This holiday takes in the highlights of Ecuador – the incomparable Galapagos Islands, Quito, Ecuador’s well preserved colonial city, the cloud forest of Mindo, native village of Otavalo and scenic landscapes of the Andes. The not to be missed sights of Ecuador.
Ecuador & Galapagos Highlights
- See the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands
- Discover the colonial city of Quito and its attractions
Galapagos Islands 4 nights | Quito 4 nights | Mindo cloud forest tour | Otavalo village market tour
Example Itinerary
Days 1 and 2: London to Quito
Fly overnight to Quito, Ecuador’s capital city.
Days 2 and 3: Quito | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Arrive in Quito in the morning. Encircled by mountains and snow-capped volcanoes Quito has one of the best preserved city centres in Latin America. A half day guided walking tour will take you along its ancient streets, past colonial buildings and into museums recounting the history of Ecuador. Stand astride the ‘Middle of the World’, where the equator runs through the city.
The following day take a full day tour to Mindo Cloud Forest. Only a few hours from Quito, the warm tree-covered slopes of the lower Andes have created a special ecosystem that is home to hundreds of species of tropical birds, butterflies and orchids, with hiking trails and canopy walks enabling visitors to fully appreciate its attractions.
Day 4: Quito to Galapagos Islands
Fly to Galapagos Islands to join your cruise ship.
Days 4 to 7: Galapagos Islands | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
For five days (four nights) you will explore the wildlife paradise that is the Galapagos Islands, with time to swim and snorkel with fishes as well as exploring on land. Untroubled by predators, animals will let you approach them. So in your small groups you will get up close to sea lions, giant tortoises and lizards as well as observing a wide variety of unusual birds from blue-footed boobies to frigate birds and albatrosses.
Day 8: Galapagos Islands to Quito
Time to disembark and fly back to Quito.
Days 8 and 9: Quito and Otavalo Market | Meals: Breakfast
On your return to Quito after lunch there will be time at leisure to explore. The next day a full day tour to the village of Otavalo where you can enjoy its colourful market of craft goods that provides a further insight into life in Ecuador. En route you will be able to enjoy the scenic countryside of Ecuador.
Day 10: Quito to London
A last day in Quito before an overnight flight home.
Day 11: London
Arrival in London.
Indicative Holiday Prices
All of our holidays are individually tailored to suit your needs and timescale. As a guide, this 11 day suggested holiday will cost from £4,999 per person (Superior) and £5,454 (Luxury) including international flights from UK, based on two sharing.