Ecuador and Galapagos

Explore Ecuador’s remarkable diversity with Travel Editions, from Quito’s colonial heart to the equatorial line. Discover vibrant markets and learn traditional cooking, then journey into the lush cloud forests of Mindo for waterfalls and cacao traditions. Continue through the Andean highlands, visiting artisan communities, crater lakes and volcanic landscapes along the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Cotopaxi. Conclude in the Galápagos Islands, where extraordinary wildlife, dramatic lava scenery and crystal-clear waters reveal one of the world’s most fascinating natural environments. 

ITINERARY

Day 1: Fly to Quito
Depart the UK on an overnight flight to Ecuador’s capital, Quito, set high in the Andes. 

Day 2: Arrival in Quito
Arrive in Quito, where you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided exploration of the beautifully preserved colonial centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its grand plazas, baroque churches and historic streets. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner.

Day 3: Quito and the Equator
Today begins with a visit to the famous Mitad del Mundo, where you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere at the equatorial line. Later, immerse yourself in Ecuadorian cuisine with a chef-led visit to a vibrant local market, followed by a hands-on cooking class using fresh, endemic ingredients. In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour through Quito’s historic heart, taking in San Francisco Square, the ornate Church of La Compañía, Independence Square and panoramic views from Yavirac Hill.

Day 4: Cloud Forest Adventure via Mindo
Journey into the lush Bellavista Cloud Forest, travelling via the charming town of Mindo. En route, visit the Sanctuary of Waterfalls, where a series of cascading falls are set amidst verdant forest (lunch included). Later, discover Ecuador’s rich cacao heritage, learning how chocolate is made from bean to bar, with tastings along the way.

Day 5: Mindo to Otavalo
Start the day at the Mindo Butterfly Garden, where hundreds of colourful species flutter freely. Continue north to Cayambe to sample its famous freshly baked biscochos. Arrive in Otavalo, home to one of South America’s most vibrant indigenous markets, known as the “Rainbow Market,” where textiles, crafts and produce are displayed in a riot of colour.

Day 6: Lakes, Leather & Andean Traditions
Visit the stunning Cuicocha crater lake, nestled within an extinct volcano, before exploring Cotacachi, renowned for its fine leather craftsmanship. Continue to Peguche to meet local artisans and visit the Nanda Mañachi Museum, where you will be introduced to traditional Andean music and instruments such as panpipes.

Day 7: Avenue of Volcanoes & Cotopaxi
Travel south along the dramatic Avenue of Volcanoes, a landscape of towering peaks and sweeping highlands. Arrive at Hacienda El Porvenir on the slopes of Cotopaxi. Here, experience the Andean páramo on horseback and take part in preparing traditional Ecuadorian dishes, gaining insight into rural life.

Day 8: Highland Landscapes
Visit a nearby rose plantation to learn about one of Ecuador’s key exports, followed by a stop at a traditional Andean market. Enjoy spectacular views of Cotopaxi before taking a gentle walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon, where you may spot high-altitude birdlife and endemic flora.

Day 9: Quilotoa Crater Lake
Travel through remote Andean villages via Zumbahua and Tigua, meeting local communities and artists along the way. Continue to the breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake, whose turquoise waters fill a volcanic caldera. You may choose to descend to the lake’s edge or admire the sweeping views from the rim before returning to Quito.

Day 10: To the Galápagos – San Cristóbal Island
Fly to San Cristóbal in the Galápagos Islands. Visit the Interpretation Centre to learn about the archipelago’s unique ecology and history, then explore Frigate Hill and relax on Carola Beach, where sea lions are often seen basking in the sun.

Day 11: Kicker Rock Snorkelling
Embark on a boat excursion to Kicker Rock, one of the Galápagos’ most iconic snorkelling sites. Swim among tropical fish and rays. Enjoy lunch onboard before continuing to Manglesito Beach, a pristine stretch of white sand.

Day 12: Isabela Island
Fly to Isabela Island, the largest in the archipelago. Visit a giant tortoise breeding centre, observe flamingos in coastal lagoons and explore the historic Wall of Tears, a poignant reminder of the island’s past.

Day 13: Los Túneles & Marine Life
Discover the extraordinary lava formations of Los Túneles, where arches and clear pools create a unique habitat. Snorkel among vibrant marine life at Roca Unión and Los Finados, then enjoy time to relax on the beach.

Day 14: Santa Cruz Island
Travel to Santa Cruz Island. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, then head into the highlands to see giant tortoises roaming in the wild and explore lava tunnels. Enjoy some beach time before a memorable farewell dinner.

Day 15: Departure Day
Visit Las Grietas for a final snorkelling experience in its crystal-clear waters before transferring to the airport for your onward journey.

Day 16: Arrival in the UK

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 20 travellers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as demanding due to the pace of the tour, getting on and off boats, and multiple hotel stays. For further information, please visit the mobility page on our website, or call our team if you have any questions prior to booking. 

INCLUDED

• Flights from London Heathrow to Quito via Bogota, returning from San Cristobal via Guayaquil and Bogota
• Flights from Ecuador to Galapagos
• 13 nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at the below mentioned hotels, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• 6 dinners
• 10 lunches
• All tours and entrance fees as detailed
• Airport and boat transfers and full coach touring itinerary
• Accompanied by a local tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use supplement - £1400
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities
• Travel insurance

HOTELS 

Swissôtel Quito, Quito – 5 star (3 nights)
Located in Quito’s upscale La Floresta district, within easy reach of the historic centre and La Mariscal, Swissôtel offers convenient access to the city’s cultural highlights. The hotel features extensive facilities including multiple restaurants, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools and landscaped gardens. Rooms are spacious and contemporary, with elegant furnishings, marble bathrooms, Wi-Fi and mountain or city views.
Hotel Website