Traveling during a global pandemic can present challenges and opportunities. This video strives to provide travel tips for the new reality as 2020 is winding down. This endless summer is unlike those of recent years with the new covid-19 measures and rules. However life in Ecuador feels more normal than the USA. Entry to Ecuador currently requires a negative PCR test and a form detailing your travel plans for the next 21 days.
Airfares were great during the pandemic when only the adventurous were traveling. This was shot prior to the release of vaccines which were later required for travel. No problem I already had to carry a yellow shot card one more is easy. Traveling during a global pandemic can present challenges and opportunities. This video strives to provide travel tips for the new reality as 2020 is winding down.
This endless summer is unlike those of recent years with the new covid-19 measures and rules. However life in Ecuador feels more normal than the USA. Entry to Ecuador currently requires a negative PCR test and a form detailing your travel plans for the next 21 days. I traveled directly to Otavalo from the airport rather than visit the big city of Quito. This both saved money on lodging and made for potentially less exposure to the virus. Air pollution is another problem in Quito. Otavalo has much better air quality.
I chose to stay at the Flying Donkey Hostal again while adjusting to the altitude. This trip I opted for taxis over taking buses. Primarily to reduce covid risks but also more expedient. The taxi from the airport to Otavalo cost $45. A taxi from Otavalo to Banos de Agua Santa cost $130. In the past a price of $90 - $110 would have been more reasonable. Seems taxi companies are charging about $120 currently. I got gringo-ed just a little. Meals can me as cheap as $2.50 for breakfast and lunch with supper often $6. Shopping for your own food is much more economical. Like anywhere you can spend more. I prefer renting an apartment for keeping costs down. The added privacy is nice too.
If you are planing a visit to Ecuador and have any questions about the logistics please feel free to reach out or leave comments below. I am always happy to help. I strive to support the local economy and especially the local Ecuadorian owned businesses
You can also use these same services in reverse to catch a bus to the airport on your way back home. Learn more here https://www.aeropuertoquito.aero/es/guia-de-transporte.html
I primarily travel solo but you don't have to to enjoy this channel. Working as a river guide during summers in North America I don't earn a lot of money and live close to the federal poverty level. In spite of this I live a rich life on a frugal budget. If you would like to learn more about traveling in Latin America or maybe frugal travel tips visit Fast Fred Travels and if you would like to come rafting with me check out Fast Fred Rafts for details.
Curious about how I can travel so light? Want to know more about the gear I carry abroad on my extend trips in Latin America? Here's your chance dig into my Amazon shop for an inside look. If you make purchases via this shop I will get a very small commission but it will not increase your price what so ever.