Explore the beauty of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands on this 12-day group tour adventure. Beginning and ending in Quito, visit the Incan ruins of Cochasqui, the picturesque Cuicocha Lagoon, vibrant Otavalo Market, and the Mindo Cloud Forest before flying to the Galapagos. Once there explore Santa Cruz, Isabela, and Floreana Island, spotting diverse wildlife and marvelling at the natural beauty of these dreamlike islands.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Quito
Arrive in Quito and transfer to your hotel where a brief overview of the activities planned for the next day will be provided. Spend the rest of the day at leisure in Ecuador's charming capital.
Overnight: Quito
Pre-Incan Ruins & Cuicocha Lagoon
Quito - Cotacachi - Otavalo. After breakfast we head north to Otavalo in the Imbabura province, stopping at historic Cochasqui Pre-Inca remains and a Roses Farm for insights into Ecuadorian rose production. We continue to Otavalo where we check into our hotel and have a brief rest before visiting the charming town of Cotacachi, where the local artisans produce beautiful high quality leather goods. Our final port of call today is Cuicocha Lagoon where we enjoy a scenic hike at the foot of Cotacachi Volcano and admire the beautiful landscape. We then return to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Overnight: Otavalo | Breakfast
Otavalo Indigenous Market
Otavalo - Mindo. Early morning takes us to the famous Otavalo Indigenous Market, which is one of South America's largest traditional markets. Every Saturday, local communities convene to exchange goods, showcasing exquisite handicrafts, textiles, and wood carvings. Explore the lively animal market and visit an Otavalo family's artisanal shop. Later, we head to the scenic Mindo, settling into a charming hotel nestled in the lush green cloud forest.
Overnight: Mindo | Breakfast, Dinner
Mindo Cloud Forest
Mindo - Quito. After breakfast, there's an optional Zipline adventure or you can enjoy a leisurely birdwatching stroll in the enchanting Cloud Forest. We can immerse ourselves in lush green landscapes surrounding the lodge, with rivers, waterfalls, and diverse birdlife. The area also presents opportunities to spot local fauna like spectacled bears, armadillos, and woodpeckers. Return to the lodge for lunch and a rest before we embark on our journey back to Quito. Rest at the hotel, gearing up for the upcoming adventure in the Galapagos Islands.
Overnight: Quito | Breakfast, Lunch
The Galapagos Adventure Begins
Quito - Santa Cruz Island. This morning we transfer to Quito airport for a 3-hour flight to Baltra Island (with a stop in Guayaquil). Upon arrival in Baltra, we meet our Galapagos National Park guide and transfer to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island via a local ferry across the iconic Itabaca Canal.
In the afternoon we drive to the highlands for a hike on a private farm where we can observe Giant Galapagos Tortoises in their natural habitat. The area also offers sightings of Galapagos birds, including the elusive Galapagos rail and possibly the rare Vegetarian Finch and endemic Vermilion Flycatcher finches. We finish the day with a transfer to our hotel in Puerto Ayora.
Overnight: Puerto Ayora – Santa Cruz Island | Breakfast, Lunch
Discovering Santa Cruz Island
Following an early hotel breakfast, we embark on a hike to Tortuga Bay Beach, renowned as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Archipelago. After a 40–60-minute walk, we reach this heavenly spot with soft coral sand and picturesque scenery. The initial beach section has strong waves, making it unsuitable for swimming. However, a 10-minute walk leads to a serene bay. Here, we marvel at a colony of marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and marine birds amidst mangroves, cacti forest, and captivating coastal flora. We enjoy beach time before returning to town via a local ferry at which point we have lunch.
In the afternoon, we walk to the Fausto Llerena Interpretation Center for insights into the Galapagos National Park's work. We observe tortoises of various species and sizes, along with land iguanas. Inside the center, a special air-conditioned chamber houses the embalmed body of the iconic Lonesome George. We explore the small museum at the Charles Darwin Research Station, and savour free time after this enriching experience.
Overnight: Puerto Ayora – Santa Cruz Island | Breakfast
Floreana Island
Santa Cruz Island - Floreana Island. Early this morning we embark on a 2.5-hour journey aboard the first-class Galapagos Element Wind Yacht to Floreana Island's historic Puerto Velasco Ibarra. A local water taxi transports us to the pier, where we hope to encounter sea lions and marine iguanas basking in the morning sun. A brief walk leads to a secluded lodge by the ocean, our overnight stay.
Next, a local "Chiva" transport takes us on a 15-minute ride to Floreana's highlands, where we enjoy a pleasant walk amid the area's typical flora and have encounters with giant Galapagos Tortoises. Continuing our exploration, we reach "Asilo de la Paz" (Peace Asylum), a historic site where the Wittmer family settled in 1932. After a rejuvenating rest, we proceed to a beautiful bay and potentially snorkel with sea lions and marine turtles. The entire area boasts breathtaking beauty. We conclude the day with dinner and a peaceful rest while enjoying the sunset.
Overnight: Puerto Velazco Ibarra - Floreana Island | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Isabela Island & Las Tintoreras
Floreana Island - Isabela Island. After a leisurely breakfast we set sail towards Puerto Villamil, the largest town on Isabela Island. During the 2.5-hour journey, anticipate sightings of marine turtles, manta rays, diverse marine birds, dolphins, and possibly whales. Upon reaching the bay of Puerto Villamil, local transport takes us to our hotel and there's time to relax on the expansive beach.
In the afternoon, around 2 p.m., we join a captivating guided tour to "Las Tintoreras." This picturesque area features colonies of marine iguanas, sea lions, and the highlight—White-tipped sharks, known as "Tintoreras," resting in lava flow-formed channels. The locale is ideal for snorkelling, offering encounters with sea lions, penguins, and marine turtles. We return to the hotel and unwind during the late afternoon.
Overnight: Puerto Villamil – Isabela Island | Breakfast
Exploring Isabela Island
Early this morning we take a 30-minute drive to the highlands of Isabela Island, reaching the National Park's visitor control area. Embark on an easy 1.5 hour walk to the rim of the Sierra Negra Volcano, the world's second-largest crater. This impressive caldera, measuring 5 miles by 7 miles, offers one of the most spectacular views in the Galapagos.
In the afternoon we drive to Isabela's Tortoise Breeding Centre where we encounter Giant Galapagos Tortoises of various species and sizes. We continue on a well-maintained trail to the "Humedales" (Wetlands), showcasing lagoons surrounded by mangroves and local flora. Witness flamingos and migratory birds in the lagoons. Our walk ends at the main road and beach, providing us time to enjoy the surroundings with marine iguanas. We the return to the hotel for free some time before dinner.
Overnight: Puerto Villamil – Isabela Island | Breakfast, Dinner
Isabela to Santa Cruz Island
Isabela Island - Santa Cruz Island. This morning we board our yacht and sail back to Santa Cruz, looking out for dolphins en route. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and venture to the highlands for a visit to a coffee plantation. We enjoy a delightful light lunch and savour some free time before our farewell dinner.
Overnight: Puerto Ayora – Santa Cruz Island | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Quito
Santa Cruz - Baltra - Quito. After breakfast we drive to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, making a stop at the natural formation known as "The Twins" Craters. These are sinkholes, not volcanic craters, formed by the collapse of the volcanic roof of an empty magma chamber due to tectonic shifts and erosion. The area boasts a unique climate, surrounded by scalesia forests and is home to various bird species.
Travelling on to the Itabaca Canal, we cross it and take an airline bus to the airport. We fly back to Quito, where we are welcomed and transferred to our hotel to spend the final night of our tour at leisure.
Overnight: Quito | Breakfast
Quito
After breakfast our Quito tour begins at Independence Square, featuring landmarks like the Presidential Palace, Cathedral, and El Sagrario Church. We explore the Church of La Compania, a baroque masterpiece, and stroll to the Church and Monastery of San Francisco, Ecuador's oldest church with a remarkable baroque altar and a rich collection of art dating back to the 16th century.
Next, we head north to La Mitad del Mundo (The Middle of the World), located 25 kms from Quito. Explore the monument commemorating the equatorial line, where Charles Marie de la Condamine made his 18th-century calculations. Experience standing in both hemispheres simultaneously and visit the trapezoidal building with a viewing platform and a small cultural museum. Return to the hotel for free time to prepare for a late afternoon transfer to the International Mariscal Sucre Airport.
Please note: We can arrange post tour accommodation with transfers on request. Contact us for details.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 6 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to those who don’t have anyone to share a room with or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
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Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Ikala Quito Hotel, Quito
Inspired by the rich history and culture of Ecuador, the Ikala Quito Hotel's 44 rooms are housed in three grand colonial houses which were once home to Ecuadorian aristocracy. Offering a choice of standard rooms or deluxe suites, there's tasteful decor in abundance and artwork painted on canvas or directly onto the walls. Rooms feature ensuite bathrooms and there is free Wi-Fi throughout the property. As well as the onsite restaurant and bar, there are plenty of outdoor areas, including patios, gardens, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views over the city.
Las Palmeras Inn, Otavalo
Nestled in the town of Otavalo, the Las Palmeras Inn embodies the tranquillity and cultural richness of the region. Surrounded by the breathtaking Andes Mountains and just a stone's throw away from the vibrant Otavalo Market, this charming inn offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The inn features a selection of carefully designed rooms, with local artisanal decor, providing a warm and authentic atmosphere. Guests can unwind in cozy rooms equipped with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and an en-suite, ensuring a restful stay. Las Palmeras Inn extends beyond just comfortable lodgings, offering a range of facilities to enhance the guest experience. The on-site restaurant serves delectable local and international cuisine, while the lush garden provides a peaceful retreat, perfect for a slow stroll or a relaxing evening.
Septimo Paraiso Lodge, Mindo
With 23 simple, quaint rooms, Septimo Paraiso is located a short distance from the town of Mindo in a protected cloudforest reserve. The rich and diverse ecosystem of the area lends itself to the wonderful open plan nature of the lodge. Each room is unique and all offer private bathrooms with the hot water sourced directly from their own on site hot spring. Facilities at the hotel include a swimming pool, jacuzzi, restaurants and outdoor patio, perfect for bird watching.
Ikala Galapagos Hotel, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Islands
The new Ikala Galapagos Hotel on Santa Cruz Island is a luxurious and well-appointed hotel with featuring a swimming pool, stylish bar area and a beautiful terrace offering a fabulous view over Puerto Ayora harbour. After a long day exploring you can enjoy a delicious cocktail or locally sourced Galapagos inspired meal at the Ikala Terrace Bar & Restaurant. Make yourself at home in one of the elegantly decorated rooms featuring a private balcony, en suite bathroom and with all the modern amenities. The hotel is well located just one block away from the main pier and within easy reach of the main streets of Puerto Ayora where you will find plenty of shops, boutiques, restaurants and bars.
Floreana Lava Lodge, Floreana Island, Galapagos Islands
The Lava Lodge is perched at the edge of a black lava beach in a sheltered bay, this quaint family run accommodation is made up of 10 Ocean facing wooden cabins in a wonderfully secluded location. Each Chalet has its own wooden decking with chairs providing fabulous views of the sea, sunsets and stars. Much of the food served at the lodge has been grown on the family’s organic farm, here you can expect delicious meals served in a relaxing environment and there’s often special BBQ evenings. The comfortable cabins feature either twin beds or bunk beds a private bathroom and are each equipped with the essentials, including air-conditioning. The Lodge is a 5 minute walk from the nearest village and only a couple of minutes walk from a sea lion colony.
La Casa de Marita Hotel, Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands
Nestled amongst palm trees La Casa de Marita is a charming boutique hotel located on a beautiful white-sand beach of Puerto Villamil, on Isabela Island. There is a lovely garden to relax in or perhaps head to the beach area complete with hammocks and sun loungers, perfect for an afternoon siesta. The restaurant fuses local and International cuisine and only uses produce grown and farmed locally. Each room has been individually decorated and feature private balcony or terrace with ocean or garden views, and all come with AC, mini bar and en-suite bathroom. Located in Puerto Villamil, Isabela’s only true town, Casa de Marita is a five-minute walk to the boardwalk where you will find local restaurants and shops.
Prices & Dates
Prices shown are per person when there are 2 persons sharing a room. The 'Single Room' price is applicable when a single room is required, based on a travelling party of at least 2 adults.
Read MoreExtra Prices
At a Glance
