Ecuador and Galapagos Explorer

Arrive in Quito, Ecuador’s vibrant capital where you’ll be introduced to the city’s historical and architectural beauty. As evening falls, take a night tour through Quito's renowned Historic Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience iconic landmarks like Plaza Grande, La Compañía Church and the towering Basilica del Voto Nacional, all illuminated against the night sky. 

Explore the treasures of Quito, starting with a visit to a museum featuring artifacts that span thousands of years of Andean history. Continue with a tour of a cultural site that highlights the powerful legacy of an Ecuadorian artist. Then, head to the Middle of the World Monument, where you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere, before enjoying an interactive science and culture experience at the nearby museum. 

Journey to Otavalo, where you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. Explore traditional markets filled with colourful textiles and handcrafted goods. Visit artisan workshops, where you can see the intricate art of weaving and learn about the region's musical traditions. Afterward, head to the charming village of Cotacachi known for its leatherwork, before relaxing at a luxurious hacienda. 

Begin your day with breakfast before heading to a conservation project focused on the protection of the Andean condor. Later, enjoy a hands-on cooking class that uses ingredients from the hacienda’s organic garden. After a cheese-tasting session, discover sustainable farming practices in the hacienda’s vegetable gardens and end the day with a gourmet picnic in the stunning countryside. 

After a delightful breakfast, visit an exclusive flower farm to learn about Ecuador's world-famous roses, then head to the relaxing thermal baths of Papallacta. Surrounded by mountains, enjoy the soothing properties of volcanic waters and for the more adventurous, take a dip in a glacier-fed river. 

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. Depending on the weather, enjoy incredible views and spot local wildlife during a scenic hike around the Limpiopungo Lagoon. End the day at a historic hacienda, where you can relax and enjoy an authentic Ecuadorian lunch. 

Take a guided tour through an ancient hacienda, where you’ll learn about the blending of Inca, colonial and modern influences. Explore the beautifully restored colonial chapel and tranquil garden before returning to Quito for the evening. 

Fly to Coca, where the adventure continues into the Amazon rainforest. Travel by canoe along the Napo River to reach your jungle lodge, where you’ll settle in and prepare for an immersive exploration of the Amazon’s flora and fauna. 

Begin your rainforest adventure with a walk to an observation tower, offering stunning views of the canopy and wildlife. Afterward, visit a small lake in search of giant otters. In the evening, enjoy a canoe ride on a nearby lagoon to spot nocturnal creatures such as caimans and owls. 

Early in the morning, head to a clay lick where hundreds of parrots gather to feed. Then, immerse yourself in the culture of a local Indigenous community, learning about their traditions and daily life. Afterward, take a scenic walk through the forest, spotting wildlife and learning about medicinal plants. 

Enjoy a final breakfast in the Amazon before returning to Coca by canoe. From there, take a short flight back to Quito, where you’ll spend the night reflecting on your incredible journey. 

Fly to the Galápagos Islands, where you’ll begin your exploration with a visit to the highlands of Santa Cruz. Walk through volcanic landscapes, explore a lava tunnel and visit a giant tortoise reserve, witnessing these magnificent creatures in the wild. 

Embark on a full-day boat excursion to one of the Galápagos’ uninhabited islands. Discover unique wildlife such as blue-footed boobies and land iguanas, and enjoy snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, where you can swim alongside sea turtles and rays. 

Learn about the Galápagos’ conservation efforts at the Charles Darwin Research Station, home to various species of giant tortoises. Later, head to Tortuga Bay, a beautiful beach perfect for swimming, kayaking and observing the island’s rich wildlife. 

After your final morning in the Galápagos, fly back to Quito and enjoy some leisure time before your international departure. 

Your unforgettable Ecuadorian adventure comes to an end as you head to the airport for your onward flight, carrying with you incredible memories of the country's natural beauty and cultural richness.