Ecuador Nature Explorer
Combining two of Ecuador’s richest locations for wildlife, the iconic Galápagos Islands and its relatively unknown Cloud Forests, this a trip for those that love the natural world. Depending on your particular interests, we will include as many or as little activities as you wish, to ensure that your Ecuadorian adventure is just right for you.
Trip highlights
- Cruise the Galápagos Islands on a luxury yacht
- Visit Hacienda El Castillo, a traditional cacao farm
- Snorkel and swim with green sea turtles and sea lions
- Discover Quito’s charms on a privately guided tour
- Immerse yourself in Ecuador’s remarkable cloud forests
- Explore the famous handicraft market at Otavalo
Our bespoke trips include
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Days 1–3
Two nights exploring Guayaquil
The largest city in Ecuador and located on the Pacific coast, Guayaquil is the country’s economic hub. With a good selection of fine restaurants and cultural establishments, we can help you make the most of your short time here.
Where you could stay
A full day tour to El Castillo cocoa farm
Head out of Guayaquil to Hacienda El Castillo, a traditional cacao farm. After a warm welcome at the main house, visit the chocolate factory, where you will see all the process of turning cocoa beans into fine chocolate. Guests can also relax in the hammocks, hike and birdwatch in the original native forest or along cocoa and mango plantations. Enjoy a traditional lunch at the main house’s dining room before returning to Guayaquil in the early afternoon.
Days 3–7
Four nights cruising the Galápagos
You’ll begin your exploration of the Galápagos with four nights on your choice of Jacada’s selected luxury expedition cruises. The exact itinerary will depend on which you choose – and your travel designer will help you pick the best for you and your family.
Hopping between the islands you’ll set off on daily water-based expeditions and guided tours with naturalist guides. Highlights include snorkelling off of pristine sandy beaches, walking among fields of lava and spotting inquisitive sea lions and iguanas. The islands’ endemic wildlife has no fear of predators, and opportunities to observe both animals and birds are unparalleled.
Your choice of yachts
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Exploring the islands
on land
on the water
Guided nature walks
You’ll have the chance to walk a number of varied nature trails with your guides, depending on which islands feature on your itinerary. As well as spotting wildlife, these offer the chance to take in the astonishing geology of the islands.
Panga rides and snorkelling
Setting off on small group excursions by inflatable ‘panga’ Zodiac boats, you’ll see the islands’ dense marine life, perhaps donning a snorkel to dive beneath the surface of the waves.
Days 7–9
Two nights in the charming capital Quito
Travel onwards to Ecuador’s capital, Quito, the first-ever UNESCO World Heritage city. The historic centre has been incredibly well preserved and you’ll get a sense of stepping back in time and into contemporary Ecuadorian culture at the same time. The main plaza, the ‘Plaza de la Independencia’, is where you’ll find the Government Palace, the Cathedral and some of the most important churches. ‘Panecillo’, the hill that divides Quito, is crowned by the famous statue of Our Lady of the Panecillo, built by Bernardo de Legarda, and offers spectacular views.
To help you explore, you’ll have our list of recommendations as well as private guides. We can arrange a number of private, interest-led tours and book the best restaurants for you. Talk to your travel designer about how you would like to spend your time here.
Where you could stay
Otavalo Market tour
This full-day tour begins with an early start for the journey to Otavalo Market where you will enjoy amazing Andean landscapes. The day will consist of a visit to the town of Peguche and a handcraft tour, during which you will witness weaving processes at a local textile workshop. Lunch is also included and can be enjoyed at Pinsaqui, Puerto Lago or Hacienda Cusin.
Days 9–11
Discover Ecuador’s biodiverse Cloud Forests
Time to enjoy the natural evergreen environment of the misty Cloud Forests. Home to over 500 species of bird, thousands of species of orchid, numerous mammals and many colourful reptiles, this is a nature lover’s haven.
Stay at Mashpi Lodge, a stunning, design-led eco lodge set in the 1,300-hectare (3,200-acres) Mashpi Rainforest Biodiversity Reserve, part of the globally-important Tumbez-Chocó-Darien ecosystem. Spend your days climbing observation towers and swimming beneath waterfalls, or riding canopy zip lines and darting along mountain bike trails.
Where you could stay
Mashpi Lodge
This is the second trip we have taken to South America with Jacada and every detail has been perfect both times. The trip works seamlessly, there is always someone to meet you at the airport (and help you get your pcr test!) One of my favorite things about these trips is the local agencies they partner with have the best…
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
