Highlights of Galapagos & Ecuador
(land-based tour)

(10 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Quito, Galapagos Islands, Otavalo Valley

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience the highlights of Ecuador and the Galapagos, but prefer to stay in a resort hotel in the Galapagos rather than staying on a boat. The tour includes private touring in Quito, a stay at a private hacienda in the Andes, and small-group day excursions in the Galapagos Islands.

Begin in Quito, the capital of Ecuador and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accommodation is in a beautiful hotel on a historic square surrounded by well-preserved Spanish colonial-era architecture. With your private expert guide and driver, tour Quito’s top cultural sights, including interesting neighborhoods, centuries-old churches with spectacular interiors, and traditional artisan workshops.

Next, fly to the Galapagos Islands, a dream destination for nature lovers. Stay in a resort hotel on Santa Cruz Island, and enjoy small-group excursions on naturalist-led day trips on a chartered boat to the most interesting surrounding islands, such as Bartolome, North Seymour, South Plaza and Santa Fe. See incredible volcanic landscapes, and get close to iconic Galapagos wildlife such as giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas. Depending on the season, also see mating rituals, newborns feeding, territorial squabbles, and more. If desired, snorkel in areas frequented by sea lions, penguins, sea turtles and schools of colorful fish. Also tour the highlights of Santa Cruz Island, including the giant tortoise reserve and the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Return to mainland Ecuador, and spend two nights at a historic hacienda in the beautiful Otavalo Valley, a bucolic Andean highland landscape of rolling hills, farms and indigenous villages beneath snow-capped volcanic peaks. Visit local indigenous food and craft markets, and stop by select workshops to meet artisans and shop for high-quality hand-woven wool textiles, delicate embroidery, leather goods, and other traditional and modern crafts. If desired, also enjoy privately guided horseback riding, hiking or mountain biking on private land and through the rural countryside.

Upon request, we can arrange diving and additional touring options in the Galapagos. Also, this tour can easily be extended to allow for additional time in the Amazon basin or other highly recommended destinations in Ecuador.