Take Ecuador by storm on this 15-day immersive trip through all of the country’s essential highlights. Start on the mainland with a week to climb to new heights in Cotopaxi National Park. Canoe along Napo River in the Amazon to a jungle lodge and spend a relaxing and adventurous couple of days under the thick leafy canopy above. Then, circle back to Quito before hopping on a flight to the richly diverse plant, animal, and marine life of the Galápagos Islands. Spend another week exploring by land and sea, while coming face-to-face with many incredible creatures and impressive vistas. From indigenous culture and native species, to kayaking and sunset cocktail-sipping, there’s an abundance of adrenaline and serenity to be found in small, but mighty Ecuador.
Day 1: Quito: Welcome to EcuadorRolling mountains and snow-capped volcanoes pop into view as you descend into Quito. As you step off the plane, take in a lungful of fresh mountain air and notice it's a bit thinner than what you may be used to. Home to a spectacular variety of people, geography and biodiversity, Ecuador ignites the senses while beckoning your sense of adventure. We welcome you to Ecuador, and invite you to experience the crossroads of cultures, traditions and landscapes within its borders.
Day 2: Cotopaxi: The Middle of the WorldHeading out of Quito you will soon reach the imaginary line that runs around the centre of our planet, both an important geographical marker as well as the name of the country. Scan the scenic landscape and watch as towering volcanoes come in and out of view, or peek out of the clouds as you drive south. You'll be warmly welcomed at our cozy lodgings perched on the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, surrounded by stark and incredibly picturesque scenery.
Day 3: Cotopaxi: Discover the National ParkImmerse yourself in the volcanic landscape of Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. Breathe in the thin mountain air as you hike and explore this stunning area, home also to a small Inca archaeological site. Back in the warmth of the lodge, you'll savour a delicious meal and learn how to make a tasty regional treat.
Day 4: Baños: Lush LandscapesImagine plunging waterfalls, lush forests, steep gorges and steaming thermal springs, and you’ll have conjured Baños in your mind. This incredible setting sits in the shadow of one of South America’s most active volcanoes and begins your time in an adventurer’s paradise. Follow the Rio Pastaza to the Pailon del Diablo, a powerful waterfall in the midst of the jungle landscape. From thrilling walks to a demonstration of the best handmade candy in Ecuador, this introduction to Baños will captivate your senses at every turn.
Day 5: Baños: Your OMG DayBaños is a hub for adventure activities, and today is all about how you want to best experience it with two great options to choose from. Set out on a cycling ride through the landscape on winding trails and roads from the La Suiza area back to the city. Or if you would rather stay on foot, join a guided trek to the Casa del Arbol and Torre Al Cielo, where you will encounter remarkable views of Baños and the Tungurahua Volcano.
Day 6: The Amazon: Life in the JungleThe Amazon has sparked the imaginations of curious travellers everywhere for centuries, conjuring up images of exotic wildlife and dense green leafy jungle. The biodiversity of plant and animal life is staggeringly varied, and the cultural traditions of those who live here are evident in the day-to-day responsibilities of life along the river, dependent on the changing land. Journey along the river by canoe and experience the true cacophony of sounds, sights, and smells in this abundantly beautiful place.
Day 7: The Amazon: River Tubing and Jungle WalksAwake to the sounds of the forest, and listen for tropical birds and animals going about their daily rituals in the canopy above. Be fully present in this wild landscape while tubing along a river. Everywhere you go, the sights, sounds, and smells of the Amazon will follow creating a true sense of place. From medicinal plant walks to fresh meals at the lodge, your mind and body will be at complete ease in the middle of the jungle.
Day 8: Quito: Papallacta Hot SpringsSitting at an altitude of 3300m, shrouded in mist, is the town of Papallacta, renowned for its geothermal hot springs. Leave the sanctuary of the lodge behind, but find your inner peace and calm while soaking in the rejuvenating springs en route to Quito. Ease those sore muscles surrounded by nature, and close your eyes in bliss before the next leg of your journey begins.
Day 9: Isabela Island: Welcome to the GalápagosThe journey is part of the adventure today as you make your way 1000 km from Ecuador's mainland to the Galápagos Islands. Home to creatures found nowhere else in the world, the surrounding marine reserve is a showcase of evolution and a true testament to the melting pot of species found in the islands, both on shore and in the water.
Day 10: Isabela Island: Los Túneles SnorkellingYou will see firsthand today how unbelievable the wildlife is in the Galápagos Islands, both beneath the water and on land. Strap on the mask to snorkel and swim though the calm, clear and shallow water at Los Túneles—a unique geological site formed by a series of lava flows that created various arcs and tunnels above and below the water.
Day 11: Isabela Island: Your OMG DayToday you will be able to explore more of Isabela Island on your terms with the choice of two activities. Stick to the land and hike the Sierra Negra Volcano, one of five active ones located on Isabela Island, and rising to an altitude of 1124m. If you are looking for more snorkelling, take to the water and head to Las Tintoreras, an islet to the south of Puerto Villamil that forms part of the national park of the Galápagos Islands. The area is known for the reef sharks that can be seen swimming with fish and other marine life when the tide is low.
Day 12: Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Research Station & Tortuga BaySwap islands today and travel to the second largest—Santa Cruz—located in the centre of the archipelago, where you will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station responsible for many of the studies conducted on the islands about the fascinating and prehistoric land tortoises. Enjoy lunch before walking to Tortuga Bay. Here, spend time at the beach named for its black sea turtles that nest there, and bask in the sun along this inviting stretch of white sand. Travel back to town by speed boat and cap the day off with a signature cocktail-making experience during sunset.
Day 13: Santa Cruz Island: Life in the Islands and KayakingTravel to the highlands to a private ranch to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat and visit some lava tunnels. After lunch, stop by a working sugar cane mill where you can learn about the different distilling processes and techniques before heading to Garrapatero beach for some kayaking, tidal pool gazing or wildlife spotting in the lagoon. This evening, it's time to say good-bye to the mighty Galapagos and there's no better way than with an optional dinner all together as a group.
Day 14: Quito: Back to the MainlandWhile it’s time to bid the islands farewell, there’s no doubt your days here will be remembered. Incredible up-close encounters with animals and immersion into ecosystems that remain largely unchanged in a pristine slice of paradise will remain etched in your memory forever.
Day 15: QuitoToday your adventure comes to an end, and you can depart at any time.
