ROUND TRIP GALAPAGOS AIRLINE TICKET Flights are automatically reserved when you book a cruise. There are three daily flights (two on Tame and one on Aerogal) to and from the Galapagos Islands, routed: Quito – Guayaquil – Galapagos – Guayaquil – Quito. Therefore, one can depart from either Quito or Guayaquil and then return to either Guayaquil or …
The Ecuadorian Ministry of Public Health confirmed the first mortality due to a recent dengue outbreak in the southern province of Guayas (located on the southern Pacific coast of Ecuador, and where the largest city – Guayaquil – is located). The Health Minister confirmed the death of a 12-year-old girl. The culprit is the Aedes …
December 19th, 2011 Latest news update … Official information coming from the two major airlines operating Galapagos Islands flights (i.e., TAME and AEROGAL) in regards to flight rate increases from January 1st, 2012: AEROGAL states the following … USD $50 per person per way (e.g. Quito-Galapagos or Galapagos-Quito) for flights to/from Quito for Baltra & …
A recent outbreak of Measles adds to the recent rabies problem that afflicts the Achuar communities. A major outbreak of measles in Kapawi, province of Pastaza, forced authorities to declare a quarantine in the community living around 300 indigenous Achuar. In addition to the tragic deaths of 12 people from rabies (apparently caused by bat bites) in three specific Achuar communities, this new outbreak has local inhabitants most concerned. Health authorities have put into …
The New7Wonders organization is promoting a contest for all to choose a list of Seven Wonderful Cities around the World. This institution has organized competitions wonders in other categories, such as new natural wonders, which includes the Ecuadorian Amazon. The Twitter account Quito Turismo (@quitoturismo) is asking people to support the city of Quito to …
Flights are automatically reserved when you book a cruise. There are three daily flights (two on Tame and one on Aerogal) to and from the Galapagos Islands, routed: Quito – Guayaquil – Galapagos – Guayaquil – Quito. Therefore, one can depart from either Quito or Guayaquil and then return to either Guayaquil or Quito. Flight spaces are guaranteed by the respective yacht for cruise dates only. If you prefer to fly out to Galapagos prior to the cruise and/or extend your time in Galapagos after the cruise, this depends on publically available flight spaces for these non-cruise dates.
The rates for return flights to the Galapagos Islands vary according to the routing, the time of year and the specific airline (LAN, Aerogal or Tame).
OFFICIAL AIRLINE FLIGHT RATES [updated February 16th 2012]
NOTE: INDICATED RATES DO NOT INCLUDE THE U.S.D. $10 ISSUE FEE PER TICKET
The Ecuadorian Ministry of Public Health confirmed the first mortality due to a recent dengue outbreak in the southern province of Guayas (located on the southern Pacific coast of Ecuador, and where the largest city – Guayaquil – is located). The Health Minister confirmed the death of a 12-year-old girl.
The culprit is the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
The Health Minister also informed the public that a campaign to control the dengue outbreak is in the works, and asked the public to also do their part to control the spread (e.g., cover water containers etc).
The last large dengue outbreak in Ecuador occurred in 2010, when 4,000 people where infected and a total of 4 deaths.
At the time of this publication, a total of 100 cases have been confirmed.
Jan.31 2012 – A total of 480 cases have been confirmed, with one mortality.
Feb.16 2012 – A total of 1,474 cases of dengue have been confirmed in Ecuador, in the following provinces:
Official information coming from the two major airlines operating Galapagos Islands flights (i.e., TAME and AEROGAL) in regards to flight rate increases from January 1st, 2012:
AEROGAL states the following …
USD $50 per person per way (e.g. Quito-Galapagos or Galapagos-Quito) for flights to/from Quito for Baltra & San Cristobal
USD $50 per person per way (e.g. Guayaquil-Galapagos or Galapagos-Guayaquil) for flights to/from Guayaquil for Baltra & San Cristobal
TAME states the following …
USD $70 per person per way (e.g. Quito-Galapagos or Galapagos-Quito) for flights to/from Quito for Baltra & San Cristobal
USD $60 per person per way (e.g. Guayaquil-Galapagos or Galapagos-Guayaquil) for flights to/from Guayaquil for Baltra & San Cristobal
As of January 1st, 2012 the fuel subsidies for airlines will eliminated, even though the various domestic airline companies have been trying to negote with the government for a gradual elimination of the fuel subsidies. The announcement was made on Saturday, November 26th by President Rafael Correa in his traditional weekend national public radio broadcast.
President Rafael Correa explained that the fuel subsidy incentive will remain for those cargo and passenger airports that are managed by the State/Government. The direct provision of aviation fuel will only apply to aircraft refuling in Latacunga (Cotopaxi), Esmeraldas, Santa Rosa (El Oro), Tena(Napo), Salinas (Santa Elena), among others, with a 40% discount (or subsidy). The state owned Petrocomercial is responsible for these refuelings.
The objective of this strategy is apparently to help invest in the development of these locations. According to Coordinating Minister for Production, Santiago Leon, the State no longer received approximately USD $ 90 million this year for these subsidies. ”It is true that many Ecuadorians travel, but the percentage level is not the majority,” he said after acknowledging that the price of airfare will increase.
According to the Government, the increase of air travel should not exceed 15%. ”He who has to pay USD $160 can expect to pay USD $200,” Correa said.
Marco Subia, the President of the Association of Airline Representatives of Ecuador (Arlae), said that he does not know yet the exact mechanism by which the fuel subsidies will be eliminated. He further stated that this would be a “fatal blow” to the airlines who will be forced ti increase the cost of airline tickets to cover this increased cost of fuel.
A recent outbreak of Measles adds to the recent rabies problem that afflicts the Achuar communities.
A major outbreak of measles in Kapawi, province of Pastaza, forced authorities to declare a quarantine in the community living around 300 indigenous Achuar.
In addition to the tragic deaths of 12 people from rabies (apparently caused by bat bites) in three specific Achuar communities, this new outbreak has local inhabitants most concerned. Health authorities have put into place the quarantine of the community, which is to last 10 days (the time it takes to transmit the disease).
This measure of isolation was taken after there were six cases of Measles infection, of which two are adults and four are children. According to the local news source Televistazo is it known that two of the infected children were in another community, so there is concern that the disease can affect other areas.
Health brigades depart daily to different communities, in order to vaccinate the entire surrounding population. The complex jungle setting, with no land routes of communication, combined with a dispersed population, increases the possibility that the disease could spread uncontrollably.
We have contacted Kapawi Lodge who informed us that operations at the lodge are running smoothly and everything normal – no changes in terms of tourism operations. All staff have been vaccinated.
The New7Wonders organization is promoting a contest for all to choose a list of Seven Wonderful Cities around the World. This institution has organized competitions wonders in other categories, such as new natural wonders, which includes the Ecuadorian Amazon.
The Twitter account Quito Turismo (@quitoturismo) is asking people to support the city of Quito to be chosen within this list, because if this city is selected, it will strengthen Quito as an International tourist destination.
Photo from http://www.noticiasquito.gob.ec
Quito Turismo provides several legitimate reasons for choosing Quito on this list, including the fact that the city was the First Cultural Patrimony of the Humanity declared by UNESCO and because today is a city full of art, culture and history, which combines the modern, colonial and natural warmth of its people.
Anyone can support getting Quito on the the list of great cities. The steps are simple:
Ecuador is not only home to the world’s highest active volcano (Cotopaxi), but to numerous other active and extinct volcanoes. In fact, Ecuador has one of the world’s highest densities of volcanoes in one given country. There are 30 volcanoes on mainland Ecuador and some 14 in the Galapagos Islands.
Follow the evacuation order issued by authorities and evacuate immediately from the volcano area to avoid flying debris, hot gases, lateral blast, and lava flow.
Be aware of mudflows. The danger from a mudflow increases near stream channels and with prolonged heavy rains. Mudflows can move faster than you can walk or run. Look upstream before crossing a bridge, and do not cross the bridge if a mudflow is approaching.
Avoid river valleys and low-lying areas.
Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance – infants, elderly people, and people with disabilities.
Watch for falling ash…
If you have a respiratory ailment, avoid contact with any amount of ash.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
Use goggles and wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses.
Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face to help with breathing.
Stay away from areas downwind from the volcano to avoid volcanic ash.
Stay indoors until the ash has settled unless there is a danger of the roof collapsing.
Close doors, windows, and all ventilation in the house (chimney vents, furnaces, air conditioners, fans, and other vents). Place towels under doors and in other gaps.
Avoid running car or truck engines. Driving can stir up volcanic ash that can clog engines, damage moving parts, and stall vehicles
Avoid using electronic devices where there is still airborne ash, as it can short circuit electronics.
Once airborne ash has completely cleared, ash should be vacuumed, not wiped, to prevent scratching on surfaces like porcelain, enamel, glass, painted surfaces and appliances. A damp cloth may be used after initial vacuuming.
Change vacuum filters frequently, and be careful your vacuum is not redistributing ash through the air discharge.
Clothing exposed to ash should be shaken out and put through a rinse and pre-soak cycle before machine washing. Use extra detergent. Laundry additives can help adjust the pH level and make detergents more effective.
There have been 16 major eruptions in the past 100 years, occurred as follows:
TUNGURAHUA (mainland Ecuador) – currently in activity
FERNANDINA (Galapagos Islands) in 2009
CERRO AZUL (Galapagos Islands) in 2008
REVENTADOR (mainland Ecuador) in 2007
SANGAY (mainland Ecuador) in 2007
SIERRA NEGRA (Galapagos Islands) in 2005
GUAGUA PICHINCHA (mainland Ecuador) in 2004
GALAPAGOS RIFT (Galapagos Islands) in 1996
ALCEDO (Galapagos Islands) in 1993
MARCHENA ISLAND (Galapagos Islands) in 1991
WOLF (Galapagos Islands) in 1982
COTOPAXI (mainland Ecuador) in 1940
CHILES (mainland Ecuador) in 1936
SUMACO (mainland Ecuador) in 1933
PINTA ISLAND (Galapagos Islands) in 1928
SANTIAGO ISLAND (Galapagos Islands) in 1906
Although several volcanoes have figured in the news over the past decade for their explosions and eruptions of ash or lava (including Reventador, Pichincha etc), the Tungurahua volcano seems to get the most coverage for its continuous activity.
REUTERS/Carlos Campana
RECENT CHRONOLOGY ….
After almost 6 months of relevate calm, Mount Tungurahua seems to be reawaking in the first days of 2010.
DEC.30 2009 – long-period earthquake followed by fumarolic activity with a steam plume reaching 300 metres above the crater.
JAN.01 2010 – beginning of emissions with low ash content, accompanied by rumbles that have gradually increased their intensity.
JAN.03 2010 – crater glow visible, lava fountaining begins, with the projection of incandescent material onto the upper slopes and intense rumbling sounds
JAN.04 2010 – increased ash emissions with eruption columns reaching as high as 2 km above the crater, ash fall reported to the west.
(Photo by Cecilia Puebla/AFP/Getty Images)
COTALO, ECUADOR – The Tungurahua volcano spews ashes and lava on January 11, 2010, in Cotalo, Ecuador, 135km south of Quito.
MAY.31 2010 – explosion (see photo series below)
Tungurahua volcano eruption process last night (May 31). Photo credits: Armando Prado/El Comercio
NOV.22 2010 – A sudden eruption of the Tungurahua volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes sent a column of ash more than 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) into the sky.
DEC.02 2010 – Volcanic activity has been reported in the Tungurahua (Throat of Fire) volcano in Ecuador, the second case sighted in the past few weeks. The volcano spewed molten rocks and large clouds of gas and ash near Banos, south of Quito, Reuters reported on Tuesday. The Tungurahua’s volcanic activity follows last month’s eruption, when a column of gas shot up seven kilometers into the sky. No casualties have been recorded so far, but flight re-direction is being considered. Tungurahua is located approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Ecuador’s capital, Quito.
Tungurahua explosion April 2011
APR.27 2011 - A significant explosive eruption occurred, prompting evacuations near the volcano. The volcano produced a 7 km / 23,000 foot ash plume. The last report from Instituto Geofisico in Ecuador from January 2011 reported ”activity at Tungurahua continued to decrease and ash was absent from plumes.” Hugo Yepes, a geologist from the IG, was quoted as saying (Spanish) this eruption was one of the largest at the volcano in the past 11 years and that the IG expects that this eruption might gone on for “several days”. The Ecuadoran government placed the volcano on Orange Alert status, meaning mandatory evacuations for a number of villages near Tungurahua.
Tungurahua volcano spewing ash on April 27th 2011
Pyroclastic activity - April 28, 2011
Tungurahua April 28, 2011 / Photo via @nathalytoledo
APR.29 2011 – Apparently the current situation is complicated. One reason is the accumulation of volcanic material in the internal crater. The other reason is due to a possible collapse of one of the superior crater edges. Last night there was significant volcanic activity involving multiple pyroclastic explosions, with rocks and lava thrown out of the crater mouth. Reports of volcanic ash falling directing in Banos.
Tungurahua on April 28th, 2011
According to the Geophysical Institute report, at approximately 17h00 on April 28th there were two small blocks of accumulated material that collapsed in the crater border area. This material descended about 1km down the north & north-west flanks of the volcano.
Tungurahua (via El Comercio) on April 29, 2011
13h00 The province of Los Rios (to the west of the volcano) is starting to feel the effects of Tungurahua’s volcanic activity. A moderate quantity of ash is starting to fall throughout the province.
The National Geophysical Institute report (in Spanish) classifies the activity level as “moderate to high” with ash reaching 2km high. At 01h00 this morning there was a tremor and at 04h00 activity reached it peak, throwing pyroclastic material up to 1200 m below the crater level. The smallest ‘blocks’ are the size of a car while the largest are the size of trucks, which impacted the flanks of the mountain causing craters up to 10m in width. (original Spanish source)
Tungurahua spitting out cars & trucks
The National Geophysical Institute (IG) is not eliminating the possibility of a “major explosion” from the Tungurahua volcano, which is maintaining a constant emission of ash and magma. This morning they detected an increase in the internal vibration of the volcano. (Orginal Spanish source ‘La Hora’)
APRIL 30, 2011 – Tourism in Banos is reported to have dropped in contrast to other weekends. Traditional vendors of sugar cane (juice) & melcocha (a bit like taffy) prefer to close their operations due to the lack of tourists and the significant amount of ash in the air. The presence of bathers in the thermal baths are almost nill. (Spanish source ‘El Universo‘)
Absence of tourist in 'El Salado' thermal bath in Banos (via El Universo)
MAY 1, 2011 – Local news reports focus mainly on the heavy volcanic ash falling in surrounding area, including Latacunga, Salcedo, Saquisili, Ambato and Banos.
Current course of volcanic ash
MAY 2, 2011 – IG (Instituto Geofisico) reports that in the past 24 hours no new explosions have been registered. However, the volcano is continuously spewing out a column of gas with high percentages of volcanic ash up to 4 km high. According to experts, the activity at the moment is moderately high with a constant expulsion of ash. In addition, due to climatic reasons, an observation of the crater is not possible due to the cloudy weather.
In the meantime, people in Riobamba are coping with the ash falling in the city.
Most recent video footage (comentary in Spanish) of Tungurahua eruption in April 2011
Cleaning up the ash / Photo by LA PRENSA/AP/ Dolores Ochoa
MAY 3, 2011 – Volcani ash causing problems for local communities, including direct effects on human health, water quality, crops & livestock. The government authorities are handing out aprox. 50,000 face masks to inhabitants of the area, while aid and assistance is apparently being provided in terms of food & water rations for inhabitants and their livestock. In addition, reports indicate that about 470 families in high risk zones in the province of Chimborazo and Tungurahua have moved to temporary refuge.
IG (Instituto Geofísico), in their latest report [link to Spanish report] indicate that the intensity has diminished moderately, but ash emission usually last several hours at a time. Satellite imagery seems to indicate that the ash is reaching the Pacific coastal city of Manta. In addition, monitoring equipment seem to indicate a build up of pressure inside the volcano. Calculations of accumulated ash fall in regions near Tungurahua indicate that between 1.6 and 3 million cubic meters have fallen with an average accumulated thickness of 15.5 mm.
MAY 4 2011 – NASA has published two satellite images of the ongoing eruption of Tungurahua, clearly showing the extent of the ash plume [original article here] – taken on April 30, 2011.
NASA natural-color satellite image
NASA natural-color satellite image of Tungurahua Ash Plume
Local reports of ash falling in Guayaquil and toward the Amazon rain forest (at least Pastaza). The last time the volcano was about the same as current activity levels was in 1999.
Tungurahua on May 16 2011 (Photo by Wilson Pinto)
MAY 18, 2011 – After almost 15 days of relative calm, the Tungurahua volcano returned to activity on Monday (May 16) around 22h30. Ash, sulfur and pyroclastic material were observed. Current wind directions (north & northeast) carried ash to Rio Verde.
Tungurahua activity on May 16, 2011 (Photo La Hora)
NOVEMBER 28th, 2011: An eruptive reactivation has forced local authorities to increase the alert level back to orange for the affected areas surrounding the volcano. The Geological Institute stated that they registered a quick process of eruptions followed by explosions, pyroclastic flow and the emmission of lava & ash on Sunday evening and during the night.
Photo credit: Carlos Campaña/EL COMERCIO
The Geological Institute characterize the volcano as currently in a constant state of eruptive activity accompanied by seismic activity at a “high level”.
09h00 Three small pyroclastic lava flows observed on the south flank of the volcano. A column of volcanic ash reaching approximately 3km high and travelling in variable directions (north-east, south-east and east).
13h48 Ash falling in surrounding areas, including Manzano, Bilbao, Cusúa, Pillate, Cotaló. Sporadic but intense explosions occurring (heard in Ventanas and Cusúa).
Photo credit: Glenda Giacomettti/ EL COMERCIO
15h50 Emergency Message from the U.S Embassy (Quito, Ecuador)
Volcano Tungurahua Erupts, Caution Advised when Traveling in the Area
November 28, 2011
The U.S. Embassy in Quito advises U.S. citizens living or traveling in Ecuador that the Tungurahua volcano, located near the tourist community of Baños in central Ecuador, had an eruption on Sunday, November 27, and remains in a state of heightened activity. Ecuador’s Geophysical Institute reports that the volcano continues to discharge lava and boulders up to a kilometer down from the crater, ash has reached three kilometers in altitude, and there have been numerous small earthquakes in the area. Residents in the immediate area around the volcano are on voluntary evacuation and authorities have closed the Baños-to-Penipe road as a precaution.
Due to the heightened risk, the Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to consider limiting travel to the area until the volcanic activity diminishes. If you travel to the area around Tungurahua and the town of Baños, familiarize yourself with evacuation plans, monitor news outlets, use good judgment, and take all appropriate safety measures as volcanic conditions can change rapidly.
Past eruptions have affected air travel in Ecuador. U.S. citizens planning to fly to, from, or within Ecuador should monitor news outlets and have a plan in the event of flight cancellations.
Because Ecuador is in a region of frequent volcano eruptions and earthquakes, U.S. citizens residing in Ecuador should keep extra food and water at home, and consider purchasing dust masks and heavy gloves to protect hands during ash clean-up.
For more information on current activity, visit the website of the Geophysical Institute <http://www.igepn.edu.ec/> which monitors volcanoes and earthquakes
Photo credit: EFE
Photo credit: EFE
November 29th, 2011 After four months of relative calm, Tungurahua volcano started another eruptive cycle on Sunday, November 27th. Local farmers are once again worried about the consequences in the surrounding areas of the province of Tungurahua and Chimborazo.
The tourist town of Banos maintains a yellow alert status (for the moment) and normal activities continue.
Last night, incandescent material – being thrown some 300 m above the crater border – was observed coming out from the sides of the “colossus” (Tungurahua volcano). Clear weather conditions allowed for the observation of the “continuous flow of lava,” said the Geophysical Institute in its latest report.
Tungurahua ash & lava explosions during the night of November 28th, 2011. (Photo credit: Glenda Giacometti / EL COMERCIO)
This morning the IG (Instituto Geofisico) informed of an ash emission column up to 4 km in height, blowing in a westerly direction.
Tungurahua (top right) with Banos (left) / Photo source: www.larepublica.ec
To give readers a visual notion of the relative location of the tourist town of Banos relative to the Tungurahua volcano. Note: You cannot see the volcano while directly in Banos (as it sits too low down) … you have to go towards Amabato (northeast) or towards Rio Verde (due east) to see the crater.
Banos location relative to Tungurahua volcano (Photo credit: http://gerdbreitenbach.de)
15h00 The IG (Instituto Geofisico) reports a 4km high ash column in their latest report. Meanwhile, rocks and pyroclastic flows have descended 1000 m from the summit. Until now (15hoo) the IG has registered 10 explosions of varying magnitude. At 06h11 today there was an explosion that produced a 500-meter pyroclastic flow on then north-west flank. At 09h55 another western flank lava flow of up to 1 km was reported.
23h59 Continual activity, with lava flows reported some 400 and 500 meters from the crater mouth. Constant changing wind directions is carrying ash in various directions, with reports of light ash fall in Riobamba.
November 30th, 2011 Volcanic activity remains constant and at high levels, including steam and vapor emissions, lava flows and ash columns between 2 to 3 km in height. Strong northerly and northwesterly winds have carried volcanic ash to Banos and Rio Verde. Seismic activity today saw a slight decreased in intensity.
December 2nd, 2011 According IG (Geophysical Institute of Ecuador) last night they registered a marked increase volcanic activity – in contrast to the past couple of days (which have seen relative calm). Due to poor visibility no recent visual observations have been made, but numerous explosions have been heard (up to 1 km range) and registered.
Approximately 03h00 local time today an increase in seismic tremors have been registered in conjunction with frequent and moderately strong explosions. Several reports from Banos have come in of windows shaking. Late this morning a column of moderate ash was observed up to 1.5 km in height and travelling in an easterly direction.
Initiating December 1st, 2011 Aerogal airline will start operating flights to both Coca and Lago Agrio from Quito. These new routes will be operated by their Airbus 319 (with capacity for 120 passengers).
According to the airline, these will be the schedules:
QUITO – LAGO AGRIO – QUITO
Route: QUITO- LAGO AGRIO
Flt. No.: 2K50
Day(s): Monday to Friday
Departure from QUITO: 06h30
Arrival in LAGO AGRIO: 07h05
Route: LAGO AGRIO – QUITO
Flt. No.: 2K51
Day(s): Monday to Friday
Departure from LAGO AGRIO: 07h50
Arrival in QUITO: 08h25
QUITO – COCA – QUITO
Route: QUITO- COCA
Flt. No.: 2K56
Day(s): Monday to Thursday
Departure from QUITO: 09h10
Arrival in COCA: 09h45
Route: QUITO- COCA
Flt. No.: 2K58
Day(s): Friday
Departure from QUITO: 16h00
Arrival in COCA: 16h35
Route: COCA – QUITO
Flt. No.: 2K57
Day(s): Monday to Thursday
Departure from COCA: 11h15
Arrival in QUITO: 11h50
Route: COCA – QUITO
Flt. No.: 2K59
Day(s): Friday
Departure from COCA: 17h20
Arrival in QUITO: 17h55
A Nationwide Measles (or sarampión in Spanish) vaccination campaign starts in its first phase with children from 6 months to 4 years of age. Confirmed cases to date are holding at 102, according to the Ecuadorian Health Authorities.
October 19, 2011 UPDATE
102 cases of Measles reported: Tungurahua province with the majority of cases (95), 5 cases in Pichincha province, 1 in Guayas province and 1 in Cotopaxi province.
October 17, 2011 UPDATE
99 confirmed cases have been detected, according to the Ministerio de Salud (Health Ministery). The majority come from the province of Tungurahua (93 cases), five in Quito, and one in the port city of Guayaquil.
October 13, 2011 UPDATE
There are currently NO REQUIREMENTS or obligations for people traveling to/from Ecuador in regards to the Measles vaccination. Local news sources have rectified an error from yesterday claiming that it was a requirement, when in fact it is only a RECOMMENDATION.
As you can see, we keep our news bulletins accurate!
October 12, 2011 UPDATE
89 confirmed cases: 4 in Quito, 1 in Guayaquil and the rest in Tungurahua province. Measles vaccination is NOT currently required to travel to/from Ecuador, as confirmed by local authorities.
Note: This will be updated if/when there are changes.
October 10, 2011 UPDATE
86 confirmed cases exist, according to the Ecuadorian Ministery of Health. 83 are in the province of Tungurahua and 3 in Quito (Pichincha province).
The Minister commented that as Ecuador is an Executive Committee member of the World Health Organization (WHO) it will present a motion in November to return to obligatory vaccinations against measles for tourist (currently it is only a recommendation).
October 7, 2011 UPDATE
73 cases of measles have been confirmed in Ecuador. 250,000 vaccinations have arrived from Panama, informed the Ministery of Health. According to local health authorities the virus in concentrated in the following provinces: Tungurahua with 72 cases and Pichincha (specifically Quito) with one case.
Local health authorities are concentrating on a vaccination campaign for children under 5 years of age (most vulnerable to the virus), and latterly for other age ranges.
Recommendations: We highly recommend considering getting vaccinated against Measles.
October 5, 2011: Confirmed cases of measles have put the local health authorities of the Central Sierra on alert. 28 confirmed cases have been reported in Ambato, while another 80 cases are being investigated in Latacunga and Riobamaba.
Ecuador has not had a registered case of measles since 1997. Ecuador apparently is not the only Latin American country with recent reported cases. Since 2010, several neighboring countries have issued alerts. In August 2010 two cases were reported in Buenos Aires (Argentina) and in September seven cases in Baranquilla (Colombia)
According to WHO (World Health Organization) Measles(also known as rubeola or morbilli) is a highly contagious viral disease, which affects mostly children. It is transmitted via droplets from the nose, mouth or throat of infected persons.
Initial symptoms, which usually appear 10–12 days after infection, include high fever, runny nose, bloodshot eyes, and tiny white spots on the inside of the mouth. Several days later, a rash develops, starting on the face and upper neck and gradually spreading downwards.
There is no specific treatment for measles and most people recover within 2–3 weeks. However, particularly in malnourished children and people with reduced immunity, measles can cause serious complications, including blindness, encephalitis, severe diarrhoea, ear infection and pneumonia. Measles can be prevented by immunization.
“Colombian environmental authorities have reported a huge shark massacre in the Malpelo wildlife sanctuary in Colombia’s Pacific waters, where as many as 2,000 hammerhead, Galápagos and whale sharks may have been slaughtered for their fins”.
Although this incident occurred in Colombian waters, the consequential effects are felt around the world, and in the Galapagos Islands in particular.
WHERE DOES THIS TYPE OF ACTIVITY OCCUR
Almost anywhere really, but more frequently in waters that have a high concentration of sharks. In addition, this activity seems more prolific in waters that are remote and have little (if any) authorities patrolling and monitoring.
Galapagos Islands Marine Reserve Region
In terms of the Galapagos, the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR) is actually extremely large. Established in 1986 by the government of Ecuador, La Reserva Marina de Galapagos (RMG) is apparently the second largest marine reseve in the world (the largest is the Great Barrier Reef). The area between the islands of the Marine Reserve is 133,000 square kilometers of sea surface. It includes the inland waters of the Islands (50,100 km²) and the entire area within 40 nautical miles measured from the coasts of the outer Islands.
THE MOTIVATION BEHIND THIS ACTIVITY
Money! The shark fins are the only parts that are apparently commercial – the rest of the shark is thrown back into the seas. Apparent shark fin soup is a delicacy in Chinese cuisine and can fetch approximately USD $100 per bowl in a Hong Kong restaurant.
Below are some NGOs that are worth visiting and supporting ….
WildAid operates a field program in the Galapagos Islands, protecting the Galápagos Marine Reserve, apprehending poachers and smugglers and creating economic alternatives to local communities. In addition to this, WildAid’s unique Active Conservation Awareness Program (ACAP) is designed to drastically reduce the demand for wildlife parts and products – namely in key places such as China and India. WildAid works with media, governments, celebrities and local partners and communities worldwide to make wildlife conservation a global priority.
Mission: to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth.
Working with our partners and generous donor support, we are intensely committed to ensuring that our vision for the Galápagos becomes a reality. Our goal is to maintain a marine environment that supports its diverse and abundant native species, along with the people who depend upon it for their livelihoods. On land, we will work to prevent extinctions while maintaining the uninhabited islands in near pristine condition.
To achieve our goal, we have focused on the four areas that offer the greatest opportunity to solve the challenges facing these islands: sustainable tourism, innovative fisheries management, improved waste management, and support for the Galápagos National Park Service that builds their management and enforcement capacity in the marine reserve.
Mission: long-term protection of the Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos Islands. This single focus allows us to maximize the impact of the financial investments of our members, who include individuals and institutions that care deeply about the Galapagos Islands and understand the scientific importance of preserving this extraordinary ecosystem.
Collectively, our members represent the largest source of private funding for Galapagos conservation. Our direct support to on-the-ground research and management has more than doubled since 2004. We are committed to strengthening local institutions and to creating local capacity to ensure long-term protection of the archipelago.
We leverage our resources by working in close partnership with many allies, the most central to our work being the Charles Darwin Foundation and the Galapagos National Park. We are fortunate to collaborate with scientists from many U.S. universities, international non-governmental organizations, and a multitude of other institutions that are committed to Galapagos conservation.
Mission: a direct action conservation organization to protect marine animals and ecosystems.
Since 2000, Sea Shepherd has maintained a strong, positive presence in the Galapagos Islands. From patroling the Marine Reserve stopping illegal fishing activities, to busting shark finners, to educating the local youth, Sea Shepherd carries out its mission of promoting ocean conservation using a wide range of methods and actions.
The Galapagos is our line in the sand. If humanity cannot protect such a unique and diverse ecosystem, we will not be able to protect any ecosystem. The Galapagos is a challenge and battlefield for the effort to halt human greed and destruction. These Enchanted Isles are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and this means all of us have a responsibility to help protect them from illegal exploitation.
Mission: to provide knowledge and assistance through scientific research and complementary action to ensure the conservation of the environment and biodiversity in the Galapagos Archipelago.
With the help of the IUCN, UNESCO, and conservationists worldwide, Charles Darwin Foundation was founded under Belgian Law in 1959. Since then, CDF has been instrumental in stabilizing the ecosystem and preserving the natural wonders the islands offer.
A timeline of the CDF’s last 50 years
1959 - CDF created and Galapagos National Park established
1964 - CDRS established in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Internationally-recognized herbarium established, containing the largest Galapagos plant collection in the world
1965 - Giant Tortoise repatriation program initiated
1966 - First conservation education programs commence in the Galapagos Islands
1968 -Galapagos National Park (GNP) begins operations
1971 - Last known surviving Pinta Island giant tortoise (Lonesome George) found
1972 -Scholarship training program initiated for Ecuadorian students
1976 -Land iguana population restoration program initiated
1978 -Galapagos Islands named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO
1984 -Galapagos National Park recognized as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO
1995 - Daisy tree Scalesia atractyloides, thought to be extinct, rediscovered on Santiago island
1997 - Rediscovery of Floreana flax Linum cratericola, previously thought to be extinct
1997 - Rediscovery of Floreana flax Linum cratericola, previously thought to be extinct
1998 - Special Law for Galapagos creates the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR); contributions from CDF are crucial in ensuring that Galapagos’ needs for sustainable local development and environmental education are met under the new law. GNP and CDF begin Project Isabela – the world’s largest eradication and restoration program – to restore Santiago, Pinta and northern Isabela Islands. CDF and the Galapagos Conservation Fund (Lindblad Expeditions) begin the Fondos para Accion Local de Conservacion, (FALC) project, which will ultimately provide seed funding for 95 conservation community programs and sustainable businesses. CDF establishes Environmental Education Centers on Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, and Isabela, providing learning resources for all ages
1999 - Sultán Qabús Prize for Environmental Preservation awarded to CDF by UNESCO
2000 -Terrestrial Invertebrates Database and Collection established. Galapagos Inspection and Quarantine Program initiated, after major contribution from CDF, to prevent introduced species from reaching the islands
2001 - World Heritage Site extended to include the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR). J. Paul Getty Wildlife Conservation Prize awarded to CDF in recognition of its contributions to conservation. IUCN adds the entire endemic flora of Galapagos to the Red List of Endangered and Threatened Species and creates a Galapagos Plant Specialist Group. Oil tanker Jessica spills and CDF responds quickly with staff assistance and ecosystem monitoring
2002 - Society for Conservation Biology Award for Distinguished Achievement awarded to CDF for distinguished service in the field of conservation biology. International Cosmos Prize awarded to the CDRS by Japan
2003 - Baseline Study of the Marine Reserve published. Baseline Study of Plant Research published. Government of Ecuador enacts the Law for Total Control of Introduced Species in Galapagos.
2004 - BBVA Foundation Prize awarded to CDF in Spain. Commander of the National Order of Honorato Vásquez bestowed on CDF by the Government of Ecuador. Punto Azul Award from the Colegio Nacional de Galápagos
2005 - Galapagos marine reserve recognized as a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area by the International Maritime Organization.
2007 - Galapagos declared “at risk” by President Rafael Correa of Ecuador, emphasizing its conservation as a critical priority for the country. Galapagos Islands added to the list of World Heritage Sites in danger. CDF releases “Galapagos at Risk” report, effectively analyzing damaging socio-economic trends in the archipelago
2009 - CDF celebrates the 50th anniversary of its founding, alongside the 150th anniversary of the publication of Darwin’s On the Origin of Species and the bicentenary of Darwin’s birth.
The company Jeriko Arquitectos & Asociados initiated the removal of 78 wrecks and half-submerged maritime vessels in the sea ports of the Ecuadorian coast.
The investment made by Jeriko Arquitectos & Asociados is apparently USD $ 70 000 per boat which will be recovered through the sale of recovered scrap. The company estimates that more than 500 tons of iron will be removed from the sea bed.
Hernan Contreras, CEO of Jeriko, stated that they have reports with satellite photos of the location of vessels 32, 26 and up to 4.2 meters long and 9 to 2 meters wide, which sunk for different circumstances.
78 Sunken Ships in Ecuador
The studies cover the Ecuadorian coast and have located a total of 78 sunken ships around the country: 30 in Galapagos, 27 in Manta, 13 in Esmeraldas, 4 in Guayas, 2 in Bahia de Caraquez and 2 in Salinas.
The ships are not visible at high tide which has caused dozens of boats aground in these dangerous places, destroying the ships hull and causing extensive damage to the engines. Most boats are located within a mile of coastline.
The port authorities will be responsible for monitoring that the company has all the permits and the realization of the work does not cause difficulties in the development of maritime activities.
The work began in the port of Manta, where teams of internationally-accredited divers and technicians work 10 hours a day. For refloating of ships, technicians use inflatable buoys and tanks. The remains of the ships will be transferred to shipyards of Manta..
After the completion of work in Manta, the team will continue in the provinces of Esmeraldas and the Galapagos.
In addition to the tragic deaths of 12 people from rabies (apparently caused by bat bites) in three specific Achuar communities, this new outbreak has local inhabitants most concerned. Health authorities have put into place the quarantine of the community, which is to last 10 days (the time it takes to transmit the disease).
