Ecuador & Galapagos holiday for blind travellers

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

1. Human-powered transport: There are several planned walks and hikes during our time in Ecuador and Galapagos Islands, including visit El Cajas National Park for a sensory hike, immersing ourselves in the beauty of the Andean paramo. As we walk, we will experience the vibrant wildflowers, the cool mist that envelops the landscape, the soothing sounds of birds singing, and the calming flow of water from nearby streams. The hike will allow us to connect deeply with the natural environment, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Also, another one of the hikes is through a dry forest to Cerro Tijeretas, a nesting site for frigatebirds, learning about native plants along the way on the San Cristobal Galapagos Island.

2. We ensure that vegetarian and vegan options are available on all our trips by visiting local markets and restaurants with meat-free options. We also include vegan and vegetarian options in all our cooking class activities. In our tour of colonial Quito, we visit its historic center, including churches, parks, and plazas from the Spanish conquest era. We’ll stop at a local shop to taste and learn how to make typical Quito sweets and visit a traditional market to experience the variety of Andean fruits and vegetables. Afterward, enjoy a hands-on cooking class with a local chef, where we’ll prepare and savor a delicious lunch.


ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

1. On our trip to Ecuador, we visit several UNESCO sites including the exploration of Cuenca’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We will visit the cathedral, stroll through the central park, and discover other key attractions. One highlight is a visit to a toquilla straw hat factory, where we will learn about the process of creating the renowned “Panama hats.” Throughout these visits we will advise travellers how to travel with minimal impact to the environment, and in some places our entrance fee goes towards the conservation of these sites for future visitors.

2. We learn about the wildlife in both Ecuador in our exploration of the Amazon and also on Galapagos Island, including we explore the coastal wonders of the Galapagos with a boat excursion along the shoreline, observing iconic wildlife such as magnificent frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies. At Kicker Rock, or León Dormido, a 143-meter volcanic formation, we discover thriving marine life. Our expert guide ensures our wildlife viewing is done respectfully.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

1. We pride ourselves on engaging local guides in all our trips, often venturing into national parks and UNESCO World Heritage sites including We will visit El Cajas National Park for a sensory hike, immersing ourselves in the beauty of the Andean paramo. As we walk, we will experience the vibrant wildflowers, the cool mist that envelops the landscape, the soothing sounds of birds singing, and the calming flow of water from nearby streams. The hike will allow us to connect deeply with the natural environment, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

2. Following our ethos of Responsible Tourism, we are passionate about supporting local businesses and community projects that share our vision. During our stay in San Cristobal, we had a tour of the local village, where we visited many of the shops and learned how they made their living.


EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

1. As an inclusive employer, we are proud of its diverse and inclusive workforce, which aims to create a team primarily consisting of visually impaired staff members. The primary focus is to provide Tailored and Group trips to visually impaired community members. Beyond this, we aim to create an inclusive environment for all, regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, ability, or sexual orientation.

2. Our trips are carefully planned to cater to various needs, including those with physical or mental impairments. They are provided from the moment our client arrives at a destination until the time of departure. On Tailored holidays, assistance is provided as much or as little as required depending on levels of sight and mobility. For Group trips, support is provided for every two clients depending on sight or mobility levels. The circumstances for those requiring additional support, including assistance with personal care and help at meal times, are assessed individually, and we will do our utmost to accommodate.