EC11 Experiential 14 Day Ecuador Tour

Galapagos, Andes & Amazon

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Discover Quito, the beautiful high Andes landscape and the diverse island of the Galapagos; eco-friendly boutique hotels; Soft adventure, comfort, local community and wildlife interaction; Local certified naturalists and some of the best adventure guides in the world; Support the local communities with our eco-friendly activities and green hotels that minimize your environmental impact on the destination; Amazon experience

INQUIRE ABOUT THIS TRIP

DATES & PRICES
FULL ITINERARY
MAP & HOTELS
TRIP INFORMATION

Dates & Prices

Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to the entries under the blue box below.

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How do I make a reservation? How and when do I pay?

The easiest way to make a reservation is to contact us by telephone. You can also book online through our website.

A non-refundable $500 deposit is payable at the time of booking; if a reservation is made within 60 days, full payment is required. Some trips require a larger deposit. If international airline bookings require a non-refundable payment in order to secure space or the lowest available fare, we will require an increase in deposit equal to the cost of the ticket(s).

Early enrolment is always encouraged as group size is limited and some trips require greater preparation time.

Once we have received your deposit, we will confirm your space and send you a confirmation package containing your trip itinerary, any visa/travel permit related documents, invoice, clothing and equipment recommendations, general information on your destination(s), and forms for you to complete, sign and return to us. Your air e-tickets (if applicable), final hotel list, final trip itinerary, and instructions on how to join your tour, will be sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure.

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What about cancellations, refunds, and transfers?

Should you need to cancel your trip, you must notify us in writing (e-mail preferred) immediately. Deposits are non-refundable, though if you cancel more than 90 days prior to tour departure date, the deposit is transferable to any other tour taken within 12 months of the original tour start date, minus a per person transfer fee (some tours have a 100% nonrefundable/ nontransferable deposit; you will be informed of this at the time of booking). Less than 90 days prior to departure, all monies paid are 100% non-refundable, nontransferable. Name changes are not permitted. We will not grant partial refunds for any unused trip arrangements—voluntarily missed meals, sightseeing, transport, etc—after the trip has commenced, or any refunds to trip members who do not complete any portion of the itinerary for whatever reason. All air tickets are non-refundable and valid only for the flight(s) indicated.

We may cancel departures if forced to do so by unforeseen circumstances such as war, civil unrest, disease outbreaks, catastrophic events such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions, etc -- things beyond our control that are commonly referred to as “force majeure.” In these instances we will offer 100% credits for all deposits if cancellation takes place more than 60 days prior to tour start date. Such credits can be applied to any future scheduled or custom tour (time limits may apply).

If cancellation occurs within the 60 day period, we will offer to postpone your trip to another departure of the same tour code within 12 months of the original tour start date and your full payment on the postponed tour will remain non-refundable; or, if circumstances do not permit at that time, an alternative will be offered.

Regardless of the timing of cancellation (outside or inside 60 days), we will not be responsible for costs associated with re-issuance or extension of visas, airline policies pertaining to cancellation/change fees, any trip component/s that may be non-refundable from our suppliers, or for any compensation. We strongly recommend that all travellers purchase trip cancellation insurance, either through Adventures Abroad or elsewhere, as this may provide coverage for the above listed circumstances and other perils.

If we cancel your tour due to insufficient enrolment, we will endeavour to find an alternative tour for you, either the same tour on a different date or another tour of your choice. If this is not acceptable, all monies paid will be refunded in full and will constitute full settlement. We will not be responsible for any expenses incurred, such as visas, vaccinations, independently purchase airfare, or any compensation. Notice of cancellation due to insufficient enrolment in any program will be given no later than 60 days prior to trip start date.

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Do you have a shared accommodation program?

Yes! Most tours have a single-share program in which we match you with another single traveller of the same gender. If we are unable to pair you, we will usually absorb the cost of a single room. On some tours a "forced single" will apply; please enquire at time of booking. You will normally be informed of this charge 60 days prior to departure; however, we reserve the right to charge this fee up to your departure and, in rare cases, once you have departed. Upgrading to single room once the tour has begun is subject to availability in each overnight point, and payment must be made immediately to our office or locally to the Tour Leader. If you want to guarantee your own room, a single supplement applies. Payment of single supplement does not, however, guarantee that you will receive a twin size, twin-bedded room.

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I am a single who prefers my own room. What is a single supplement?

All of our tours have a single supplement for those who want to be guaranteed their own room at each location.

This supplement is a reflection of the fact that most hotels around the world do not discount the regular twin-share rate for a room by 50% for only one person occupying a room. Most hotels will give a break on the price, but usually in the range of 25-30% of the twin-share rate. This difference, multiplied by each night, amounts to the single supplement.

The conventional amount can also vary from country to country and some destinations are more expensive than others for single occupancy. In order to be "single friendly," the supplements we apply are not a profit centre for us and we do our best to keep them as reasonable as possible.

On most tours we limit the number of singles available, not to be punitive, but rather because many hotels allow for only a limited number of singles; some smaller hotels at remote locations also have a limited number of single rooms available.

Please note that most single rooms around the world are smaller than twin-share rooms and will likely have only one bed.

Select a date below to reserve your spot:

Start Date	End Date	Price	More Info
Fri 20 Nov 2020	Thu 03 Dec 2020	$6680 USD$6180 USD	Discounted

Fri 04 Jun 2021	Thu 17 Jun 2021	$6680 USD$6180 USD	Discounted
Fri 19 Nov 2021	Thu 02 Dec 2021	$6680 USD$6180 USD	Discounted

Fri 03 Jun 2022	Thu 16 Jun 2022	$6180 USD
Fri 18 Nov 2022	Thu 01 Dec 2022	$6180 USD

Due to the nature of internal flights, this tour requires a $1000 per person deposit

Optional Single Supplement: $1812 USD (number of singles limited).
This tour may require a mandatory single supplement charge of $906 if you join our share program and we are unable to pair you.

Tour Overview

Our Experiential Ecuador Tour is an exciting addition to our itineraries that include the superlative Galapagos Islands.

The most attractive aspect of this trip is that it is not a cruise, but rather a land-based adventure that allows for more time and greater immersion in not only the natural splendour of this special place, but also in its unique and little-known island culture.

Unbeknownst to many is that the Galapagos actually supports a small human population, which it has since the early-to-mid 19th century.

Subsisting on fishing turtles, lobster, and grouper, and small-plot farming and foraging, the earliest settlers - from Ireland, Norway, Germany, and mainland South America, among other places - established homesteads and small settlements, many of which still exist today.

Almost 60 years since 97% of the archipelago was declared a national park, four of the islands have permanent habitations and about 30,000 people live on the islands year-round.

Development is limited to the 3 percent of the islands that aren't part of the park and Galapagos's inhabitants live within specific urban and rural zones.

Organized tourism began in earnest in the 1970's, and around 170,000 people now visit the islands every year, most doing so as part of a cruise.

Though cruising will always be an extremely popular way of visiting the islands and do a fantastic job overall, we are delighted to offer our travellers an alternative that allows you to see and experience what it's like to live on the islands, either as a descendant of the early settlers, an adventurous entrepreneur, or as an iguana!

This is why we call this an "experiential" adventure; on this special journey you will experience all that this incredible place has to offer the inquisitive visitor, while doing so in a way that promotes sustainable tourism. Islanders who used to eke out a living fishing turtles are now your expert guides; the delicious cuisine that you will experience is, as a much as possible, sourced locally; and stringent rules about waste and recycling ensure a minimal impact.

Add to this a continental component, which provides a sumptuous glimpse into pre- and post-colonial times in the Andes, and an Amazon extension, you have a breathtakingly-varied Ecuadorian experience and one of the most intimate and immersive trips we offer anywhere.

Regions visited: South America
Countries visited: Ecuador

Testimonials

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James E. (Brights Grove, ON, CA)

The Galapagos snorkeling at Kicker Rock was great. The Amazon nature outings were very good - we saw a lot of flora and fauna. The Amazon outing to the local village and the 'bread making' were good. Our local leader was outstanding - personable, attentive, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The local guide was very good in the Amazon. He was very keen and enthusiastic. We saw a great deal of fauna because of him. He worked hard for us to enjoy the experience. We were well fed throughout the tour. Our local leader got us to some very good restaurants. The Amazon lodge owner and company did a remarkable job of feeding us wholesome, tasty meals. Of all of our trips, Ecuador may turn out to be the most memorable. From the swims with the fishes and rays, and the walks among the tortoises on the Galapagos to the river-boating among the monkeys, butterflies and birds of the Amazon rainforest, this trip was a wonderful tour of the magnificent fauna and flora of Ecuador.

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What is the maximum number of participants on a trip?

Most of our tours carry a maximum of 18 participants; some tours (ie hiking tours) top out at 16. In the event that we do not achieve our minimum complement by our 60-day deadline, we may offer group members the option of paying a "small-group surcharge" as an alternative to cancellation. If all group members agree, we will confirm the trip at existing numbers; this surcharge is refundable in the event that we ultimately achieve our regular minimum. If the small group surcharge is not accepted, we will offer a refund of your deposit or a different trip of your choice.

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Can I extend my tour either at the beginning or end? What about stopovers?

Yes, you can extend your tour either at the beginning or the end and we can book accommodation in our tour hotel. Stopovers are often permitted, depending on air routing. Stopovers usually carry a "stopover" fee levied by the airline.

Full Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Quito
Arrival to the Airport in Quito, assistance at the Airport and transfer to local hotel.

Overnight in Quito.
Included Meal(s): Dinner

Day 2 Quito City Tour - Transfer to Hacienda
After breakfast, we walk through the landmarks of Quito's colonial, historical downtown, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We meet local artisans and immerse ourselves in the city's vibe. The walk begins at the San Francisco market, where the chef of Restaurant La Purisima will be join us. He is a very good story teller about local Andean products, unique Ecuadorian condiments, colonial time granny recipes, and enjoys sharing his passion. At the market, discover traditional Andean healing techniques.

We continue our exploration of the city's historical center as we walk towards La Ronda, full of art and ancestral trades, handcrafts, tin sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, Escuela Quiteña paintings and sweets shops. La Ronda is your opportunity to live and shop like a local.

The group will have lunch at Restaurant La Purisima, located at the entrance of one of the first theaters in Quito. Bolivar Theather has been an emblematic piece of art due to its architecture and recently reopened after refurbishing jobs. Lunch will be arranged in a private area where we will get an Andean cocktail demo and our chef will delight us with dishes that feature traditional cuisine with a fusion of contemporary techniques. Continue the journey directly to the highlands for our hacienda stay.

Please note that we tend to alternate between two hacienda properties on this tour due to consideration related to ultimate group make-up and size and room availability at the time that our tour is confirmed, we alternate between Hacienda Zuleta and Hacienda Mirage, both of which offer the same level of accommodation quality and a similar highlands experience.

Hacienda Zuleta is an impressive 4,000 acre (2000 hectare) colonial working farm belonging to the family of the late Galo Plaza Lasso, former president of Ecuador, for over 100 years.

Hacienda Mirage is perched on a hillside, where you will discover a hidden corner of Ecuador and a hotel imbued with the native flavour of the Andes. The property has stunning gardens and beautiful views of the mountains.

For full information on both options, please refer to our website.

Overnight at a Hacienda.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3 Andean Hacienda & Otavalo Market
Today we tour our hotel property and learn about its history and about the flora and fauna of the region.

We will also include a visit on to the indigenous market of Otavalo, famous around the world for their quality weaving. In early years the Otavalo Valley was filled with farmers who raised crops in fertile lands where they lived. In the 14th century the Inca expansion reached north into the Otavalo area. The Caraquis who inhabited the area resisted the invaders. For 17 long years, fierce fighting continued as the defiant Caraquis refused to be subjugated by the Incas. The Spanish arrived a few years after the Incas and established a Hacienda system of workshops where Otavalenos were forced to work 15 hour days weaving fabrics.

Today this weaving tradition forms the basis of a lucrative industry that has allowed the Otavaleno indigenous peoples to join the world economy while retaining their traditional values and skills. During our time in the valley we will have a chance to visit with the local Otavalenos and see them working their craft.

At the end of the day you'll have time to relax and enjoy the service and atmosphere of our hacienda.

Overnight at Hacienda.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4 Highlands - Quito Airport - Fly to San Cristobal, Galapagos Islands
Early this morning we transfer to the Quito Airport; flight to the Galapagos Islands (possibly via Guayaquil).

After a morning flight to San Cristobal Island, we’ll be greeted at the airport and head to our hotel. After lunch and a quick introduction, we begin our journey at the Galapagos Interpretation Center to learn about the unique wildlife, geology, history, and social dynamics of the Galapagos.

After our visit, we hike to Tijeretas along naturally formed trails of lava rocks. The path is surrounded by native plants such as Galapagos cotton, palo santo, acacia, and cacti. Along the way yuor guide will help you spot and identify blue footed boobies, frigate birds, pelicans, herons, gulls, warblers, mockingbirds, and finches in the vegetation and sea cliffs. Our guides interpret this amazing flora and fauna in the context of the island's natural history. We also enjoy scenic views of the rugged coastline and the tranquil town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

We cool off from our hike with a refreshing snorkeling session at postcard-worthy Carola Beach, surrounded by sea turtles, sea lions, and marine iguanas, as we bask in the setting sun.

After dinner, we’ll explore the friendly, laid-back beach town and stroll down the boardwalk to visit the neighboring colony of Galapagos sea lions.

Overnight on San Cristobal Island.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5 San Cristobal: Northern Coast
Today we explore the northern coast by boat. We visit either Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock), Punta Pitt or Cerro Brujo (the visiting site depends on the week day and the Galapagos National Park regulations). On our exploration trip we make sure to search the nearby coves and cliffs for sea turtles, sea lions, frigate birds, blue-footed boobies, and Nazca boobies. Here we have the chance to get up close and personal with sea lions in their favorite playground. If you choose to snorkel, we might see eagle rays, golden rays, Galapagos sharks, starfish, clams, and thousands of tropical fish. If we’re lucky, we may even come across hammerhead sharks.

Our hosts on board will prepare a delicious "Ceviche", a typical Ecuadorian lunch. After a full day spent exploring the seas, we head back to the hotel for dinner and a well-earned rest.

Overnight on San Cristobal.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6 San Cristobal - Isabela
After breakfast, we say goodbye to San Cristobal with a quick small plane ride to Isabela Island.*

Isabela is the largest island in the Galapagos and is still being formed by six active shield volcanoes. Isabela remains one of the most volcanically active spots on the planet. Upon arrival, we take short boat ride from town to Tintoreras, where we'll walk and have a chance to snorkel. These calm waters are the home of sea lions, sea turtles, marine iguanas, rays and penguins. Tintoreras offers a high concentration of wildlife that will amaze you.

After going around on the boat and walking on Tintoreras itself, we can snorkel for a chance to marine life abundant in this bay. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in town.

We then set out on one of the most scenic walks in the Galapagos. Our hike takes us along immaculate beaches, into an alluring poison apple forest and a lava tube cave, and through brooding mangroves and brackish lagoons.

* There is a strict 12kg / 25 lb per person checked luggage limit, plus carry-on. Excess luggage can be securely stored stored in Quito.

Overnight on Isabela.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7 Isabela: Concha Perla & Flamingo Lagoon
This site is in Puerto Villamil, only a few meters from the El Embarcadero Port. A natural rock wall forms a circular concave bay-like structure that fills with ocean water according to the tides. It is a beautiful place in the bay of crystalline waters that is perfect for snorkeling. Dive in and explore these gorgeous waters while swimming with a variety of fish, sea turtles, penguins, and more. You can do snorkeling, diving or hiking in this area.

Our guide will take us to visit the Famingos' Lagoon. This is a approx. 2km trail where we will have explanation of the vegetation and geology of this young Island, Isabela Island. Arriving to the Flamingo lagoon we might be able to see flamingos feeding in this lake. This is an artificial lake, due to the excavation for construction the lake was made up by the rain.

Overnight on Isabela.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8 Isabela: The Tunnels & Tortoise Breeding Centre
After breakfast, we will visit a unique place in the islands, “Los Tuneles”. Our path starts on board our speed boat on a 45 minutes trop. Our experienced captain will securely lead us across the waves that normally hide this treasure. The Tunnels were formed millions year ago when rivers of liquid lava ran across the island reaching the coast shore. The cold water froze their superficial layer isolating the interior while liquid lava kept flowing into the sea. When the eruption finished, a hollow structure was formed and its wall later broke allowing water to come inside and creating a tunnel.

Our guide will join us along hundreds of tunnels while we snorkel and discover the marine life such as sharks, lobsters, penguins, sea lions, boobies, marine turtles among other endemic species from Galapagos. A snack will be served on board our boat. If lucky enough, we will have the chance to witness giant mantarays feeding in open waters. Afternoon return to Isabella.

Along the way to the Tortoise Center, we pass through a manzanillo forest surrounded by wetlands, home to the famous giant pink flamingos a delightful and unexpected sight for Galapagos. After a delicious lunch made with local and organic products, we head to one of the favourite local hangouts, Concha y Perla, for a fantastic swim and optional snorkel.

Overnight on Isabela.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 9 Isabela - Boat to Santa Cruz
Wake up with the sea breeze as we travel by speedboat to Santa Cruz Island. After checking in at the hotel we head to El Chato in the Santa Cruz highlands to find the famous giant tortoise in their natural habitat. It is truly an honour to walk in the stately presence of these gentle giants, who can live to be more than 175 years old. We will also see pintail ducks, Darwin’s finches, frigate birds, egrets, and the vermillion flycatcher.

Our next stop is an organic farm dedicating their efforts to conservation and sustainable, organic permaculture. Their famed grown coffee has gained international attention and sold to exclusive buyers worldwide. We learn about growing coffee, organic farming, and why many farms in Galapagos are in need of restoration. We finish up on a beautiful platform overlooking the slopes of Santa Cruz while enjoying freshly-brewed coffee and fruit from the farm.

Overnight on Santa Cruz.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 10 Galapagos - Quito
We transfer to Baltra Island for our return flight to the mainland and bid a fond farewell to the Galapagos and our Galapagos-based guide/s (please see your pre-trip notes package for suggestions re tipping). Transfer to our airport area hotel in Quito.

Because tomorrow's flight to the Amazon is likely an early one, we don't include dinner this evening. For the sake of convenience, we may choose to stay at a hotel closer to the airport.

Overnight in Quito.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 11 Quito - Amazon Region
The Napo Cultural Centre (formerly the Yasuni Kichwa Ecolodge) is located on the south bank of the Napo River, the largest river of the Ecuadorian Amazon and the Yasuni National Park. The trip starts from the town of Coca in comfortable ecological roof canoes, outboard motor-operated. (as we use three different lodges in the Ecuadorian Amazon, the actual lodge used for your departure may vary).

The canoe trip down the river takes about two hours; box lunch will be provided to passengers. During the navigation you will see birds such as herons, kingfishers, terns And other shore birds species and beautiful landscapes. Arriving at Napo Cultural Centre Kichwa Ecolodge, visitors are warmly welcome with a traditional drink, lunch at the lodge and immediately taken to their cabins amidst the teeming wilderness found on one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth.

In the afternoon, a short walk down to the banks of the Napo River to enjoy a beautiful sunset on the beaches and islands. Return for dinner and rest.

Please note that groups of fewer than 8 participants will not be accompanied by a Tour Leader from Quito for this Amazon portion (you will be very capably looked after by lodge staff & guides).

Overnight Amazon Lodge.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 12 Amazon Adventure
Breakfast and early departure on board the boat to visit an amazing parrot clay lick that with an easy access brings visitors face to face with approximately 11 species of parrots (including parrotlets and macaws) depending on the season, weather conditions and general good fortune (this activity is usually successful).

We end this morning with a visit to the Interpretation Center "Kuri Muyu," handled by the women of the community here learn about the Kichwa culture, crafts, traditions and traditional use of natural resources directly to people in the community. We return for lunch and take a break at the lodge.

Walk of one hour to climb up the observation tower of 35 meters, likely to see a variety of birds, howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, toucans, parrots and sloths. Return to the hotel in a motorized canoe; traditional typical dinner.

Overnight Amazon Lodge.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 13 Amazon Adventure
Visit around the community projects, talk about the Kichwa world view. Excellent opportunity to see more wildlife, ceiba trees, bamboo cane, vines and shrubs endemic from Yasuní. We return for lunch and rest at the lodge. Once at Añangu stream, you will board a small canoe and head down the river in a spectacular adventure through the forest with opportunities to see nightlife alligators and to listen to the sounds of nature at its purest.

Return to hotel in motorized canoes, traditional dinner.

Overnight Amazon Lodge.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 14 Amazon - Quito - Departure
We get up at 4:30 am to share one of the ancient customs of the Kichwa culture -- making wayusa to energize the body, and listen to the Kichwa songs. We then return for breakfast before taking a motorized canoe back to the city of Coca. You can also practice water sports such as tubing or regatta on the Napo River or simply relax and unwind (please see your pre-trip notes package for suggestions re tipping for the Amazon staff).

Fly back to Quito.

PLEASE NOTE: If you are booking your own flights, please ensure that your departure time from Quito is no earlier than 9:00pm (most northbound flights depart around midnight). This is to allow plenty of connecting time for our incoming flight from the Amazon.

BUEN VIAJE!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast

Tour Map

*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.

Hotel List

The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.

Hacienda Zuleta

Rating: 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Cayambe
Country: Ecuador

Please note that this is one of the hotel properties we use for our highland experience. Due to ultimate group ... and size, and considerations related to room availability, we alternate between Zuleta and Hacienda Mirage, both of which offer the same level of accommodation quality and a similar highlands experience.

Zuleta is a colonial working farm of 4,000 acres (2,000 hectares) that belongs to the family of Mr. Galo Plaza lasso, a former president of Ecuador, for more than 100 years. The hacienda has 14 beautifully- decorated bedrooms, all with their own fireplace; Antique gardens along with cozy living and reading rooms offer a peaceful atmosphere. Delicious home Ecuadorian cuisine among other types of gastronomic adventures are offered daily, prepared with organic vegetables, trout and dairy products produced on the Hacienda.
Read More.

Click here to visit hotel website

Hacienda Mirage

Rating: 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Cayambe
Country: Ecuador

Please note that this is one of the hotel properties we use for our highland experience. Due to ultimate group ... size, and considerations related to room availability, we alternate between Hacienda Zuleta and Hacienda Mirage, both of which offer the same level of accommodation quality and a similar highlands experience.

Perched on a hillside, less than three hours from Quito, you will find the hidden secret of Ecuador: a hotel mixed with the native flavour of the Andes. Most of our accommodations, with fireplace and sitting area, have a beautiful view of the mountains and gardens. This former hacienda is a paradise of plant life filled with a thousand fragrances from its bougainvilleas, hibiscus, roses and orchids that you will also find in freshly cut bouquets in your room.
Read More.

Click here to visit hotel website

Casa Opuntia

Rating: 4 Star Accommodation
Location: San Cristobal
Country: Ecuador

Located over the oceanfront boardwalk and only a few meters away from Playa de Oro beach. In addition to the ... location in town, Casa Opuntia features beautiful facilities, breakfast cuisine, and
strong sustainability practices. Breakfast renowned for having some of San Cristobal’s top breakfasts, including our American one, which is described as a mixture of delicious local and international food.
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Casita de la Playa

Rating: 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Isabela
Country: Ecuador

The Casita de la Playa or “Little Beach House” was once a quaint guest house with a perfect beach location. ... time it has gradually bloomed into a beautiful 12-room hotel. A short walk on the boardwalk will bring you right into Isabela’s small town square.

Our brand-new, modern-rustic décor is sure to please our every guest. The lounge opens directly onto the beach, and the second-floor social and breakfast area offers majestic views of the Isabela coast. Our rooms, most with ocean views, are a pleasant balance of modern and local Island design, which makes for an authentic and unforgettable Galapagos getaway.
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Click here to visit hotel website

Isla Sol

Rating: 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Puerto Ayora
Country: Ecuador

Within 5 minutes' walk from various restaurants, Hospedaje Vista al Mar is located in Puerto Ayora city centre. Free WiFi ... is available, and the Puerto Ayora restaurant district is 50 metres away.

All the rooms are simply furnished and have a flat-screen cable TV, a fan and a wardrobe. The private bathroom includes free toiletries and a shower with hot water. Linens and towels are provided.
Read More.

Click here to visit hotel website

Cuyabeno Lodge

Rating: 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Ecuadorian Amazon
Country: Ecuador

Please note that this is one of two lodges we alternate between in the Amazon.

The lodge consists of ... cabins made of wood with thatched roofs scattered throughout the grounds, each sleeping two people. All rooms have a balcony or terrace and private bathrooms with hot water showers. The lodge is powered by solar panels and, though it does not feature air-conditioning, days/nights tend to be quite comfortable.

Read More.

Click here to visit hotel website

Napo Cultural Centre

Rating: 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Ecuadorian Amazon
Country: Ecuador

This is one of the lodges we routinely use in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Click here to visit hotel website

Trip Information

Inclusions

Breakfast and dinner daily (hotels and restaurants) and all but one lunch per full tour day. Bottled water where required. All accommodation, transport (including internal flights), sightseeing and entrance fees for sites and activities noted in the detailed itinerary (including Galapagos park entry fee, snorkel and biking equipment).

We include gratuities for local drivers, restaurant staff, and porters (if available). The gratuities for your main Galapagos guide and your guide in the highlands and Amazon are on your own account (we will provide guidance in your pre-trip package).

Airport transfers are included for land & air customers and for early arriving / late departing land & air customers who book their extra hotel nights through us.

Exclusions

International airfare to/from the tour. Guide gratuities as noted above, one lunch, bottled/alcoholic drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), domestic and international air taxes (if applicable). Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Optional trip cancellation insurance.

Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on optional meal costs, shopping, and locally-paid departure taxes.

Seasonality and Weather

There’s no real summer and winter in Ecuador, and its weather generally varies by regional geography with temperatures determined more by altitude than by season or latitude. The warmest (by a few degrees) and driest months in the sierra (mountains) are June to September, though this is complicated by various microclimates found in some areas. Outside these months (when we schedule our tours), typical sierra weather offers sunny, clear mornings and cloudy, often wet, afternoons. We avoid the busy (and expensive) Christmas and summer school holiday seasons.

GALAPAGOS: As stated above, we avoid June, July, August and September and late December to January, peak seasons across Ecuador due to European/North American school holidays.

December to May are the warmest months in the Galápagos, with the wind dropping for calmer seas. Although there is also a greater chance of rain, these are the best months to visit if you’re spending any time on a boat. June to November is drier and cooler. Wildlife is visible and active throughout the year in the Galápagos, although certain species and activities (such as turtles laying eggs and sea lions being born) are restricted to specific times.

AMAZON: This region tends to be hot and humid with rain falling evenly throughout the year.

Transport and Travel Conditions

As opposed to our other programs in Ecuador and around the world, this one doesn't feature any long road journeys. On this tour we concentrate on smaller geographical areas, enhancing the depth of our experience rather than trying to cover as much ground and as many sites as possible. Local road transport is provided by van or minibus, and longer distances are covered by short-hop air connections and boat transfers. Because of the limitations presented by transport, boutique accommodation, and water-based excursions, we limit group size to a maximum of 16.

This trip also departs from most of our "cultural" tours in that it involves certain "soft adventure" elements that require a certain degree of physical fitness in order to fully enjoy our activities and excursions. While any mention of snorkeling is, of course, not mandatory, much of what the isles have to offer is underwater! If you've never snorkeled before, you mustn't be daunted. This isn't technical diving and all you need to do is paddle and breathe, often not very far from shore.

Our cycling excursion describes an easy, reasonable flat route along the coast. Just as with the snorkeling on offer, no experience is required for this or any other activity. The walks/hikes as mentioned are on well-worn trails on undulating terrain. Our pace is leisurely and plenty of stops are made over the course of a couple hours. Our guides will be able to assess your limitations and advise as to your suitability as the tour unfolds; however, in order to get the most out of your experience, a certain degree of stamina is important.

On the mainland, our activities are not "active" per se, but you should be aware that Quito and our Estancia are located between 2700-2900m (9,000-9,600 ft). Though most people are not seriously affected, we require that all participants submit a "Self-Assessment" form confirming their suitability for this journey. We suggest that you preview this form, which includes more detail regarding what you can expect on tour, by clicking the "Resources" tab at the top of this page.

Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.

Accommodation

Spectacular, special, unique, intimate, beautifully-located are only a few descriptors for our accommodation on this tour.

For our highlands experience on the mainland, we tend to alternate between two hacienda properties due to consideration related to ultimate group make-up and size and room availability at the time that our tour is confirmed. For full information on Hacienda Zuleta and Hacienda Mirage, please click on the 'Map & Hotels' tab elsewhere on this page.

On the islands our hotels are well-appointed, well-located, surprisingly plush and superbly-managed smaller properties with plenty of island charm.

For full information on hotels and a route map, please click on "Map & Hotels" on the tab above On the islands our hotels are well-appointed, well-located, surprisingly plush and superbly-managed smaller properties with plenty of island charm (please note that the properties listed as samples on this site are rather small and can change depending on our ultimate rooming configurations and the timing of our confirmation of the tour).

Staff and Support

Our small group and specialist nature of our adventure dictates the employment of expert naturalist/cultural guides and support staff. On the islands, our program is managed by our Galapagos-based partners and guides. In the highlands, you are in the hands of our estancia hosts and guides.

Because of our small group size, the quality of local staff, and the enormous and unnecessary cost of placing a Tour leader from North America, this adventure will be fully-supported by our trusted partners already at destination.

Group Size

Maximum 16 plus Tour Leader