Best of Ecuador
Discover Ecuador's gems: 3 nights in the Amazon basin, followed by the unique flora and fauna of the Galápagos Islands, then colonial Quito & the Indigenous market at Otavalo
Overview
| Style | Small Group TourTravel with a small, intimate group of no more than 16 likeminded travelers (and often much fewer), escorted by an English speaking guide and/or tour manager for some or all of your journey. (Some exceptions, including special promotional packages, may accommodate up to 30.) More of these packages
Dedicated tour escorts & guides throughout |
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| Departures | April 2025 – December 2026 | Group Size | 12 travelers max |
| Themes | Active, Bucket List, Nature & Wildlife | ||
| Activity Level | Advanced | ||
| What to Expect | This fast-paced, locally hosted tour involves a significant amount of walking or hiking, often on uneven terrain, and reaches high altitudes. The tour includes motorized canoe transfers, dry dock landings, speed boat transfers, and a yacht sailing tour to North Seymour. To fully enjoy the trip requires a high level of physical fitness. | ||
| Already booked? | Find everything you need to know before you go, including information about passport & visa requirements, flights, luggage, and more. | ||
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Exploring Ecuador is an adventure like no other, offering a rich tapestry of experiences across its diverse landscapes. Begin your journey in the heart of the Amazon basin, where dense rainforests and winding rivers create a lush, green paradise teeming with wildlife. Guided by local experts, navigate this biodiverse ecosystem, encountering exotic creatures and learning about the unique flora and fauna. The discovery continues in the enchanting Galápagos Islands, a living museum of evolutionary science. As you island-hop, come face to face with giant tortoises, playful sea lions, and vibrant marine life, all while exploring the pristine beaches and volcanic landscapes that inspired Charles Darwin. End your journey in the lively capital city of Quito, nestled high in the Andes, and Otavalo, home to the country's most prosperous Indigenous community. Admire the colonial architecture and bustling markets blending seamlessly with modern amenities, providing a cultural feast for the senses. Each destination on this Ecuadorian tour offers a distinct and unforgettable experience, culminating in a journey that is as educational as it is exhilarating.
Package includes
- Flights
- Coach
- Transfers
- Hotel
- Meals
- Guides
- Round-trip flights from Miami (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale (FLL) including taxes & fees
- All transfers, ground transportation & Galápagos flights
- 3-nights at an Amazon lodge
- 3-nights on Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos
- 5-nights in Quito
- 23 meals: 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 5 dinners
- Comprehensive sightseeing tours with a naturalist guide on the islands
- Professional English-speaking tour director and local guides
- Snorkeling gear
- Galápagos National Park Fee & Transit Control Card
Optional add-ons
- Flights from other cities are available. Request pricing when making your reservation.
Why you'll love it
- Spend three nights at a remote ecolodge within the Amazon jungle.
- Seek out elusive wildlife during a guided night hike through the rainforest.
- Learn about Amazonian people at a Kichwa community.
- See protected and endangered Amazonian animals at AmaZOOnico, a rescue center.
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, famous for its captive breeding program of giant tortoises.
- Explore marine ecosystems, swim, and snorkel in Tortuga Bay.
- Cruise to North Seymour Island aboard a yacht and admire the unique vegetation and wildlife.
- Stand in the northern and southern hemispheres simultaneously at the Equatorial Monument.
- Admire the highlights of Quito, including the historic Government Palace, San Francisco Church, and the Basilica of the National Vow.
- Shop for unique handicrafts at the colorful Otavalo market.
- End your journey with a cooking demonstration during a farewell dinner.
Itinerary at a Glance
- 1 Depart USA/Arrive Quito, Ecuador
- 2 Quito & Ecuadorian Amazon
- 3 Ecuadorian Amazon
- 4 Ecuadorian Amazon
- 5 Ecuadorian Amazon, Papallacta Hot Springs & Quito
- 6 Quito, Baltra Island & Santa Cruz Island
- 7 Tortuga Bay
- 8 North Seymour Island
- 9 Santa Cruz Island & Quito
- 10 Quito
- 11 Quito & Otavalo
- 12 Depart Quito/Arrive USA
Dates & Prices
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Depart USA/Arrive Quito, Ecuador
- Depart the USA on your flight bound for Quito, Ecuador
Swissotel Quito or similar
Full Day ItineraryThis evening, arrive in Quito (9,350 feet above sea level). After customs formalities, you will be met and escorted via private transfer to your hotel for check-in and overnight.
Day 2 Quito & Ecuadorian Amazon
- Admire the dazzling display of hummingbirds at Guango Lodge
- Visit the colorful Archidona Market
- Take a ride via motorized canoe along the Arajuno River
- Seek out wildlife as you embark on a night jungle hike
Itamandi EcoLodge or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryStart your day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an exciting road trip to the Amazon Rainforest. Witness the dramatic change in scenery as you descend from the Andean highlands to the lush, vibrant rainforest.
Stop at Guango Lodge, a paradise for hummingbird enthusiasts and photographers. This beautiful lodge offers the chance to see up to 14 species of hummingbirds within an hour! Enjoy a guided tour of the lodge and savor a cup of coffee or tea while marveling at the dazzling display of these tiny, colorful birds. Afterward, have a delectable lunch prepared with local ingredients.
Next, visit the vibrant Archidona market, a local market bursting with the colors and flavors of the Amazon. Here, you can witness the preparation of traditional foods, such as fish, cassava, and "chontacuros" (palm worms), and sample typical Amazonian drinks, such as guayusa, a traditional tea made from the leaves of the holly tree.
Then, trek into the Amazon Jungle and embark on a scenic 20-minute ride via motorized canoe upriver through the tropical forest to Itamandi Eco Lodge. Navigate the river, which meanders through the jungle like a snake, and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty.
Upon arrival at the Itamandi EcoLodge, the friendly staff will greet you at the dock. Relax in the lounge with a refreshing tropical snack and listen to a short briefing by a naturalist guide about the lodge and upcoming activities.
As night falls, embark on a thrilling jungle hike. Pack a headlamp or flashlight—along with your camera!—as you hear and capture the nocturnal sounds of the rainforest. Stay alert for fishing bats and owls, and keep your eyes peeled for insects, tarantulas, toads, frogs, and maybe even snakes!
Day 3 Ecuadorian Amazon
- Embark on a guided walk through the jungle
- Meet and learn about Amazonian people at a Kichwa community
- Prepare and taste a traditional “chicha” drink
- Witness a vibrant, traditional dance performance
Itamandi EcoLodge or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryAfter a hearty breakfast at the lodge, embark on a guided walk through the primary and secondary forests surrounding the lodge. This 2.5 to 3-hour trek offers an intimate look at the diverse flora and fauna of the Amazon. Your guide will share insights into the ecosystem and point out various plants and wildlife that call this rainforest home.
Return to the lodge for a relaxing lunch, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere as you savor local flavors.
In the afternoon, visit a nearby Amazonian Kichwa community to learn about their unique way of life and deep connection to the jungle. This cultural immersion will provide a glimpse into the everyday lives of the Amazonian people. During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to participate in the preparation of "chicha," a traditional fermented yucca drink. This beverage plays a significant role in festivities and daily life.
The visit culminates in a vibrant traditional dance performed by the community. After the performance, you'll have time to browse and purchase handmade crafts. These beautiful items, crafted by the indigenous people, provide vital support for their daily lives and preserve their rich cultural heritage.
Return to the lodge in the evening.
Day 4 Ecuadorian Amazon
- Admire the surrounding wildlife and nature as you travel via motorized canoe to Anaconda Island
- Learn more about the way of life during a visit to an Indigenous family
- See rescued Amazonian animals at AmaZOOnico
Itamandi EcoLodge or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryFollowing breakfast, board a canoe for a 40-minute ride to Anaconda Island. Navigate the waterways and watch for the prehistoric-looking Hoatzin bird, woolly monkeys, squirrel monkeys, and other fascinating wildlife. Upon arrival, visit an indigenous family to learn about their traditional cultivation practices, medicinal plants, and ancestral hunting techniques using blowguns and handmade traps.
After lunch, head to AmaZOOnico, a rescue center dedicated to protecting various endangered Amazonian animals. Unlike a zoo, AmaZOOnico focuses on rehabilitation and conservation, offering a unique opportunity to observe these animals in environments that closely mimic their natural habitats.
After an enriching day of wildlife encounters and cultural experiences, return to the lodge.
Day 5 Ecuadorian Amazon, Papallacta Hot Springs & Quito
- Admire hundreds of parrots and parakeets at the Saladero de Parrots
- Soak in the warm thermal waters of the Papallacta Hot Springs
- This afternoon, arrive in Quito and spend the remainder of the evening at leisure
Wyndham Quito Airport or similar Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryBegin your day early with a short canoe ride upriver to the Saladero de Parrots. Hundreds of parrots and parakeets flock to this location to consume the mineral-rich soil that aids in the digestion of fruits and seeds they have eaten. Watch in awe as these vibrant birds approach the treetops and descend to the clay wall. Don’t forget to pack binoculars—they’re critical for catching a glimpse of this wildlife experience! Return to the lodge to enjoy breakfast.
On the journey back to Quito, stop at the Papallacta hot springs. Take a refreshing dip in the warm thermal waters renowned for their therapeutic properties and savor a delicious lunch amid the serene setting.
Arrive in Quito this afternoon. Spend the evening at leisure to explore the city or rest after your journey.
Note: The early morning visit to the Saladero de Parrots depends on favorable weather conditions.
Day 6 Quito, Baltra Island & Santa Cruz Island
- Transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos Islands
- Visit Los Gemelos, the twin craters formed from collapsed lava chambers
- Observe giant tortoises roaming freely at a local farm
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, famous for its captive breeding program of giant tortoises
Hotel Solymar or similar Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. Upon arrival, take a short and scenic ferry ride to Santa Cruz Island.
Visit the fascinating twin craters, Los Gemelos. Initially thought to be volcanic craters, these large, circular holes were later discovered to have formed from collapsed lava chambers. The lush surrounding vegetation teems with endemic bird species, making it a perfect spot for bird watching.
Next, explore a local farm where giant tortoises roam freely. Take a short walk around the grounds to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Savor a delicious lunch at the ranch, sampling local dishes in a beautiful, rustic setting.
This afternoon, head to the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. Established in 1964, this renowned facility is famous for its captive breeding program of giant tortoises, which can live up to 150 years. The station includes an Interpretation Center of Natural History and conducts educational activities to support the Galapagos National Park Service.
After a day of exploration and learning, settle into your accommodations and enjoy the unique ambiance of the Galápagos Islands.
Day 7 Tortuga Bay
- Explore marine ecosystems, swim, and snorkel in Tortuga Bay
- Discover Darwin's Ecogarden, an agritourism farm focusing on agroecological and regenerative farming practices
- Spend the evening at leisure
Hotel Solymar or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryThis morning, embark on a stunning Tortuga Bay Beach and Playa Brava tour. This beautiful beach boasts fine white sand and is a picturesque, relaxing spot. At the end of Playa Brava, a trail crosses a small peninsula, passing through a marine iguana nesting area and leading to Playa Mansa. This serene bay is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, offering the perfect opportunity to explore the diverse marine fauna of the mangrove ecosystems. After enjoying the beach, return to Puerto Ayora by local speedboat.
Explore local dining options in the afternoon and have lunch at your leisure.
In the afternoon, visit Darwin's Ecogarden on Isla Santa Cruz. This agritourism farm, located in the Los Guayabillos sector, focuses on agroecological and regenerative farming practices. Learn about the farm's innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture, including continuous organic production in greenhouses and open fields using a gravity-fed drip irrigation system.
Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 8 North Seymour Island
- Cruise to North Seymour Island aboard a yacht and admire the unique vegetation and wildlife
Hotel Solymar or similar Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryEarly this morning, head to Itabaca Channel to board a yacht for a full-day tour of beautiful North Seymour. This flat, arid island is perfect for hiking, swimming, and snorkeling. Admire the unique vegetation, consisting primarily of palo santo (incense stick), cactus, and saltbush, and keep your eye out for various seabirds, including blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and frigatebirds. You may even spot sea lions playing in the waves!
Enjoy lunch on board the yacht as you return to Santa Cruz Island and your hotel.
Return to the hotel and spend the evening at leisure.
Note: Due to Galápagos National Park regulations and weather conditions, alternative islands such as Santa Fé, Plazas or Bartolomé may be substituted.
Day 9 Santa Cruz Island & Quito
- Board your flight back to Quito
Swissotel Quito or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryIndulge in breakfast at the hotel, taking in the last moments of your visit to the Galápagos Islands. Transfer to Baltra Airport for your flight back to Quito, where your guide will be waiting to welcome you upon arrival and transfer to your hotel.
Day 10 Quito
- Stand in the northern and southern hemispheres simultaneously at the Equatorial Monument
- Visit the TeleferiQo, one of Quito's most ambitious projects
- Admire the highlights of Quito during a walking tour
Swissotel Quito or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast, visit the Equatorial Monument, which marks the precise location where Charles Marie de la Condamine established the location of the Equator. This imaginary line, spanning 40,000 kilometers around the Earth, is the only place without shadow at noon.
Next, visit the TeleferiQo, one of Quito's most ambitious projects. Located at 4,050 meters above sea level, view spectacular panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding snow-capped volcanic peaks, including Cayambe, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo.
After lunch, embark on a walking tour of Quito. Visit the historic Government Palace, built in the 17th century for the "Real Audiencia de Quito." Continue to San Francisco Church, the first church constructed in Quito. Begun in 1537 and completed in 1605, this church, also known as the "Andes' Escorial," is a replica of the Escorial Palace in Madrid.
Next, tour the Basilica of the National Vow, the largest neo-Gothic Basilica in the Americas. The building is known for its gargoyles, which represent native Ecuadorian animals such as armadillos, iguanas, and Galapagos tortoises.
Then, explore La Compañía Church, renowned for its ornate facade and richly decorated interior. The church features colored columns, gold-plated altars, gilded balconies, and several treasures, including a painting of the Virgen Dolorosa framed in emeralds and gold.
Enjoy dinner at your leisure in Quito.
Note: The TelefériQo experience reaches high altitudes and may not be suitable for all passengers. Warm clothes are suggested. The La Compañía church is closed in the morning on Sundays and on special holidays.
Day 11 Quito & Otavalo
- Visit the vibrant and colorful Otavalo market
- Admire the Peguche Waterfall
- Explore Cotacachi, known as the "Music Capital of Ecuador"
- Enjoy a farewell dinner and cooking demonstration with your fellow travelers
Swissotel Quito or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryFollowing breakfast at the hotel, depart Quito for a scenic two-hour drive to Otavalo. This city is home to the Otavaleños, Ecuador's most prosperous Indigenous community. Visit the famous Otavalo market, centered around the Plaza de Ponchos. The vibrant market is open daily and offers a great variety of handicrafts, such as hats, sweaters, necklaces, blouses, ponchos, and more.
After lunch, discover the Peguche Waterfall, located southeast of the village. The waterfall is accessible via a pleasant walk through a park area with hiking trails and several bridges that offer excellent views of the falls. For the adventurous, an upper trail leads over the falls for a view from above. This site holds significant cultural importance to the local indigenous people, who still perform traditional rituals here at various times of the year.
Continue to Cotacachi, located in the spectacular Iburra Valley. Surrounded by magnificent views of volcanos in all directions, Cotacachi is best known for its fine leather goods. Explore the town's shops and browse high-quality leather garments.
Return to Quito and conclude your journey with a farewell dinner and cooking demonstration at Santhorno, a workshop showcasing culinary traditions and ingredients from throughout Ecuador. The chef will demonstrate the exotic Ecuadorian ingredients used in the special menu, ancestral utensils, and ancient cooking techniques. Assist the chef in making Ecuador's unique form of seviche, and interact with the kitchen team in the open kitchen as you taste fine Ecuadorian chocolate.
Day 12 Depart Quito/Arrive USA
- Transfer to the airport for your early morning flight home
Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryBid farewell to Ecuador as you board your international flight, bringing home unforgettable memories and experiences from your journey through this diverse and beautiful country.
Important Notes
- Due to the fragile ecosystem on the islands, there are very few roads accessible by motorized vehicles. Some venues within the islands may be accessed by foot only. When touring the islands, you may expect considerable amount of walking, often on uneven terrain. If you are prone to motion sickness, we highly recommend that you bring medication to counter the effects of motion sickness. We strongly recommend that you consult with your physician regarding any concerns.
- The hotels on this tour are among the finest properties available on the Galapagos, These are small, intimate and unique hotels, with all the necessary amenities, but accommodations are more basic than lavish, as the delicate island ecosystems cannot support large luxury hotels.
- The Galapagos Islands are connected by shared yachts or speedboats that take travelers from one island to another. Most of the boats tend to be small, and the trip from island to island is in open water and can be choppy. Be patient with this means of transport, as it is not possible to enjoy the incredible experiences found only on these islands without being able to get from place to place.
Hotels
Swissotel Quito is one of the city’s top luxury hotels, located in the commercial and residential area of the Floresta neighborhood. Feel re-energized with a swim in the indoor or outdoor pool. Enjoy the fitness rooms and Sports area, offering the latest exercise equipment, free weights, spinning room, as well as racquetball, squash and tennis courts. Relax at the Wellness Area with whirlpool, sauna and polar pool to soothe and restore.
Itamandi EcoLodge sits on the lush banks of the Arajuno River, about 50 miles from the Chimborazo volcano and 80 miles from the center of the city of Baños. This comfortable, remote jungle lodge is surrounded by the Amazon Rainforest's beauty and majesty, teeming with rich wildlife waiting to be discovered! After a day of wild exploration, relax at the pool and listen to the sounds of nature surrounding you.
Experience the warmest of welcomes when you visit the 4-star Wyndham Quito Airport hotel. With a prime location at the Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), the Wyndham Quito Airport is your top choice for an overnight stopover or day-room in transit. From the moment you step into the lobby, you will find impeccable services and amenities. Relax in your well-appointed room, indulge in the finest international dishes at the onsite restaurant or meet up with friends at the lobby bar for a signature cocktail.
Hotel Solymar is centrally located on Puerto Ayora's main street and within walking distance of a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops. The hotel features ocean access on Pelican Bay, and a beautiful patio for guests to enjoy the nature of the Galapagos. Hotel Solymar also provides a luxurious jacuzzi, pool, and bar with an open view of the bay. Sit back and relax on an open lounge chair. You may befriend the local seal who likes to join in on the fun in the pool. There is no doubt you will be able to live your best life while at Hotel Solymar.
In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.
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What should I know before I go?
Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements?
Can I make changes to my trip?
Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions?
Should I purchase travel insurance?
What's the fine print?
What should I know about Ecuador?
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