Natural Wonders of Ecuador & Galapagos
Journey through Ecuador’s spectacular contrasts, exploring the UNESCO-listed streets of Quito, the vibrant artisan markets of Otavalo, the dramatic volcanoes of Cotopaxi and the pristine Amazon rainforest. Then island-hop through the iconic Galápagos, staying on the islands and exploring by land and day trips, surrounded by extraordinary endemic wildlife and volcanic landscapes.
- 21 Sep 2027 – 06 Oct 2027
Land only: from $13,490 pp twin share / $17,080 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $16,490 pp twin share / $20,080 pp sole use * - 26 Oct 2027 – 10 Nov 2027
Land only: from $12,990 pp twin share / $16,580 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,990 pp twin share / $19,580 pp sole use * - 30 Nov 2027 – 15 Dec 2027
Land only: from $13,490 pp twin share / $17,080 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $16,490 pp twin share / $20,080 pp sole use * - 11 Jan 2028 – 26 Jan 2028
Land only: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,680 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $17,090 pp twin share / $20,680 pp sole use * - 15 Feb 2028 – 01 Mar 2028
Land only: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,680 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $17,090 pp twin share / $20,680 pp sole use * - 21 Mar 2028 – 05 Apr 2028
Land only: from $13,590 pp twin share / $17,180 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $16,590 pp twin share / $20,180 pp sole use * - 09 May 2028 – 24 May 2028
Land only: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,680 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $17,090 pp twin share / $20,680 pp sole use * - 19 Sep 2028 – 04 Oct 2028
Land only: from $13,590 pp twin share / $17,180 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $16,590 pp twin share / $20,180 pp sole use * - 24 Oct 2028 – 08 Nov 2028
Land only: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,680 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $17,090 pp twin share / $20,680 pp sole use * - 21 Nov 2028 – 06 Dec 2028
Land only: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,680 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $17,090 pp twin share / $20,680 pp sole use *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice. Land only prices exclude international flights.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Fly to Quito
Fly to Ecuador’s equatorial capital, Quito. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure before joining an Ecuadorian-style welcome dinner.
Day 2 – Quito
Discover Quito through the eyes of a local, exploring its historic streets and iconic landmarks including the Golden Church, San Francisco Square and Main Square. Visit a traditional family workshop, enjoy lunch with local hosts, then continue to the Mitad del Mundo Museum before finishing with an immersive Ecuadorian chocolate tasting.
Day 3 – Quito – Otavalo
Travel north to Otavalo, home to one of South America’s most famous indigenous markets. Explore the vibrant market stalls before visiting a traditional weaving workshop, where you’ll discover ancestral techniques and the rich textile heritage of the Andes.
Day 4 – Otavalo (Cuicocha Lake & Cotacachi town)
Discover the spectacular beauty of Cuicocha Lake, a volcanic crater lake surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes. Continue to Cotacachi, known for its indigenous heritage and renowned leather craftsmanship, with time to explore its artisan workshops and traditional shops.
Day 5 – Otavalo – Cotopaxi
Visit the Andean village of Pijal for an authentic cultural experience with the women of the Sacha Warmikuna community. Learn about traditional agriculture, cuisine and handicrafts, prepare ají and enjoy a farm-to-table lunch before continuing to the spectacular landscapes of Cotopaxi.
Day 6 – Cotopaxi – Baños
Explore the spectacular landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park, home to the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. Visit the tranquil Limpiopungo Lagoon and travel through the Andean páramo before continuing to the vibrant town of Baños, nestled between the Andes and the Amazon rainforest.
Day 7 – Baños – Amazon
Journey along Ecuador’s famous Waterfalls Route, taking in spectacular waterfalls and scenic viewpoints as you travel from the Andes into the Amazon. Arrive at your rainforest lodge and experience the jungle after dark on a guided night walk, looking out for nocturnal wildlife.
Day 8 – Amazon (Wildlife Rescue Centre)
Visit a wildlife rescue centre to learn about Amazonian conservation and the rehabilitation of native species. Continue to a local Amazonian community, gaining an insight into traditional ways of life and the deep connection between its people and the rainforest.
Day 9 – Amazon – Papallacta
Journey through the spectacular Andean landscapes to the cloud forests of Papallacta, where you’ll explore lush trails and look out for colourful hummingbirds and other Andean wildlife. Relax in Papallacta’s naturally heated thermal pools, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
Day 10 – Papallacta – Galápagos (La Lobería)
Fly from Quito to the legendary Galápagos Islands, renowned for inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Arrive on San Cristóbal Island and explore La Lobería, a beautiful coastal reserve where you can encounter playful sea lions, marine iguanas and unique birdlife, with time to swim, snorkel or relax on the beach.
Day 11 – Galápagos (Isla Lobos)
Take a boat trip to Isla Lobos and explore its remarkable wildlife, including blue-footed boobies, frigate birds and playful sea lions, with the chance to spot marine life in the surrounding waters. Return to San Cristóbal to visit the Interpretation Centre and enjoy views from Frigate Hill and Punta Carola before discovering the island’s culinary heritage with a tasting of traditional Canchalagua ceviche.
Day 12 – Galápagos (Santa Cruz)
Take a scenic speedboat journey to Santa Cruz Island, one of the most vibrant islands in the Galápagos. Explore Academy Bay, with opportunities to swim and snorkel alongside marine life, before visiting Playa de los Perros to see marine iguanas, striking red rock formations and turquoise waters.
Day 13 – Galápagos (Bartolomé Island)
Sail to Bartolomé Island, one of the Galápagos’ most iconic destinations, renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and spectacular views of Pinnacle Rock. Explore the island before snorkelling in its crystal-clear waters, with the chance to encounter colourful fish, sea lions, marine turtles, rays and Galápagos penguins.
Day 14 – Galápagos (Santa Cruz)
Discover the wildlife of Santa Cruz Island at Primicias Ranch, home to the legendary giant Galápagos tortoises, and explore fascinating underground lava tunnels. Visit a family-run coffee plantation to learn about sustainable farming and local coffee and cacao production, before celebrating the end of your Galápagos adventure with a unique farewell dinner inside a natural lava tunnel.
Day 15 – Galápagos (Charles Darwin Centre) – Quito
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about the Galápagos’ unique endemic species and the conservation efforts protecting this remarkable ecosystem. Later, fly back to Quito and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Days 16 – 18 – Depart Quito
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight, arriving home two days later.
Highlights
- International flights and current taxes included in the price of the holiday
- Domestic transportation arranged throughout the entire journey
- Accommodation rated three-star plus to four-star across the trip
Journey through Ecuador’s spectacular contrasts, exploring the UNESCO-listed streets of Quito, the vibrant artisan markets of Otavalo, the dramatic volcanoes of Cotopaxi and the pristine Amazon rainforest. Then island-hop through the iconic Galápagos, staying on the islands and exploring by land and day trips, surrounded by extraordinary endemic wildlife and volcanic landscapes.
Inclusions
- International flights and current taxes.
- Domestic transportation.
- 3* plus – 4* accommodation.
- Touring with guides and entrance fees.
FAQs
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 18 days and 15 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 21 Sep 2027 and 06 Dec 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
Provided by: Wendy Wu ToursFine Print
- Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 June 2026. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
- Customary tipping amount approximately US$230pp (AU$343pp) is paid locally.
- Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights’ accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
- Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
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