Excursions by Exotrav

Ecuador and Galapagos Tour

Into the Heart of Primeval Nature

Trip Duration:

8 days

Recommended season:

Ideal for travel year-round

Ecuador & Galapagos - Trip Summary

A customized 8-day tour through Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands offers an extraordinary mix of culture, nature, and unique wildlife. We begin in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, where we’ll explore the city and visit the Middle of the World Museum, located on the equator. We continue to the famous Otavalo Market, known for its colorful textiles and traditional crafts, and then visit the pastoral village of Cotacachi, renowned for its leather craftsmanship. Our journey includes a scenic visit to Cuicocha Lagoon, featuring two green islands at the foot of Cotacachi Volcano.

From Quito, we fly to the Galapagos Islands for an unforgettable cruise between pristine islands. Here, we’ll witness the unique wildlife that inhabits these islands, many species of which are found nowhere else and are remarkably unafraid of human presence. This tour offers a fascinating encounter with ancient traditions, vibrant markets, and breathtaking landscapes, culminating in the Galapagos’ natural paradise. We provide a full range of customized services, including a private English-speaking guide or group excursions, ensuring a memorable journey tailored to your pace and style.

Galápagos • Culture • Urban

Day 1

Day 1: Arrival - Quito

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.

Day 2

Day 2: Quito - City Tour - Mitad del Mundo - 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.

Day 3

Day 3: Quito - Otavalo Market - Cotacachi and Cuicocha Lagoon - 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.

Day 4

Day 4: Quito - Galápagos

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 5-day/4-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.

Day 5

Day 5: Galápagos

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

 

Day 6

Day 6: Galápagos

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

 

Day 7

Day 7: Galápagos

Cruise Itinerary:
• Egas port- Sullivan Bay (Santiago)

 

Day 8

Day 8: Galápagos - Quito - Airport

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.

 

Unforgettable Journey, Designed for You.

Unforgettable Ecuador Your Way

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