Ecuador and Galapagos Tour

Andes to Galapagos Adventure

Arrival in Quito, the capital of Ecuador.

Few cities in the world enjoy such a perfect location as Quito. Nestled at an altitude of 2,850 meters between volcanoes, with the most famous being Pichincha, the city was originally established during the Inca Empire and later rebuilt by Spanish conquerors in 1534.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Quito.

After breakfast, we will embark on a tour of the historic center of Quito, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will visit Independence Square, the San Francisco Church, the Gothic Basilica, and the famous statue of the Virgin Mary (El Panecillo).

Next, we will drive 22 kilometers north of Quito to the equator line—Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World). There, we will explore the viewpoint and the Half of the World Museum.

After our visit, we will return to Quito.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Quito.

After breakfast, we will drive approximately an hour and a half to the city of Otavalo. On the way, we will stop in the town of Cayambe to taste the local delicacy—biscuits baked over an open fire.

Continuing our journey, we will visit the famous Otavalo Market, a vibrant marketplace where locals sell their diverse goods. The indigenous people in the area are known for their traditional clothing, with men wearing white tunics over pants, dark ponchos, and black felt hats, while women adorn themselves with embroidered blouses, gold necklaces, long skirts, and head coverings. Upon arrival, you will have free time to wander through the stalls of handicrafts and artisanal goods.

Afterward, we will drive to the picturesque village of Cotacachi, known for its leather industry, and then continue to Cuicocha Lagoon, featuring two green islands at the foot of the Cotacachi volcano.
After our visit, we will take a drive back to Quito, where we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Quito.

After breakfast, we will drive for approximately one hour to Papallacta, a small village known for its main attraction, the Papallacta hot springs. These hot springs are considered some of the most luxurious and well-preserved in Ecuador, offering stunning views. Along the way, we will stop for breathtaking views of the Antisana Ecological Reserve.

Following our visit to the hot springs, we will continue with a drive of about two and a half hours to the Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve. Mindo is renowned as one of the best birdwatching destinations in the world, home to around 500 species, including toucans and other exotic birds.

Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Mindo.

After breakfast, we will embark on a walking tour in the Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve, where we will reach a refreshing waterfall and visit the butterfly farm in the area.

Next, we will enjoy a chocolate tour, during which we will learn about the various stages of producing Ecuadorian chocolate, renowned for its exceptional taste and high quality.

In the afternoon, we will set off for a drive of approximately 3-4 hours to the Cotopaxi volcano area for our overnight stay.
Overnight in the Cotopaxi region.

After breakfast, we will embark on a day trip to Cotopaxi National Park. Cotopaxi is an active volcano and the second-highest peak in Ecuador, rising to an impressive 5,897 meters. The volcano has been considered a sacred site by the indigenous people long before the Inca period in the 15th century, who worshiped it as a “bringer of rain,” symbolizing the fertility of the land. Its summit was believed to be the dwelling place of the gods, which is why the name of the volcano in the local indigenous language translates to “Throne of the Moon.”

The hiking route will vary based on your fitness level. You can choose a shorter walking trail with views of the volcano or a more challenging ascent starting at an elevation of 4,500 meters to the base camp at 4,800 meters, which takes about an hour. From there, you can continue to the glacier’s edge at 5,100 meters, which adds another hour of walking. The return hike follows the same path.
Please note that this trek is considered challenging due to cold weather, winds, and high altitude, so it may be less suitable for some participants.

It is essential to wear good hiking shoes and warm clothing for this day! The ascent is to an altitude of over 3,000 meters above sea level, so please see the altitude warning for the trip.

After our adventure, we will drive for about two hours to Baños. Baños is a tranquil town surrounded by beautiful waterfalls and lush forests. The area features stunning hot and cold springs with views of the Tungurahua volcano. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Baños.

After breakfast, we will embark on a tour of the city and its surroundings. We will enjoy a scenic cable car ride that glides between the trees, followed by a walking tour along the waterfall trails and a relaxing soak in the hot springs.

After our adventures, we will drive approximately 3 hours back to Quito. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Quito.

After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, we will transfer to the airport for a flight to the Galápagos Islands. Upon landing, you will be transferred to the yacht for a 4-day/3-night cruise around the Galápagos Islands.

During these days, you will enjoy exploring these wild islands, where pristine nature is fiercely protected, and human impact has been minimal. On some islands, you will have the opportunity to get close to the unique wildlife that inhabits the area and is not afraid of humans.

Accommodation during the cruise will be on the Coral Yacht.

Cruise Itinerary:
• Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz Island)

Three meals per day are included during the cruise. On the day of arrival, only lunch and dinner are provided, while on the departure day, breakfast will be included.
Please note: The order and nature of the visits may change without prior notice due to weather conditions and navigation permits.

Cruise Itinerary:
• Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela Island), Punta Espinosa (Fernandina)

Cruise Itinerary:
• Urbina Bay (Isabela), Tagus Cove (Isabela)

Cruise Itinerary:
• Highlands Tortoise Reserve (Santa Cruz Island)

At the conclusion of the cruise, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Quito. Upon arrival, you will connect to your onward flight home.