Day 1
Quito
Welcome to the cultural capital of South America, Quito! After your flight, take some time to settle in before meeting your trip leader and fellow explorers at 18:00pm. If you arrive early in the day and are raring to begin creating memories, your very own day-trip can be arranged.
Day 2
Quito – Galapagos Isabela
With no time to waste, your first full day begins with a flight to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, the Galapagos Islands. After landing in Baltra, you will take a bus and boat to reach Isabela, the biggest and most extraordinary of the 21 islands. As the place where Darwin was inspired to create his ground-breaking theory of evolution, we are sure you will be equally amazed by the nature that abounds here, along with the five active volcanoes.
Breakfast included.
Day 3
Galapagos Isabela
Day three is a day of exploring both land and sea. Discover the lava tunnels and arches left by erupted volcanoes along the seashore; marvel at sea lions, sea turtles and even sharks as you snorkel through the turquoise waters; or simply bathe on the perfectly white sands and watch this magical world go by.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 4
Galapagos Isabela
After a good night’s sleep, you will be ready for today’s adventures which begin with a hike through tropical forests to Sierra Negra Crater, one of the active volcanoes unique for its six-mile long caldera. For more phenomenal views you can choose to continue this hike to Volcan Chico, a truly remarkable geological feat. To give your legs a rest, this afternoon you will take to the sea in a kayak and explore the Tintoreras Islet where you will find yourself surrounded by penguins, turtles, white-tipped reef sharks and sea lions.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 5
Galapagos Isabela – Santa Cruz
Today you will be journeying to another slice of paradise, Santa Cruz. Here you will have the chance to learn more about the unique species residing across these islands at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Following this, you will be welcomed at ‘El Chato’ Reserve where a guide will educate you on the slow yet fascinating lives of age-old giant tortoises, along with other lesser known creatures.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 6
Santa Cruz – Quito
After so much exploring you may be relieved to have a day of travel. A transfer will take you to Baltra’s airport and there you will catch a flight to mainland Ecuador.
Breakfast included.
Day 7
Quito – Ecuadorian Andes
Before today’s two-hour hike, enjoy a scenic drive through the east of Ecuadorian Andes, stopping at the enchanting Hummingbirds’ Reserve in Guango. As you walk through Cloud Forest, look out for the bursts of colour these delightful birds boast, along with the stunning flora. Having worked up an appetite, you will be provided with a traditional Ecuadorian meal. Enjoy a restful afternoon at Amazon Lodge before dinner.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Accommodation: Amazon Lodge
Day 8
Ecuadorian Andes – Amazon Rainforest
An early start today will reward you with magnificent sunrise views as you canoe over Arajuno river. As you arrive at the Saladero, you will find you are not the only early risers, with hundreds of birds flocking here every morning. After stopping for breakfast and fuelling up, be at one with nature as you hike through the Amazon Rainforest.
A more restful afternoon awaits you, with a visit to the indigenous Kichwa community where you will meet with the locals who share their version of life with you.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Accommodation: Amazon Lodge
Day 9
Amazon Forest – Ecuadorian Andes – Quito
As your tour comes to a close, reflect on all you have seen and done as you soak in the volcanic Papallacta hot springs. For further relaxation, opt for a treatment at the spa and ease any aching muscles. Having done so, the tour comes full circle as you journey back to colonial Quito.
Breakfast included.
Day 10
Quito
After breakfast it is time to bid this tropical nirvana goodbye and head to the airport for your flight home.
