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Ecuador Highlands & Galapagos Islands

16 days

Discover Ecuador's diverse landscapes and rich culture on this 16-day group tour. Begin the journey in captivating Quito, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Travel along the stunning Avenue of the Volcanoes to the charming city of Cuenca and explore Las Cajas National Park. Then fly to Galapagos Island for an incredible 7-night cruise. Take in the highlights of this fascinating archipelago, renowned for its unique biodiversity and striking scenery. Visit different islands each day, snorkel in pristine waters and encounter an incredible array of wildlife.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

16 days

Starts

Quito

Ends

Guayaquil

Range

Handpicked

Tour Guide

Yes - for all included sightseeing

Group Size

Min 4 / Max 16

Minimum age

12 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Thursdays

Hotel Rating

Countries

Ecuador

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

No - tour ends on arrival back at Guayaquil Airport

Meals included

Breakfast: 15, Lunch: 8, Dinner: 8
Per person from
AUD$18,325.00
Total From
AUD$36,650.00
Deposit From
Final payment
AUD$10,995.00
$31,152.50

Tour Highlights

Quito - Take in the best of Ecuador's UNESCO listed capital on a guided tour.
Galapagos Islands - Encounter incredible wildlife on a seven night cruise through the archipelago, visiting Santa Cruz, Fernandina, Isabela, Rabida Island and more
Cuenca – Take in the beauty of this 16th century colonial jewel of the south
Relax onboard the boat, admiring the spectacular views and snorkelling in the crystal clear waters
Las Cajas National Park - Look out for grazing llamas, wild horses and many species of birds including condors in this picturesque park
Guayaquil - Stroll around Ecuador's largest city on the banks of the Rio Guayas, and visit Las Penas, the city's most charming historic district
Alausí and the Devil’s Nose – Ride the 100-year old train along its dramatic zig-zag mountain route.
Ingapirca - Roam around the Ingapirca ruins, Ecuador's largest archaeological Inca site

Included

15 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners
8 nights 3-4 star hotels, 7 night/8 day onboard the MC Galapagos Seaman Journey in a twin/double cabin, with en suite, panoramic window and A/C
Quito airport arrival transfer on day 1
2 economy flights: Guayaquil to Baltra Island and Baltra Island to Guayaquil
Escorted by an experienced English-speaking tour leader on the mainland of Ecuador
Entrance fees for included excursions
Services of professional English-speaking naturalist guides in the Galapagos
Guided tour of Quito
Avenue of the volcanoes - Cotopaxi & Limpiopungo and Ingapirca Inca site
Visit to Las Cajas National park
Galapagos 8 day cruise with guided land excursions and optional snorkeling everyday. With use of snorkel and flippers.
Transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles.

Not Included

International flights and visas
Tipping – an entirely personal gesture
Galapagos National Park entrance fee (US$200pp) and Migration Control Card (US$20pp). Subject to change
Wetsuits - $10 a day

Itinerary

Day 1 - Quito

Welcome to Ecuador. You will be met at Quito airport and transferred to our hotel in the Andean capital of Ecuador. At 2,850m, Quito is one of the highest capital cities in the world. This unique city is divided into two contrasting districts, with the active volcano Guagua Pichincha to the east.

Overnight: Quito

Day 2 - City walking tour

This morning we take a short walking tour through colonial core of the city, with its narrow cobblestone streets and white-washed buildings, nestled beneath an extravagant array of steeples and cupolas. Being the first city ever to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's a treasure trove of architectural and historical gems. Our tour of Quito's historic centre takes in all of the main sights including the San Francisco monastery, the main plaza, with its cathedral and governmental palace, and the Basilica del Voto Nacional, with its quirky gargoyles. This afternoon is free to explore Quito at leisure or just relax at the hotel.

Overnight: Quito
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Quito to Chilcabamba

Quito - Chilcabamba. This morning, we travel south to Cotopaxi, where we’ll spend the night at a lodge in Chilcabamba, nestled on an elevated plateau at 3,600 meters, yet surrounded by towering peaks. The location offers breathtaking views of the Cotopaxi volcano and beckons you to step outside and explore. Available activities include hiking and cycling trails. Outside, two fire pits provide the perfect setting for atmospheric stargazing as the day transitions into night.

Overnight: Chilcabamba
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 - Avenue of Volcanoes & Riobamba

Chilcabamba - Riobamba. After breakfast we make our way to the 'Sultan of the Andes' - Riobamba. We take a captivating journey along the Avenue of the Volcanoes where making it one of the world's highest active volcanoes. We take a short walk around the lagoon at Limpiopungo before travelling on to Riobamba where we spend the night in a traditional hacienda.

Overnight: Riobamba
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Ingapirca Inca Ruins & Cuenca

Riobamba – Cuenca. This morning we make our way to Cuenca, the colonial jewel of the south. Our journey takes us via Ingapirca, Ecuador's main Inca Ruins. Dating back to the 15th century, the settlement has Inca architectural traits, with mortar-less stonework and characteristic trapezoidal niches. Archaeologists believe that the main structure, known as The Temple of the Sun was once used for ceremonial and religious purposes.

We travel on to the beautiful 16th-century town Cuenca which was built on the site of an ancient Inca settlement and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Here, we spend the next two nights.

Overnight: Cuenca
Meals: Breakfast

Days 6-7 - Explore Cuenca

The next two days are free to spend exploring charming Cuenca. Stroll around the city's narrow cobblestone streets, taking in the beautiful architecture buildings and whitewashed houses, with grand wooden doors and vibrant flowers cascading from ironwork balconies. You can also opt to visit the nearby market towns like Gualaceo, Chordeleg, and colonial Sigsig in the foothills of the western cordillera. En route you can stop to barter for silver and gold filigree jewellery and observing skilled artisans making guitars and the famous Panama hats.

Overnight: Cuenca
Meals: Breakfast x2

Day 8 - Las Cajas NP & Guayaquil

Cuenca - Guayaquil. Today's journey takes us from the mountains to the tropical lowlands towards Guayaquil. This incredibly scenic journey takes in contrasting landscapes, as we pass through Andean villages and banana plantations. We stop at Las Cajas National Park, with its picturesque trails which pass through the rugged, high-altitude wilderness, home to herds of llamas and diverse wildlife, including bears, pumas, and tigrillos.

Guayaquil is the largest city in Ecuador. Located on the banks of the River Guayas, Guayaquil has gone through an incredible transformation in recent years. If time permits, we may have opportunity to walk from the bustling open market at La Bahia, past the colonial naval shipyard to the Malecon, the city's stunning waterfront promenade. We stroll past tropical gardens, bustling markets, and charming street cafés before heading to Santa Ana Hill and Las Peñas, a delightful district of brightly-coloured wooden houses and quaint streets dating back to the 16th century.

Overnight: Guayaquil
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 - Fly to the Galapagos Islands

Bidding farewell to our mainland tour leader, we take an early morning flight to Baltra Island, part of the Galapagos archipelago. After paying the entrance fee, our naturalist guides lead us to Puerto Ayora, here we board a motor yacht which will be our home for the next 7 nights.

The Galapagos Island, formed six million years ago through volcanic activity, boast a diverse array of unique animals and plants. The inspiration for Charles Darwin's ground breaking theory of evolution rose from these islands. Although these island are constantly on the move, they home a thriving population of giant tortoises, iguanas, penguins and bird species. Find a spot on deck as we make our way through the ocean, trailed by flocks of birds and playful dolphins.

The boats are relatively small, creating an informal atmosphere, and the service is of a high standard; the crew is attentive and the food very good. Cabins with en suite facilities are compact but comfortable for your seven nights on board. There are common bar / lounge areas as well as a sun decks. Beach towels are provided, and basic snorkelling equipment can be borrowed.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 10-15 - Galapagos Island Cruising

On our 7 night Galapagos cruise there are normally two landings a day, visiting different islands, with opportunities to snorkel. Accompanied by our guide, we go in search of the different wildlife that inhabits the islands we have guided tours of each island to spot different wildlife that inhabit the islands.

Below is a summary of the islands that we visit on the cruise, and the animals and birds that can be found on each of them. The order of touring is subject to change.

Santa Cruz Island: A captivating island which boasts a unique ecosystem with diverse flora and fauna, including giant tortoises. It has the largest human population of the five inhabited islands. The Charles Darwin Research Station here is staffed by international scientists conducting biological research and conservation projects.

Fernandina Island: The island is one of the world’s most active and impressive volcanoes, having erupted at least 10 times in the last 150 years. The island has an untamed beauty, with breathtaking volcanic landscapes. It is home to a huge colony of marine iguanas, flightless cormorants and some penguins.

Isabela Island: The largest and one of the most captivating islands in the Galapagos archipelago, Isabela has five volcanoes running down its spine. Famous for its diverse wildlife and unique geological features, Isabela has one of the impressive and spectacular inlets of Vincente Roca, with its high cliffs, lava formations and wonderful marine life. Urbina Bay has an incredible array of birdlife including finches, warblers and mockingbirds, whilst Elizabeth Bay is home to turtles and rays.

James Island: An island of black rocks and little shade, especially along its western coast, where lava pools and caves harbour a rich variety of marine life. Keep an eye out for herons, oyster catchers, and playful Galapagos fur seals in the deep, refreshing water pools. and lookout for marine iguanas feasting on algae beds.

Rabida Island: A breath-takingly beautiful gem in the archipelago, with its striking red-sand beaches formed by volcanic oxidation. A short walk along a trail to the lagoon leads to a coastal lagoon where spotting finches, doves, yellow warblers and mocking birds can be seen. There's also a large colony of flamingos.

Bartolome Island: A volcanic island is known for its striking landscape. With the altitude of 114 meters, the island offers an incredible opportunity to observe one of the most beautiful panoramic views across the Galapagos Islands, with volcanic cones, lunar like craters, lava fields, and the iconic Pinnacle Rock. Although there is very little vegetation, we can find a small colony of Galapagos penguins thriving in this unique environment.

Please note: All departures in 2024 and the first departure of 2025 will be based on a 7 night program. The remaining tours in 2025 will be a 6 night itinerary.

Overnight: Galapagos Islands (6)
Meals: Breakfast x6, Lunch x6, Dinner x6

Day 16 - Guayaquil

Galapagos Islands - Guayaquil. Today marks the end of our cruise and incredible journey the highlands of Ecuador & Galapagos Islands. We disembark and fly back to Guayaquil where arrangements end.

Meals: Breakfast

Extras and add-ons

If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.

Pre Tour Accommodation - Quito

Double

$305per passenger

Twin

$305per passenger

Single

$555per passenger

Additional Excursions

Enhance your tour with these optional extras, helping you to get the most from your adventure.

Quito Airport Transfer (Per Car)

Only book airport transfers in conjunction with pre or post tour accommodation. Airport transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour.

$285

per passenger

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.

La Casona De La Ronda
Quito

Located in the heart of Quito, La Casona De La Ronda is a captivating boutique hotel that encapsulates Ecuador's rich history and charm. Each room is a sanctuary of elegance and relaxation, adorned with traditional touches and equipped with contemporary amenities. The hotel's prime location on La Ronda street grants easy access to Quito's cultural treasures, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge
Chilcabamba

Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge is a serene and rustic retreat amidst the breath-taking landscapes of Ecuador's Andean highlands. Surrounded by lush greenery and majestic peaks, the lodge offers cosy accommodations in charming adobe cottages. Unwind in harmony of the surroundings and ambience the highlands provide. Tuck into delectable Ecuadorian cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients, served from the restaurant, providing a taste of the region's culinary delights. Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge promises an unforgettable experience amidst the natural wonders of the Andean landscape.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Standard Lodge
Hosteria Hacienda Abraspungo
Riobamba

Located in the heart of Ecuador's Andean highlands, Hosteria Hacienda Abraspungo is a beautiful hotel. Each room is a cosy haven, adorned with authentic decor and equipped with contemporary amenities. The hacienda offers a gateway to explore the nearby Chimborazo National Park and its stunning landscapes. Guests can immerse themselves in local culture through traditional cuisine and indigenous-inspired architecture. With breath-taking views of the surrounding mountains, this hotel combines traditional charm with modern comforts.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Hotel Santa Lucia
Cuenca

Conveniently located in the heart of Cuenca, Hotel Santa Lucia beckons with its timeless charm and Ecuadorian hospitality. This boutique gem offers a fusion of modern comfort and colonial elegance, showcasing a captivating blend of styles. The hotel's well-appointed rooms offer a cosy retreat, while the on-site restaurant tantalizes with local flavours. With its inviting ambiance and personalized service, Hotel Santa Lucia promises an unforgettable stay in the enchanting city of Cuenca.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Wyndham Guayaquil
Guayaquil

Located in the vibrant heart of Guayaquil, Hotel Wyndham is a contemporary haven blending comfort and style. The elegantly designed rooms provide modern amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay. Indulge in exquisite local and international cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and unwind with a cocktail at the bar. The hotel's fitness centre and rooftop pool offer leisure options. Its prime location offers easy access to notable attractions like Malecón 2000 and Parque Seminario.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
M/C Galapagos Seaman Journey Cruise
Galapagos Islands

This 4 star cruise vessel is designed to provide a comfortable, relaxed and intimate experience, accommodating only 16 passengers and nine crew members. The vessel features various amenities, including comfortable air-conditoned cabins with private facilities and large picture windows, a dining area offering delicious local and international cuisine, a spacious sundeck for relaxation, and social spaces for connecting with fellow travellers. Aboard the Seaman Journey Cruise you will be guided by experienced naturalist guides who possess in-depth knowledge of the Galapagos Islands' flora, fauna, and ecosystems. These experts lead daily excursions, providing insightful information about the islands' unique wildlife, geological features, and conservation efforts. Whether snorkelling with playful sea lions, observing ancient giant tortoises, or hiking along volcanic trails, you will have the opportunity to engage with the islands' remarkable wildlife up close.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 star cruise boat

Prices & Dates

Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Shared' prices are applicable to solo travellers who are happy to share a room with another traveller of the same sex.

2025
Twin/Double
Single
Shared
9 Jan - 24 Jan
$18,325
$26,505
$19,405
20 Mar - 4 Apr
$18,325
$26,505
$19,405
3 Apr - 18 Apr
$18,325
$26,505
$19,405
24 Jul - 8 Aug
$18,325
$26,505
$19,405
18 Sep - 3 Oct
$18,325
$26,505
$19,405
13 Nov - 28 Nov
$18,325
$26,505
$19,405

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