Ecuador and the Galapagos
Overview:
Ecuador is a relatively small country, but it packs an experiential punch. There are three distinct ecosystems: the coast, the highlands, and the rainforest, caused by the towering Andes Mountain Range, which cuts through the country. Within a relatively short distance, Ecuador allows travelers to explore landscapes with some of the highest volcanoes and mountain peaks in the world, some of the highest numbers of endemic species, over half of all of South America's bird species, more plant species than all of North America, and the largest number of frog species in the world. Ecuador is also home to 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites ranging from the natural treasures of the Galapagos Islands to the Colonial city of Quito.
The famed Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago located 1000 km offshore from continental Ecuador and are comprised of13 main islands, 9 minor islands, and hundreds of islets and ocean rocks. It is an extremely isolated region spread over 17,000 square miles of ocean. That factor, coupled with the confluence of three ocean currents and ongoing seismic and volcanic activity, has resulted in the development of some very unusual animal life, much of which inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Most of the archipelago lies within a protected region with visitation strictly regulated. As a result, the best way to experience the unique flora and fauna of these islands is by boat on 3,4 or 7 night sailings where land and sea excursions will be conducted by trained naturalist guides.
Itinerary Summary:
Days 1 – 4 Quito /
Day 4 - 6 Ecuador’s Cloud Forest
Days 6 - 9 Heart of the Andes
Days 9 - 14 Galapagos Islands
Day 14 Depart
The Essentials:
Seasonality: Located in Middle Earth, any time of year is good – mainland Ecuador has the coolest, wettest weather from January through May, though rain usually occurs in afternoon showers, but conversely it is when the water and air temperatures are the warmest in the Galapagos Islands. Specific animal sightings may dictate when you travel. No matter when you choose, you will have amazing wildlife and adventure experiences good for people of all ages
Boutique 4-5 star accommodations, most meals, guided tours, lodge activities, boat excursions, marine park and entry fees, domestic flights, private transfers would all be part of this customized itinerary
Highlights: Three Eco-Systems / Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites / Cloud Forest / Andes / Galapagos Islands / Unique Flora and Fauna / Condor Project / Artisanal Villages / Working Hacienda / Optional Activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, cooking class
Cost: from $$$$
Itinerary:
Quito – 3 Nights
Welcome to Ecuador!
A private driver will meet you on arrival for the transfer to the historic center of Quito, which is the first city to achieve UNESCO World Cultural Heritage and has the best preserved and least altered historic city founded in 1534 by the Spanish. It sits in a high mountain valley surrounded by the towering Andes Mountains. Your introduction to Ecuador will start with a full day private guided tour of the city. Not only will you visit the city’s historical sites, but you’ll learn about the world’s finest cocoa through a chocolate tasting experience as well as the burgeoning culture of Andean Agave. You’ll have time to explore the city’s markets, restaurants, shopping and nightlife at your own pace - all within easy walking access from your hotel.
Cloud Forest – 2 Nights
Stretching north from Quito all the way to the Peru border lies the Ecuadorian Cloud Forest, and a must visit destination for nature lovers. Closer to Quito than the Amazon, but with much of the same experience, you’ll have the chance to encounter 400 species of birds, trees, frogs, endemic species found nowhere else in the world, complete with crashing waterfalls, rivers, and incredible flora. Using the latest techniques of sustainable construction, this boutique, luxury lodge is an oasis of comfort perched high on a plateau with amazing views of the forest reserve. Activities to explore this unique environment are designed to cater for every ability from as easy as a walk in the park to a challenging hike to observe one of nature’s most spectacular mating rituals of one of its rarest birds. The reserve operates a research center in conjunction with international conservation organizations and universities and is open to guest participation.
Andes / Traditional Hacienda – 3 Nights
Transferring from the cloud forest to the Andes will bring you through the heart of Ecuador - the Avenue of the Volcanoes, where nine towering volcanoes ranging from the 12,840 ft in elevation up to Chimborazo's 20,703 ft summit. Stops along the way will include Middle Earth, latitude 0 / longitude 0, Otavalo, Ecuador's largest indigenous market, and other smaller artisan villages. Arriving in time for a welcoming drink and platter of local cheeses, settle into your accommodation, which is a stunning 17th century hacienda and working-farm. From here, with the towering Andes as a backdrop, you can visit mountain lakes and vistas by horseback, find hidden trails with centuries of history on foot or bike, see and learn about endangered species at their Condor Huasi facilities or wander into the neighboring village, famous for embroidery work, for a taste of local culture.
Galapagos Islands – 5 Nights
Returning to Quito Airport, connect to the Galapagos Islands for an overnight prior to embarking on your 4-night island cruise. Enjoy a little time in Puerto Ayora where the Charles Darwin Research Station has a breeding program for endangered giant tortoises, which also live wild in El Chato Reserve. The following day commence your journey through these Enchanted Islands. Your boutique luxury cruise will cater to a maximum of 16 passengers with a dedicated naturalist guide to lead your activities on land and in the water. Typically, there will be a morning and an afternoon excursion of hiking, kayaking and snorkeling. The specific itinerary and which islands will be visited is dependent on which cruise and the time of year you travel. After 5 days of mesmerizing encounters with free swimming marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, breeding frigate birds, blue and red footed boobies, giant tortoises, sea lions, penguins, and countless endemic species of birds and lizards found nowhere else in the world, it will be time to return to mainland Ecuador. Connection back to the US this evening, or optional extension to explore a bit of the Ecuadorian coast.
Please call us on +1 720 494 1530 or email us at the link below to discuss this trip further with a travel expert. We would be happy to discuss ways to tailor this itinerary to your personal preferences.
