Total Ecuador and Galápagos Explorer

Duration 15 days
Price guide
From
  PP
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Aerial view of Cuicocha caldera and lake in Ecuador, a volcanic crater where a peak emerges through the water
Panoramic view of the architecture of Quito, Ecuador
Scenic view of fisherman in canoe at orange sunrise on the Amazon River, Ecuador
A pair of giant tortoises in the Galapagos, Ecuador
Traveller snorkelling with a sea lion looking directly at the camera
Providing a comprehensive, diverse and unforgettable impression of the true highlights of Ecuador, this private trip samples a huge variety of traditional culture, fascinating wildlife, unique flora and physical wonders, and all with plenty of time to explore and make the most of each location. Journey from the Andean highlands of Otavalo to the UNESCO protected capital city of Quito before heading to the remote Amazon and spectacular Galápagos Islands.

Trip highlights

  • Hike the stunning Cuicocha crater in Otavalo
  • Embark on a privately guided tour of Quito
  • Marvel at the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon
  • Snorkel in the waters surrounding the Galápagos Islands
  • Get up close to seals, giant tortoises and more

Bespoke trips with Jacada

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:

  • Luxury accommodation throughout
  • Private transfers
  • Private tours and experiences
  • Shared experiences with expert guides in remote areas
  • Full support from your travel designer and concierge
  • Help with restaurant recommendations and reservations
Black and white illustration of two guides pointing to a building in the distance
  • Days 1–3 The Otavalo Area
  • Days 3–5 Quito
  • Days 5–8 The Amazon
  • Days 8–15 The Galápagos Islands
Total Ecuador and Galápagos Explorer
Price guide
  PP
  • Days 1–3 The Otavalo Area
  • Days 3–5 Quito
  • Days 5–8 The Amazon
  • Days 8–15 The Galápagos Islands

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 in the Otavalo region

During your time in the beautiful countryside of the Otavalo region, simply enjoy the relaxed, bucolic pace of life here. Or, let Jacada help you select an excursion from our curated list of privately guided tours, to help you enjoy learning about traditional Ecuadorian culture.

Explore the Otavalo region

Hike the Cuicocha crater, shop in an Indian market and visit a community project

Head to the Cuicocha crater lake to enjoy a short hike around the lush green scenery and sparkling waters. Then, continue to Otavalo to visit the famous Indian market, where people from the surrounding mountains come to buy and sell crafts, food and other goods. After lunch at a local hacienda, visit one of the community projects held in the area.

Days 3–5

Two nights in Quito

Enjoy Ecuador’s capital, Quito, the first ever UNESCO World Heritage city. You’ll have our list of recommendations as well as private guides on hand to help you enjoy the best of this historical city and contemporary hub. We can arrange a number of private, interest-led tours and make sure you have a table at the best restaurants too. Talk to your travel designer about how you would like to spend your time here.

Explore the city of Quito

A private and exclusive spiritual tour of Quito

Start at one of the city’s viewpoints for a stunning panoramic overview of Quito and its surrounding volcanoes. Then, visit the oldest fruit and vegetable markets to learn about the ancient history of the market, products as well as the secrets of natural medicine. Then continue to Independence Square, the centre of political life and home to the President’s Palace. In the afternoon visit La Compañia church, the best example of baroque architecture in the country, and San Francisco Church, the first Catholic church built in Quito. End at museum Casa del Alabado, a Pre-Columbian art museum that owns more than 5,000 archaeological pieces.

Days 5–8

Three nights exploring the Ecuadorian Amazon

During your time in the Ecuadorian Amazon you will be able to choose from a host of activities which will allow you to marvel at the incredible biodiversity of this magical area. With expert naturalist guides, many born in the Amazon region, you will get the chance to experience nature at its best with nature walks, boat trips, lectures and night walks.

Days 8–15

An epic seven night Galápagos cruise

Set sail on an all-encompassing seven night cruise of the Galápagos Islands. You’ll spend your time cruising and exploring the islands and the marine, underwater world that surrounds them. Expect panga rides, snorkelling, kayaking, nature walks and close encounters with turtles, iguanas, cormorants, blue-footed boobies, penguins, sea lions, giant tortoises and many more beautiful species.

View from Bartolome Island in the Galapagos islands