Galápagos & Ecuador Experience
Named after the Equator, Ecuador thrills with steamy Amazon jungle, Andean foothills, and one of the most celebrated wildlife-watching destinations in the world - the Galápagos Islands. You’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Ecuadorian capital, Quito, hike through the waterfall splashed jungles of the Mindo Cloud Forest and drive down the Pan-American Highway to marvel at the snow-capped peak of Cotopaxi volcano. And on the Galápagos, you’ll encounter incredible wildlife, including giant tortoise, great frigate birds, marine iguana, Galápagos penguin, and more.
What you’ll love
- Visiting the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands
- Exploring the lava tunnels of Santa Cruz
- Swimming with turtles in Tortuga Bay
- Hiking through Cayambe Coca Eco Reserve
- Spotting exotic birds in Mindo Cloud Forest
- Taking part in community projects
- A more personalised experience thanks to small group sizes (maximum 16 people)
What’s included
- Return flights from London Heathrow including baggage and transfers
- Guided walks and sightseeing with local leaders
- 12 nights’ touring accommodation across Ecuador and the Galápagos
- 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 11 dinners
- All sightseeing and entrance fees (as per itinerary)
- All in-destination transport and internal flights
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Welcome to Quito - the best-preserved historical city of the Americas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and cultural capital of South America. And to top it off, it’s located on the equator in the foothills of the Pichincha volcano. Depending on when you arrive, you can spend your day exploring the old town of Quito. Then in the evening, there’ll be a welcome briefing at the hotel lobby to go through everything and help with anything you need.
Sheraton Hotel - Quito
Located in the bustling retail district of Ecuador’s capital, Quito, this modern hotel sits in easy reach of the area’s top attractions. Quito’s UNESCO-listed old quarter is just a 12-minute taxi ride, or you can stick around to take advantage of the Sheraton’s fully equipped gym and fitness centre. Spacious rooms are smartly decorated, and all come with TV and free Wi-Fi, and a selection have standout views over the city. The hotel has two excellent restaurants serving local dishes and international cuisine, plus a bakery that provides fresh bread and cakes.
Distance: approx. 3.5 miles (5.6km)
Ascent/Descent: 0m
Duration: approx. 2hrs
We’ll drive south on the Pan-American Highway to the highest active volcano in the world, Cotopaxi. This snow-capped volcano is surrounded by the Cotopaxi National Park, home to abundant plant life and Inca ruins. We’ll drive across the páramo to Limpiopungo Lake for short walk to birdwatch and admire the almost symmetrical cone of the Cotopaxi volcano.
Sheraton Hotel - Quito
Located in the bustling retail district of Ecuador’s capital, Quito, this modern hotel sits in easy reach of the area’s top attractions. Quito’s UNESCO-listed old quarter is just a 12-minute taxi ride, or you can stick around to take advantage of the Sheraton’s fully equipped gym and fitness centre. Spacious rooms are smartly decorated, and all come with TV and free Wi-Fi, and a selection have standout views over the city. The hotel has two excellent restaurants serving local dishes and international cuisine, plus a bakery that provides fresh bread and cakes.
This morning, we’ll head north of Quito to visit the middle of the world - a mandatory stop once you’re in Ecuador – where you’re able to stand on both sides of the hemispheres at the same time. On our way, we’ll stop for a view of the Pululahua crater, the third largest inhabited volcanic crater in the world. Then we’ll reach Mindo, which is nestled in the cloud forest - a true birdwatcher’s paradise. In the afternoon we’ll visit a chocolate distributor to understand how they process cocoa, from harvesting the seed to the final product.
El Septimo Paraiso
A handful of jungle lodges hidden in the middle of the Mindo Cloud Forest, El Septimo Paraiso is a real away-from-it-all experience. Wake up to the sounds of wildlife in the trees with a stay in one of 23 comfortable cabins – all of which overlook the tropical scenery. Made from 100% ecological materials, rooms are decked out in dark-wood, bamboo furniture, and individual touches. Outside you’ll find two pools surrounded by shade-giving trees, a safari-style bar, and an excellent restaurant serving both Ecuadorian and international cuisine.
Distance: approx. 2 miles (3.2km)
Ascent/Descent: 290m / 250m
Duration: approx. 1hr45m
Explore the pristine cloud rainforest of Mindo, crossing by cable car and hiking along waterfalls surrounded toucans, hummingbirds, and other colourful birds. The afternoon’s yours to enjoy some optional outdoor activities like whitewater rafting, tubing, or ziplining over the forest canopy. Then we’ll make our way to the butterfly nursery to watch them emerge and land on your hand.
El Septimo Paraiso
A handful of jungle lodges hidden in the middle of the Mindo Cloud Forest, El Septimo Paraiso is a real away-from-it-all experience. Wake up to the sounds of wildlife in the trees with a stay in one of 23 comfortable cabins – all of which overlook the tropical scenery. Made from 100% ecological materials, rooms are decked out in dark-wood, bamboo furniture, and individual touches. Outside you’ll find two pools surrounded by shade-giving trees, a safari-style bar, and an excellent restaurant serving both Ecuadorian and international cuisine.
We’ll drive back up into the highlands, heading north to the town of Otavalo. We’ll visit Pijal, a small village in the heart of the Andes, to visit one of the sustainable projects called Sacha WarmiKuna (women from the mountain). You’ll prepare ‘Aji’ (a local spicy salsa) together, have lunch, and learn more about the weaving process of their textiles. In the afternoon, you’ll get to explore the handicraft market, full of textiles, alpaca throws and rugs, knitted clothing, paintings, ceramics, jewellery, and tapestries. Later we’ll arrive at the historical hacienda of Cusin where we’ll stay overnight.
Hacienda Cusin
Furnished with 17th century antiques, wall tapestries, and colourful tiles, this lavish 400-year-old Spanish estate ranks among the finest haciendas in Ecuador. Characterful rooms come with the feel of an authentic Spanish casa while hearty Ecuadorian cuisine is served in the candlelit dining room. Alongside five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens to explore and a host of activities on offer, the hotel also makes a great base from which to visit Otavalo’s famous craft market.
Distance: approx. 4.5 miles (7.2km)
Ascent/Descent: 581m / Descent: 90m
Duration: approx. 2hrs
Our first stop today will be the Cuicocha crater lake in the Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve. We’ll trek around this active volcano before taking a boat to the centre of the crater where you’ll witness the forces at play beneath the surface.
Hacienda Cusin
Furnished with 17th century antiques, wall tapestries, and colourful tiles, this lavish 400-year-old Spanish estate ranks among the finest haciendas in Ecuador. Characterful rooms come with the feel of an authentic Spanish casa while hearty Ecuadorian cuisine is served in the candlelit dining room. Alongside five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens to explore and a host of activities on offer, the hotel also makes a great base from which to visit Otavalo’s famous craft market.
Distance: approx. 11 miles (17.5km)
Ascent/Descent: 200m/800m
Duration: approx. 5-6hrs
One hour from Quito, we’ll be in amongst the Andean páramo surrounded by lagoons, waterfalls, and the most incredible views. We’ll hike in the Cayambe Coca National Park to soak up every detail. Then at the end of the day, we’ll check in to our hotel for a relaxing final night.
Termas Papallacta
You might find it tough to leave Termas Papallacta – even with a whole host of Ecuadorian adventures on your doorstep. This mountain spa hotel boasts an enviable location on the edge of the renowned Cayambe Coca Eco Reserve. Comfortable lodge-style rooms are kitted out in wooden furnishings and after a full day of exploring, you can enjoy a hot spring soak and hydrotherapy massage surrounded by knockout views of the Andean mountains.
We’ll fly to the island of Baltra, part of the Galápagos Islands, and transfer to Santa Cruz, a nearby island, by crossing the narrow Itabaca channel by ferry. We’ll head into the highlands, home to the iconic giant Galápagos tortoises, where we’ll have lunch at a private ranch before going in search of these famous residents. Along the way, you’ll spot lava tubes, too. The evening’s yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Hotel Fiesta - Puerto Ayora
The 3-star Hotel Fiesta puts you in a prime position for exploring the Galápagos Islands. Situated on the western side of Santa Cruz, this hotel is well placed for wildlife-watching boat trips around Academy Bay and up-close encounters with giant tortoise. Relaxing is easy here, too. There’s a small pool surrounded by sun loungers, and a huge hot tub ideal for a post-adventure soak. Bright, fresh-faced rooms come with air-conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi, and most look out onto the hotel’s manicured gardens.
Today is all about wildlife encounters as we firstly head for a boat ride to Academy Bay. You’ll swim and snorkel with the exotic fish and sea lions that frolic in the waters and search out blue-footed boobies. Afterwards, we’ll climb to a nearby viewpoint to see white-tipped reef sharks before walking along Playa de los Perros to spot the iguanas basking in the sun. We’ll spend the afternoon at Tortuga Bay, a perfectly preserved beach where you’re surrounded by turtles, crabs, and iguanas.
Hotel Fiesta - Puerto Ayora
The 3-star Hotel Fiesta puts you in a prime position for exploring the Galápagos Islands. Situated on the western side of Santa Cruz, this hotel is well placed for wildlife-watching boat trips around Academy Bay and up-close encounters with giant tortoise. Relaxing is easy here, too. There’s a small pool surrounded by sun loungers, and a huge hot tub ideal for a post-adventure soak. Bright, fresh-faced rooms come with air-conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi, and most look out onto the hotel’s manicured gardens.
Spend the morning learning about conservation at the Charles Darwin Research Station and seeing the famous Lonesome George. Then in the afternoon we’ll take a boat to the island of San Cristóbal where the rest of the evening’s yours to enjoy as you wish.
Hotel Blue Marlin - San Cristobal
What’s most pleasing about this small and friendly hotel is its standout location. You’ll be in strolling distance of San Cristobal’s biggest town, Puerto Baquerio Moreno, and its charming port. Back at base, a handful of rooms with simple but homely touches create a comfortable stay and centre around a small pool. As for facilities, there’s a pint-sized bar area and a buffet where breakfast is served.
Casa Opuntia
Conveniently located on the seafront promenade of the stunning Playa de Oro beach, this boutique hotel combines modern comforts and natural beauty. After a day of incredible wildlife watching adventures, freshen up with a swim in the outdoor pool and unwind in elegantly designed rooms with ocean views. One of the hotel’s star attractions is the garden restaurant where guests can dine on delicious local cuisine whilst overlooking the bay. (18 October departures only)
A quick boat ride takes us to nearby Isla Lobos to see the wildlife that inhabits the island and surrounding waters including manta rays, sea lions, frigatebirds, and even sharks. Enjoy strolling along the white beaches of San Cristóbal before we return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Then we’ll head to Cerro Tijeretas to hike to the beautiful Playa Baquerizo beach, passing a hilltop viewpoint, the horseshoe-shaped Punta Carola beach, and Muelle Tijeretas on the way. We’ll round off the day with a sunset cocktail at Playa Mann.
Hotel Blue Marlin - San Cristobal
What’s most pleasing about this small and friendly hotel is its standout location. You’ll be in strolling distance of San Cristobal’s biggest town, Puerto Baquerio Moreno, and its charming port. Back at base, a handful of rooms with simple but homely touches create a comfortable stay and centre around a small pool. As for facilities, there’s a pint-sized bar area and a buffet where breakfast is served.
Casa Opuntia
Conveniently located on the seafront promenade of the stunning Playa de Oro beach, this boutique hotel combines modern comforts and natural beauty. After a day of incredible wildlife watching adventures, freshen up with a swim in the outdoor pool and unwind in elegantly designed rooms with ocean views. One of the hotel’s star attractions is the garden restaurant where guests can dine on delicious local cuisine whilst overlooking the bay. (18 October departures only)
After breakfast, we’ll say our goodbyes to the Galápagos Islands and transfer to the airport to catch a flight back to the mainland. After arriving in Quito, we’ll transfer to a hotel and spend our final evening in Ecuador.
Sheraton Hotel - Quito
Located in the bustling retail district of Ecuador’s capital, Quito, this modern hotel sits in easy reach of the area’s top attractions. Quito’s UNESCO-listed old quarter is just a 12-minute taxi ride, or you can stick around to take advantage of the Sheraton’s fully equipped gym and fitness centre. Spacious rooms are smartly decorated, and all come with TV and free Wi-Fi, and a selection have standout views over the city. The hotel has two excellent restaurants serving local dishes and international cuisine, plus a bakery that provides fresh bread and cakes.
Our tour finishes here and we bid farewell to our without flight guests. After breakfast, with-flight guests transfer to Quito airport to begin our return journey back to the UK.
With flight guests arrive back in the UK
Sheraton Hotel - Quito
Located in the bustling retail district of Ecuador’s capital, Quito, this modern hotel sits in easy reach of the area’s top attractions. Quito’s UNESCO-listed old quarter is just a 12-minute taxi ride, or you can stick around to take advantage of the Sheraton’s fully equipped gym and fitness centre. Spacious rooms are smartly decorated, and all come with TV and free Wi-Fi, and a selection have standout views over the city. The hotel has two excellent restaurants serving local dishes and international cuisine, plus a bakery that provides fresh bread and cakes.
Hotel Fiesta - Puerto Ayora
The 3-star Hotel Fiesta puts you in a prime position for exploring the Galápagos Islands. Situated on the western side of Santa Cruz, this hotel is well placed for wildlife-watching boat trips around Academy Bay and up-close encounters with giant tortoise. Relaxing is easy here, too. There’s a small pool surrounded by sun loungers, and a huge hot tub ideal for a post-adventure soak. Bright, fresh-faced rooms come with air-conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi, and most look out onto the hotel’s manicured gardens.
Hotel Blue Marlin - San Cristobal
What’s most pleasing about this small and friendly hotel is its standout location. You’ll be in strolling distance of San Cristobal’s biggest town, Puerto Baquerio Moreno, and its charming port. Back at base, a handful of rooms with simple but homely touches create a comfortable stay and centre around a small pool. As for facilities, there’s a pint-sized bar area and a buffet where breakfast is served.
El Septimo Paraiso
A handful of jungle lodges hidden in the middle of the Mindo Cloud Forest, El Septimo Paraiso is a real away-from-it-all experience. Wake up to the sounds of wildlife in the trees with a stay in one of 23 comfortable cabins – all of which overlook the tropical scenery. Made from 100% ecological materials, rooms are decked out in dark-wood, bamboo furniture, and individual touches. Outside you’ll find two pools surrounded by shade-giving trees, a safari-style bar, and an excellent restaurant serving both Ecuadorian and international cuisine.
Hacienda Cusin
Furnished with 17th century antiques, wall tapestries, and colourful tiles, this lavish 400-year-old Spanish estate ranks among the finest haciendas in Ecuador. Characterful rooms come with the feel of an authentic Spanish casa while hearty Ecuadorian cuisine is served in the candlelit dining room. Alongside five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens to explore and a host of activities on offer, the hotel also makes a great base from which to visit Otavalo’s famous craft market.
Termas Papallacta
You might find it tough to leave Termas Papallacta – even with a whole host of Ecuadorian adventures on your doorstep. This mountain spa hotel boasts an enviable location on the edge of the renowned Cayambe Coca Eco Reserve. Comfortable lodge-style rooms are kitted out in wooden furnishings and after a full day of exploring, you can enjoy a hot spring soak and hydrotherapy massage surrounded by knockout views of the Andean mountains.
Wyndham Hotel, Quito Airport - Quito
This sleek and contemporary hotel offers a comfortable stay and a convenient location just steps from the terminal building.
Casa Opuntia
Conveniently located on the seafront promenade of the stunning Playa de Oro beach, this boutique hotel combines modern comforts and natural beauty. After a day of incredible wildlife watching adventures, freshen up with a swim in the outdoor pool and unwind in elegantly designed rooms with ocean views. One of the hotel’s star attractions is the garden restaurant where guests can dine on delicious local cuisine whilst overlooking the bay. (18 October departures only)
Essential information
It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Insulated jacket/top
- Walking clothing
- Walking socks (plus spares)
- Sunhat
- Gloves/mitts and warm hat
- Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)
- Headtorch
- High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)
- Sunglasses with a dark lens
- Rucksack (15-30 litres)
- Mobile phone
- Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.)
- Passport
- Visa (if applicable)
- Copy of your travel insurance policy
- UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC)
Recommended
- Collapsible walking poles
- Swimwear and travel towel
- Snacks
- Dry bags
- Rubbish bags
- Insect repellent
Optional extras
- Camera
- Sit mat
- Flask for hot drinks
- Durable lunch box
- Gaiters
- GPS device
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
Non-member fee: £30 per person.
If you choose land only, you will be responsible for making your own travel arrangements, including your flights and airport transfers at your destination. Any flights booked independently will also not be covered by our ATOL license.
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||||||||
|
27 Sep - 10 Oct 2025 14 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Flight from London Heathrow Airport
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £3,799 pp |
from £3,799 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
|
18 Oct - 31 Oct 2025 14 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Flight from London Heathrow Airport Single from £4,394 Double from £3,799 pp |
from £3,799 pp |
from £4,394 |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||||||||
|
27 Sep - 10 Oct 2025 14 nights |
Itinerary 2025
Single Call to Enquire
Double from £2,899 pp |
from £2,899 pp |
Call to Enquire |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
|
18 Oct - 31 Oct 2025 14 nights |
Itinerary 2025 Single from £3,494 Double from £2,899 pp |
from £2,899 pp |
from £3,494 |
Trip Notes
|
Book Now | |||
Important information
- With flight holidays: Price includes return flights to Quito, hold baggage and airport transfers
- Regional Flights: Please click BOOK NOW to view Manchester price
*If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements, please ensure you’ve selected a land-only option before proceeding to book.
4068Kg of CO₂e
Average carbon footprint per person Learn More
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