Ecuador and Galapagos: Quick Highlights Tour

Nestled amidst the majestic peaks of Imbabura, Cotacachi, and Mojanda volcanoes, Otavalo a enchanting town, located in Ecuador’s Imbabura province, is predominantly inhabited by indigenous communities. Immerse yourself in the rich ancient traditions and culture that permeate every aspect of life here. The Otavaleños take immense pride in their heritage, epitomized by their distinctive attire and hair dresses of the women. As you explore the city delight with occasional sights of local musicians and also farmers offering culinary treats and exquisite textiles.

Today, you’re set for a delightful and insightful cooking class. Take your time to fully enjoy this experience, which is not only rich in flavors but also steeped in cultural richness.

Before embarking on the journey to the Amazon, your first destination awaits with a delectable experience in the charming town of Cayambe. This quaint place is renowned for its traditional bizcocho, a local biscuit that, when paired with a steaming cup of coffee, promises an authentic gastronomic adventure. After this snack prepare for an approximately 5 h drive to the Tena region.

Experience the magic of the Sayani Amazon Lodge as night falls, unveiling a world of captivating activities that will fill the pages of your Amazonian adventure. Imagine embarking on a lantern-lit nocturnal walk, immersing yourself in the symphony of frog croaks and the subtle scuttle of forest creatures in their natural home. This way you put a end to your day of adventures.

Today’s itinerary is up to your preferences, offering a selection of activities that cater to your interests.
Dive into the tactile pleasure of a ceramics workshop, where you’ll be captivated by the skillful display of ceramic art, celebrating the rich heritage of the Kichwa culture.
Chocolate lovers will delight in a hands-on chocolate-making experience, where you’ll craft decadent bars using the finest cacao from the Amazon.
For those intrigued by culinary arts, a cooking class invites you to delve into local flavors and traditions, as you prepare delicious maitos wrapped in banana leaves.

Embark on a captivating journey along the river to the Monkey Reserve, where playful primates hide amidst vibrant foliage, including the world’s tiniest monkey. Explore the secrets of ancient trees and wildlife in the mesmerizing Primary Forest, guided by the wisdom of our Kichwa expert.
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the San Bartolo de Arajuno Community, embracing their dances, music, and the art of brewing traditional chicha, all these at your own cost for just $5.
Experience profound tranquility as you connect with the Community Shaman, absorbing centuries-old wisdom whispered by the rainforest.
And for an unforgettable experience, don’t miss the enchanting dawn chorus at the Parrot Clay Lick, available for $30 plus taxes.

After breakfast, you’ll head back to Quito. Once there, you’ll explore the historic center of the city. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through colonial streets and show you iconic sites. Don’t miss the chance to visit an authentic local market with over 250 stalls offering a variety of fruits, vegetables, medicinal plants, herbs, meat, and seafood. You’ll even get to taste some typical Ecuadorian fruits at the market.
As you wander the charming cobblestone streets, take your time to admire the colonial buildings and indulge in the local cuisine. Treat yourself to some canelazo and empanadas de viento, which will give you the energy and warmth needed to fully explore the captivating stories that the city has to offer.
During your visit, learn about Sinsoluka, a non-profit organization dedicated to giving a second chance to local street children and youth. Many of these children have had difficult beginnings, facing challenges such as being born to drug-addicted parents, living on the streets, experiencing violence, abuse, neglect, or being forced to work selling sweets.
Next is the visit to the Intiñan Museum, where you’ll have fun with various experiments showcasing gravity and physics. Try balancing an egg on a nail or observe water spinning in opposite directions. While some exhibits may be staged, the museum provides an engaging experience that also highlights Ecuador’s rich culture, including the biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands and the traditions of Amazonian tribes.

Today, you’ll arrive at San Cristobal Airport after a three and a half hour flight.
Upon arrival, a private transfer will be arranged to take you to your hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Lunch comes next but first you have to earn it by immersing yourself in the rich culinary traditions of the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador by participating in a hands-on cooking class focused on Ceviche Galapagueño/Ecuatoriano. This delightful experience will be held at a local restaurant conveniently situated near the beach, providing a picturesque backdrop for your culinary experience.

Unlock the secrets behind achieving the perfect harmony of flavors using the finest seafood, zesty citrus juices, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. From handpicking the freshest ingredients to mastering the art of marination and presentation, you’ll gain invaluable insights into the cultural and gastronomic heritage of the region. After preparing your ceviche masterpiece, you’ll have the pleasure of savoring your culinary creation and then, the rest of the day is yours.

Today, the magic of San Cristóbal is yours to explore at your leisure. You have a free day to immerse yourself in the island’s enchantment, or simply relax.

Please read our FAQ below to discover valuable tips on how to enjoy free activities and make the most of your time.

Galapaguera is an ecological sanctuary with an interpretation center that reveals fascinating details about the Geochelone chatamensis, commonly known as the giant tortoises of the enchanted islands. Engage with these gentle giants in their natural habitat and delve into their history, evolution, and significance to the Galapagos ecosystem.

Then discover Puerto Chino a serene coral sand beach offering breathtaking coastal views. Located at the eastern end of the island, this remote beach awaits you with its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and stunning lava rocks and mangrove forests, it serves as the perfect haven for sea lions, turtles, and diverse seabirds.

The day comes close to its end with a visit an organic farm (Finca Mandinga) nestled within a lush, humid forest, teeming with unique fauna. Explore the vegetable fields, coffee plantations, and bamboo forest during a delightful and invigorating walk. Then,enjoy a refreshing snack prepared with seasonal ingredients, while learning about sustainable farming practices of this project.

Today, you have an extra free day to explore at your leisure or simply relax.

Please read our FAQ below to discover valuable tips on how to enjoy free activities and make the most of your time.

Today, we say our goodbyes. By this point, you should be aware of your next stop—either Quito or Guayaquil. From there, you’ll continue your journey or begin your journey back home.

We’re thrilled that you’re planning a trip to Ecuador with your kids! We understand that traveling with children can be challenging, so we’re here to help make it as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

It’s important to note that due to the nature of Ecuador as a travel destination, we don’t recommend it for children under 8 years old. With the changes in altitude and sometimes the long distances involved, it can be quite intense – but don’t worry, this particular trip has shorter distances.

If you have questions about child discounts or accommodation options please don’t hesitate to reach out with any request or concern.

Absolutely! At our core, we specialize in custom itineraries, and have been doing so for over a decade! So, making changes to your trip or extending it is definitely possible.

Contact our travel designers and let us know what changes you’d like to make. You have two options to get in touch with us:

1. Simply send us an email and mention the trip you’re interested in from our platform. You’ll find our contact details here.

2. If you have more elaborate ideas about your trip and would like to start from scratch, you can fill in this form and we’ll get to work on your customized itinerary right away.

We’re here to help you create the trip of your dreams!

Please refer to our article Essential Packing Tips for Your Ecuador and Galapagos Adventure for all your questions about packing for your Ecuador trip. Whether you’re going to the jungle or the mountains, you’ll find the answers you need. You can also download a full Packing List for free.

If you want to see the price for your situation, please select an amount of travelers (number of adults, children, etc) on the right side of the website (or the bottom on the mobile version). You will then see that total price for your party right above it. For some tours, the price will change according to the amount of people. 

It is advised to book this tour through our Custom Itineraries department, instead of direct booking here on the website, so that we can adapt the itinerary to your liking before you book. You can enquire by filling out this form. 

Everyone directly involved in your visit, like the hostfamily, the local guides or families you visit during excursions, are usually fine with pictures. If you make a really nice (family) portrait and you promise to send it to them, make sure to fulfill that promise!

As to anyone not directly involved, like other community members you meet on a hike, it would be kind to ask them first if it’s OK to take a picture. If the picture is great and/or they’re a little uncomfortable, it’s OK to give a little tip if they are doing you the favour of posing or allowing you to take your photo. Something between 1 to 2 dollars is fine. Don’t exaggerate. 

Showing the resultant picture is always nice if you have the time! 

No, they don’t. However, our host families are very used to having guests that don’t speak Spanish and their Spanish is easy to understand for those who speak other Latin languages. 

Of course, learning Spanish beforehand is always a good idea! Use an app like Duolingo to learn the basics before leaving and enhance your experience whilst traveling.

Anything really! since you’re visiting many ecosystems, you will experience heat and drougth, as well as the cold. So, like we mention in our article Essential Packing Tips for Your Ecuador and Galapagos Adventure, be flexible and prepared for anything. 

Find more info about climates in Ecuador in our blog The Best Time to Travel to Ecuador.

This is not a group trip: most transfers and excursions are fully private. On some excursions, you will meet other travelers, of course! You can find more details in the separate PDF we can send you once you enquire.

By focusing on a single island, you ensure the footprint you leave is kept to a minimum. Sustainable travel is about balance – experiencing the wonder of new places while preserving their beauty for future generations. Also, San Cristóbal offers a wealth of experiences that don’t require motorized transport. From snorkeling with sea lions to hiking through its diverse landscapes, the island can be explored and appreciated at a slower, more mindful pace.

Playa Carola is known for its surfing and sunsets.
Laguna el Junco.
For bird-watchers, Punta Pitt is a paradise.

Yes this is our selection of day tours available from San Cristóbal:
Isla Lobos
Kicker Rock (León Dormido)
Tour 360
Española Island
Highlands

All flights (operated by Latam and Avianca) arrive on the island in the morning. Just make sure to purchase tickets with destination SCY (San Cristóbal) and not Baltra; because that’s the airport of Santa Cruz island.

Travel light! Small planes have limited luggage space. A duffle bag or soft-sided suitcase is recommended, along with a backpack for day trips. Pack only essentials, and remember that reusable water bottles, sun protection, and binoculars can be invaluable on the island.

Here are our Essential Packing Tips for Your Ecuador and Galapagos Adventure