Amazon & Galapagos Explorer

Welcome to Quito! Upon arrival at the airport, your driver and English-speaking assistant will take you to your hotel, ensuring a smooth transition to the heart of this captivating city. Once settled in, the remainder of the day is at your leisure. Whether you choose to unwind in the hotel's amenities, explore nearby attractions, or stroll through Quito's charming streets, this day offers the perfect introduction to your Ecuadorian adventure.

Ecuador beckons with a rich tapestry of history, captivating indigenous cultures, meandering rivers, lush tropical forests, and majestic snowcapped volcanoes. Begin your exploration in Colonial Quito, where narrow cobblestone streets wind through a beautifully preserved colonial center, adorned with whitewashed walls and historic churches. As we traverse the Main Plaza, marvel at architectural wonders like La Compañía and the San Francisco Monastery, dating back to the city's founding in 1534. Following this historical immersion, our journey continues as we seamlessly transition to Tena, nestled in the Amazon. Our transportation awaits to guide us through Ecuador's highlands, descending into the rainforest. Arrive at the lodge in time for dinner and embark on a mesmerizing night-walk to witness the rainforest's nocturnal symphony, immersing you in the vibrant pulse of the Amazon after sundown. (B, D)

Embark on a day of adventure in the Amazon, starting with an early breakfast and a captivating wildlife walk through the vast expanse of both primary and secondary rainforests. Keep an eye out for tropical wildlife, immersing yourself in the sheer scale and beauty of the jungle. After the morning exploration, return to the lodge for a satisfying lunch. The afternoon unfolds at your leisure, offering the option to partake in various Amazon activities organized by the lodge. Whether you choose to engage in these optional activities or simply bask in the incredible natural surroundings, punctuated by the lively symphony of wildlife, the day promises an unforgettable and immersive experience in the heart of the Amazon. (B, L, D)

Following breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Tena, seamlessly transitioning on your journey back to Quito. En route, make a fascinating stop at the Middle of the World Monument, situated in "Ciudad Mitad del Mundo." This unique site features a cluster of buildings designed to illustrate the significance of being precisely on the Equator. Embrace the opportunity to stand in two hemispheres simultaneously, a truly remarkable experience. After this engaging visit, proceed to Quito, where you'll be transferred to your hotel, culminating your day with a smooth and informative transition between Ecuador's captivating destinations. (B)

Indulge in a leisurely day to explore the city at your own pace or opt for an exciting optional tour. For an adventure into nature's wonders, consider the Quilotoa Lagoon tour, where you'll marvel at the serene green lake nestled within the Quilotoa volcano crater. Take a leisurely 1.7-kilometer walk along the crater's rim, and on the return journey, stop at Tigua community's art gallery, showcasing vibrant paintings reflecting the Andean folklore. Alternatively, delve into the captivating landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park on another optional tour. Weather permitting, catch breathtaking views of Cotopaxi and Antisana volcanoes, explore the Interpretation Center to learn about the volcano's history, flora, and fauna, and venture to Lake Limpiopungo for a scenic stroll. If you're up for a longer hike, a two-hour trek to Mt. Cotopaxi's J. Ribas refuge awaits, offering spectacular vistas of the volcano and the surrounding Andean peaks. The day unfolds with the freedom to tailor your experience to your desires. (B)

Commence your journey with a seamless transfer with English-speaking assistance from Quito. Board your flight to the captivating Galápagos Islands (flight not included), where upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, embark on a concise city tour of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the provincial capital of the Galápagos. This coastal city provides a unique glimpse into the daily life of its community and an introduction to its key landmarks, offering a captivating initiation into the enchanting Galápagos experience. (B)

Embark on a morning exploration as we venture to the Cerro Colorado Reserve. A scenic walk of just over a kilometer from the Reserve's entrance leads us to the breathtaking Puerto Chino beach. This pristine coastal haven boasts endemic plant species and is home to vibrant colonies of seals and other wildlife, providing an ideal setting for a leisurely snorkeling session. Following lunch (not included), our journey continues to the island's highest point, where we'll discover the tranquility of El Junco lagoon. Nestled in the landscape, this lagoon stands as the largest source of fresh water on the island, inviting us to take a relaxed stroll and immerse ourselves in the natural wonders of this unique destination. (B)

Savor a day at your leisure, relishing the freedom to explore the city on your terms. Alternatively, opt for an enriching optional navigable tour to neighboring islands. Board our motor yacht, where a friendly crew and knowledgeable naturalist guide await, ensuring your daily excursions to the Galápagos Islands are both safe and comfortable. Revel in the opportunity to visit renowned sites such as Española, Punta Pitt, or Kicker Rock, immersing yourself in the unparalleled beauty of the Galápagos archipelago with ease and style. (B)

After breakfast, your transfer with English-speaking assistance will take you to the airport for your flight to Guayaquil (flight not included). Upon arrival, your transfer with English-speaking will take you into town where you’ll embark on a captivating walking tour of Guayaquil, exploring its key landmarks. Nestled along the languid River Guayas, this vibrant city exudes a charming tropical ambiance. You'll visit significant sites including the Malecon 2000 Boardwalk, Seminario Park, the Moorish Tower, and the Governor’s Office Building, offering an immersive experience in the heart of this bustling urban hub. (B)

Embrace a leisurely day to explore the city at your own pace. Alternatively, delve into an enriching experience with one of our optional tours. Choose the "Half Day Visit to the Historic Park" for a glimpse into Guayaquil's past, as the park recreates diverse habitats reflecting the activities of the old province. Dive into the geopolitical context of the city's "Golden Age," characterized by cocoa trade. Or opt for the "Manglares Churute" tour, where a 45-minute drive southward takes you to the Manglares Churute Ecological Reserve. Embark on a boat journey through this fascinating world, observing wildlife, crab pickers, and, with luck, even dolphins. Enjoy a boxed lunch, followed by a guided hike through the coastal rainforest, unveiling captivating plants and wildlife, including the playful howler monkeys. Conclude the day with a return to your Guayaquil hotel, having experienced the diverse natural and historical wonders of the region. (B)

Say farewell to Ecuador as you check out of your hotel and meet your driver and English-speaking assistant for the transfer to the airport where you will check-in for your onward flight. (B)