What kind of international trip can you really get for $1,600? That was the question on my mind when I decided to embark on an 11-day tour of Ecuador and the Galapagos with Exoticca Travel Tours. As the founder of SheBuysTravel, I was determined to find out if this budget-friendly deal could deliver an unforgettable experience. Join me as I share my journey and reveal whether Exoticca exceeded my expectations or fell short.
A No-Brainer Decision
During the pandemic, travel prices took a dramatic nosedive, and the flexible cancellation policy made booking a trip with Exoticca a no-brainer for me. As an online travel agency and tour company based in Spain, Exoticca offered a variety of moderately priced travel packages that caught my attention. But before diving in, I had to consider my travel preferences and convince my adventure-averse husband.
The Appeal of Exoticca Travel Tours
I opted for Exoticca’s Ecuador tour for several reasons. Firstly, the price included airfare, which made it an attractive offer right off the bat. Secondly, as someone unfamiliar with the Galapagos Islands, I knew I would need assistance navigating the destination. Lastly, Exoticca's reputation and positive customer reviews on TrustPilot gave me the confidence to take the leap. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to entice my husband into joining me on this adventure.
Equator sign. Photo credit: Kim Orlando
Unveiling the $1,600 Experience
Naturally, I had reservations about what a $1,600 trip would encompass. Would the accommodations and travel experiences meet my expectations? To ease my concerns, I reached out to Exoticca's travel agents and gained valuable insights. The company offered a range of reasonably priced travel packages, from 14-day excursions to South Africa and Morocco to shorter 8-day trips to Portugal and Peru. With a fair 60-day cancellation policy and the flexibility of not requiring full payment upfront, Exoticca seemed like the perfect fit for me.
Photo credit: Kim Orlando
Delving into Ecuador's Wonders
Our 11-day tour took us through Quito, Tena (Amazon), San Cristobal (Galapagos), and Guayaquil. The hotels booked by Exoticca were at least 3-star, comparable to Holiday Inn Express, and breakfast was included daily. While the accommodations were comfortable, we didn't spend much time indoors as the allure of exploring Ecuador's mesmerizing landscapes beckoned us.
Upon arriving in Quito, we were greeted by a friendly Exoticca representative who provided seamless assistance throughout the trip. Ground transportation was conveniently organized via comfortable touring buses, eliminating the need for us to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads. The rest stops provided an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culture, indulging in regional snacks and beverages. Bathroom facilities were clean, with some requiring a small fee or tip.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Always stay updated on COVID-19 travel requirements as regulations can change frequently.
Surprising Discoveries and Optional Upgrades
One aspect that initially concerned me about organized tours was the reliance on coach buses for ground transportation. However, I found myself enjoying the journey and marveling at the breathtaking landscapes en route. The tour even offered unique experiences, such as the chance to sample grilled grubs for enhanced respiratory health. I bravely took on this challenge and even have a video to prove it!
Otavalo Indigenous Markets. Photo credit: Kim Orlando
While the initial tour price covered the essentials, there were opportunities to upgrade our experience. Optional escorted tours and the possibility of upgrading to more luxurious accommodations were available. Additionally, some meals were not included, allowing us the freedom to explore local culinary delights.
Additional Costs and Final Investment
It's important to note that there are a few mandatory extra costs associated with the Exoticca Ecuador/Galapagos tour. These include the Galapagos Entry/Parks Fee of $100, which must be paid in cash upon arrival. Visitors are also required to present two negative COVID-19 PCR tests, each costing $75, prior to entering the Galapagos Islands and returning to the United States. Lastly, tipping our guides, though technically voluntary, was a significant part of our tour experience. We each spent $150 on tips, appreciating the value they added to our journey.
Here is a breakdown of my final cost for the trip:
- Exoticca trip: $1599
- 3 Exoticca excursions: $295
- Personal day trip: $175
- Tips: $150
- Additional food/drinks: $250
- Galapagos parks fee: $100
- Covid testing: $150
Galapagos sign. Photo credit: Kim Orlando
Room for Improvement
While my overall experience with Exoticca was exceptional, there were a few areas that could benefit from improvement. Specifically, two of the city tour guides fell short of expectations. The guide in Guayaquil lacked patience for our older travelers, and the Galapagos guide was difficult to reach when assistance was required. Enhanced communication prior to the trip would have been valuable. Although the tour provided free time and optional excursions, I only learned about them upon arrival. I believe providing this information in advance, even if only the day before, would greatly enhance the planning process. Additionally, being informed beforehand about the need for cash payments for the Galapagos fees would have saved us some last-minute scrambling.
Jungle tour at Suchipakari Lodge. Photo credit: Kim Orlando
A Journey Worth Taking
Despite these minor hiccups, my trip with Exoticca Travel Tours to Ecuador was an incredible experience. The value I received for the $1,600 investment exceeded my expectations. Flight arrangements, taxes, COVID-19 tests, local guidance, daily breakfast, and comfortable accommodation were all expertly taken care of by Exoticca. I thoroughly enjoyed my time exploring Ecuador's wonders, and my travel companion, Tina, agreed. In fact, I was so impressed with the overall experience that I have even applied to sell Exoticca trips on SheBuysTravel. Stay tuned for more exciting adventures!
So, if you're seeking a budget-friendly escape that doesn't compromise on quality and convenience, I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on an Exoticca Travel Tour. Journey with them and create memories that will last a lifetime.
