Awe-inspiring Ecuador tour with the Amazon & Galápagos

A once-in-a-lifetime trip to Ecuador, including the natural wonders and wildlife of the Amazon rainforest and Galápagos Islands

Day 1: UK - Quito

Arrive in Quito, Ecuador's ancient Inca capital, where you'll transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, hop on the TelefériQo for knockout views of the city or start getting acquainted with Ecuador's delicious food. (Meals: none)

Day 2: Quito - Baños

After breakfast, set off for Baños and visit Pailón del Diablo – the second highest waterfall in Ecuador. You’ll also witness incredible El Manto de la Novia, where you’ll take a cable car ride across the Pastaza River canyon. In the afternoon, head to the The Swing at the End of the World. (Meals: breakfast)

Day 3: Amazon

Venture into the wilds of the Amazon today. Then head to your lodge and enjoy lunch, before spending time at leisure. In the evening, you’ll embark on a night walk in the jungle to observe wildlife, and if it’s a clear night, the stars. (Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 4: Amazon

Today, visit an Amazonian Kichwa community to learn about their way of life and interaction with the forest. Try a traditional fermented cassava drink and traditional dishes and enjoy a dance performance by the children. (Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 5: Amazon

Take an early morning canoe ride to Anaconda Island, where you’ll observe Hoatzin birds, monkeys and more wildlife in their natural habitat. You’ll also visit a local family and learn about cultivation and medicinal plants. Return to the lodge for lunch, before heading to the AmaZOOnico animal rescue centre. (Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 6: Amazon – Quito

In the morning, head to Guango Lodge near the paramo and hot springs of Papallacta, a hummingbird paradise. Take a hike in the scenic surrounds and experience luscious nature. In the afternoon, head back to Quito to relax and enjoy the city at your own pace. (Meals: breakfast)

Day 7: Quito

Today, head out and explore the city at your leisure – take an optional city tour, or head to the Mindo Cloud Forest. (Meals: breakfast)

Day 8: Quito - Baltra - Galápagos (Santa Cruz)

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Baltra, in the Galapagos Islands. From Baltra, transfer to Santa Cruz by ferry. Stop in the highlands of Santa Cruz, the verdant green habitat of the famous giant tortoises, and enjoy lunch and a tour at a private ranch. Spend the rest of the day at leisure (Meals: breakfast, lunch)

Day 9: Galápagos (Santa Cruz)

Enjoy a half-day tour of Academy Bay. Take a boat trip where you can swim and snorkel with exotic fish and marine life, plus sea lions. You may also catch a glimpse of sought-after blue-footed boobies, before climbing to a nearby viewpoint; if you’re lucky, you’ll witness white-tipped reef sharks. Then, take a walk along the Playa de los Perros. (Meals: breakfast, lunch box)

Day 10: Galápagos (Santa Cruz - San Cristóbal)

Embark on a guided visit of the Charles Darwin Research Station. In the afternoon, transfer to the Santa Cruz dock where you’ll take a boat to San Cristóbal island. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. (Meals: breakfast)

Day 11: Galápagos (San Cristóbal - Isla Lobos)

Today, take a boat trip to Isla Lobos. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of the island, observing everything from boobies to eagle rays and sea lions. Take a walk around the island and enjoy a swim before returning back to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk. (Meals: breakfast, lunch)

Day 12: Galápagos (San Cristóbal) - Quito

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Quito. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. (Meals: breakfast)

Day 13: Quito - UK