Natural Wonders of Ecuador & Galapagos

Fly to Ecuador's equatorial capital, Quito. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure before joining an Ecuadorian-style welcome dinner.

Discover Quito through the eyes of a local, exploring its historic streets and iconic landmarks including the Golden Church, San Francisco Square and Main Square. Visit a traditional family workshop, enjoy lunch with local hosts, then continue to the Mitad del Mundo Museum before finishing with an immersive Ecuadorian chocolate tasting.

Travel north to Otavalo, home to one of South America's most famous indigenous markets. Explore the vibrant market stalls before visiting a traditional weaving workshop, where you'll discover ancestral techniques and the rich textile heritage of the Andes.

Discover the spectacular beauty of Cuicocha Lake, a volcanic crater lake surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes. Continue to Cotacachi, known for its indigenous heritage and renowned leather craftsmanship, with time to explore its artisan workshops and traditional shops.

Visit the Andean village of Pijal for an authentic cultural experience with the women of the Sacha Warmikuna community. Learn about traditional agriculture, cuisine and handicrafts, prepare ají and enjoy a farm-to-table lunch before continuing to the spectacular landscapes of Cotopaxi.

Explore the spectacular landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park, home to the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the world's highest active volcanoes. Visit the tranquil Limpiopungo Lagoon and travel through the Andean páramo before continuing to the vibrant town of Baños, nestled between the Andes and the Amazon rainforest.

Journey along Ecuador's famous Waterfalls Route, taking in spectacular waterfalls and scenic viewpoints as you travel from the Andes into the Amazon. Arrive at your rainforest lodge and experience the jungle after dark on a guided night walk, looking out for nocturnal wildlife.

Visit a wildlife rescue centre to learn about Amazonian conservation and the rehabilitation of native species. Continue to a local Amazonian community, gaining an insight into traditional ways of life and the deep connection between its people and the rainforest.

Journey through the spectacular Andean landscapes to the cloud forests of Papallacta, where you'll explore lush trails and look out for colourful hummingbirds and other Andean wildlife. Relax in Papallacta's naturally heated thermal pools, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.

Fly from Quito to the legendary Galápagos Islands, renowned for inspiring Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Arrive on San Cristóbal Island and explore La Lobería, a beautiful coastal reserve where you can encounter playful sea lions, marine iguanas and unique birdlife, with time to swim, snorkel or relax on the beach.

Take a boat trip to Isla Lobos and explore its remarkable wildlife, including blue-footed boobies, frigate birds and playful sea lions, with the chance to spot marine life in the surrounding waters. Return to San Cristóbal to visit the Interpretation Centre and enjoy views from Frigate Hill and Punta Carola before discovering the island's culinary heritage with a tasting of traditional Canchalagua ceviche.

Take a scenic speedboat journey to Santa Cruz Island, one of the most vibrant islands in the Galápagos. Explore Academy Bay, with opportunities to swim and snorkel alongside marine life, before visiting Playa de los Perros to see marine iguanas, striking red rock formations and turquoise waters.

Sail to Bartolomé Island, one of the Galápagos’ most iconic destinations, renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and spectacular views of Pinnacle Rock. Explore the island before snorkelling in its crystal-clear waters, with the chance to encounter colourful fish, sea lions, marine turtles, rays and Galápagos penguins.

Discover the wildlife of Santa Cruz Island at Primicias Ranch, home to the legendary giant Galápagos tortoises, and explore fascinating underground lava tunnels. Visit a family-run coffee plantation to learn about sustainable farming and local coffee and cacao production, before celebrating the end of your Galápagos adventure with a unique farewell dinner inside a natural lava tunnel.

Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about the Galápagos’ unique endemic species and the conservation efforts protecting this remarkable ecosystem. Later, fly back to Quito and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight, arriving home two days later.