Options
Walker on Galapagos?
Is it possible to do any of the tours with a walker?
Thanks... Betz
Thanks... Betz
0
Comments
Consider how you will get in and out of the panga, the rubber dinghy, you have to be fairly agile. You have to keep up with the group on the walks, you will be landing onto beaches,one steep rock staircase and at least one island that is sharp volcanic lava rock. Without stepping onto the islands you will miss seeing most of the unique wildlife.if in doubt, talk to Tauck rep, explaining evactly the extent of your immobilties for a true clarification of your suitability for joining this tour.
A few years ago a solo traveler who used a walker was on our "Hidden Gems of New England" tour. Walking was over mostly flat, level terrain but with some steps and stairs. It was difficult, and the person was only able to negotiate certain parts of the trip without a walker, but did not get the full enjoyment from the trip. It was also a distraction to the tour director, bus driver, and co-travellers who went above and beyond to assist.
The webpage for this tour has a section called 'Before You Go' It states in the 'Health and Activity' tab:
To fully enjoy this tour’s itinerary, participants must be in good health. This is a rigorous tour and you need to be in good physical condition with good balance as the terrain varies from sandy beaches to uneven lava and rocks. Proper walking shoes with ankle support are essential. You may want to bring a walking stick – there are a few available on board Isabela II for the Galápagos section of your journey. Walks range from 1 to 2 mi (3 to 6 km) in length and last from 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
All ship-to-shore transfers use Zodiacs or Pangas (capacity 9 to 12 persons). Occasionally you will get wet with spray. Some wet landings require guests to wade through knee-high deep coastal water.
There are three decks on Isabela II; however, there is no elevator.
Tauck is not able to accommodate wheelchairs on this tour. We also regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to guests for walking, dining or other personal needs. Persons needing such assistance must be accompanied by an able companion who will assist them.
Yes, you are correct, but there have been a few comments on the forum from people who have had their tour significantly affected by persons who should have not taken certain tours. Others have not been happy.
We are using another tour company for a trip later in the year and they state very clearly that they have the right to send anyone home who they feel is not fit enough for the tour! We were specifically asked about our physical abilities when we booked. Also have to add that they give much better information on just about everything that people generally ask questions about here. I do think we will still find that Tauck has a superior product, but better information would certainly be appreciated by the newer Tauck customers.
Your Yellowstone experience is right up there with the Napa Valley hot air balloon ride we took a few years ago. Two European ladies showed up for the 5 AM departure in black cocktail dresses and very strappy high-heels! They did manage to climb into the wicker basket, but it was not necessarily a graceful entry!! Perhaps, they focused more on the champagne breakfast part of the day rather than the ride itself!
But back to the question at hand...I cannot imagine anyone with a walker trying to take this trip. Beside being problematic for the TD, panga drivers, other guests, and ship personnel, it could be downright dangerous for the guest. This is an extremely strenuous trip, and there are many nuances in getting about from how one gets into the pangas to negotiating both wet and dry landings! Then there are the various challenges of each stop...lava rocks, steep steps, sand, etc. .
And, BTW, lucky you, British, to be taking this wonderful trip again!! I am envious! And then there is the Tres Leche Cake and the Yucca Rolls on the Isabela !!