14 Days in Ecuador Highlights Amazon and Galapagos Islands

Our tour starts at the time of arrival in Ecuador, a specialized guide will pick us up at Mariscal Sucre airport on the outskirts of the city of Quito to accompany us to our hotel.

Wake up early to enjoy the biggest indigenous city in Ecuador and home of the well-known indigenous market where artisans come to sell colorful textiles and other traditional goods. Snack on fruits and other snacks while you browse the stalls for paintings, carvings, handpainted bowls, and much more.
Enjoy some street food (try the salted mango or fritada con mote—fried pork with cooked corn, then continue to the nearby town of Cotacachi for some free time and more shopping (the town is famous for its leather products).
In the afternoon, stroll along the shores of the volcanic crater lake of Cuicocha. Your guide will tell you about the high-altitude flora and fauna and the history of the lake. You can even take a boat ride around the two islands.
In the afternoon, you will return to Quito, where you will spend the night.

Mindo, located in the middle of the Ecuadorian cloud forest, is a paradise for nature lovers, as the region is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. Here you will find beautiful waterfalls, clear rivers, and dense forests. Visit the butterfly farm in Mindo ("Mariposas de Mindo") and then hike to numerous small waterfalls. Or take part in a chocolate tour, during which you will learn everything about the processing of cocoa beans through to the finished chocolate. Of course, in the end, you also have the opportunity to try some chocolate! In the afternoon you return to Quito.

Embark on a Journey of Discovery through Quito's Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest, most impeccably preserved historical complex in the Americas.
The winding streets of the Historic Center are adorned with magnificent houses and buildings that have stood the test of time since the 15th century. As you traverse the route, you'll encounter a series of awe-inspiring churches, each with its own unique charm. One notable street, fondly known as "De las 7 Cruces," serves as the axis for the Catholic procession held during Holy Week. Exploring this street not only allows you to witness the grandeur of religious traditions but also provides an immersive opportunity to delve into the architecture, history, and culture of the city.
In the afternoon, you will head towards Baños de Agua Santa.

Today, ride along the scenic Ruta de Cascadas (Waterfall Route) toward the village of Rio Verde. Along the way, you'll see the route's namesake water features. When you arrive in town, take a short hike to one of the better-known waterfalls in the area, El Pailón del Diablo (the Devil's Cauldron). Here, the water cascades 265 feet (81 m) down through the cloud forest. Then, head back toward Baños to take a dip in its thermal pools, check out its many Catholic churches, or visit the Casa del Arbol to soar on a swing placed at the edge of a mountain.

Arrival to the lodge and lunch. After a short rest we will have a walk to a beautiful waterfall, where you can give yourself an energetic bath. During the tour you will see medicinal plants, a lagoon, the Huasquila tree and have the experience of hanging of a vine. After this trip we will return to the lodge, where we will wait for a delicious dinner accompanied by a “frog concert” from the lagoon in front of the restaurant. Later, you will be the protagonist of a chocolate session in which you will learn about its elaboration process, starting by roasting the cacao beans, continuing with the grinding until tasting a delicious dessert with fruits.

After breakfast we will start a jungle trek (3h approx.) surrounded by primary and secondary forest, we will cross a cave of 120 mts. long where you can find fruit bats. A few meters away and next to our native guide we will go to the waterfall "Golondrinas" which has a height of approx. 14mts, offering the opportunity to immerse yourself in its waters. Upon return, you will visit a Guayusa plantation and factory. In the afternoon, after lunch we will visit the Kichwa Community and you will be part of their typical dances, their culture and the preparation of the famous “chicha” made out of maniok. In the evening you will enjoy a dinner with specialties from the region. After your meal you will have a 40-minute night walk around the gardens where you can see frogs, grasshoppers, insects and with a bit of luck bio-luminous fungi.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast and check out from the Amazon Lodge, on the way you will see how landscapes change from green to Andean mountains.

Prepare to be amazed by the sheer grandeur of the towering volcano that reaches a staggering height of 5897 meters. Its perfectly symmetrical snow-capped cone creates a postcard-perfect view against the backdrop of the picturesque parkland. As you may already know, the Cotopaxi volcano is Ecuador's second highest summit, standing proudly at 19,347 feet. But did you know that it is also one of the world's most active volcanoes? Its impeccably formed dome is perpetually covered in a glistening layer of eternal snow, making it a sight to behold.
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Your journey begins at Lake Limpiopungo, where a rich variety of bird species gracefully glide through the air. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of wild horses galloping freely in the vicinity. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, immersing yourself in the beauty of the Andean plant and animal life that flourishes along the path. Keep your camera ready, as this area is teeming with natural wonders waiting to be captured.
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As you venture further into the heart of Cotopaxi National Park, you'll be surrounded by rugged landscapes and jaw-dropping scenery. Embrace the awe-inspiring beauty of the Cotopaxi Volcano as you ascend to higher altitudes, with each step bringing you closer to the sky-high region. Your journey will pause at the Padre Rivas Refuge, located at an elevation of 15,800 feet (4830 meters). From this remarkable vantage point, you'll be treated to a truly breathtaking view of Cotopaxi Volcano's colossal cone. The hike to the refuge is relatively short and doesn't involve any technical difficulties, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this awe-inspiring sight. Remember to stay hydrated along the way, as the high altitude can have its effects. Don't forget to pack warm clothing, including a cozy hat, scarf, gloves, and layers to keep you snug, along with a windproof and rainproof jacket to shield you from the elements.

As you step off the plane at Baltra Airport, your guide will be eagerly awaiting your arrival. They will warmly greet you and accompany you on a scenic journey to Santa Cruz Island, where your Galapagos adventure begins.
Once you've settled into your hotel and completed the check-in process, you'll find yourself with some well-deserved leisure time. Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of this remarkable town, following in the footsteps of the renowned naturalist Charles Darwin.
In the afternoon, after lunch, you will be taken on a small boat to visit exotic places along the bay of Santa Cruz. You'll arrive at a small islet called La Lobería, named for its great colony of sea lions. You can snorkel around sea lions and tropical fish displaying a dazzling show beneath the surface against interesting underwater formations. Afterward, it's on to the Shark Channel, where you may spot harmless white-tip sharks and blue-footed boobies. You'll also come upon the Canal del Amor, where there are sea turtles and many different species of tropical fish.
You'll later take a 10-minute walk and see marine iguanas in their natural habitat. There'll be plenty of opportunities to take pictures along the way. Lastly, you'll visit Las Grietas, two large cliffs filled with fresh water at the surface and salt water below. Arrive back in Santa Cruz and return to the town for your next activities.

Santa Cruz is one of the inhabited islands to be visited during this itinerary. Puerto Ayora, with a population of about 25,000 people, is the location of the Charles Darwin Research Station and Galapagos National Park's main headquarters world-famous for its tortoise breeding programs.
The Charles Darwin Research Station is one of the most important scientific centers in the world when it comes to studying the natural history of the Galapagos Islands. Located on the island of Santa Cruz in the Galapagos, the Charles Darwin Research Station was founded in 1959 in order to provide scientific research and conservation efforts for the archipelago. The research station has played an integral role in the preservation of the unique ecology of the islands, and is a popular destination for tourists and researchers alike.
The Charles Darwin Research Station is home to a number of important scientific institutions and research projects. One of the most notable is the Charles Darwin Foundation, which was established in 1959 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and study of the Galapagos Islands. This organization works to promote research, education, and conservation efforts across the archipelago, and has been instrumental in the preservation of the islands’ diverse and unique wildlife.
The research station also houses the Galapagos National Park Directorate, which is responsible for the management and protection of the islands’ natural resources and habitats. In addition, the Charles Darwin Research Station is home to the Charles Darwin Research Institute, which conducts scientific research in the areas of ecology, evolution, and conservation biology.

With no planned activities today, you have the freedom to fully indulge in the island's extraordinary beauty and create your own adventure. Here are a few additional activities you can consider:
These optional extra add-ons can be included with an extra cost:
Embark on a thrilling snorkeling or diving excursion to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Galapagos. Immerse yourself in the clear turquoise waters, encounter fascinating marine life, and witness the mesmerizing coral reefs up close.
Join a guided wildlife tour to observe the unique and diverse species that call the Galapagos home. From giant tortoises and marine iguanas to playful sea lions and exotic bird species, the archipelago offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness wildlife in its natural habitat.
Take a boat ride to nearby islands, such as North Seymour or Bartolome, and discover their distinct ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes. Marvel at towering cliffs, volcanic formations, and pristine beaches while encountering more of the Galapagos' remarkable fauna and flora.
Embark on a kayaking or paddleboarding adventure, gliding through the calm waters and exploring hidden coves and mangrove forests. This allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings and offers a unique perspective of the island's coastal wonders.
Go on a scenic hike to one of the island's picturesque viewpoints, such as Cerro Mesa or Los Gemelos. These vantage points offer sweeping panoramas of the archipelago, allowing you to appreciate the stunning geological formations and the vastness of the Pacific Ocean.
Indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment or yoga session, allowing yourself a moment of relaxation and connection with the natural surroundings.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to explore the stunning beauty of the Galápagos Islands, home to some of the world's most unique and diverse wildlife. During your tour, you'll have a chance to visit Santa Fé, South Plaza, Bartolomé, or North Seymour, depending on the permit granted by the National Park authorities for that daily activity.
As you set sail on your boat, be prepared to witness the awe-inspiring views of the turquoise waters and rocky shorelines of the archipelago. Your expert guide will accompany you on a hike to explore the untouched natural habitats of the islands, where you'll discover an array of exotic flora and fauna.
The Galápagos Islands are a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, with a diverse range of species that inhabit the land and sea. Keep an eye out for giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and many other fascinating creatures.
After a morning of exploration, take a break on the deck for a scrumptious lunch, before continuing on your adventure. Relax on the pristine beaches and soak up the sun, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim.
At the end of your tour, return to town, feeling invigorated and inspired by the natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands.

If there is enough free time before your transfer to the airport, do some last-minute souvenir shopping or take a last stroll through Puerto Ayora.
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At the designated time, your driver will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the Itabaca Channel, which you will cross on a ferry. For the last part of your trip to the airport, take the public shuttle bus to the terminal, where your program ends with your return flight to mainland Ecuador.