Transport

All transfers according to the program - Ground transportation on Mainland Ecuador - Speedboat on Galapagos Islands

Accommodation

Standard Category Hotels

Others

- Inter-island light airplane flights.

Meals

Meals as mentioned on the itinerary.

Guide

English and Spanish-speaking national guide

Not included:

Flights

Galapagos Flights not included International flights are not included in the price. Please book arrival and departure according to the itinerary.

Others

- National Park entrance fee (US$ 100 per person) Galapagos - Galapagos Migration Card TCT (US$ 20 per person) - Optional excursions - Personal expenses such as tips - Alcoholic drinks - Any other meals, drinks, and/or services not mentioned in the program

Insurance

Travel Insurance We recommend that you take out travel cancellation and health insurance. Please check with your private insurance provider in advance.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Arrival In Quito
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Arrival In Quito

Welcome to Quito, the capital of Ecuador! Arrive at the Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), where your driver will meet you to transfer to your accommodation in the city center, a one-hour trip.

The entire city of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, standing at an altitude of 9,350ft (2,850m). It welcomes visitors with its picturesque plazas situated between mountain peaks. The city has an abundance of market stands, shamanistic healers, and fourth-generation hat makers, as well as a vibrant and sophisticated culinary and nightlife scene.

Overnight: Quito

Meals included: NULL
Day 2 Otavalo Market & Hike The Cuicocha Lake
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Otavalo Market & Hike The Cuicocha Lake

Wake up early to enjoy the biggest indigenous city in Ecuador and home of the well-known indigenous market where artisans come to sell colorful textiles and other traditional goods. Snack on fruits and other snacks while you browse the stalls for paintings, carvings, handpainted bowls, and much more.

Enjoy some street food (try the salted mango or fritada con mote—fried pork with cooked corn, then continue to the nearby town of Cotacachi for some free time and more shopping (the town is famous for its leather products).

In the afternoon, stroll along the shores of the volcanic crater lake of Cuicocha. Your guide will tell you about the high-altitude flora and fauna and the history of the lake. You can even take a boat ride around the two islands.

In the afternoon, you will return to Quito, where you will spend the night.

Overnight: Quito

Meals: Breakfast Included
Day 3 Expedition To Mindo Cloud Forest
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Expedition To Mindo Cloud Forest

Today you’ll explore the lush green cloud forest of Mindo. Located on the western slopes of the Andean highlands, this region has mild temperatures and lots of rainfall, stretching over 48,000 acres (19,200 hectares) and reaching heights of 15,700 feet (4,778 meters). It is one of the most biologically diverse forests in the world and is known worldwide for its biodiversity and birding. Its lush subtropical forest provides a mystical environment to roam around and pursue adventure.

You´ll get the chance to visit a butterfly farm, trek to waterfalls, go river tubing, fly between the treetops on a zipline, and taste locally made chocolate and coffee.

Mindo is one of the premier birding destinations in the world. More than 500 different types of birds have been spotted here in Mindo. In fact, Mindo regularly holds the annual world record for the most bird species counted within a 24-hour period. Late in the afternoon, return to Quito for a good night’s rest.

Overnight: Quito

Meals: Breakfast Included
Day 4 Exploring Quito City Tour In The Morning And Transfer To Baños
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Exploring Quito City Tour In The Morning And Transfer To Baños

Embark on a Journey of Discovery through Quito’s Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest, most impeccably preserved historical complex in the Americas.

The winding streets of the Historic Center are adorned with magnificent houses and buildings that have stood the test of time since the 15th century. As you traverse the route, you’ll encounter a series of awe-inspiring churches, each with its own unique charm. One notable street, fondly known as "De las 7 Cruces," serves as the axis for the Catholic procession held during Holy Week. Exploring this street not only allows you to witness the grandeur of religious traditions but also provides an immersive opportunity to delve into the architecture, history, and culture of the city.

In the afternoon, you will head towards Baños de Agua Santa.

Overnight: Baños

Meals: Breakfast Included
Day 5 Visit Baños & Pailón Del Diablo Waterfall
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Visit Baños & Pailón Del Diablo Waterfall

Today, ride along the scenic Ruta de Cascadas (Waterfall Route) toward the village of Rio Verde. Along the way, you’ll see the route’s namesake water features. When you arrive in town, take a short hike to one of the better-known waterfalls in the area, El Pailón del Diablo (the Devil’s Cauldron). Here, the water cascades 265 feet (81 m) down through the cloud forest. Then, head back toward Baños to take a dip in its thermal pools, check out its many Catholic churches, or visit the Casa del Arbol to soar on a swing placed at the edge of a mountain.

Overnight: Baños

Meals: Breakfast Included
Day 6 Baños & Transfer To The Amazon
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Baños & Transfer To The Amazon

Arrival to the lodge and lunch. After a short rest we will have a walk to a beautiful waterfall, where you can give yourself an energetic bath. During the tour you will see medicinal plants, a lagoon, the Huasquila tree and have the experience of hanging of a vine. After this trip we will return to the lodge, where we will wait for a delicious dinner accompanied by a “frog concert” from the lagoon in front of the restaurant. Later, you will be the protagonist of a chocolate session in which you will learn about its elaboration process, starting by roasting the cacao beans, continuing with the grinding until tasting a delicious dessert with fruits.

Overnight: Archidona

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Included
Day 7 Jungle Trek And Waterfalls In The Amazon
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Jungle Trek And Waterfalls In The Amazon

After breakfast we will start a jungle trek (3h approx.) surrounded by primary and secondary forest, we will cross a cave of 120 mts. long where you can find fruit bats. A few meters away and next to our native guide we will go to the waterfall "Golondrinas" which has a height of approx. 14mts, offering the opportunity to immerse yourself in its waters. Upon return, you will visit a Guayusa plantation and factory. In the afternoon, after lunch we will visit the Kichwa Community and you will be part of their typical dances, their culture and the preparation of the famous “chicha” made out of maniok. In the evening you will enjoy a dinner with specialties from the region. After your meal you will have a 40-minute night walk around the gardens where you can see frogs, grasshoppers, insects and with a bit of luck bio-luminous fungi.

Overnight: Archidona

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner Included
Day 8 Return To Civilization And Evening In Quito
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Return To Civilization And Evening In Quito

Enjoy a delicious breakfast and check out from the Amazon Lodge, on the way you will see how landscapes change from green to Andean mountains.

Overnight: Archidona

Meals: Breakfast Included
Day 9 Hiking At Cotopaxi National Park
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Hiking At Cotopaxi National Park

Prepare to be amazed by the sheer grandeur of the towering volcano that reaches a staggering height of 5897 meters. Its perfectly symmetrical snow-capped cone creates a postcard-perfect view against the backdrop of the picturesque parkland. As you may already know, the Cotopaxi volcano is Ecuador’s second highest summit, standing proudly at 19,347 feet. But did you know that it is also one of the world’s most active volcanoes? Its impeccably formed dome is perpetually covered in a glistening layer of eternal snow, making it a sight to behold.

Your journey begins at Lake Limpiopungo, where a rich variety of bird species gracefully glide through the air. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of wild horses galloping freely in the vicinity. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, immersing yourself in the beauty of the Andean plant and animal life that flourishes along the path. Keep your camera ready, as this area is teeming with natural wonders waiting to be captured.

As you venture further into the heart of Cotopaxi National Park, you’ll be surrounded by rugged landscapes and jaw-dropping scenery. Embrace the awe-inspiring beauty of the Cotopaxi Volcano as you ascend to higher altitudes, with each step bringing you closer to the sky-high region. Your journey will pause at the Padre Rivas Refuge, located at an elevation of 15,800 feet (4830 meters). From this remarkable vantage point, you’ll be treated to a truly breathtaking view of Cotopaxi Volcano’s colossal cone. The hike to the refuge is relatively short and doesn’t involve any technical difficulties, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this awe-inspiring sight. Remember to stay hydrated along the way, as the high altitude can have its effects. Don’t forget to pack warm clothing, including a cozy hat, scarf, gloves, and layers to keep you snug, along with a windproof and rainproof jacket to shield you from the elements.

Overnight: Santa Cruz Island

Meals: Breakfast Included or Box Breakfast
Day 10 Hola Galapagos! Arrival To Santa Cruz Island
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Hola Galapagos! Arrival To Santa Cruz Island

As you step off the plane at Baltra Airport, your guide will be eagerly awaiting your arrival. They will warmly greet you and accompany you on a scenic journey to Santa Cruz Island, where your Galapagos adventure begins.

Once you’ve settled into your hotel and completed the check-in process, you’ll find yourself with some well-deserved leisure time. Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of this remarkable town, following in the footsteps of the renowned naturalist Charles Darwin.

In the afternoon, after lunch, you will be taken on a small boat to visit exotic places along the bay of Santa Cruz. You’ll arrive at a small islet called La Lobería, named for its great colony of sea lions. You can snorkel around sea lions and tropical fish displaying a dazzling show beneath the surface against interesting underwater formations. Afterward, it’s on to the Shark Channel, where you may spot harmless white-tip sharks and blue-footed boobies. You’ll also come upon the Canal del Amor, where there are sea turtles and many different species of tropical fish.

You’ll later take a 10-minute walk and see marine iguanas in their natural habitat. There’ll be plenty of opportunities to take pictures along the way. Lastly, you’ll visit Las Grietas, two large cliffs filled with fresh water at the surface and salt water below. Arrive back in Santa Cruz and return to the town for your next activities.

Overnight: Santa Cruz Island

Meals: Breakfast Included or Box Breakfast
Day 11 Tortuga Bay And Visit To The Charles Darwin Research Station
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tortuga Bay And Visit To The Charles Darwin Research Station

Santa Cruz is one of the inhabited islands to be visited during this itinerary. Puerto Ayora, with a population of about 25,000 people, is the location of the Charles Darwin Research Station and Galapagos National Park’s main headquarters world-famous for its tortoise breeding programs.

The Charles Darwin Research Station is one of the most important scientific centers in the world when it comes to studying the natural history of the Galapagos Islands. Located on the island of Santa Cruz in the Galapagos, the Charles Darwin Research Station was founded in 1959 in order to provide scientific research and conservation efforts for the archipelago. The research station has played an integral role in the preservation of the unique ecology of the islands, and is a popular destination for tourists and researchers alike.

The Charles Darwin Research Station is home to a number of important scientific institutions and research projects. One of the most notable is the Charles Darwin Foundation, which was established in 1959 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and study of the Galapagos Islands. This organization works to promote research, education, and conservation efforts across the archipelago, and has been instrumental in the preservation of the islands’ diverse and unique wildlife.

The research station also houses the Galapagos National Park Directorate, which is responsible for the management and protection of the islands’ natural resources and habitats. In addition, the Charles Darwin Research Station is home to the Charles Darwin Research Institute, which conducts scientific research in the areas of ecology, evolution, and conservation biology.

Overnight: Santa Cruz Island

Meals: Breakfast
Day 12 Free Time In Santa Cruz Island
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Free Time In Santa Cruz Island

With no planned activities today, you have the freedom to fully indulge in the island’s extraordinary beauty and create your own adventure. Here are a few additional activities you can consider:

These optional extra add-ons can be included with an extra cost:

Embark on a thrilling snorkeling or diving excursion to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Galapagos. Immerse yourself in the clear turquoise waters, encounter fascinating marine life, and witness the mesmerizing coral reefs up close.

Join a guided wildlife tour to observe the unique and diverse species that call the Galapagos home. From giant tortoises and marine iguanas to playful sea lions and exotic bird species, the archipelago offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness wildlife in its natural habitat.

Take a boat ride to nearby islands, such as North Seymour or Bartolome, and discover their distinct ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes. Marvel at towering cliffs, volcanic formations, and pristine beaches while encountering more of the Galapagos’ remarkable fauna and flora.

Embark on a kayaking or paddleboarding adventure, gliding through the calm waters and exploring hidden coves and mangrove forests. This allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings and offers a unique perspective of the island’s coastal wonders.

Go on a scenic hike to one of the island’s picturesque viewpoints, such as Cerro Mesa or Los Gemelos. These vantage points offer sweeping panoramas of the archipelago, allowing you to appreciate the stunning geological formations and the vastness of the Pacific Ocean.

Indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment or yoga session, allowing yourself a moment of relaxation and connection with the natural surroundings.

Overnight: Santa Cruz Island

Meals: Breakfast
Day 13 Discovering An Uninhabited Island
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Discovering An Uninhabited Island

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to explore the stunning beauty of the Galápagos Islands, home to some of the world’s most unique and diverse wildlife. During your tour, you’ll have a chance to visit Santa Fé, South Plaza, Bartolomé, or North Seymour, depending on the permit granted by the National Park authorities for that daily activity.

As you set sail on your boat, be prepared to witness the awe-inspiring views of the turquoise waters and rocky shorelines of the archipelago. Your expert guide will accompany you on a hike to explore the untouched natural habitats of the islands, where you’ll discover an array of exotic flora and fauna.

The Galápagos Islands are a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, with a diverse range of species that inhabit the land and sea. Keep an eye out for giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and many other fascinating creatures.

After a morning of exploration, take a break on the deck for a scrumptious lunch, before continuing on your adventure. Relax on the pristine beaches and soak up the sun, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim.

At the end of your tour, return to town, feeling invigorated and inspired by the natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands.

Overnight: Santa Cruz Island

Meals: Breakfast
Day 14 Private Transfer To Airport On Baltra Island
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Private Transfer To Airport On Baltra Island

If there is enough free time before your transfer to the airport, do some last-minute souvenir shopping or take a last stroll through Puerto Ayora.

At the designated time, your driver will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the Itabaca Channel, which you will cross on a ferry. For the last part of your trip to the airport, take the public shuttle bus to the terminal, where your program ends with your return flight to mainland Ecuador.

Overnight: NULL

Meals: Breakfast
Day 15 Day 15: Guayaquil - Baltra - Highlands Santa Cruz – Eccd
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: Guayaquil - Baltra - Highlands Santa Cruz – Eccd

Early this morning you will be picked up at your hotel to be taken to José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport so you can catch your flight to the Galapagos Islands.

The recommended arrival time to the airport is about 3 hours before your flight as if it were an international flight due to extra controls than on a domestic flight, such as double baggage inspection, and the purchase of the Galapagos Migration Card (TCT).

The flight from Guayaquil to the Islands takes about 2 hours.

Please note that in Galapagos the time difference between Ecuador’s mainland is one hour less.

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, travellers pass through an airport inspection point to make sure that no foreign plants or animals are introduced to the islands, and to pay the park entrance fee of $100 (unless it has been prepaid). A guide will meet you, help you collect your luggage, and escort you on a short bus ride to the harbour.

The road to the highlands leaves from Bellavista, a small village located at a 15-minute drive from Puerto Ayora, and passes through the agricultural zone, near the National Park boundary, the Miconia Zone, and then goes to the Fern and Sedge zone. With clear weather, this area boasts beautiful scenes of rolling hills and extinct volcanic cones covered with grass and lush greenery all year round. Here you will visit the Twin Craters, which are two pit craters, as well as a local ranch where we can observe the giant tortoise of Santa Cruz Island in its natural habitat.

After that in the afternoon you will visit the Charles Darwin Station, where scientists from all over the world meet and work together on environmental projects such as water analysis, animal protection, effects of tourism on nature, etc. Here you can visit the turtle rearing station, where the animals are raised before being released into nature. Land iguanas can be observed here too. Overnight stay in Puerto Ayora.

Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch
Day 16 Day 16: Uninhabited Island
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 16: Uninhabited Island

After a very early breakfast, today you will enjoy an amazing day trip to an uninhabited island.

Depending on the weather, scheduling, and permissions granted by the National Park, you’ll visit one of the following islands: Santa Fé, South Plazas, Bartolomé, or North Seymour where you will follow trails to discover their richness, while in the afternoon you will have the opportunity to explore the waters around.

Santa Fé and South Plazas are home to endemic land iguanas, while Bartolomé is known for its beautiful lava flows. On North Seymour, look for frigate birds and blue-footed boobies. Each island is unique, offering spectacular scenery and opportunities to see rare wildlife.

Lunch is included on board, as well as walking and a snorkeling activity to maximize your experience.

In the evening, return to Puerto Ayora to enjoy some free time.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 17 Day 17: Speedboat Isabela – Tintoreras
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 17: Speedboat Isabela – Tintoreras

Start your morning with a public speed boat trip to Isabela Island, a 2-hour trip. After arriving, go to the Flamingo Lagoon or the Giant Tortoise Breeding Station to learn about the local wildlife.

After lunch, join a group tour to visit the Tintoreras Islet for a short hike and some snorkeling. See Humboldt penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, and sharks, which rest in the natural channels formed by lava flows.

Afterward, snorkel in the turquoise water and spot different fish, sea turtles, rays, and penguins. The evening is free, with an overnight stay on Isabela Island.

Meals included: Breakfast
Day 18 Day 18: Sierra Negra
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 18: Sierra Negra

The majestic Sierra Negra Volcano will occupy today’s agenda.

Our adventure starts with a journey from Puerto Villamil to the beginning of the trail. Once there, we will prepare our backpacks and start our walk through the relatively young woods, which suffer from constant geological changes.

You’ll do a six-hour roundtrip hike to its summit, from where you’ll get to see the second-largest volcanic crater in the world. Walk around spectacular lava landscapes, taking in the northern volcanoes in Isabela and Fernandina Islands.

During your climb, make sure to be on the lookout for the unique vegetation that inhabits the area.

Your finishing point is the edge of the Sierra Negra Volcano’s crater, this volcano is still active. Once at the edge of the crater, you will have spectacular views of the crater and the volcanoes that surround it. The circumference of the crater is huge, with a diameter of almost 10 km along with its widest point.

You’ll have some free time after you get back to Isabela Island. If you still have energy, you can head to a beach or snorkel at Concha Perla.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 19 Day 19: Flight To San Cristobal + Centro Interpretación – Tijeretas
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 19: Flight To San Cristobal + Centro Interpretación – Tijeretas

In the morning, you will be taken to the airport for your flight to San Cristobal Island (small plane 9 pax max.). After arriving and checking in to your hotel, you will first visit the Interpretation Center with your guide where you will learn everything about the history and future of the Galapagos. Afterwards, you will take a short walk to Tijeretas Hill where frigate birds are nesting and from where you have a spectacular view over the island. To top off this day, you will have the chance to visit La Lobería, a beach that is home to a colony of sea lions. In the afternoon you return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno where you will spend another night.

Meals included: Breakfast
Day 20 Day 20: Kicker Rock
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 20: Kicker Rock

An exciting day awaits you, after an early breakfast, on the agenda is a day trip to Kicker Rock, which is one of the most emblematic places in the Galapagos.

A comfortable speed boat navigates along the coast of San Cristobal until we arrive at Kicker Rock, it is composed of compacted volcanic ash, not rock, towers up almost 500ft / 150m from the ocean floor, splitting into two above surface structures, but they’re connected below the surface, with a channel running between them.

It is home to many birds, you will be able to spot Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and tropicbirds, and the underwater world will make this day extra memorable as it is a real "hot spot" for underwater wildlife!

Since Kicker Rock is a snorkeling site, get ready for a wet landing! You’ll be getting directly into the water to experience everything that Kicker Rock has to offer.

After lunch on the boat, head to a beautiful, pristine beach, where you can relax and defrost in the sunshine before heading back to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno in the afternoon.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 21 Day 21: Departure San Cristobal
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 21: Departure San Cristobal

Make the most of your last free morning on San Cristobal Island, until the scheduled pick-up time when your driver will meet you at your hotel to transfer you to San Cristobal airport for your departure flight back to the mainland.

Meals included: Breakfast

+18

14 days tour

14 Days In Ecuador Highlights Amazon And Galapagos Islands

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip 14 Days In Ecuador Highlights Amazon And Galapagos Islands

Day 1: Arrival In Quito

Otavalo Market & Hike The Cuicocha Lake

Expedition To Mindo Cloud Forest

Exploring Quito City Tour In The Morning And Transfer To Baños

Visit Baños & Pailón Del Diablo Waterfall

Baños & Transfer To The Amazon

Jungle Trek And Waterfalls In The Amazon

Return To Civilization And Evening In Quito

Hiking At Cotopaxi National Park

Hola Galapagos! Arrival To Santa Cruz Island

Tortuga Bay And Visit To The Charles Darwin Research Station

Free Time In Santa Cruz Island

Discovering An Uninhabited Island

Private Transfer To Airport On Baltra Island

Day 15: Guayaquil - Baltra - Highlands Santa Cruz – Eccd

Day 16: Uninhabited Island

Day 17: Speedboat Isabela – Tintoreras

Day 18: Sierra Negra

Day 19: Flight To San Cristobal + Centro Interpretación – Tijeretas

Day 20: Kicker Rock

Day 21: Departure San Cristobal

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