, frigate birds, penguins, cormorants, sea lions, seagulls, herons, and many more feed. And it is on land where we see the entirety of these species. The colours of the islands come from the tropical equatorial light and the extensive volcanic eruptions from different volcanic islands. The tuff is a series of layers of compacted ash that forms when magma comes into sudden contact with sea water at a shallow depth. The colours of these formations range from yellowy-brown, dark brown, orange, to dark red and their respective ranges. These, mixed with the light from sunrise or sunset will make any visitor fall in love with the Galapagos islands.
The Galapagos experience can be very rewarding underwater too. To see a variety of different species, such as penguins together with tropical fish, sea lions with sea turtles, and more, are unique and unimaginable elsewhere in the world. The integrity of the Galapagos Marine Reserve plays a vital role in the survival of the species on land.
[ 19 ]
Royal Palms
Safari Camp
Written by: Francisco Dousdebés/Galapagos Expert
GALAPAGOS HOTELS
[ travel planner ]
T
he populated areas of the islands have developed an important hotel base with broad accommodation options. The vast majority of these have programs that give access to different areas of the island they are based on, and some hotels have developed marine operations providing yacht tours that explore different sites of the Galapagos National Park. Visitors are always recommended to ask for as much
information as possible about the activities available, and to clarify which activities are and which activities are not included in the price of their trip. The inhabited islands have a large selection of local tour operators that offer a range of excursions: long walks, beaches, surfing, kayaking, cycling, snorkeling, and scuba diving among others.
The natural resources of the inhabited islands are almost always complemented by the wealth of human resources. Nowadays, the interest in the human history of the islands is increasing more and more. The islands are a permanent source of enigmas, stories, mysteries and great tales. Let’s not forget that the islands were officially discovered in 1535, but it wasn’t until 1832 that they maintained a permanent population after being declared a territory of the Republic of Ecuador.
[ 20 ]
INFO
INHABITED ISLANDS
SAN CRISTÓBAL Puerto Baquerizo Moreno 5,600 inhabitants
SANTA CRUZ Puerto Ayora
This offer allows the modern-day visitor to have a very fulfilling experience while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. We must not forget that the Galapagos community also has a large contingent of artists and artisans who have developed art galleries, souvenir shops, paintings, and handcrafts. And if we were to discuss food, the islands and its marine culture have a range of specialties and delicacies that will delight the most discerning palate. These attractions invite the visitors to carefully consider the idea of expanding their itinerary in the Galapagos with
Safari Camp
Pikaia Lodge
15,000 inhabitants
respect to the inhabited islands. A cruisehotel combination is one of the best ways to experience both islands´worlds For those who are looking to maintain contact with the world, the inhabited islands also have several businesses specializing in clothing, as well as cafés, ice cream shops, banks, ATMs, internet cafés and more. Being in the Galapagos can make you feel isolated. The inhabited islands allow us to be connected with to the rest of the planet. The visitor decides how isolated from the world he/she wishes to be.
[ 21 ]
ISABELA Puerto Villamil 2,200 inhabitants
FLOREANA Floreana 100 inhabitants
To see all the hotels, please see the tourism directory: trade.allyouneedisecuador.travel
T
he most famous and popular method of traveling in the archipelago is on a cruise. The concept is to have the ease of a floating hotel that sails primarily at night, allowing the traveler to truly move from island to island.
While it is not easy to decide whether a boat or a small yacht expedition is the right choice, the important thing is to understand the real differences between the different cruise options. Cruise ships and expedition yachts are both suitable for groups. On-board facilities include spacious cabins, wall-to-wall windows, balconies, air-conditioning, hot showers with constant pressure, desalination facilities, treatments facilities for grey and black water, high-tech equipment, rooms for scientific conferences, Internet & wi-fi access, various food services,
[ 22 ]
Andando Tours
Tierra Verde Tours
There are yachts, sailboats and yacht expedition cruises. The maximum operating capacity is 100 passengers. There are some ships in the range of 80 – 90, expedition yachts range between 40 – 50, some with a capacity of 20 and finally, a range of small boats that accommodate between 8 and 16 passengers. The offers are very diverse and a successful trip goes beyond simply choosing the best price. It is a trip of a lifetime and
should generate a wealth of memories for those who visit the islands.
Klein Tours
Written by: Francisco Dousdebés/Galapagos Expert
GALAPAGOS CRUISES
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Klein Tours
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EVERYTHING ABOUT CRUISES
GUIDANCE
1 nature guide for every 16 visitors, who maintains the environmental standard
a la carte and more. On small yachts, passengers are able to get to know each other better given the small group numbers and, in most cases, there is only one activity that takes place at a time. A small yacht will experience a greater impact from ocean waves and passengers will feel
ITINERARIES
Ships are permitted to take you to the popular sites within the 138,000 km2 area of the islands.
these much more than a big ship. These are important facts to consider when choosing a boat on which to explore the islands. This is another reason to ask all the necessary questions to travel agents and operators beforehand. The more questions that are asked and answered beforehand, the better the experience will be.
The success of the routes assigned to each operator by the Galapagos National Park, is based on creating the best experience for the visitor while ensuring the lowest environmental impact. Since 2012, the idea has been to provide an operational patent with a 15-day itinerary divided into shorter sub-itineraries.
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CRUISES
There are cruises for 6 to 100 passengers.
What you need to know
All the information about
cruises can be found on the Tourism Directory.
GALAPAGOS COMMUNITY
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T
he first question we ask ourselves is how can a paradise like the Galapagos maintain sustainable tourism over time. The key is proper natural resource management, caring for the environment and preventing the impact that populations and tourism generate. There is a plan for the Environmental Management of the Galapagos Islands and a Governing Council of the Special Administration of the Galapagos. This council is responsible for the administration of the province, planning and land use planning, resource management and organization of the activities carried out in the Galapagos to ensure the conservation of the natural heritage of the islands as well as the community. W ithin this organization is
the Galapagos National Park which is responsible for the conservation of the ecological integrity and biodiversity of the islands and marine ecosystems in the protected areas of the archipelago, as well as the use of the goods and services they generate for the community. This entity is in charge of regulating the tourist sites and quotas of tourists visiting each island with all cruises, hotels and tour operators in the Galapagos. Then there are the foundations that perform specific protection tasks such as the Charles Darwin Foundation that has provided solutions to the Galapagos islands for over 50 years. It has put forward ideas through scientific research in order to ensure the conservation
John Garate
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VOLUNTEERING ESPECIAL PROGRAMS
CLEANING THE COAST
www.facebook.com/fundaciongalapagos
and biodiversity of the environment. Its programs target controlling invasive species, researching sustainability, and effective conservation management. We cannot fail to mention their hard work in protecting turtles, penguins, and cormorants in the research centre in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. The legendary Lonesome Gearge has lived there for many decades, and the efforts to save its specie were countless.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
www.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec
CHARLES DARWIN FOUNDATION
www.darwinfoundation.org
pollution in which the community actively participates. Since 2000, in the garbage recycling plant “Fabricio Valverde” on Santa Cruz Island, about 50 tons of plastic, glass and paper products, and 60 tons of organic material are recycled every month. Furthermore, the population is educated on how to separate garbage. Thus, Santa Cruz Island has become an example to the world in the processing of solid waste.
In the archipelago, there is cooperation between the municipality of Santa Cruz, the Galapagos National Park, the WWF and the Galapagos Foundation, developing projects to solve current problems such as urban and coastal pollution, while seeking to generate awareness of environmental conservation.
On February 11, 2015 the Assembly of the Governing Council of the Administration for the Galapagos promoted responsible consumption of disposable plastic by regulating their marketing and distribution in the Galapagos. August 10, 2015 is the deadline for adopting the use of alternative products and not to market or distribute plastic bags or foam
They have thus created initiatives to clean up the coast through the collection and sorting of hundreds of tons of solid waste
type packaging. All of this organization and public/private coorperation makes the Galapagos a global example of sustainable resource management.
Sites Of Interest: Charles Darwin Station,
The Galapagos Islands awaken the senses; the colours, the breeze, the wildlife, the sun’s energy, the force of the sea, and the mixture of sensations. There are beautiful destinations in the world, but the Galapagos is a unique trip of a lifetime. Those who have the opportunity to take this trip, understand the importance of protecting both flora and fauna.
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Puerto Ayora / Santa Cruz Galapagos Foundation, Puerto Ayora / Santa Cruz WWF, Puerto Ayora / Santa Cruz
I
n the 60s and 70s, the Galapagos explorer sought a simple destination. He/she was an explorer of nature and did not demand the sophistication of services and perhaps was less demanding in his/ her expectations. This was the reality for travelers at that time. Today, the nature explorer has more experience with travel than those from the past. The world is more accessible and easier to discover, and technological developments make destinations seem much closer than they really are. Today´s nature explorer wants to share his/her world on social media as soon as possible. That is, it has redefined the word “instant”. The use of digital cameras has turned many people into instant professional photographers. It is this combination of realities which has transformed the modern nature explorer. The positive benefit of these changes is the behaviour of visitors to the Galapagos; making them more discerning observers, and making them more willing to protect the resources. This is good because it means that we haven’t lost the ensence of the Galapagos. On the other hand, excellent international promotional efforts have opened Ecuador and the Galapagos to new markets, while also strengthening its presence in traditional ones, and the visitor numbers speak for themselves. Today’s Galapagos nature explorer is also more demanding regarding food. He/She likes to explore flavours, seasonings, the textures of fruit, and the combination of colours, etc. This fact should motivate us to develop creative cuisine on boats, yachts, and hotels in the Galapagos. It is the perfect moment to promote more of the Ecuadorian cuisine and make it part of the culture and identity of the country. The modern nature explorer
www.masivaecologica.com
Written by: Francisco Dousdebés/Galapagos Expert
GALAPAGOS WHAT’S NEW
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demonstrates many positive characteristics. For example, there are travelers who enjoy practicing their artistic skills with watercolour while birdwatching. There are also travelers who enjoy a nice glass of champagne before lunch and in the evening, are delighted to observe the stars in the night sky. Who has never met someone searching for a five star experience while also surfing at Turtle Bay or Playa Carola or at El Garrapatero? We hope that the lessons and messages of the islands motivate visitors to make this world more peaceful
We hope the lessons and messages that the islands leave on visitors become the best motivators to make them more peaceful, more understanding and more convinced to leave a better planet for the future generations.
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BE N XPERT
John Garate
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
MONEY
Pikaia Lodge
Since the year 2000, the official currency throughout Ecuador is the US dollar.
NEW AIRPORT John Garate
Ecological Baltra Island Airport
and understanding, leaving future generations a better planet. The world of the modern explorer is very diverse and so should be the offers of tour operators. The Galapagos is a very interesting place to develop diversity and niche destinations. Some Galapagos explorers seek the best of both worlds, land and sea. The explorer seeks cruise ships and hotel stays. This allows them to observe and assimilate the Galapagos from different perspectives. In some areas travelers wish to scuba dive or to do physically demanding activities that are impossible to do on cruise ships such as trekking, recreational cycling, kayaking, etc. There are also avid scuba divers who would prefer to exclusively dive for 1 or 2 weeks. Others prefer more social activities within the community and others still are interested in nightlife. This shows us that the modern traveler is
more diverse than in the past. Therefore, their expectations are much higher. If these expectations are to be fulfilled or even bettered, these explorers will be the best marketing tool to promote the natural beauty and social development of the Galapagos Islands. Finally, the experience of the islands awakens the senses; the colours, the breeze, the wildlife, the sun’s energy, the force of the sea, and the combination of sensations are what give meaning to this trip of a lifetime. There are beautiful places in the world, but Galapagos is unique among those unforgettable destinations. Those who visit the islands understand the importance of protecting the integrity of the natural resources and the need to raise awareness about the world in which we live.
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SAFETY
Streets, parks and nature walks in populated areas are possible at any time
HEALTH
Clínica Hiperbárica in Puerto Ayora, Isla Santa Cruz.
A TRAVELLER TO
GALAPAGOS
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Y
ear after year, the Galapagos becomes more coveted by travellers who want to experience pristine and untouched nature. A place lost in the Pacific Ocean, where animals trust humans, where you can observe sea lions, boobies, iguanas, and giant tortoises just a few meters away without frightening them. It seems as though the animals are the ones observing and studying humans because for decades the people have respected and cared for them as a treasure of humanity. The traveler who has experienced a wonderful trip, is one who loves nature; its stunning volcanic landscape, with its great number of animals and their friendly
attitude. They will have a transformative trip in the Galapagos that will be life changing; not just because of the stunning landscapes of the islands, but also the experience of swimming with sea lions, Galapagos penguins, and sea turtles among schools of colourful fish. Not to mention the scuba diving experience in Galapagos which is one of the best in the world, classified by experts as the top destination in many cases. This is due to the possibility of diving near turtles and hammerhead sharks, as well as larger species like whale sharks in Darwin and Wolf Bay, among others. Until the 2000s most tourists were retirees from the USA and Europe, but in the last 15
John Garate
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BE N XPERT
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
FOOD
You cannot eat at visitorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sites due to the possibility of contaminating the environment with the introduction of invasive species
years there has been a notable increase in the number of families with children ages 8 and older; they are active people who want to do more adventurous activities. For them, we recommend a tour combining a cruise and hotels. It is important that travellers are aware of their impact on the islands and only walk on the trails and not touch the animals.
DRINKS
The bottle of water provided to each visitor at the beginning of their trip, must be refilled to avoid polluting.
THE ISLANDS
Non-inhabited islands can only be visited until 18:00
These rules help preserve these wonderful islands for all future generations. Your contribution at the National Park Entrance is to help keep this Natural Heritage Site as pristine as it was thousands of years ago. It is a true laboratory of life, it is a gift for all travellers of all future generations.
For travelers arriving with a partner, families of 4 or groups of 3 to 6 people, it is important to know the pace and style of vacation they want in order to decide between a cruise for 100 people or 40, a small family-sized yacht or even hotels. The average stay is 7 days, and this experience can be combined with hundreds of attractions available. mainland Ecuador.
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What You Need To Know www.galapagospark.org
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COLONIAL ART GOLD LEAF
The Compañía de Jesús Church glows with richly carved cedar wood in Baroque style, covered with 23 carat gold leafing, on an all red background.
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CULINARY MIRACLES OF THE PACIFIC COAST
GASTRONOMY
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THE JAIBA
ENCOCADA
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»
AN EXOTIC DISH,THAT TASTES OF THE SEA AND COCONUT A TRUE DELICACY
T
o taste a dish originating from the tropical province of Esmeraldas, the place to go is the traditional restaurant “Mar y Rio”, located on the canton of Eloy Alfaro, in the northern parish of La Tola, in this province. For the past 10 years, tourists from Ecuador and Colombia have been offered, by residents of the region, the flavour of the
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“Jaiba Encocada” made by Mercy Barahona, an expert in the preparation of this dish as she learned to prepare it as a 12-year-old from her grandmother, Maria Tenorio. The Jaiba Encocada is prepared using thick coconut milk, which is used at two different stages; the first is kept for the end and the second is mixed with tropical seasonings, salt and annatto.
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CHARACTERISTICS OF THE JAIBA AND THE CRAB
The jaiba, with its long claws, is larger than the crab. It has 10 legs and 2 different ways of swimming. Its shell is flat with peaks at the sides and is caught in the water. There are two varieties; the sea jaiba “jaiba mareña” and the smaller variety found in rivers “jaiba de río”. The jaiba is caught year round. Crabs live and grow in the ground on mangroves. The crab has two established seasons when it cannot be caught; the first is when they mate and the second is when their shells mutate and their meat is not fit for consumption. Source: El Comercio daily newspaper
Once the mixture thickens, fresh Jaiba meat is added to the leftover coconut milk. It is left to boil, and then is ready to eat. This is a family business where all of the family members work. Doña Mercy cooks the same jaibas her son, Dervis Alex Quiñónez, catches. Her daughter, Anita Quiñónez Barahona,
shares the responsibilities of cooking this delicacy, as well as other dishes available at the “Mar y Rio” restaurant. Her husband, Antonio Quiñónez with whom she has shared her life for the past 30 years, is a fisherman and also plays an import role by providing a variety of fish and seafood to Doña Mercy which helps to complement the rest of the menu. Her fame has
LA JAIBA AZUL (THE BLUE JAIBA)
LA JAIBA MAREÑA (THE SEA JAIBA)
It has a wide convex shell with a distinctive turquoise colour. It has four rounded front teeth in its claws.
It has an oval-shaped body and its rugged shell measures, on average, 12cm wide. Its scientific name is Euphylax Robustus A. Milne Edwards
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spread thanks to her loyal customers and word of mouth. When customers arrive, they always ask “Do you have jaiba encocada?”, and if there isn’t any, they leave. In hotels and seaside restaurants all over the country, jaiba dishes can be found prepared in different ways, with different flavours and called by different names.
LA JAIBA VERDE O ARQUEADA (THE GREEN JAIBA) Its scientific name is Callinectes Arcuatus Ordway and it has a convex shell. Their claws have four frontal teeth.
ENCEBOLLADO
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»
A TOUCH OF SPICE AND SOURNESS COMBINE TO DELIGHT THE PALATE
R
udy Assan, owner and chef of the seafood restaurant “El Lechón” located in Guayaquil, has been offering his signature dish, “Encebollado” a traditional dish from the Pacific coast, for the last 36 years.
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It’s difficult to know how many people haven’t tasted this dish, originally from Puerto Principal. It has spread through many regions and can now be found in hotels and restaurants throughout Ecuador.
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Rudy learned to prepare this dish in his childhood. His teacher was his father, Jimmy Assan who began to offer his customers this delicacy beginning in 1980 when he opened a restaurant, oddly named “El Lechón”, meaning “Piglet”. Rudy has stated that this “contradiction” helps surprise customers, as the name of the restaurant has nothing to do with the menu and food offer.
when it was cooked and offered to high school boys when they had finished classes for the day and to men on their way to work. Encebollado was known at that time as “Picante” or “Spicy”. Interestingly, it was not eaten by women, “It was a taboo” Rudy says, because the dish was considered to be an aphrodisiac and the conservative society wanted to shield women from the effects of this powerful food.
According to Rudy, encebollado originated between 1965 and 1970
In “El Lechón”, the whole family works; father, mother and two children. The
TOMATOES AND PEPPERS
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE YELLOWFIN TUNA
ONION AND CASSAVA
building has changed over the years and is now made of cement. Rudy was 4 years old when the restaurant first started serving encebollado. “Bonito” fish was used at that time in the preparation of the dish. However, since then it has changed to Albacore or “Yellowfin tuna”. Customers who visit the restaurant are from all over the country. Returning migrants visit the restaurant as soon as possible to reexperience the taste of the dish they missed.
PARSLEY AND CORIANDER
The yellowfin tuna is the perfect fish for making encebollado. It is bigger and offers a better flavour. This fish can be caught 10 months out of the year. From February to March it is more difficult to find because the water is warmer and therefore the fish move further away from the coast and as Rudy says “when fishing further from the cost, it can take 2 to 3 days to return and the only way to preserve the fish is to put salt on them”, which causes cracks and diminishes the quality of the catch.
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INTEROCEANICO
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CEVICHE
»
ww
HEALTHY ELIXIR, FRESH INGREDIENTS,
A UNIQUE BLEND OF FLAVOURS OF THE SEA
T
his dish is originally from San Vicente en Manabi, and is offered in the “Petiso el original” restaurant. The restaurant is named after the owner, Byron Vera, who was nicknamed “Petiso” when he played football at Eloy Alfaro High School. He added the term “original” to differentiate the restaurant from others. He acquired his knowledge of cooking from
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his mother, Jesús Zambrano Pino de Vera who opened the “Sol y Sombra” restaurant in 1978 when Byron was 19 years old. In the following years he studied and earned his degree in Ecotourism. On February 14, 1990, St Valentin’s Day, Byron took the opportunity to open his own restaurant specializing in seafood. Taking advantage of the location, he was able to
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CHARACTERISTICS OF GREEN PLANTAIN
source all of the fresh products in the quantities needed, locally. The traditional cuisine and culture of each region are intertwined and in some cases, they work together to maintain a vibrant population. It is no coincidence that Byron Vera opened his restaurant on Valentine’s Day and that his main dish is believed to be a powerful aphrodisiac, because of the 12 types of seafood it contains, which help “procreation because they increase the reproductive genes”. This idea is supported by the testimonial of “Señor Andrade”, a client of Byron’s
SHRIMP AND GREEN PLANTAIN
A green plantain is a yellow unripened plantain that has different uses in the kitchen. While the yellow and red plantain can be eaten immediately after peeling, the green plantain is best eaten cooked, boiled, or fried. Nutritionally speaking, the green plantain is a source of fiber, vitamins and minerals. In Ecuador, it is the ideal complement to many dishes.
from Ambato, who couldn’t have children. Señor Adrade is grateful to Byron and the effects of the ceviche interoceanico which allowed him to have a beautiful daughter. Customers come mainly from Portoviejo, Guayaquil and Quito. The number of visitors increases on weekends and holidays. He works with his wife and a group of employees. The ceviche interoceánico is made with prawns, shellfish, squid, snail, oysters, sea cucumber, crab, jaiba, octopus, pidiguaneja (also known as
MUSSELS AND CLAMS
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navaja), king prawns, and fish. All of these ingredients are boiled, except the shellfish, then the juice is made from the liquid left from these sea creatures. The liquid is combined with onion, tomato, lime, salt, pepper and coriander and the dish is served with chilfles (thinly-sliced fried plantain). The restaurant offers other seafood based dishes. There are different types of ceviche made from various ingredients in every city and region of Ecuador. They are sometimes called mixed or “marinero” or “sailor” ceviche.
LIME
HERITAGE TOQUILLA STRAW HATS
For the past 150 yeras, in the province of Azuay, in the city of Montecristi (ManabĂ) the toquilla straw (carludovica palmata) has been used to make the famous hats. There are four categories of hats: standard, superior, fine and superfine. The most beautiful superfine hats are woven with the finest and lightest straw. The process takes three months and the hats can be purchased directly from the manufacturer, at a lower price than in stores.
Homero Ortega
AMAZON HUAORANI
CULTURE
HUAORANI »
GUARDIANS
OF THE BIODIVERSE RAINFOREST
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travel by vehicle, small plane and canoe to arrive at your ecolodge.
Huaorani Eco-Lodge
3
Means of transportation are needed to enter into Huaorani territory. You will
T
he Huaorani are a tribe of hunters and warriors who first came in contact with the outside world 50 years ago. Since then the modern world has slowly entered their territory. It is through ecotourism that they have been able to stop this trend and keep their independence. The Huaorani Ecolodge is an association of five communities living on 50,000 hectares on the border of three provinces; Napo, Pastaza and Orellana. They receive their guests with curiousity and open arms everytime a small plane arrives in their territory on the banks of the river Shiripuna. Twenty years ago, Moi Enomenga, spokesman for the Huaorani community met a man in Coca who was studying his Masters in the ecology of the Amazon region. They decided to create an ecotourism project with an initial goal to share Huaorani
concerns and simultaneously generate knowledge about what was happening in their territory. Since 2004, the project has been refined to achieve a better balance between the economy, the society and the environment through the development of ecotourism standards which meet the criteria for sustainable and responsible travel. At first, explorers do not know how the Huaorani will react to them and vice versa. This unique experience offers a respectful, sensitive and intimate interaction between different cultures in a very remote area. Travelers are fascinated by this. Today, this cultural experience has been recognised with many awards and categorized by experts as one of the 10 best in the
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world. The experience lasts 4 to 5 days depending on the traveler´s wishes. The visitors are always accompanied by a guide. Travelers leave Quito by road and travel through the Avenida de los Volcanes (Volcano Avenue), passing through Baùos while observing the dramatic change in vegetation all the way to the town of Shell. From this town, they fly in a small plane for 30 minutes above the Amazon to an airstrip in the territory of the Quehueri´ono community. From there, they travel on the river by canoe for a few minutes until they reach the ecolodge where they can have lunch and relax for the rest of the day. On the second day, the experience is more focused on learning about the community. The Huaorani have their own language, culture, and way
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THE HUAORANI Nice and friendly people who are always smiling.
MORE INFORMATION 1) www.destinationecuador.com
Huaorani Eco-Lodge
2) www.huaorani.com 3) www.allyouneedisecuador.
travel/trade
of seeing the world, and visitors have the opportunity to see nature and wildlife through their eyes. They open their doors to visitors and are very friendly and welcoming. The interaction is alway respectful and sensitive. Visitors can buy handcrafts and take part in a simulated hunt. The Huaorani actively participated in the construction of the 5 double cabins of the lodge in an area where they retain their autonomy and privacy. These cabins can host up to 10 people and have been rebuilt with solar panels and screens on the walls, so visitors can maintain close contact with the environment that surrounds them. Before construction, Jascivan Carvalho, manager of Tropic Journeys in Nature and founder of this business model, told us that he asked all community members how was their quality of life. “The answer was unanimous: excellent. And this caused doubts about the true need for the project. We were ready to
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leave the area. What was the purpose of this project if the Huaorani felt very happy with their lives?” As they always do, the Huaorani met to decide what to do. In these meetings there is no one authority and everyone can express their opinion: adults, women, grandparents and children. After some time, they reached an agreement. “That day” recollects Jascivan “a woman stood up and explained that the community needed medicine and education for their children.” The uniqueness of the project comes from the union of two wishes: to maintain the lifestyle of the community via conservation and the other, social development without an interest in the accumulation of wealth but rather concern for its people’s welfare. One can say that this has been a success as it has allowed for an accurate mapping of the Huaorani territory in which they have identified places to collect wood or protected zones in which to hunt, in
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5 order to protect the rich biodiversity of the region. According to Jascivan, the first time he went to the area to visit the Huao community there were only women and children. Thanks to the jobs created by the ecolodge, men who previously worked in nearby cities have returned to their community. After participating in the construction of the lodge with the Huaorani, Tropic decided to donate the assets and infrastructure of the ecolodge to the community. They run the lodge as an association, allowing for a fair distribution of the wealth generated by work rotation in areas such as service, transportation, and maintenance as well as tourist guide. This way, everyone benefits although no one is obliged to work. At the end of the year, profits are reinvested in the community`s development. On the last day of their trip, visitors go down river in a kayak or canoe to visit the camp developed by the operators of the Association which is also a conservation area. For the visitors, it
Cabins make up the Huaorani Ecolodge. They are located in an area near the territory of the Quehueriono community on the border of three provinces in Ecuador: Napo, Pastaza and Orellana. This community, as well as others, live along the Shiripuna River.
is a great moment of excitement when they realize how the Huaorani have been able to safeguard their culture, traditions and maintain the biodiversity through tourism, which is the only way to avoid the invasion of their territory. In March, Tropic Journeys in Nature won the World Legacy Award in the category of “Engaging Communities”, mainly thanks to its activities with the Huaorani Community. Tropic has an exclusive contract with the Huaorani and is responsible for organizing the logistics and administrative duties for vistors’ trips. They respect four pillars of the operation: conservation, community, culture and commerce. This philosophy helps the operator adapt to different communities and develop sustainable tourism initiatives related to social responsibilities in other regions of Ecuador. These awards are an initiative of National Geographic in partnership with ITB Berlin and Ecuador as a
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THE HUAORANI ECOLODGE WON THE WLA AWARD IN THE CATEGORY OF “ENGAGING COMMUNITIES”. sponsor. The aim is to reward hotels, ecolodges or countries involved in caring for the environment, the protection of cultural and human heritage not to mention the benefit to local communities. The winners were chosen by a panel of 18 international judges led by Costas Christ, contributing editor of National Geographic Traveler. Thanks to this award, Jascivan hopes to develop more sustainable tourism and ecotourism in other remote regions of the country: “Ecuador is the perfect destination for these more intimate experiences with a high educational content for the visitor, while at the same time, giving something to local populations and helping to protect the environment.”
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VOICES OF THE PROFESSIONALS
MAURO OLIVERO
Director of South American Product Il Tuccano Viaggi- Torino - Italia
1. What places do you enjoy in Ecuador?
Quito, for its history and its people. A beautiful and valued historical center, in a just a few blocks we can be transported to colonial times, with its buildings and churches where we can appreciate the art of the era in all its glory. Galapagos, a unique place in the world that allows us to experience nature in its purests state. Avenida de los Volcanes, Otavalo, incredible landscapes and to meet its people, with their warmth and customs is an experience worth having. The Amazon, is somewhere I would like to visit, but haven’t yet.
2. What is the best product Ecuador has to offer? Its people, its vibrant culture and the biodiversity to be found in its small territory. Galapagos, a unique place.
3. What advice would you give to someone who wants to promote Ecuador? They should show beautiful videos promoting this destination , in which the viewer can admire the incredible beauty and variety of its landscapes, its people, its culture and the countless activities that can be enjoyed.
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ELISA ESPÍNDOLA Director of Espíndola Viajes - Buenos Aires - Argentina
1. What are the places that you prefer from Ecuador? Why?
The Galapagos is still the undisputed star for its true beauty and its uniqueness in the panorama of world tourism. However, there are other very special places such as high mountains and snowy peaks, the best part of the Amazon, its “all green” cultivated fields that climb up the mountains to an almost vertical position, quiet and historical colonial towns. The popular little markets and its people.
2. What is the best product that Ecuador can offer? A fascinating mixture of landcapes, history, humanity, contrasts and (why not) the cuisine. Without a doubt, the Galapagos is the most attractive and easy.
3. What advice would you give someone who wants to sell Ecuador? That they visit and experience it, and not forget that it is an easy product to sell to tourists 12 months of the year. They will be able to admire the incredible beauty and variety of its landscapes, its people, its culture, and the countless activities that can be enjoyed.
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EVENTS CALENDAR OF
clubmarcopolo.es
INTI RAYMI FESTIVAL
II.
JUNE 2015
II.
It is celebrated primarily in Imbabura, Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, Cañar, Azuay and Loja in honour of the summer solstice. The God Inti (Sun) is thanked for the bountiful harvest and Pachamama (Mother Earth) is asked to bless and care for the crops. The dancers decorate their heads with mirrors, sequins, and feathers, and the character of the devil (huma) spins round with his two-faced mask. Inti Raymi means “Sacred Feast of the Sun” and is a highly spiritual celebration based on agricultural cycles of sowing and reaping, movements of the sun and moon, and the geographical position of the towns located high in the Andes. The celebration can last for days, weeks or months with colourful and symbolic events from the indigenous world.
JULY 2015
Ecuador hosts the ATTA (Adventure Adventure Week
14 -
In all of
Ecuador, Fam Trip
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Ecuador
Ecuador, a Catholic and devout
Travel Trade Association), Adventure
Visit of Pope
Travel Week positioning itself to
Francis the First
6-8
Quito &
country, awaits with joy the Pope's
Guayaquil
arrival. with processions and
international media, trade and tourist
celebrations,
adventure industry.
Fiesta de los Moros
Fiesta de San Pedro y San Pablo
24
Latacunga (Cotopaxi)
Food, dancing, parades, games,
Celebrations of the
fireworks to honor the Patron, Saint
Virgen del Carmen
Ibarra, Otavalo 16
and Chota (Imbabura)
John.
In this celebration, fishermen and 29
Manabí
their families pay them tribute of
Festival of James
appreciation
the Greater
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Píllaro (Tungurahua)
The celebrations of the Virgin, initiated by the faith and devout, with popular music, mad cows, masses and elegant processions
Atmosphere of celebration and joy with bull fights, fireworks games, local bands and several popular attractions.
Cuenca
C
www.lalocomotora.es
uenca is a city of craftsmen, in the “Athens of Ecuador” where you can find many leather goods like jackets, shoes, suitcases, handbags or belts. They are manufactured using high-quality leather treatment and processes that allow for attention to detail and attractive finishes. The Centro Interamericano de Artes Populares is a museum where you can admire more than 7,000 pieces from various Latin American countries as well as handcrafts and folk art from Ecuador. At the craftstore “El Barranco”, you can purchase guaranteed quality and authentic products. The Centro Municipal de Artesanias has 86 stores selling handicrafts and leather goods.
LEATHER
Lituma - Peláez arte en joyería, Chordeleg - Azuay
Ambato
Q
www.ecuador-turistico.com
uisapincha, 15 minutes from the city of Ambato, is considered to be the “leather tourist route” because of its handcrafts and the production of leather clothing at low prices. The local fair on weekends takes place in the Plaza Central, opposite the church (from 7h to 13h).
Cotacachi
I
n this city you can find a variety of colours and innovative designs of shoes, handbags, jackets and hats in the 120 stores located on 10 de Agosto Street. In addition, the Reserva Ecologica Cotacachi-Cayapas and Lake Cuicocha are very close by. herenciasomos.wordpress.com
WHERE TO BUY IT
[ culture ]
CUENCA: INTERAMERICAN CENTER OF POPULAR ARTS (CIDAP): Hermano Miguel 3-23 and Paseo Tres de Noviembre (CUENCA). QUISAPINCHA: 15 minutes from Ambato in the Central Plaza. COTACACHI: 10 de Agosto Street.
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[ culture ]
FROG
PHYLLOMEDUSA VAILLANTII Ecuador is the country with the third largest number of amphibians. In the four worlds of Ecuador there are about 400 species. This means that 10% of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s species are present in the country.
Huaorani Eco-Lodge
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