18-Days Charm of Ecuador Andes Amazon Galapagos Island Hopping
|18 Days, 8 Destinations |Starts from Quito
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Duration
18 days
Max Group Size
16
Tour Code
18DCEAAG
Tour Type
Request as private tour
Departure Type
Guaranteed
Age Requirement
10 - 80 Ages
Guiding Method
Fully guided
Operated In
English, Spanish
Physical level
moderate
Quito
Pickup Time:
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Santa Cruz Island
Dropoff Time:
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Tour Overview
Enjoy 18 days of adventure through the best highlights of Ecuador. Inmerse yourself in local culture in Otavalo, stroll through the beautiful colonial streets of Quito, hike at the third highest volcanoe in the world in Cotopaxi National Park, encounter wildlife upclose in Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve and end with the cherry on top: The Galapagos Islands.
Highlights
- Immerse in Otavalo's vibrant local culture
- Stroll Quito's colonial streets
- Hike Cotopaxi, world's third-highest volcano
- Encounter wildlife in Cuyabeno
- Explore the iconic Galapagos Islands
Itinerary
Welcome to Quito, the capital of Ecuador!
Arrive at the Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), at 2,850 meters (9,350 ft) above sea level, Ecuador’s dramatic capital city is the second highest in the world after Bolivia’s La Paz. Built on the ashes of the northern Inca capital following the 1533 Spanish conquest, Quito is nestled in a valley surrounded by majestic Andean peaks, among them the restless Volcán Pichincha.
The entire city of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, standing at an altitude of 9,350 feet (2,850 m). 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.
Your private driver will meet you for approximately 45 minute transfer to your accommodation in the city center. Along the way, you'll get a short introduction to Quito´s history and a quick briefing on the next day's activities.
Meals included: Breakfast
A guide will pick you up for city tour in Quito. Start in the colonial center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to numerous historic buildings and squares. You will visit Plaza Grande and the beautiful churches of La Compañía and La Basílica. Then, you'll walk down La Ronda, the oldest street in Quito. Around midday, head to a traditional cooking class. There, you'll learn about the incredible gastronomy of this country and how to prepare it, and you will enjoy a delicious lunch.
Afterward, make your way to the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) monument to stand on the line of the equator. Strike a pose with one foot in each hemisphere and see how your balance is affected at latitude zero. Then, enjoy the nearby museums and exhibits, including the Planetarium, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Artisanal Beer Museum. There is also a small-scale model of Quito here, giving you a unique perspective on the city.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today you have the opportunity to explore Quito independently, this is a perfect chance to discover the beautiful DIY (do it yourself) activities available in the heart of the world.
Recommendations for DIY activities are:
- Browse around the Historical Center
- Take a free walking tour
- Take a ride on the cable car (Teleferico)
- Try the authentic Ecuadorian chocolate
- Have a walk around the Guapulo neighborhood
- Explore Museum la Capilla del Hombre and the Parque Metropolitano
Meals included: Breakfast
In the morning, head to Otavalo. The city is the 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.
Meals included: Breakfast
You will wake up early, and after breakfast, you will leave Quito and head to the Cotopaxi National Park, which is about 70 km (43.5 miles) from the center of Quito.
Upon your arrival at Cotopaxi National Park, you will see the volcano towering at 5897 meters, whose peak boasts a perfectly symmetrical snow-capped cone, and picturesque surrounding parkland. Located south of Quito, the Cotopaxi volcano is the second highest summit in Ecuador (19,347 feet). But there is more than meets the eyes. It is one of the world’s most active volcanoes! Its dome, which form is almost perfect, is covered with eternal snow.
Once there, you will start at Lake Limpiopungo, here you may find a variety of birds, and occasionally even wild horses. A short walk around the lake will allow you to admire the Andean plant and animal life along the way.
You will explore the rugged surroundings and stunning scenery of Cotopaxi National Park and Cotopaxi Volcano and enjoy heading ever-higher into this sky-high region, stopping at the 15,800-foot (4830-meter) Padre Rivas Refuge, here, you will have a spectacular view of Cotopaxi Volcano's gigantic cone, The distance is short and the hike presents no technical difficulty. but make sure to stay hydrated to avoid the effects of altitude, and bring warm clothes (hat, scarf, gloves, warm upper layers, wind/rainproof jacket).
This will be an excellent way to discover the mythical Andean landscapes in a truly unique way, in the afternoon, you will return to Quito.
Meals included: Breakfast
Today you'll explore the lush green cloud forest of Mindo.
Its location on the western slopes of the Andean highlands gives this region 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 known worldwide for its biodiversity and birding; it's 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.
Meals included: Breakfast
Spend the day exploring Quto at leisure, and by night you will catch your shuttle bus from Quito to the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve.
This is a shuttle bus that carries international groups that head to the lodges in the Amazon Rainforest Area.
The meeting point is at Blue House Youth Hostel in Quito where you will have your own room to rest and refresh before your long journey. The boarding of the bus will be at 10:30 PM.
This is a long journey to the deep Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest but once you reach El Puente where the bus drops you off in the morning you will feel it was completely worth it!
Meals included: Breakfast
You will arrive at El Puente de Cuyabeno and enter Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, this will be the perfect location to see a diversity of wildlife native to the Amazon Rainforest.
Our adventure will start at the entrance of the Cuyabeno River where we will enjoy a delicious box lunch. Our naturalist guide will give you information about the site, important recommendations, and other tips before navigating for two hours in the Cuyabeno River into the Lodge.
During the canoe ride, you get your first glimpse of the jungle; you will see different types of birds such as the caciques, oropendolas, and the prehistoric bird Hoatzin, you may also be able to see a variety of monkeys and other jungle animals, depending on time and weather conditions.
We will arrive before sunset, upon check-in, you will be shown to your rooms and you can relax a bit or take a short nap. Afterward, we will leave the lodge to swim in the lagoon and watch the beautiful sunset in the middle of the large lagoon.
Later, you will return to the lodge for dinner, and finish your first day in the jungle by relaxing in a hammock or enjoying a cocktail at the bar.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a very delicious breakfast, you will embark on a hike of approximately 3 to 4 hours in the primary forest in Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve.
The local guide will explain about the tropical forest and medicinal plants; during the hike, you may also spot big trees like the CEIBO and giant Amazonian ants colonies.
Once finished, you will return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch and a short break before the next planned activity.
In the afternoon, you will go outside the lodge to see the beautiful butterflies and swim in the lagoon. If possible we will be able to watch the beautiful grazed dolphins and enjoy the impressive sunset.
Then, we return to the lodge for dinner. At night on the agenda, there will be a fantastic night hike, which will be focused on looking for alligators on the river bank.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a delicious traditional breakfast, we will head in a canoe downstream on a journey that will take us about an hour to visit a family of the Tarapuy community; here we will be able to learn how to prepare cassava, a traditional yuca bread,
We will help in its preparation and learn to use the tools of the jungle to make this bread, this activity will occupy all morning. We will return to the Lodge at approximately two in the afternoon.
Upon returning to the Lodge, lunch will be waiting for us and afterward, it will be the perfect chance to relax before you embark on the next activity on the agenda, which will be in the evening.
To end the day, we will have a short hike through the primary forest focused on observing nocturnal insects, like spiders, geckos, or scorpions, and listening to the sounds of the night animals.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Very early in the morning and before breakfast, you will enjoy a nice hike at sunrise in the jungle to view the wonderful and colorful birds that enrich the surrounding area of the lodge and enjoy another moment of peace in this wonderful natural paradise, please remember that enjoying this activity depends on the weather condition on that morning.
Make sure to take plenty of photos to commemorate your Amazon adventure. After breakfast, you'll be gathering your belongings and getting ready for your return to civilization.
Navigation upriver awaits you to return to El Puente de Cuyabeno, where you will take the shuttle bus to return to Quito, expect to arrive late in the evening.
Meals included: Breakfast
Welcome to the Enchanted Islands of the Galapagos, where you will have a journey of a lifetime. As you arrive at Baltra Airport, a friendly and knowledgeable local guide will be waiting for you to transfer you to Santa Cruz Island.
Your first stop is a local farm in the highlands of Santa Cruz. Here, you will find yourself surrounded by dozens of giant tortoises that roam freely in their natural habitat. Please take a moment to appreciate these majestic creatures as you wander around the farm, observing their behavior and learning about their importance in the Galapagos ecosystem.
You will enjoy a delicious lunch before taking part in a reforestation project in a nearby area where you'll be planting a tree of native species to help protect the beauty of those highlands. In the afternoon, head to the Charles Darwin Research Station, a world-renowned institution dedicated to the conservation of the Galapagos Islands. Witness firsthand the work of international scientists who come to the Galapagos to carry out critical environmental projects. Learn about the unique ecosystem and the ongoing conservation efforts being made to protect it.
Your final stop for the day is the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, where giant Galapagos tortoises are bred and cared for in a safe and controlled environment. This is the best place on the islands to see different tortoise species and learn about each one. Observe the tortoises up close and marvel at their size and unique features.
As your day comes to an end, you will have experienced the wonders of Santa Cruz Island and gained a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation efforts in this unique ecosystem.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
- Hike to Tortuga Bay
- Go for a stroll in the peaceful town of Puerto Ayora
- Shop for souvenirs
- Explore hidden coves
- Today is for enjoying the beauty of the Galapagos, taking lots of beautiful photos, and slowing down the pace to truly appreciate island life.
In the afternoon you will be taken on a small group shared bay tour on a small boat to visit exotic places along the bay of Santa Cruz, and visit one, or if time allows it, more of these fantastic sites:
You will arrive at the small islet called La Lobería named for the great colony of sea lions where you can snorkel around sea lions and tropical fish displaying a dazzling show beneath the surface against interesting underwater formations.
Afterward, at the Shark Channel, you may spot harmless white-tip sharks and blue-footed boobies, you’ll come upon the Canal del Amor where you may find sea turtles and many tropical fish varieties.
Taking a 10-minute walk you’ll see marine iguanas in their natural habitat and have plenty of opportunities to take pictures.
Return to Puerto Ayora, to spend the rest of your day at leisure.
Meals included: Breakfast
You will start with a 45-minute hike from Puerto Ayora to the heavenly Tortuga Bay, famed for its soft coral sand and spectacular scenery, this stretch of coast is considered one of the archipelago's most picturesque spots.
Take a kayak out onto the water to see marine life up close and admire the coastline from a different perspective—observing colonies of marine iguanas and marine birds, as well as mangroves, cacti forests, and fascinating coastal flora. You may spot interesting array of bird residing here; pelicans and finches are locals here, and near the salt lagoon that backs onto the mangroves, you even may spot flamingos wandering.
After kayaking at the nearby cove, sunbathe on the beach or head back under the waves for some snorkeling before returning to Puerto Ayora for the rest of the day.
Meals included: Breakfast
In the morning, you will take the public speedboat to Isabela Island (2 hours ride). Once arrive, we recommend a visit to the flamingo lagoon or the giant tortoise breeding station. After lunch, you will visit the Tintoreras to do kayaking or snorkeling. The Tintoreras kayak tour will be a private tour. You can discover Humboldt penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, and sharks, which are resting in the natural channels that were formed by lava flows. While kayaking in the turquoise water you can spot different fish, sea turtles, rays, and penguins. The evening is at your leisure.
Meals included: Breakfast
In the morning, you will have time to explore by yourself this beautiful island. In the afternoon, get ready to take the public speedboat back to Santa Cruz Island, roughly 2-2.5 hours away, where you will spend the night.
Meals included: Breakfast
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 onboard, 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
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 the mainland and onward connection. Safe travels!
Meals included: Breakfast
Trip includes
Included
- Accommodation in Tourist Class Hotel in mainland Ecuador, Amazon (Lodge with private room and private bathroom) and Galapagos Island.
- Guidance in English or Spanish
Guiding Method
Fully guided
English
SpanishAccording to the itinerary
Vegan
Vegetarian
Meat- Private transfer in Quito - Airport - Quito
- Overnight shared shuttle bus to Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
- Private English speaking driver guide in Quito, Otavalo, Mindo and Cotopaxi National Park
- Public speedboat in Galapagos Islands Santa Cruz - Isabela - Santa Cruz
- Itabaca Channel public bus
Excluded
- Local flights to the Galapagos Islands (GPS) not included
- International flights to Quito (UIO) not included
- Galapagos National Park entrance fee (US$ 200 per person, payable only in cash)
- Galapagos Migration Card TCT (US$ 20 per person)
- Isabela Harbor Fee (approx. US$ 10 per person)
- Optional excursions
- Personal expenses such as tips
- Alcoholic drinks
- Any other meals, drinks, and/or services not mentioned in the program
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