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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

The Southern Highlands, Ecuador

Getting Ready for Cuenca

Advance planning for a well-organized trip.

A Timeline for Readiness

A step-by-step approach for your journey.

1

+ Months Before

Passport & Flights

Check passport validity; book international flights; book main accommodation; purchase Travel insurance.

Reservations

Research and book your main accommodations, especially if traveling during high season.

Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance for coverage.

2

Month Before

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights to Cuenca or long-distance bus tickets.

Health Checks

Check recommended vaccinations and visit a travel clinic.

Bank Notifications

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.

3

Week Before

Packing & Docs

Finalize packing list; print copies of documents; download offline maps.

Transfers & Contacts

Arrange airport transfers; notify family of itinerary.

Electronics & Cash

Charge electronics; withdraw small USD denominations.

Advance Reservations

bookings for a stress-free trip.

Accommodation & Tours

  • Book main accommodations for your stay.
  • Specific guided tours (Cajas National Park, Ingapirca).
  • Confirm all accommodation and tour reservations.
  • Consider routes to connect main sites.

Pre-Departure Homework

Research and home readiness for peace of mind.

Information Gathering

  • Research the climate and packing for Cuenca.
  • Learn basic Spanish phrases.
  • Familiarize yourself with Ecuadorian currency (USD).
  • Understand local safety and health aspects.

Securing Your Home

Actions to take before you depart.

Property Safety

  • Lock all windows and doors.
  • Suspend mail or arrange collection.
  • Arrange for lawn care.
  • Organize plant watering.

Administrative Tasks

  • Pay any upcoming bills.
  • Inform trusted contacts of absence.
  • Notify bank of travel dates.
  • Check credit card limits.

Travel Essentials

  • Travel size toiletries.
  • Charge all electronics.
  • Pack essential medications.
  • Withdraw small USD denominations.

Packing Smarter

Consider Packing organizers from Eagle Creek for efficient luggage use.

Arrival & Orientation

A smooth entry into your destination.

Initial Arrival Steps

  • Immigration:

    Present passport and documents; ensure stamp duration.

  • Baggage Claim:

    Collect luggage from the carousel.

  • Customs:

    Proceed through customs, declaring as needed.

Orientation & Connectivity

  • Taxi Transfer:

    Take a licensed taxi from the airport.

  • Neighborhood Walk:

    Familiarize with immediate surroundings.

  • Local Services:

    Locate ATM, pharmacy, and grocery store.

Getting Around & Cash

Cuenca Airport CUE

Use a licensed yellow taxi.

Fares are fixed and inexpensive to city center.

From the Bus Terminal

Use a licensed yellow taxi from the official stand.

Quick access to your lodging.

USD Currency Note

No exchange needed, Ecuador uses USD.

Focus on small bills for immediate use.

Travel Details

Check flight status, carry essentials, and inform contacts.

Departure Planning

Plan for your departure to avoid last-minute stress.

Shopping & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance.
  • If shipping items, factor in time for customs.
  • Keep receipts for valuable items.
  • Understand postal or courier services.

Departure Timing

  • Domestic Flights (CUE): 1.5-2 hours before.
  • Long-distance Buses: 30-45 minutes before.
  • International Flights (UIO/GYE): 3 hours before.
  • Account for security and check-in procedures.

Return Trip Preparation

Essential steps for your journey home.

Flight & Documents

  • Reconfirm international flightsConfirmed
  • Passport accessibleReady
  • Boarding passes at handReady
  • Liquids in checked luggagePacked

Final Home Prep

  • Secure your home by locking all points.
  • Suspend mail or arrange collection.
  • Arrange for lawn care or plant watering.
  • Pay any upcoming bills.

Departure Advisory

Ensure all documents are ready for your smooth departure.

Confirm flight status before heading to the airport.