Ecuador and Galapagos in Style

Itinerary Highlights

Discover the preserved architectural treasures of Quito
Ride aerial bikes through the treetops in Mashpi
Join a horse riding tour in Otavalo
Experience the diverse wildlife of the Galapagos Islands

What's Included

Accommodation Throughout
Breakfast
International Flights

Mari

Travel Specialist

I'm here to tailor-make your perfect South America holiday. Give me a call and I'll use my expertise to create your personalised experience.

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This tour combines Ecuadorian culture with the unique wildlife of the Galapagos archipelago.

Your adventure will start in Quito; dramatically situated and hemmed in by mountain peaks, the colonial capital was the first city to be named a UNESCO world heritage site. The historic restored mansion, Casa Gangotena, will be your base as you venture out and discover the highlights of the beautiful city of Quito.

Then venture to the depths of Ecuador’s cloud forest with a stay at Mashpi Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. At this luxury retreat amidst dense forest and with stunning mountain views learn about the biodiversity and the flora and fauna hidden within the jungle. The northern Andean region around Otavalo is home to some of Ecuador’s most beautiful scenery; looming volcanoes, emerald crater lakes and with a strong indigenous culture, a stay at the charming Hacienda Zuleta completes any stay within the area. Joining the La Pinta Yacht for a cruise around the Galapagos makes for unforgettable memories; this sophisticated ship and its expert naturalist guides will show you the best that these unique islands have to offer.

Our team of knowledgeable Travel Specialists can create a completely bespoke Ecuador holiday for you, or extend or alter this trip to suit your requirements. Please enquire for further details.

Itinerary

Day 1 UK – Quito

Board your overnight flight with Avianca via Bogota, Colombia.

Day 2 Quito

Upon arrival, transfer to Casa Gangotena for a two-night stay in the historic old town of Quito. Overlooking Plaza San Francisco, the recently restored historic mansion is considered the best place to stay in town. The cobblestoned streets and nearby picturesque plazas are best explored on foot. Don’t miss the traditional Quiteño high-tea, available to all guests at the hotel each afternoon.

Staying at

Plaza view king bedroom at Casa Gangotena

Day 3 Quito

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito is home to an abundance of preserved architectural treasures. During a private city tour, explore the main Independence Plaza flanked by the cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building and the Archbishops Palace. Marvel at the Monastery of San Francisco with its impressive facades and baroque interior before ending at a panoramic viewpoint over the city.

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Day 4 Quito – Masphi

Around three hours north-west of Quito in the Chocó-Andean forest is award-winning Masphi Lodge, a luxurious hideaway in pristine cloud forest. Designed using the latest techniques for sustainable construction, the lodge aims to blend perfectly with its natural environment. The surrounding area is known as a biodiversity hotspot and home to abundant flora and fauna waiting to be discovered.

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Day 5 Mashpi

Through a variety of excursions guests can enjoy a jungle experience whilst staying in luxurious accommodation rather than a rustic jungle lodge. With the lodge’s expert naturalist guides discover the many nature trails, spot wildlife, and learn about the lush vegetation. Ride the aerial bikes through the treetops and climb the 26-metre observation tower. Bathe in nearby waterfalls or alternatively relax in the jacuzzi overlooking the forest.

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Day 6 Mashpi – Quito

This morning either enjoy a leisurely morning at the lodge or venture out again into the mystical surrounding forest. In the afternoon, you will be driven from the depths of the cloud forest back to the capital for an evening at Casa Gangotena.

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Day 7 Quito - Otavalo

Travel North of Quito to the highlands, characterised by its looming volcanoes, lakes, indigenous population and the bustling Otavalo market. Perhaps stop at the market, considered one of the most important in the Andes. Witness traditionally dressed indigenous people from the surrounding villages selling handicrafts and textiles. Continue to Hacienda Zuleta, an authentic hacienda perfect for relaxing and enjoying the rural surroundings. Accommodation: Hacienda Zuleta

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horse riding activities, Hacienda Zuleta

Day 8 Otavalo

Today is at leisure. Choose from 15 different horse-riding tours; the hacienda is famous for its Zuleteño horse, a unique mixture of Spanish (Andalusian), English and Quarter horses. Visit the Andean Condor Rehabilitation Centre or venture out on numerous hikes and treks through spectacular Andean scenery. Mountain biking, bird watching, bear spotting or visiting the local communities; guests can do as much or as little as they wish.

Day 9 Otavalo – Quito – Galapagos (Santa Cruz)

La Pinta – Northern Islands Itinerary - 4 nights/5 Days. Transfer to Quito airport to board a flight to the Galapagos via Guayaquil. Upon arrival, you will be driven to the highlands of Santa Cruz to learn about the island’s unique biodiversity. Spot giant tortoises in their natural habitat before a short bus ride to Puerto Ayora where you will board the Yacht La Pinta for a four-night cruise.

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Day 10 Eden Islet (Santa Cruz Island) and Sombrero Chino Islet

This morning, visit Eden Islet to observe Blue-footed boobies, Reef sharks and Frigates. The area’s stunning volcanic setting is made up of volcanic debris including cinder cones, tuff cones and eroded lava flows. There will be a chance to snorkel here. In the afternoon, stop at the tiny island of Sombrero Chino. Marvel at unique wildlife along a 400-metre trail, beginning at a crescent-shaped white sandy beach.

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Day 11 Bartolome Island and Sullivan Bay (Santiago Island)

This morning starts with a steep climb on Bartolome Island for incredible views from the top. Take a panga (dinghy) around the colossal Pinnacle Rock and enjoy snorkelling and the beach. This afternoon, your panga will land at Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island; famed for volcanic geology, you would be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped on another planet. The white coral sand beach is perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

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Day 12 Darwin Bay and Prince Philip’s Steps (Genovesa Island)

An easy stroll at Darwin Bay allows for observations of marine and land birds before returning to the beach for swimming and snorkelling. For the more adventurous, snorkel along the cliffs or paddle sea kayaks. In the afternoon stop at Prince Philip’s Steps on Genovesa Island. Here large colonies of Nazca boobies, Frigate birds, Storm petrels and the elusive Short-eyed owl can often be spotted.

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Day 13 Galapagos – Guayaquil

Your Galapagos journey ends today back at Baltra where you will be transferred to the airport. Board your flight to Guayaquil for one final night back on the mainland, staying at the beautiful Hotel del Parque. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, either exploring this Pacific port city or relaxing at the hotel which is nestled into a tropical oasis in the heart of the city.

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