Value Ecuador and Galapagos: At a glance
9 days from £3,140
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
As soon as you arrive at Quito’s high altitude airport you are whisked off to your hotel located in the colonial part of this historic city.
The Casa Gardenia is a little boutique-style bed and breakfast hotel, located uphill from the historic centre of Quito. It has spectacular views out over the city from the comfy sofa on the rooftop balcony – these are particularly magical at night when the city is ablaze with lights.
The property is imaginatively designed to combine traditional taste and style with contemporary flair, retaining the traditional balconies and original adobe walls of the old building. Service is particularly attentive, with all the staff really eager to please, and English is spoken.
Set off on a variety-packed full day exploration of the Andean highlands, discovering traditional villages and mountain landscapes as well as the world-famous market town Otavalo.
Cayambe is a large town overlooked by the snowy bulk of the volcano of the same name.The mountain’s icy flanks contrast with the gentle dairy cattle pastures and flower plantation below. Your route then takes you alongside the silvery waters of Lake San Pablo, the largest natural lake in the country.
Continue to Otavalo, a growing, bustling town with tourism at its core. Long celebrated for its market, its main square is flooded with stalls and salespeople, particularly on Saturdays. Originally the articles sold were household goods, livestock, foodstuffs and traditional clothing for the population of the town and the villages within its hinterland, and business was done by bartering. The indigenous Otavaleños, easily identified by their striking blue and white attire, are famous for their business acumen and have for many decades travelled beyond the country’s frontiers seeking our new markets.
Nowadays the market is well absorbed into the cash (and credit card) economy, and alongside the colourful textiles, intricate jewellery, woollen bags and paintings of bucolic local landscapes you will find Manchester United football shirts and base-ball caps made in China.
Move on to Peguche, a settlement famed for the manufacture of Andean musical instruments – visit a traditional workshop here – and thence to Cotacachi, where the speciality is leather goods. You might pick up a bargain here.
The Casa Gardenia is a little boutique-style bed and breakfast hotel, located uphill from the historic centre of Quito. It has spectacular views out over the city from the comfy sofa on the rooftop balcony – these are particularly magical at night when the city is ablaze with lights.
The property is imaginatively designed to combine traditional taste and style with contemporary flair, retaining the traditional balconies and original adobe walls of the old building. Service is particularly attentive, with all the staff really eager to please, and English is spoken.
Today you will explore the historic centre of Quito, the joint first heritage city to be UNESCO listed. It may well be the largest in South America, and is certainly one of the best preserved: no attempt has been made gratuitously to gentrify the residencies and commerce: there is still a medley of old-style upmarket mansions and more humble homes, interspersed along narrow cobbled streets by tiny grocery shops and traditional bars.
Visit the Basilica del Voto Nacional Church, with its ornate Gothic exterior, and move on to the viewpoint on Panecillo Hill, an iconic spot from where you can survey the whole city and which you will share with the giant statue of the Winged Virgin.
Later, continue to two of Quito’s emblematic squares, graceful Plaza de San Francisco and Plaza Grande, the historical and political centre of the city fringed by some of the capital’s most important buildings including the Cathedral, the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace and La Compañía church, as ornate in its gilded interior as it is without. The tour ends in the traditional La Ronda neighbourhood, where you’ll find artisan workshops where the crafts and trades of yesteryear are still thriving.
The Casa Gardenia is a little boutique-style bed and breakfast hotel, located uphill from the historic centre of Quito. It has spectacular views out over the city from the comfy sofa on the rooftop balcony – these are particularly magical at night when the city is ablaze with lights.
The property is imaginatively designed to combine traditional taste and style with contemporary flair, retaining the traditional balconies and original adobe walls of the old building. Service is particularly attentive, with all the staff really eager to please, and English is spoken.
It’s a long day (12 hours door to door) but on this guided tour you will really be able to enjoy the privilege of seeing the top highlights of Ecuador’s glorious Andean landscapes. The country’s consists of a string of snow-capped volcanoes, viewed from the stretch of the Panamerican Highway known as the Avenue of the Volcanoes, along which they stand sentinel. Climb out of the bowl in which Quito is situated rising through ethereal cloud-forest, to reach a plain of farms and pastures pitted with many small colonial market towns and indigenous indian settlements linked by a network of rural roads.
Soon, on a clear day, you will witness the towering and sometimes smoldering form of active Volcan Cotopaxi – enter the national park to get close-up views. Pop into the park’s museum, stroll along the shores of the bird-flecked lake Limpiopungo, and walk through an upland forest at a cool 4,200m. Drive on to Quilotoa volcano which has at its heart a stunning turquoise lagoon, and climb to a viewpoint over the crater.
The Casa Gardenia is a little boutique-style bed and breakfast hotel, located uphill from the historic centre of Quito. It has spectacular views out over the city from the comfy sofa on the rooftop balcony – these are particularly magical at night when the city is ablaze with lights.
The property is imaginatively designed to combine traditional taste and style with contemporary flair, retaining the traditional balconies and original adobe walls of the old building. Service is particularly attentive, with all the staff really eager to please, and English is spoken.
Drive back to Quito’s airport and fly to the Galápagos islands (2-3hrs, depending if there is a stop in Guayaquil on the way). From the airport at Baltra there’s a speedboat ride over to the archipelago’s mountainous principal island, Santa Cruz, which hosts the capital, Puerto Ayora. Transfer to your hotel.
This striking white, Moorish style property started life as a family home. The owners, enthusiastic to welcoming visitors to the Galápagos, have developed the property into a cheerful, family friendly property of 22 guest rooms – some with balcony access -and patios dotted with palms.
The décor is bright and modern, and rooms have shiny tiled floors, air-conditioning and a TV. There’s Wifi, but it is weak and patchy. Upper floors are reached by winding staircases and there is no lift, so if you have an issue with stairs please ask for a ground floor room.
If you are looking for a place in the lively town of Puerto Ayora the hotel is very well located, just a few minutes’ walk from the centre, with its bars, shops and restaurants, and the waterfront. There’s a lovely beach in walkable distance too.
Embark a small motor yacht and enjoy a full day exploring more remote islands from the sea, accompanied by a welcoming crew and knowledgeable naturalist guide. The itinerary will vary day to day but you will visit one or two of the nearby islands. Each island has its own characteristics, but all are characterised by rocky lava fields, white sandy beaches and a plethora of wildlife.
This striking white, Moorish style property started life as a family home. The owners, enthusiastic to welcoming visitors to the Galápagos, have developed the property into a cheerful, family friendly property of 22 guest rooms – some with balcony access -and patios dotted with palms.
The décor is bright and modern, and rooms have shiny tiled floors, air-conditioning and a TV. There’s Wifi, but it is weak and patchy. Upper floors are reached by winding staircases and there is no lift, so if you have an issue with stairs please ask for a ground floor room.
If you are looking for a place in the lively town of Puerto Ayora the hotel is very well located, just a few minutes’ walk from the centre, with its bars, shops and restaurants, and the waterfront. There’s a lovely beach in walkable distance too.
Set out to sea on the motor yacht Niña Bella with an ex-fisherman, his welcoming crew and a knowledgeable naturalist guide for a full day excursion to experience the waters close to one of the Galápagos more remote islands. Recent history has transformed the Galapagos Islands, reshaping the local economy from one of subsistence fishing and small-scale agriculture to one where tourism employs some 40% of local residents. Their lives have been transformed from harvesting sea life to introducing the rich marine ecosystem to visitors, while also helping to preserve them.
Heading out toward Santa Fe Island and its marine reserve you will have the chance to appreciate the biodiversity unique to this area. You’ll enjoy a variety of marine activities including swimming with sharks and snorkelling where you can observe colourful fish and sea cucumbers. All the while, you will enjoy watching wildlife in its natural state – including the chance to view one of the most important sea lion colonies in the entire reserve. Note that different islands are visited on different days of the week – contact us for full details.
This striking white, Moorish style property started life as a family home. The owners, enthusiastic to welcoming visitors to the Galápagos, have developed the property into a cheerful, family friendly property of 22 guest rooms – some with balcony access -and patios dotted with palms.
The décor is bright and modern, and rooms have shiny tiled floors, air-conditioning and a TV. There’s Wifi, but it is weak and patchy. Upper floors are reached by winding staircases and there is no lift, so if you have an issue with stairs please ask for a ground floor room.
If you are looking for a place in the lively town of Puerto Ayora the hotel is very well located, just a few minutes’ walk from the centre, with its bars, shops and restaurants, and the waterfront. There’s a lovely beach in walkable distance too.
There are also sporting activities you might dip into including mountain biking, introductory scuba diving classes, snorkelling, sea kayaking and hiking.
You can also explore further Puerto Ayora, where you are staying. It’s lively but laid-back place’ bursting with shops, cafés, restaurants and banks. It’s a busy harbour, with tourist yachts and fishing boats coming and going, and the bay is full of fearless pelicans, iguanas and blue-footed boobies. Spend some time on the beach there and you may well be joined by a sea-lion or two. Nearby is the Charles Darwin Research station, where you can learn about the history of the islands and conservation projects, and Tortuga Bay, where you might spot giant tortoises and reef sharks.
This striking white, Moorish style property started life as a family home. The owners, enthusiastic to welcoming visitors to the Galápagos, have developed the property into a cheerful, family friendly property of 22 guest rooms – some with balcony access -and patios dotted with palms.
The décor is bright and modern, and rooms have shiny tiled floors, air-conditioning and a TV. There’s Wifi, but it is weak and patchy. Upper floors are reached by winding staircases and there is no lift, so if you have an issue with stairs please ask for a ground floor room.
If you are looking for a place in the lively town of Puerto Ayora the hotel is very well located, just a few minutes’ walk from the centre, with its bars, shops and restaurants, and the waterfront. There’s a lovely beach in walkable distance too.
Transfer back to Baltra Airport and fly to the mainland. Connect with your international flight. UK clients arrive home the following day.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Ecuador & Galapagos Islands - Quito
Quito, Ecuador built around colonial history and Andean drama, sharing the highland valley. At 2,850m and ringed by volcanoes, the historic centre mixes cobbled streets, whitewashed façades and colourful churches with a modern city beyond. Quito holidays combine both, and work just as a standalone city break or the start of a longer trip.
Ecuador & Galapagos Islands - Otavalo and the northern highlands
Indigenous traditions, dramatic Andean landscapes, volcanic peaks and vibrant markets create an unforgettable experience in one of Ecuador’s most colourful and culturally rich regions. Otavalo Ecuador is famous for its world-renowned market, but beyond the town lie crater lakes, traditional weaving villages, rolling highland scenery and some of the country’s most rewarding cultural encounters.
Ecuador & Galapagos Islands - Avenue of the Volcanoes
The Avenue of the Volcanoes showcases Ecuador’s most dramatic Andean landscapes, where snow-capped volcanoes, fertile valleys and traditional highland communities create unforgettable opportunities for hiking, wildlife and cultural discovery.
- Santa Cruz Island (Indefatigable)
Over 12,000 residents live in Puerto Ayora with services for visitors who board cruise vessels or stay in hotels and in the highlands There are lava tunnels to explore and giant tortoises to spot roaming wild in the mountains.
You might have thought that a holiday to the remote Pacific Galápagos islands would be prohibitively expensive. While cruising on a yacht can still be pricey, you now have the option of a land-based visit, where you can get to know one or two islands on shared guided day trips by boat. This holiday bases you at the popular Mainao hotel on the principal island, Santa Cruz, with a couple of motor yacht cruises included and a day at leisure to explore the sparking beaches, Puerto Ayora town, visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre or even venture inland to spot giant tortoises. You don’t have to decide in advance: book up and pay locally.
Spend a few days on the mainland too, well worth exploring in its own right. Based at historic Quito, visit the famous Andean mountain town Otavalo with its indigenous market and travel down the aptly named Avenue of the Volcanoes, dominated by the towering snow-draped mountain Cotopaxi.
Lina Fuller
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- Transport
2 flights (2-3hrs and 90 mins); 2 boat journeys to the island of Santa Cruz.
- Accommodation
This holiday uses great value, mid-range properties on both the mainland and in the Galápagos.
- Meals
Breakfast daily, lunch days 6,7.
- Summary Of Nights
9 days, 8 nights: Quito 4, Galápagos 4.
- Currency
The unit of currency in Ecuador and the Galápagos is the US dollar.
- How To Take It
Cash machines are available in Quito and Puerto Ayora so taking a debit or credit card with a PIN number is the most convenient way of withdrawing money while on your trip, and in most shops and restaurants you can also pay by card. However, since cards can get lost, damaged, withheld or blocked, you should not rely exclusively on a card to access funds.
We recommend that additionally you take a reasonable quantity of US dollars cash (no more than is covered by your insurance), which you can spend as the dollar is the local currency. Dollar bills should be in good condition, soiled or torn bills may be refused. You can take sterling, but the exchange rate is not always competitive or even available, restricting the number of places where you can change money.
- Daily Spend
It is very difficult to give a guideline for essential expenses but a budget of around US$50 per day should cover the cost of good quality meals on those days in the holiday itinerary when not on the cruise, drinks and the odd souvenir. Eat at the very best restaurants and you will pay considerably more.
- Tipping
Tips are welcomed and local guides often rely on their tip as a significant proportion of their income.
Most service industry workers will welcome a tip so it is useful to have spare change for hotel porters, guides etc. It is common to leave 10 – 12% in restaurants.
- Insurance
Travel insurance is essential. Details of our recommended policy can be found on our Travel Insurance pages.
- Airport Taxes
If you have purchased your flights through Journey Latin America, the international departure tax is usually included in the ticket.
- Trip Suitability
This holiday is suitable for all able, reasonably fit visitors.
The streets in Quito are cobbled and steep and you must be cautious taking these on at altitude (see “Altitude” below).
- Visas
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application.
- Climate
Lying at 2,850m on the equator, the highlands have a permanent spring-like climate: altitude is the determining factor with regard to temperature. The rainy season in the Andes runs between January and April when there are showers most afternoons. The dry season is June, July and August when the sun is strong during the day, but at night the temperature drops dramatically (maybe as low as freezing point). May, September and October are less predictable, with both rainy and sunny spells. . In the mountains at any time of year you should expect a variation between 15°C and 25°C.3
In the Galápagos, from January to April it’s hot and the sun is relentless, with some sudden showers. May to July, and October to December is cloudier; August and September it’s often cloudy and cool, and a stiff breeze makes the waters choppier.
- Altitude
Several days are spent at high altitude (over 2.500m). You may notice the effect of high altitude; symptoms vary: most common are mild headaches and breathlessness. If you drink plenty of water and allow your body to acclimatise (don’t exert yourself or drink alcohol) in the first couple of days after arrival, you will minimise your chances of being adversely affected.
- Clothing And Special Equipment
For day-to-day wear you should go prepared to encounter all seasons. Both warm clothing and a sun hat are essential at altitude; a light fleece jacket and a waterproof/breathable outer shell makes a good combination. Trousers, skirt or shorts made from light, quick-drying synthetic materials work well on the Galápagos Islands.
Long-sleeved shirts will protect you from insects.
Strong, comfortable footwear is essential and you should bring insect repellant, sun block, hat and sun glasses. You should take swimwear for ocean swimming (Galápagos). For June to November departures, the waters can be chilly for snorkelling.
Don’t forget your binoculars, camera, charger and cards.
- Vaccinations
Preventative vaccinations are recommended against the following: typhoid; polio; tetanus; hepatitis A. You should consult your GP for specific requirements.
For admission to the Galápagos a yellow fever certificate is required for anyone over 1 year old coming from an area with risk of yellow fever transmission.
You can also find helpful information on the Masta Travel Health website.
- When is the best time to visit Ecuador and Galapagos?
The country is an all-year-round destination. The highlands, at about 2,800m but astride the Equator, have a permanent spring-like climate. Most days have a sunny morning but there may be rain in the afternoon. The coast is very hot (30°C) and humid from Jan-Apr. It’s a bit cooler and drier from May-Dec. The jungle is hot and humid all year.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What is the official language of Ecuador and Galapagos?
The official language in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands is Spanish.
- What is the official currency in Ecuador and Galapagos?
The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar. Notes can be withdrawn from the many ATMs in larger towns and cities using a UK credit or debit card.
- What is the time difference between Ecuador and Galapagos and UK?
The time difference between the UK and Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands is GMT-5 hours.
- Do I need a visa for Ecuador and the Galapagos?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application. - What vaccinations do I need for Ecuador and Galapagos?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- What places combine well with Ecuador and Galapagos?
The Galápagos Islands, (1.5 – 3 hours by air from Guayaquil of Quito); a tour in Colombia to the north, with daily flights from Bogotá to Quito taking just 1.5 hours; the Inca archaeological sites of Peru (daily flights Lima to Quito take 2 hours 20mins).
- What are the festivals and cultural events in Ecuador?
There are carnivals throughout the country, usually around February-March. Be warned that the boisterous festivities include water fights from which no visitor is safe.
Semana Santa (Easter) takes place throughout the country usually between March-April. There will be religious processions throughout this period.
Todos los Santos (all souls day, day of the dead) is also celebrated throughout the country on the 2nd November. Flower laying ceremonies in will take place in cemeteries. These are particularly striking in rural areas.
- How do I adapt to the altitude in Ecuador?
Ecuador’s high Andean spine is bookended by the Pacific coast and Amazon Rainforest, with Quito at 2,850m. Travel to high altitude can cause mountain sickness and even if you feel fighting fit it’s important to take things easy and stay hydrated (drink plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine) as you get used to the thin, dry air. You may initially notice a headache, dizziness or breathlessness and this usually improves with acclimatisation. If you are pregnant or taking the contraceptive pill, have a medical condition such as heart or lung condition, anaemia, asthma, high blood pressure you should seek the advice of your GP before booking. We also recommend you check your travel insurance covers travel to high altitude. If you’re taking the family, remember small children may be less capable of communicating altitude-related symptoms effectively: keep an eye on them too. Rest assured we will plan your itinerary carefully, taking into account any time spent at altitude. If you have any questions or concerns about altitude please speak to your travel expert.
Further advice on travel to altitude is available on www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Pick up handcrafted souvenirs and people watch at a bustling indigenous market.
Explore the historic centre of the Ecuadorian capital in the company of a knowledgeable guide.
Travel down the Avenue of the Volcanoes to arrive at a national park dominated by one of the world’s tallest active volcanoes.
Spot birds on guided nature walks in the Galapagos Islands, visiting nesting and feeding sites.
Stroll with sea birds and snorkel with penguins, sea lions and marine iguanas on guided expeditions in the pristine natural wonderland of the Galápagos.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
Hilton Colon is a contemporary first class hotel with a good range of facilities in modern Quito.
Mainao is a cheerful Moorish-style mid-range hotel in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island.
If there’s somewhere you particularly want to go that isn’t included in this tour, we can add on an extension to take you there.
Ecuadorian Amazon
The rainforest of the Amazon of Ecuador, whence spring rivers which flow down to the Amazon proper, is conveniently accessible from Quito. Following a short flight and canoe trip you arrive at Sacha Lodge to begin your jungle adventures. Day 1: A 35min flight takes you over the snow-capped Andes to Puerto Francisco de Orellana,…
A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.
Papagaio
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