Ecuador
9 days from $5323 pp with roundtrip flights
Ecuador & Galápagos Highlights blends the drama of the Andes with the wildlife-rich shores of the Galápagos. Begin in historic Quito, then trace the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Cotopaxi National Park, circling Limpiopungo Lagoon beneath snow-dusted peaks and, weather permitting, ascending to the José Rivas Refuge.
Dive into highland culture en route to the turquoise caldera of Quilotoa, with a hands-on Tigua painting workshop before continuing to Baños for the Casa del Árbol swing, the lush Waterfall Route, a tarabita canyon crossing and the thundering Pailón del Diablo.
Fly on to the Galápagos and settle on Santa Cruz Island: stroll among wild giant tortoises in the highlands, wander lava tunnels, and enjoy a creative turtle-painting workshop with a local artist in Puerto Ayora.
Choose a relaxed beach day or optional tours to Tortuga Bay and the Charles Darwin Research Station, then board a yacht to one of the uninhabited islands—Santa Fe, South Plazas, Bartolomé or North Seymour—for guided walks among iguanas, boobies and frigatebirds, plus unforgettable snorkelling with sea lions and reef fish.
Throughout, travel with expert bilingual guides, private transfers and thoughtfully included lunches in scenic settings, balancing soft adventure with cultural encounters and plenty of free time.
Included: Return economy flights from NEW YORK, curated accommodations, key entrances and experiences as outlined and 24/7 in-country support. Financial protection: UK bookings are ATOL-protected; non-UK bookings benefit from ABTOT protection.
Day 1 : DEPART NEW YORK ✈ ARRIVE QUITO
Day 2 : QUITO (METRO, HISTORIC CENTRE, CHOCOLATE & INTINAN)
Day 3 : QUITO → COTOPAXI (100 KM • ~2 HRS)
Day 4 : COTOPAXI → BANOS (140 KM • ~2.5 HRS)
Day 5 : BANOS → QUITO (190 KM • ~3.5 HRS)
Day 6 : QUITO ✈ GALAPAGOS (BALTRA) → SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Day 7 : SANTA CRUZ ISLAND • LEISURE & OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
Day 8 : SANTA CRUZ ISLAND • FULL-DAY TOUR OF UNINHABITED ISLANDS
Day 9 : SANTA CRUZ ISLAND ✈ DEPART GALAPAGOS (BALTRA)
Begin your Ecuador adventure as you depart NEW YORK for the Andean capital of Quito. Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), clear formalities and meet your friendly, professional English–Spanish speaking guide. Enjoy a comfortable private transfer to your hotel while they share first-time tips and local insights to help you settle in.
• Quito sits at ~2,850 m—walk gently, hydrate, and avoid heavy meals on night one.
• Keep your passport, insurance, and valuables in your carry-on; confirm tomorrow’s pick-up time with the guide.
• Evenings can be cool year-round—have a light layer handy.
Overnight: Quito.
After breakfast, meet for pick-up and transfer to the tour meeting point. Join your group and board the modern Quito Metro—a slice of everyday city life—gliding towards the Historic Center. Wander Independence Square, ringed by arcades and palaces, then admire the baroque splendour of La Compañía de Jesús, often cited among Latin America’s most beautiful churches.
In the heart of the old town, savour a guided single-origin chocolate tasting (~20 minutes). Learn why Ecuador’s prized cacao yields such distinct aromas and textures as you sample bean-to-bar creations—an indulgent pause that pairs culture with flavour.
This afternoon, head north to the Intiñan Museum on the Equator. Explore interactive displays on Andean culture and try playful experiments that showcase the quirks of standing with one foot in each hemisphere.
• Quito sits at ~2,850 m—walk gently and hydrate.
• Dress in layers; weather can swing from sunny to breezy.
• Comfortable walking shoes recommended for cobbles and church visits.
• Bring a small cash/card if you’d like a chocolate bar to take home.
Overnight: Quito.
Depart your hotel in Quito and travel south through the Avenue of the Volcanoes to discover two Ecuadorian treasures: a vibrant rose plantation and the high-altitude splendour of Cotopaxi National Park. Learn how Ecuador’s world-famous roses are cultivated before continuing into the páramo landscapes beneath snow-capped Cotopaxi.
At the park, stroll the shores of Limpiopungo Lagoon, watching for Andean birdlife and mirror-like volcano reflections. Weather permitting, continue by road up the volcano’s flanks and hike to the José Rivas Refuge (≈4,800 m) for sweeping views over the Andes. Pause for a comforting cup of hot herbal tea out on the páramo, then head to a cosy mountain lodge for a relaxed lunch.
• High altitude today (up to ~4,800 m): walk slowly, hydrate well, and avoid heavy meals before hiking.
• Bring warm layers, a windproof jacket, hat, gloves, sunglasses and sun protection—weather can change quickly.
• Park rules restrict drones and off-trail walking; always follow your guide’s instructions.
Overnight: Cotopaxi.
After breakfast, set off along the storied Avenue of the Volcanoes toward the emerald crater of Quilotoa Lagoon. En route, time permitting, dip into a traditional highland market—Zumbahua or Saquisilí—alive with colour, woven textiles and the sound of Quechua bartering.
Meet the artists of the Tigua community, famed for vivid naïf Andean paintings. With a local artisan as your guide, pick up the brush and craft your own miniature masterpiece—drawing inspiration from volcano-cloaked horizons, alpacas and everyday highland life. An authentic, hands-on cultural experience you’ll take home.
Continue to the rim of Quilotoa for staggering views over its turquoise caldera. Choose to hike down to the shore (and return by foot or optional mule, payable locally) or linger at the viewpoints with a hot drink. Enjoy an Andean lunch hosted in a nearby community before winding east through cloud-fringed canyons to the spa town of Baños, gateway to waterfalls and thermal baths.
• Altitude varies today (3,000–3,900 m); walk slowly and keep hydrated.
• Markets operate on specific weekdays; the stop may vary by day and logistics.
• Bring layers and a windproof jacket for cool rim breezes at Quilotoa; sturdy footwear recommended for the crater trail.
Overnight: Baños.
Wake in Baños de Agua Santa, a valley town cradled by mountains, waterfalls and the watchful cone of Tungurahua. Begin at the iconic Casa del Árbol to try the famed Swing at the End of the World, arcing over a sheer canyon with wide-angle Andean views.
Follow the verdant Waterfall Route, tracing jungle-cloaked ravines where rivers sculpt the landscape. Cross a dramatic tarabita (cable car) strung above the gorge for bird’s-eye perspectives of the rushing torrents below, then continue to the thunderous Pailón del Diablo. Walk misted trails and suspension bridges, inching close to the cascade’s roaring heart.
Return to town for a little free time: wander colourful streets, sip fresh sugarcane juice, and browse crafts fashioned from tagua—the so-called “vegetable ivory”. As afternoon light softens, journey north across the Avenue of the Volcanoes back to Quito, carrying memories of a day rich in adventure and natural beauty.
• Surfaces at Pailón del Diablo can be wet and slippery—wear sturdy shoes and pack a light rain layer.
• The tarabita involves heights and exposure; it’s optional for travellers who prefer to stay ground-level.
• Keep small cash handy for viewpoint entries and local snacks; larger notes may not be accepted.
Overnight: Quito.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. Our team will assist with the TCT/INGALA Transit Control Card process and the special luggage inspection, then help with airline check-in up to security. Galápagos fees — TCT/INGALA (USD 20 pp) and Galápagos National Park (USD 200 pp) are NOT INCLUDED. These two fees will be added to your invoice and pre-paid in advance for a smoother airport/park process (fees correct at time of publication and may change without notice; any difference may be settled locally per authority policy). Please note: no fruits, vegetables or seeds are permitted in luggage due to strict biosecurity rules.
Land at Baltra Airport and meet your guide. Board the airport bus, cross the Itabaca Channel by short ferry, and continue onto Santa Cruz Island. In the verdant highlands, visit a private ranch where giant tortoises roam in the wild and walk through an impressive lava tunnel. Enjoy lunch at the ranch amid lush scenery.
Visit a local gallery championing artists from the Galápagos and mainland Ecuador. Join a hands-on workshop to paint and personalise your own turtle-shaped keepsake while chatting with the resident artist about island life and culture. A fun, creative ~1-hour experience suitable for all ages.
Continue by private/shared transport to Puerto Ayora to check in and settle by the harbour.
• Keep passports, migration card and valuables in your carry-on; liquids and aerosols must meet airline rules.
• Expect multiple legs (bus → ferry → vehicle); pack a small day bag with water, sun protection and a light rain layer.
• Footpaths at the ranch can be muddy—closed shoes recommended.
Overnight: Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island).
Enjoy a relaxed day in the Galápagos at your own pace. Wander the waterfront, visit small galleries and cafés, or add one of our curated optional tours (at extra cost) to deepen your encounter with this extraordinary archipelago.
Start: 08:00 • Duration: ~5 hrs • Guiding: Certified naturalist (private)
Depart your hotel by taxi to the trailhead, then follow a scenic 3 km footpath shaded by giant Opuntia cacti. Tortuga Bay is a sweeping white-sand beach split into two sections; the far end is the safe, recommended zone for swimming (conditions permitting). Keep an eye out for marine iguanas basking on lava rock and, at times, juvenile reef sharks near the shore. Return along the same trail and enjoy an included lunch.
Start: 08:00 • Duration: ~8 hrs • Guiding: Certified naturalist (shared or private)
Begin at the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation programmes and follow the “Tortoise Route”. View the preserved remains of Lonesome George, a symbol of Galápagos conservation. After an included lunch, continue to Tortuga Bay via the 3 km trail (each way) through an Opuntia forest, with time to enjoy one of the archipelago’s most beautiful beaches.
• Minimum 2 passengers required for both excursions; solo price & availability on request.
• Bring sun protection (hat, high-SPF sunscreen), reusable water bottle, light rain layer and comfortable walking shoes.
• Swimming areas at Tortuga Bay are limited and surf can be strong—follow guide and lifeguard advice.
• Respect local biosecurity: no food on trails, do not touch wildlife, and keep to marked paths.
Overnight: Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island).
After breakfast, set out to explore one of the uninhabited islands near Santa Cruz. From your hotel, our team will assist your departure. Travel by bus to the Itabaca Channel, board a comfortable yacht, and cruise to today’s designated island. The Galápagos National Park regulates departures, so the destination varies by day of the week and availability.
• Santa Fe — meet Santa Fe land iguanas, snorkel with sea lions over turquoise coves.
• South Plazas — walk sea-cliff trails amid scarlet sesuvium, spot swallow-tailed gulls and iguanas.
• Bartolomé — climb the boardwalk to the classic Pinnacle Rock viewpoint; snorkel over lava flats.
• North Seymour — blue-footed booby displays, frigatebirds with inflated red pouches, playful sea lions.
Final island assignment and precise timings are confirmed at booking/briefing in accordance with park permits.
Your excursion combines a guided nature walk to observe endemic flora and fauna with a snorkelling session to encounter the rich marine life. All activities are led by a certified naturalist guide, with light snacks and refreshments served on board.
• Regulated departures: islands rotate by permit; substitutions may occur due to weather/park guidance.
• Snorkelling gear is typically provided by the operator; bring a rash-vest, reef-safe sunscreen and a small dry bag.
• Sea conditions can be bumpy—if prone to motion sickness, take precautions before boarding.
• Navigation times vary by island; expect a late-afternoon return to your hotel in Puerto Ayora.
Overnight: Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island).
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Approximately 3 hours before your flight, meet your driver for the journey to the Itabaca Channel (~45 km from Puerto Ayora). Cross by boat (~10 mins) and continue by bus (~15 mins) to Baltra Airport (GPS)</strong). Your driver will assist you up to luggage check-in.
• Keep your INGALA card and ID/passport handy for airport formalities.
• Pack a small day bag for the bus–ferry–bus sequence; large suitcases travel separately.
• Biosecurity checks apply—ensure no fresh produce is in your luggage.
• Allow time to pay any airport/airline fees if not prepaid and clear security comfortably.
Safe travels and hasta pronto, Galápagos!
| Start Date | End Date | Price | Note | AVAILABILITY | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu, 15 Jan, 26 | Fri, 23 Jan, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Wed, 18 Feb, 26 | Thu, 26 Feb, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Wed, 11 Mar, 26 | Thu, 19 Mar, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Wed, 8 Apr, 26 | Thu, 16 Apr, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Sat, 2 May, 26 | Sun, 10 May, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Wed, 17 Jun, 26 | Thu, 25 Jun, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Fri, 24 Jul, 26 | Sat, 1 Aug, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Wed, 12 Aug, 26 | Thu, 20 Aug, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Fri, 11 Sep, 26 | Sat, 19 Sep, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Wed, 14 Oct, 26 | Thu, 22 Oct, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Thu, 5 Nov, 26 | Fri, 13 Nov, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Wed, 2 Dec, 26 | Thu, 10 Dec, 26 | $5323 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Wed, 6 Jan, 27 | Thu, 14 Jan, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Thu, 18 Feb, 27 | Fri, 26 Feb, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Thu, 11 Mar, 27 | Fri, 19 Mar, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Thu, 8 Apr, 27 | Fri, 16 Apr, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Thu, 6 May, 27 | Fri, 14 May, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Thu, 10 Jun, 27 | Fri, 18 Jun, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Fri, 2 Jul, 27 | Sat, 10 Jul, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Thu, 12 Aug, 27 | Fri, 20 Aug, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Thu, 9 Sep, 27 | Fri, 17 Sep, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Tue, 12 Oct, 27 | Wed, 20 Oct, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Tue, 9 Nov, 27 | Wed, 17 Nov, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now | |
| Thu, 9 Dec, 27 | Fri, 17 Dec, 27 | $5989 | GUARANTEED | Book Now |
We’ve handpicked comfortable, well-located stays that make sightseeing and transfers easy. Final properties will be confirmed on your travel documents; if a listed hotel is unavailable, a similar alternative of the same standard will be provided.
| City | Hotel | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Quito | Finlandia Hotel | Modern, well-located hotel near parks and cafés. Comfortable rooms with Wi-Fi and breakfast; convenient base for city touring and airport transfers. |
| Puerto Ayora, Galápagos | Barranco Hotel | Cosy boutique stay close to the waterfront and local eateries. Air-conditioned rooms, reliable Wi-Fi and breakfast; easy access to harbour and day tours. |
Notes: Hotels may change to similar standard alternatives based on availability at the time of booking.
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