As of August 1, 2007, the Airport Departure Tax from the International Airport of Quito will increase to US$ 40.80.
For local flights, the airport tax will also increase to US$ 7.60, but this amount is already included in the rate of the domestic air tickets.
There has been no change in the Airport Departure Tax from the International Airport of Guayaquil; it continues to be US$ 26.00.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Guatemala City airport safety rating upgraded
Good news from Guatemala: U.S. aviation authorities upgraded the safety rating of La Aurora, Guatemala City's international airport, to Category 1, saying it has met international standards!
Guatemala's government began remodelling the airport in 2006. Construction is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2007.
Guatemala's government began remodelling the airport in 2006. Construction is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2007.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
ECUADOR MORE COMMITTED THAN EVER TO PRESERVING THE NATURAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE OF THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
ECUADOR MORE COMMITTED THAN EVER TO PRESERVING THE NATURAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE OF THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Ministry of Tourism Outlines Measures Aimed at Protecting Galapagos' Natural and Cultural Heritage
QUITO, Ecuador – July 04th, 2007 – Following the recent addition of the Galapagos Islands to the list of World Heritage Sites endangered by the UNESCO, Ecuador has reinforced its commitment to protecting the islands and has outlined some of the different initiatives that it has been undertaking jointly with national and international entities in order to preserve the Galapagos' natural and cultural heritage.
All tourism activity is being carried out normally in the islands and in accordance with the current regulations that prioritize the conservation of the archipelago's eco-system. Tourism is one of the most strictly controlled activities in the Galapagos Islands .
“The inscription of the Galapagos Islands on the list of World Heritage Sites in Danger provides an opportunity to garner national and international support for the Islands ' conservation,” said Maria Isabel Salvador, Ecuador's Minister of Tourism.
Maria Isabel Salvador also assured that the Ecuadorian government, led by President Rafael Correa, is well aware of the threats faced by the Galapagos Islands which led the government to declare the archipelago “in risk and of national priority for the conservation and environmental management” of its unique ecosystem in April of this year.
Numerous government ministries and organizations have been working to implement measures aimed at protecting the Galapagos Islands from all activities that are deemed non-sustainable. Now Ecuador will also have the opportunity to mobilize international support for the Islands ' conservation.
Ecuador has become one of the world leaders in sustainable tourism development. The Ministry of Tourism is currently developing PLANDETUR 2020, a master plan that will set guidelines regulating the tourism activity in all of Ecuador in order to guarantee a sustainable development of the tourism industry in the country, aimed at preserving its numerous natural wonders, historic wealth as well as the cultural heritage of its native populations. Ecuador has also joined forces with the Rainforest Alliance and the Global Sustainable Tourism Alliance with the goal of preserving Ecuador 's natural and cultural assets.
Some of the more specific initiatives that the Ministry of Tourism is working on include:
- New technical norms affecting tourism operations in the Galapagos that will come into effect at the end of 2007. These new norms will regulate every activity from island tours to diving, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, and fishing.
- Coordination of actions with the Ministry of the Environment aimed at effectively controlling tourism activity in the Galapagos.
- Reforming regulation controlling the work of tour and nature guides in order to ensure stricter controls of their activities.
The Ministry of Tourism is also working on “Turismo para todos” (Tourism for All), a training program for micro businesses within the tourism sector in order to help them develop their operations in a sustainable manner.
*Information Policy Disclaimer:
Rolf Wittmer Turismo is a distributor only (and not a publisher) of this information material. The content and information distributed here is supplied by the stated author. Rolf Wittmer Turismo shall not be responsible for policing, monitoring, or editing such content, exercises no editorial control over such content. All opinions expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of Rolf Wittmer Turismo; therefore, Rolf Wittmer Turismo shall not be responsible or held accountable for the information expressed in this information material.
Ministry of Tourism Outlines Measures Aimed at Protecting Galapagos' Natural and Cultural Heritage
QUITO, Ecuador – July 04th, 2007 – Following the recent addition of the Galapagos Islands to the list of World Heritage Sites endangered by the UNESCO, Ecuador has reinforced its commitment to protecting the islands and has outlined some of the different initiatives that it has been undertaking jointly with national and international entities in order to preserve the Galapagos' natural and cultural heritage.
All tourism activity is being carried out normally in the islands and in accordance with the current regulations that prioritize the conservation of the archipelago's eco-system. Tourism is one of the most strictly controlled activities in the Galapagos Islands .
“The inscription of the Galapagos Islands on the list of World Heritage Sites in Danger provides an opportunity to garner national and international support for the Islands ' conservation,” said Maria Isabel Salvador, Ecuador's Minister of Tourism.
Maria Isabel Salvador also assured that the Ecuadorian government, led by President Rafael Correa, is well aware of the threats faced by the Galapagos Islands which led the government to declare the archipelago “in risk and of national priority for the conservation and environmental management” of its unique ecosystem in April of this year.
Numerous government ministries and organizations have been working to implement measures aimed at protecting the Galapagos Islands from all activities that are deemed non-sustainable. Now Ecuador will also have the opportunity to mobilize international support for the Islands ' conservation.
Ecuador has become one of the world leaders in sustainable tourism development. The Ministry of Tourism is currently developing PLANDETUR 2020, a master plan that will set guidelines regulating the tourism activity in all of Ecuador in order to guarantee a sustainable development of the tourism industry in the country, aimed at preserving its numerous natural wonders, historic wealth as well as the cultural heritage of its native populations. Ecuador has also joined forces with the Rainforest Alliance and the Global Sustainable Tourism Alliance with the goal of preserving Ecuador 's natural and cultural assets.
Some of the more specific initiatives that the Ministry of Tourism is working on include:
- New technical norms affecting tourism operations in the Galapagos that will come into effect at the end of 2007. These new norms will regulate every activity from island tours to diving, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, and fishing.
- Coordination of actions with the Ministry of the Environment aimed at effectively controlling tourism activity in the Galapagos.
- Reforming regulation controlling the work of tour and nature guides in order to ensure stricter controls of their activities.
The Ministry of Tourism is also working on “Turismo para todos” (Tourism for All), a training program for micro businesses within the tourism sector in order to help them develop their operations in a sustainable manner.
*Information Policy Disclaimer:
Rolf Wittmer Turismo is a distributor only (and not a publisher) of this information material. The content and information distributed here is supplied by the stated author. Rolf Wittmer Turismo shall not be responsible for policing, monitoring, or editing such content, exercises no editorial control over such content. All opinions expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of Rolf Wittmer Turismo; therefore, Rolf Wittmer Turismo shall not be responsible or held accountable for the information expressed in this information material.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
San Cristobal Airport Re-Opening
The San Cristobal airport in the Galapagos Islands is now scheduled (tentatively) to re-open on August 18th, 2007. The airport, located on San Cristobal Island in the southern part of the archipelago, has been under renovation since Spring this year.
While the airport is closed, all flights use the Baltra aiport and Galapagos cruise itineraries have been adjusted accordingly. If you have booked a Galapagos Islands trip in August or September, please be aware that your itinerary could change* depending on the reopening of the San Cristobal airport. Most likely, the biggest change in your trip will be your flight times and the order in which you visit the Islands.
Please contact Detour about any changes in your itinerary or for more news on the San Cristobal airport.
*All Galapagos cruise providers reserve the right to change their itinerary at any time due to environmental conditions, mechanical failure, or flight schedule changes.
While the airport is closed, all flights use the Baltra aiport and Galapagos cruise itineraries have been adjusted accordingly. If you have booked a Galapagos Islands trip in August or September, please be aware that your itinerary could change* depending on the reopening of the San Cristobal airport. Most likely, the biggest change in your trip will be your flight times and the order in which you visit the Islands.
Please contact Detour about any changes in your itinerary or for more news on the San Cristobal airport.
*All Galapagos cruise providers reserve the right to change their itinerary at any time due to environmental conditions, mechanical failure, or flight schedule changes.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Great deal on a Choquequirao Trek
Special Deal!
Join a Choquequirao Trek on July 18 and save money! If you planning a trek for a small group, you've probably noticed that trips are much more expensive for you. That's why joining a group already booked on a tour is not just a chance to meet new friends, but also a chance to save money.
If you book the July 18-22 Choquequirao Trek, operated by Peru sur Nativa, you will get the group price of $654 per person. If you have more in your group, you could pay as little as $324 per person.
This is your opportunity to visit a hidden gem of the Inca Empire ruins. Contact Detour for more information or to book your trip right away!
Join a Choquequirao Trek on July 18 and save money! If you planning a trek for a small group, you've probably noticed that trips are much more expensive for you. That's why joining a group already booked on a tour is not just a chance to meet new friends, but also a chance to save money.
If you book the July 18-22 Choquequirao Trek, operated by Peru sur Nativa, you will get the group price of $654 per person. If you have more in your group, you could pay as little as $324 per person.
This is your opportunity to visit a hidden gem of the Inca Empire ruins. Contact Detour for more information or to book your trip right away!
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Choquequirao: Machu Picchu's Sacred Sister
Best-Kept Secret Destination: Choquequirao
It may not be a secret for too long, but Choquequirao is a true hidden gem of the Inca Empire. Just like Machu Picchu, the Choquequirao ruins make-up an ancient, extensive site perched high in the Andes. The site is nicknamed "Machu Picchu's Sacred Sister" because of their similar layout and importance in Inca society. In fact, these impressive ruins are even better preserved and far more isolated than Machu Picchu.
The location is no less awe-inspiring: nestled high in the Cordillera Vilcabamba, Choquequirao offers majestic view of the surrounding 17,000 ft peaks. The various temples, mausoleums, royal residences and ritual baths speak to the Inca's worship of the natural world. Like all sacred Inca sites, the architecture also reflects the movement of the sun and other celestial bodies. However, we know relatively little about the true importance of Choquequirao. In fact, much of the site is still being excavated and studied. Newly discovered buildings include the so-called Ridge Group, and the Waterfall Temple, an intriguing ceremonial complex facing the cascades of a steep ravine.
Its mystery is only enhanced by the virtually non-existent tourist crowd. On any given day you may run into a few other tourists, but most trek groups report being alone at the site. Travelers can reach the sacred city by way of a 5-day trek, so make sure you're up for a rigorous adventure. If you are looking for the off-the-beaten path experience, Choquequirao is sure to astound and satisfy the most rugged of traveler.
To learn more about this destination, visit Detour and book your trip before it becomes as popular as Machu Picchu.
It may not be a secret for too long, but Choquequirao is a true hidden gem of the Inca Empire. Just like Machu Picchu, the Choquequirao ruins make-up an ancient, extensive site perched high in the Andes. The site is nicknamed "Machu Picchu's Sacred Sister" because of their similar layout and importance in Inca society. In fact, these impressive ruins are even better preserved and far more isolated than Machu Picchu.
The location is no less awe-inspiring: nestled high in the Cordillera Vilcabamba, Choquequirao offers majestic view of the surrounding 17,000 ft peaks. The various temples, mausoleums, royal residences and ritual baths speak to the Inca's worship of the natural world. Like all sacred Inca sites, the architecture also reflects the movement of the sun and other celestial bodies. However, we know relatively little about the true importance of Choquequirao. In fact, much of the site is still being excavated and studied. Newly discovered buildings include the so-called Ridge Group, and the Waterfall Temple, an intriguing ceremonial complex facing the cascades of a steep ravine.
Its mystery is only enhanced by the virtually non-existent tourist crowd. On any given day you may run into a few other tourists, but most trek groups report being alone at the site. Travelers can reach the sacred city by way of a 5-day trek, so make sure you're up for a rigorous adventure. If you are looking for the off-the-beaten path experience, Choquequirao is sure to astound and satisfy the most rugged of traveler.
To learn more about this destination, visit Detour and book your trip before it becomes as popular as Machu Picchu.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Galapagos Multisport Adventure SPECIAL DEAL
Special Galapagos Deal!!!
July is one of the busiest time in the Galapagos Islands and most travelers find themselves scrambling for trips. Fortunately, Detour has a great last-minute deal on one of our most popular trip: the Galapagos Multisport Adventure. No matter your group size, you will get the Galapagos Multisport Adventure (7-Day) at our lowest price!
This seven-day trip is perfect for travelers who like to kayak, mountain bike, hike, snorkel and explore the islands on horseback. Unlike the yacht-based tours, this multisport trip lets you explore each island for a couple days. It is also designed to match the needs of all travelers, from the not-too-active to the athletic.
The Galapagos Multisport Adventure is one of our highest rated trips by past travelers. It has gained such a reputation that it is difficult to get space anytime, which is why this deal is so exceptional!
July 10-16
$1591 per person
DAY 1: TRANSFER AND HIKE IN SAN CRISTOBAL
DAY 2: SEA KAYAK PLAYA OCHOA AND SNORKEL IN LEON DORMIDO
DAY 3: SNORKEL IN SANTA FE ISLAND AND SEA KAYAK IN SANTA CRUZ
DAY 4: HIKE AND MOUNTAINBIKE IN THE SANTA CRUZ HIGHLANDS
DAY 5: HIKE AND EXPLORATION IN ISABELA
DAY 6: HORSEBACK RIDE AND HIKE IN ISABELA
DAY 7: ISABELA - SANTA CRUZ, TRANSFER OUT
To view this trip in more detail, visit Detour's Galapagos Multisport 7-Day.
Please contact Detour, the Adventure Travel Marketplace to book this trip right away! This trip will go fast, so act quickly to secure your Galapagos Adventure.
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