Arrival in Quito
Ecuador, a country in South America, is renowned for its remarkable diversity and stunning landscapes. It is often referred to as “The Land of Volcanoes” due to its numerous active and dormant volcanoes that shape its terrain. These volcanoes, part of the Andean Volcanic Belt, contribute to Ecuador’s rich geological and ecological tapestry.

The country’s volcanoes offer not only spectacular scenery but also opportunities for adventure and exploration. From the towering Cotopaxi, one of the world’s highest active volcanoes, to the majestic Chimborazo, whose summit is the closest point on Earth to space, Ecuador’s volcanic peaks attract mountaineers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts from around the globe.

Beyond their physical beauty, Ecuador’s volcanoes hold cultural and historical significance. Indigenous communities have long revered these mountains, considering them sacred and integral to their identities. Many of Ecuador’s towns and cities are situated near volcanoes, adding to the country’s unique charm and character.

Overall, Ecuador’s volcanoes symbolize both the raw power of nature and the resilience of the people who call this diverse country home. They stand as iconic landmarks, inviting visitors to marvel at their grandeur and explore the breathtaking landscapes they shape.

Arrival in Quito and transfer to hotel.
 

City Tour in Quito
Half-day private city tour in the historical part of Quito, including La Basilica Church, La Compañia Church and El Panecillo Hill. We leave the hotel, by private transportation, and will see the transformation from the new part of the city to the absolutely beautiful historical and colonial part of Quito. We will have time to see all the interesting churches, plazas etc.
But also simply enjoy the local atmosphere, the many shops and sellers. After these interesting sights, we continue to “El Panecillo”, the hill in the centre of Quito overviewing the city and the historical centre. Also from here, on clear days, we may observe several of the snow-capped volcanoes surrounding Quito.
Night in hotel.
Included meals: Breakfast

Quito – Otavalo – Quito
Full day tour to the Otavalo Indian Market and Cuicocha Crater Lake. We leave Quito early and have an approximately three hour drive to Otavalo. The drive is fascinating, driving through the relatively dry areas, caused by the “rain-shadow” from the volcanoes and it is easy to observe the sediments suggesting the formation of this part of the Andes. We cross the Equatorial line and soon pass into the lush Otavalo region, where the Otavalo Indians have managed to continue their proud traditions. This valley is very beautiful and surrounded by smaller volcanoes and lakes. We visit the Otavalo market where you will find all sorts of souvenirs but it is perhaps even more interesting simply to watch the local people and the daily life. We later continue to Cotacachi, a small village, where we stop for Lunch. Before heading home, we pass by the beautiful Cuicocha Crater Lake. It is an absolutely beautiful view of this lake and the green mountains surrounding it.
Included meals: Breakfast

Travel to Galapagos: Sea Lions & Evolution
The tour starts with morning flight to Galapagos (San Cristobal Island).
At arrival, meeting with the guide who will be waiting for you at the arrival lounge.
Your guide will take you to the hotel, where you can leave your luggage, freshen up, and continue with your first exploration of the islands!

EXPLORING LOBERIA:
This guided expedition to La Lobería offers a serene and immersive way to experience the natural beauty of San Cristóbal Island. Perfect for nature lovers, this visit allows you to explore the island’s diverse ecosystems at a relaxed pace, accompanied by a certified naturalist guide.

A short drive from town takes you to the trailhead leading to La Lobería beach. The path is relatively flat and easy to walk, surrounded by native vegetation and offering chances to observe the unique wildlife of the Galápagos. Look for Galapagos finches, frigatebirds, lava lizards, and marine iguanas along the way.

Once at the beach, enjoy the stunning contrast of white sand and turquoise waters. The area is named after the large colony of sea lions (“lobos marinos”) that rest and play along the shoreline. You’ll have time to relax, swim, or snorkel in the calm waters, where you might encounter sea turtles and colorful reef fish.

INTERPRETATION CENTER:
Located just outside of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the Interpretation Center offers a rich introduction to the unique natural and human history of the Galápagos Islands. This guided visit is perfect for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of the archipelago’s evolution, conservation efforts, and the delicate balance between human presence and nature.

Accompanied by a naturalist guide, you’ll explore a series of indoor and outdoor exhibits highlighting the islands’ geological formation, the arrival of various species, and the history of human settlement. Interactive displays and detailed narratives make this an engaging experience for all ages.
Included meals: Breakfast

San Cristóbal: Snorkeling with sharks at Kicker Rock
After breakfast, you will meet your local guide and crew, who will take you on one of the nicest snorkel expeditions in Galapagos.

KICKER ROCK:
Located off the coast of San Cristobal Island in the Galápagos, it offers a thrilling mix of marine wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique encounters.
This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the most iconic marine environments in the Galápagos. The combination of breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and the thrill of snorkeling or diving in deep, clear waters makes it an unforgettable experience.
The nutrient-rich waters around Kicker Rock attract an impressive array of wildlife. You’re likely to see white-tip reef sharks, spotted eagle rays, and even the occasional hammerhead shark. Sea lions are also frequent visitors, often playing around snorkelers. Above the water, you can spot various bird species, including blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and frigatebirds. Kicker Rock is famous for its vertical, towering rock formations that emerge dramatically from the ocean, creating a deep channel teeming with marine life.

Whether you choose to snorkel or dive, you’ll have the chance to swim alongside Galápagos sharks, hammerheads, rays, sea turtles, and a variety of colorful fish. The channel between the two rocks is about 60 feet deep, making it ideal for both snorkelers and intermediate to advanced divers.

Note: Diving activity has an additional cost; please contact us for further details on this.
Included meals: Breakfast, lunch

Highlands of Santa Cruz: Giant Tortoises and Lava formations
Early departure towards Santa Cruz Island, you board a speed boat for around 2.5 hours. Once on Santa Cruz Island, you meet your guide and driver who will take you for an expedition to the highlands of the Island.

The highlands of Santa Cruz offer a stark contrast to the arid coastal regions, with lush greenery, rolling hills, and dense forests. This area provides a chance to experience the island’s diverse ecosystems, ranging from dry zones to moist forests. They are home to several private reserves where you can observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat. These majestic creatures roam freely, feeding on the lush vegetation, and the reserves offer an up-close view of their behavior and movements.

Also, you will be able to visit these underground tunnels, which were formed by flowing lava and are a fascinating geological feature of the island.
Included meals: Breakfast, lunch

Full-day yacht excursion to nearby islands
Today, you will enjoy a wonderful day cruise expedition to the nearby islands.

Depending on the day, you will be able to visit the following islands:

North Seymour & Bachas Beach:
Birdwatching experience (blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, pelicans, flamingos, etc)

Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay:
Galapagos Penguin and volcanic experience (wonderful views from the top of the mountain, great snorkel with penguins)

Santa Fe Island:
Iguana experience (endemic land iguanas, marine iguanas)

Plazas Island & Carrion Point:
Birds and marine life (blue-footed boobies, rays, marine turtles, sea lions)

Chinese Hat:
Volcanic experience (beautiful views of the wonderful volcanic island, marine life, coastal birds)

These expeditions offer you the opportunity to visit the home of these wonderful endemic and native creatures as well as to spot marine life whilst snorkeling.
Included meals: Breakfast, lunch

Exploring the island: Charles Darwin Research Station and Tortuga Bay
Located in Puerto Ayora, the Charles Darwin Research Station is a hub for scientific research and conservation efforts in the Galápagos. The station is dedicated to the preservation of the island’s unique species, particularly the giant tortoises. Your guide will take you to the different parts of this center, where you will learn about the projects and observe the breeding process of the giant tortoises.
After this visit, you will take a 50-minute walk towards one of the nicest beaches of Santa Cruz Island, Tortuga Bay. Here, you can walk through the white sanded beach and spot different coastal birds, marine iguanas, and other marine wildlife that usually come for a visit. You can relax in the tranquility of this amazing place.

Return to Puerto Ayora.
The rest of the afternoon will be free to enjoy on your own.
Included meals: Breakfast, snacks

Departure
End of Galapagos tour. Morning transfer to Baltra airport. Flight to Guayaquil and international connection in the afternoon. 
Included meals: Breakfast