Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands

An epic 12-night trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos islands discovering natural wonders and ancient sights, including breakfast, all travel and wonderful excursions

Begin this fascinating tour in Ecuador’s ancient capital of Quito, a city constructed on the foundations of an Inca city and sitting high in the Andean foothills. Tour the Old Town area (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), where you’ll discover impressive cathedrals and 17th-century churches rubbing shoulders with European, Moorish and indigenous facades and pretty plazas.

Then, you'll move on to Baños, passing through the Cotopaxi National Park en route, where you'll stop at Quilotoa volcano lake and the artisanal town of Tigua. You'll journey through Chimborazo en route to El Chimborazo – the highest volcano in Ecuador – and head onwards to Riobamba, from where you'll visit the quaint towns of Guamote and Alausi, before heading to the ruins of Ingapirca – the largest and best-preserved Inca ruins in Ecuador.

Cuenca is up next, which is thought to be the most beautiful cities in Ecuador, before Guayaquil on the coast. Stop at the Cajas National Park en route, home to the mighty Andean Condor, and visit a local cocoa community to taste the chocolate, straight from its source.

Then it’s on to the stunning Galapagos Islands, the biodiverse island chain that led Darwin to his theory of evolution. The Galapagos are still changing geologically, thanks to periodic (contained) volcanic eruptions, but protected-area status has kept the region wild. On this trip you’ll have the opportunity to embrace your inner Attenborough and get up close and personal with sea lions, flamingos, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies and possibly even white-tipped sharks.

Good to know

Please note that at the time of booking, your name must be filled out exactly as per your passport (including any middle names). This is in order to accurately book flights and for any required visa invitation letters.

This holiday allows you to spread the cost of your break by paying only the deposit upfront. The remaining balance is due at a later date and is to be paid directly to the holiday supplier (the exact date will be stated on your booking confirmation).

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