Ecuador and Galapagos

On this tour, you will experience the Galapagos Islands and observe their remarkable wildlife up close. See giant tortoises and a number of indigenous bird species, and swim with sea lions, penguins and perhaps even sea turtles. Explore the old colonial centre of Quito, visit a colourful local market, see Ecuador’s most impressive volcano, and spend a final night in Guayaquil, on the banks of the Guayas river.

Day 1: Fly to Quito via Bogotá
Overnight flight from London to Quito via Bogotá with Avianca (regional connections available). (N)

Day 2: Quito
Late morning arrival. Transfer to the Hilton Colon for a 3-night stay. Rest of the day at leisure. (N)

Day 3: Quito
Morning tour of Quito’s historic centre and the Middle of the World equatorial line monument. (B)

Day 4: Avenue of the Volcanoes
Full-day tour into the Avenue of the Volcanoes, an area of sleepy villages, patchwork fields and volcanic peaks. Explore Cotopaxi National Park and visit the colourful indigenous market of Pujili for an insight into local culture. (B, L)

Day 5: Fly to the Galapagos
Fly to the Galapagos islands and board the Isabella II for a 4-night cruise of these fascinating islands (Classic Cabin*).

Days 6-8: Galapagos
Shared excursions with a naturalist guide for close encounters with some of the most rare animals and birds, including land iguanas, giant tortoises, Darwin’s finches, boobies and flightless cormorants. The days are spent exploring islands with different characteristics to see the variety of wildlife and landscapes. (B, L, D)

Day 9: Fly to Guayaquil
Disembark the cruise and fly to Guayaquil. Transfer to the Unipark Hotel for 1 night. (B)

Day 10: Fly to London via Bogotá
Morning at leisure or optional tour of the city or a banana or cacao plantation. Evening flight to London, via Bogotá with Avianca. (B)

Day 11: London
Afternoon arrival. (N)

Meal basis
As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.

Important information

Locally escorted tour
This tour is led in each destination en route by a local tour guide.

Superior tour
Typically based in 4- and 5-star accommodation.

Galapagos cruise cabin upgrades
On each departure, it maybe possible to upgrade to an Owners cabin. Please ask for further details.

Park fees
Galapagos National Park fees and beverages on board are not included.

Private & tailor-made travel
This itinerary can be taken privately, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements. Please ask for further details.