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Ecuador and the Galapagos

16days from
£5,099*per person

Overview

16 Days - Classic Escorted Tours

With magnificent wildlife, awe-inspiring architecture and striking scenery, Ecuador is an incredible adventure for lovers of natural beauty, history and culture. A place that often goes unsung, Ecuador is an under-appreciated destination with wonders around every corner. Although the Galapagos islands feature high up on most people’s bucket list, the mainland is a surprising and fascinating place to visit in its own right. On this inspiring tour, you’ll be able to see some of the world’s highest volcanoes, buzzy colonial cities, wonder at the beauty of hummingbirds in tropical cloud forests, travel on spectacular trains and stay in historic haciendas – all this before you’ve even stepped ashore in the Galapagos!  We take a drive along the Pan-American highway, probably the longest road in world, connecting Alaska with South American Patagonia. We trail the impressive seven peaks of the Avenue of the Volcanoes, before arriving at Cotopaxi National Park. Here we'll wonder at the striking, snowy Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano on the planet. As if this wasn’t enough natural beauty to behold, we take in the beautiful roses of the region and hop on the Devil’s Nose Train through steep, craggy gorges. When we reach the Galapagos, you will be truly spoilt by the sheer sights of natural beauty, well-preserved terrain and exotic wildlife. For years, the only way most people could visit the Galapagos was to sail from island to island on small motor-yachts – a great way to travel, but also very expensive. Our tour avoids this by offering an island-hopping itinerary which means you actually get to stay on two of the most interesting islands. To get the most out of your visit to this extraordinary wildlife destination, it’s important to be fully mobile and be able to snorkel so you can discover the amazing marine life, something that even Charles Darwin was never aware of! You will also have the opportunity to explore Santa Cruz at your own leisure, an island famed for sea turtles, giant tortoises and marine iguanas, as well as the calm, white sand beaches of Tortuga Bay. These incredible volcanic islands are home to a vast variety of flora and fauna, most of which are endemic species. A dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers, we will tour both land and sea to witness the sights of this magical archipelago.  The cuisine of the region takes natural inspiration from the sea and abundant organic produce of the area. Unsurprisingly, much of the dishes are made up of locally caught seafood, such as tilapia and halibut, and put into viche (soup) and arroz marinero (seafood rice). Be sure to try the famous cerviche, a dish made from fresh, raw fish and served with a refreshing salad of onions and tomatoes. The fruits of the land are strikingly unusual too; with speckled banana passionfruit, tropical cherimoya, tomato-like naranjilla and peanut butter fruit, which is said to taste just like the popular spread. Whether you are looking forward to the wondrous wildlife, breath-taking landscapes, the colonial charm – or all three and more – this unique destination and its welcoming locals are awaiting your adventure.

Itinerary

  • Arrive at the airport for your overnight flight to Quito, via Bogota.
  • Welcome to Quito! The largest, best-preserved colonial city of America, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Considered the Cultural Capital of South America, it’s located just south of the equator at the foothills of the Pichincha volcano. Our tour of the city includes the leafy Independence square, overlooked by the Presidential Palace, cathedral and Archbishop’s Palace. Just a short walk away is the baroque Jesuit church of Compania de Jesus, with its incredible gilded interior. Another of Quito’s gems is the church and convent of San Francisco, the largest religious complex on the continent.
  • Embrace the once-in-a-lifetime experience of standing on both the north and southern hemisphere. Here you’ll learn about the interesting history of the Equator line and physics of the location. We then continue to the little town of Mindo, set amidst lush forested hills. We stay for two nights in a lodge, surrounded by the exotic cloud forest and incredible birds. 
  • Today we explore the pristine cloud forests and hike along waterfalls of the area. At an altitude of 1,300m, Mindo lies between Ecuador’s lowlands and highlands and has a year-round mild climate. This, and the plentiful rainfall, mostly between January and April, has created lush forests, perfect for a wide variety of birdlife – with an incredible 140 species of hummingbirds recorded. Our hotel is surrounded by the forest and has several marked trails around the property, ideal for birdwatching. You may also try out the optional zip-line tour or learn about how the famous Ecuadorian chocolate is made.  Signature Expereince: Ascend into the pristine heavens of the cloud forests as you ride through the lush tree canopies on a spectacular open-air cable-car, specially designed to ensure the most wonderful views. A feast for the senses, you’ll feel completely immersed in this extraordinarily beautiful landscape as you glide over the treetops soaking up the sights and sounds of the forests’ fascinating wildlife.
  • Heading south on the Pan-American highway we drive along the Avenue of the volcanoes, towards the Cotopaxi National Park. En route we stop at Pululahua, the third largest inhabited volcano crater in the world. From the rim of the extinct volcano enjoy the panoramic views over the green farmland in the base of the crater. Lunch is included today. 
  • This morning we reach Cotopaxi National Park for some stunning views, and at 5,900m the highest active volcano in the world. Snowcapped year-round, the perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone is one of the greatest sights in South America. Lunch is included today. Ecuador is the world’s largest exporter of roses and this afternoon we’ll visit one of the many rose farms in the area. 
  • This morning is free for you to relax in the surroundings of your historic Hacienda hotel. Alternatively, you’re welcome to join a visit of the local area to appreciate the fascinating life and culture of this agricultural community. This afternoon, we continue along the Pan American highway, arriving in the amazing colonial city of Cuenca. Dinner is included tonight.
  • Today we'll visit El Cajas National Park. Less than an hour northwest of Cuenca, this rugged landscape features pristine parkland reminiscent of the Scottish highlands with rocky green mountains interspersed with over 780 crystalline lagoons and a network of trickling streams. For almost as far as the eye can see, the ground is covered in wildflower-strewn shrubs and grasses - the only sounds are running water, wind and the call of birds overhead. Included experience: Visit El Cajas National Park
  • A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cuenca is a treasure-trove of charming colonial churches, mansions and squares, which are all easily walkable. The main square is overlooked by the town’s vast cathedral, said to be modelled on St Peter’s in Rome. The city is also known for its Panama hats, which are in fact hand-made in Ecuador, not Panama! Our included city tour takes in all these sights as well as a visit to a Panama hat factory, and finishes at one of the fascinating local markets, where you can admire the colours of the fresh produce as well as the traditional arts and crafts of the Andes. This afternoon you will fly from Cuenca to Quito. Included experience: Guided tour of Cuenca and visit a Panama hat factory.
  • This morning we catch the 1hr.50 flight to San Cristobal island in the Galapagos. As the most easterly island in the archipelago, this was the first to be visited by Charles Darwin in 1835. After we are settled into our hotel, we explore the wildlife along nearby La Loberia’s white sand beach, with a chance to swim or snorkel. You are bound to spot marine iguanas, sea lions and plentiful birdlife. We stay two nights close to the centre of the island’s small main town of Puerto Moreno. Dinner at a local restaurant is included tonight.   
  • Today we board a small boat for the short trip to Isla Lobos, where we explore families of frigate birds and blue footed boobies. Although the path on the island is uneven and rocky in parts, the effort is worth it to see these iconic birds up close. We have lunch on board, and then we have an opportunity to swim or snorkel off the boat in the lagoon, where inquisitive seals may come and swim with us! In the afternoon we learn about conservation work on the islands during our visit to the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre. 
  • This morning we catch the speedboat ferry service to nearby Santa Cruz island, which should take between 1hr30 to 2hrs. On arrival, we’ll visit the famous giant tortoises in the beautiful El Chato highland reserve – an unforgettable experience! Within the grounds, you may also explore one of several underground lava tubes, left over from when the island’s volcano was active. Signature Experience: Experience more of the natural wonder of El Chato Reserve, home to the legendary giant Galapagos tortoises as you wander some of its picturesque trails on a scenic walk. Having worked up an appetite, sit back and relax as you are served a hearty traditional lunch at a local farm then enjoy a visit to a distillery, culminating in a traditional digestif of course!
  • This morning we have a boat tour of nearby Academy Bay, with an opportunity to snorkel with the Galapagos’ exotic marine life. You may see the likes of sea lions, rays and even sharks. After an included lunch, we continue for a tour of the famous Charles Darwin Research Station, where you will be able to see the remains of ‘Lonesome George’, stuffed and on display. There are also pens where baby giant tortoises are looked after before being released into the wild. 
  • Today you’re free to enjoy Santa Cruz at your own pace, where you can meander around Puerto Ayora or relax at the unspoilt Tortuga Bay. You can also personalise your trip with a pre-bookable boat trip (£235pp) to nearby Santa Fe Island or Bartolomé island, subject to weather and availability.
  • We say our goodbyes to the wonderful Galapagos Islands and fly home via Guayaquil and Bogota, arriving the next day. 
  • Arrive in the UK with wonderful memories of a fascinating trip.

What's Included

Holiday Highlights

  • Highlights:
  • Guided walk around the astonishing UNESCO World Heritage sites of Quito and colonial Cuenca
  • Discover the wonderful birdlife of the Mindo Cloud Forest, with over 500 species recorded
  • Enjoy the amazing views of snow-capped Cotopaxi, the world’s highest active volcano
  • Experience the wonderful architecture and laid-back atmosphere of Cuenca
  • Search for bargains in authentic local markets and visit a rose farm in Riobamba
  • See how authentic Panama hats are made
  • Ride the Pan-American highway along the Avenue of the Volcanoes
  • Stay five nights on the Galapagos islands of San Cristobal and Santa Cruz
  • See the giant tortoises of Santa Cruz in the stunning El Chato highland reserve
  • Learn about the wildlife conservation work at the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre
  • Swim or snorkel with the amazing marine life of the islands, in Isla Lobos lagoon and Academy Bay
  • See the remains of ‘Lonesome George’ at the famous Charles Darwin Research Station
  • Enjoy a lunch of traditional specialities at a local farm followed by a digestif at a distillery
  • Signature Highlights:
  • Experience the most spectacular 360-degree views of the cloud forests as you ride through the canopies on specially designed cable cars
  • Take in the beauty of El Chato Nature Reserve on a scenic walk through its stunning landscape, habitat of the incredible giant tortoises
  • Enjoy a lunch of traditional specialties at a local farm followed by a digestif at a distillery
  • Enjoy the more exclusive atmosphere of travelling in a small group with an average of 22 guests

Our Price Includes

  • The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a room. Single rooms are subject to availability, at the relevant supplement. The price includes:
  • Return scheduled flights
  • Internal flights as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Overseas transfers
  • 13 nights accommodation 
  • Daily breakfast
  • Eight meals
  • Local accommodation taxes
  • Hotel porterage of one luggage item per person
  • Touring and coach travel as mentioned in the itinerary
  • The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout
  • Not included: Galapagos National park entrance fee of $200 USD per person, payable locally.
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Departure Airport:
London Heathrow (LHR)

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Price from:£5,099
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Other Information

Holiday code

R408

Holiday provided by Riviera Travel

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE: This holiday is sold and operated by Riviera Travel (ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430). These ABTA and ATOL bonds mean that, when you book a Riviera Travel holiday, you can be 100% sure that your money is safe.

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