South America · Ecuador
This 15 day itinerary traverses the extraordinary geographical and cultural diversity of Ecuador, winding from the Andean peaks to the Amazon rainforest, and finally reaching the Galapagos archipelago.
This 15 day itinerary traverses the extraordinary geographical and cultural diversity of Ecuador, winding from the Andean peaks to the Amazon rainforest, and finally reaching the Galapagos archipelago. The journey combines an exploration of UNESCO World Heritage colonial cities, such as Quito and Cuenca, with deep immersion into volcanic landscapes and the unique ecosystems of the Pacific.
The experience focuses on meaningful contact with the indigenous peoples of the Amazon and the rural areas of Salinas de Guaranda and Guamote, offering an authentic insight into local traditions and the historic artisan markets of Otavalo. The natural history segment culminates in the islands of San Cristobal and Santa Cruz, where guests can observe giant tortoises, endemic wildlife and spectacular geological formations at close quarters.
The trip includes transfers by private Spanish-speaking driver, domestic flights to the archipelago and the support of expert local guides during the stays in the Amazon and Salinas de Guaranda. The pace perfectly balances cultural visits, archaeological sites such as Ingapirca and immersive nature excursions.
15 days in the programme
Departure on an international flight and arrival in Quito Departure on an international flight and arrival in Quito. After landing in the Ecuadorian capital, you will be transferred to your accommodation for the overnight stay.
A day dedicated to discovering Quito A day dedicated to discovering Quito. You will explore its colonial historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visiting the churches and palaces that best represent the city's Spanish legacy. Overnight in Quito.
Descend into the Amazon rainforest for an immersion into the wild Descend into the Amazon rainforest for an immersion into the wild. During your stay, you will meet local communities to learn about their traditions. The rate includes lunch, dinner and the assistance of a specialist local guide. Overnight in the Amazon.
The journey continues as you leave the forest behind for Baños, a resort town famous for its cascading waterfalls and striking mountain scenery The journey continues as you leave the forest behind for Baños, a resort town famous for its cascading waterfalls and striking mountain scenery. Overnight in Baños.
Visit Salinas de Guaranda accompanied by a local guide Visit Salinas de Guaranda accompanied by a local guide. This area is renowned for its fascinating community economy projects and picturesque rural landscapes. Overnight in the area.
Transfer to Guamote to discover the daily life of indigenous villages in the high Andean moorlands Transfer to Guamote to discover the daily life of indigenous villages in the high Andean moorlands. Overnight in Guamote.
Heading south, stop at Ingapirca, the most significant Inca archaeological complex in Ecuador Heading south, stop at Ingapirca, the most significant Inca archaeological complex in Ecuador. Continue to the beautiful colonial city of Cuenca for the night. Overnight in Cuenca.
After exploring Cuenca, the journey continues towards the coast until you reach Guayaquil, the country's primary port After exploring Cuenca, the journey continues towards the coast until you reach Guayaquil, the country's primary port. Overnight in Guayaquil.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos Islands Transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival on San Cristobal, begin your exploration of the island's local wildlife and pristine beaches. Overnight on San Cristobal.
A second day dedicated to San Cristobal Island, exploring volcanic landscapes and observing some of the world's most unique fauna A second day dedicated to San Cristobal Island, exploring volcanic landscapes and observing some of the world's most unique fauna. Overnight on San Cristobal.
Transfer to Santa Cruz Island Transfer to Santa Cruz Island. Here, you will have the opportunity to encounter the famous giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Overnight on Santa Cruz.
Continue your activities on Santa Cruz with visits to the island's impressive lava tunnels and other geological formations Continue your activities on Santa Cruz with visits to the island's impressive lava tunnels and other geological formations. Overnight on Santa Cruz.
Transfer to Baltra airport for your flight back to the mainland Transfer to Baltra airport for your flight back to the mainland. Upon arrival, transfer to the Otavalo region, world-renowned for its historic indigenous artisan markets. Overnight in Otavalo.
Return to Quito in time for your international return international flight.
Arrival in the UK and end of services.
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