Walking in Ecuador and Galapagos
12 days from £5,485
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.
Upon arrival at Quito’s lofty international airport you’ll be whisked off into the rugged Andean countryside beyond the capital en route to Otavalo, renowned market town in the north of the country. Your rustic, family-run accommodation with its cottages and open fireplaces, provides a warm welcome, and glorious views of the mountain landscape.
What a find! This welcoming hacienda set in luxuriant gardens up in the green Andean mountains just outside the market town of Otavalo is packed with Spanish colonial references to an affluent past, while at the same time offering a homely, rustic atmosphere. Golds and crimsons dominate the colour scheme in the two-storey, heavily tiled main building which is decorated with rich textiles, elaborate carpets and cosy sofas.
You stay in one of a clutch of cottages with pitched wooden ceilings, each with its own wood-burning chimney which is lit for you every night (if desired). Meals are served from a menu of recipes featuring produce from the local area, including the property’s own organic orchard and gardens. Many activities can be organised, such as horse riding and cookery classes; it’s a great stay for families.
Today you have a mixture of moderate hiking with visits to some of the little towns and villages which stud the plains and valleys of this picturesque region. The people here lead a slow-paced, traditional lifestyle, some raising hardy crops and livestock on their pocket-sized farmsteads while others are artisan craftsmen and women, producing intricate textiles and leather goods which are sold in the many local markets as well as on the international stage.
Walk an age-old track from Mojanda to reach the lively town of Otavalo. Your guide will help you understand more about the local economy, but you are at leisure to explore at your own pace. Otavalo hosts one of the largest and most vibrant indigenous markets in South America. Stalls are laden with tapestries and woollen goods, some intricate, some brash, and all in a wild array of colours, as well as traditional musical instruments and leather goods. You’re bound to find something to take home.
Move on to explore on foot some small communities including Agato, where we will be hosted by a family which preserves the tradition of weaving on a backstrap loom. Later you will head deeper into the countryside, learning about small-scale agriculture and meeting local farmers. Spend the night at a countryside 17th century hacienda.
This country inn lies on the outskirts of San Pablo del Lago, just south of Otavalo. Founded in 1602, it is one of the oldest haciendas in Ecuador.
Its rooms are furnished in colonial style, some with private patio, and many overlook the impressive gardens. Dotted around the grounds are 28 rustic rooms and cottages, each with en suite bathroom, safe and Wi-Fi. Next door, a newer building called El Monasterio (used for groups), with 12 modestly decorated rooms, has been added.
Facilities in the original section include a popular restaurant, a library/video room, bar and open fireplace. Mountain bikes are available to guests and squash and volleyball can also be played. Horse riding trips can also be organised, and the hacienda has its own stables.
Today you head out by road for the start of a day of fairly gentle high-altitude walking (4-5 hrs) across mountain trails and past remote homesteads into the Zuleta valley beyond. This agricultural area is famed for its traditional embroidery, dairy products, alpaca farming and highland crops such as wheat, maize, potatoes, lentils and quinoa.
The people of Zuleta jealously protect their culture and traditions, and wear a different costume from the striking blue and white attire of the Otavalo indians. The strong sense of community was fostered by the liberal reformist agenda of the aristocratic family who owned one of the larger haciendas in the area; their enlightened helped create a thriving local community which is now one of the country’s premier eco-tourism destinations.
In Zuleta you will learn how to prepare a typical Andean lunch, coached by a local family in their welcoming home. In the afternoon, you are driven south (2-3hrs) to your next accommodation, in the heart of Ecuador’s volcano country.
Right in the heart of Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanoes, the family-run working farm Hacienda La Alegria brims with friendly charm. It is primarily geared towards riders, with a stable of well-trained horses, each cared for with obvious love and attention, and a wide range of personalised excursions in the dramatic Andean terrain of the surrounding countryside. Steeped in equestrian tradition, owner Gabriel is an excellent guide for these rewarding trips.
Set amidst atmospheric grounds dotted with fountains, antique ironwork and hydrangea, the house itself is colonial in style. Although parts have been restored, it has retained its former elegance, and the décor has the feel of a traditional South American country cottage. There are just ten individually decorated rooms with exposed wooden beams, cypress floors and en suite bathrooms.
Today is a serious hiking day, where you’ll be on foot for a total of around seven hours, including a climb up to Pasochoa peak, which is measured at a challenging 4,200m. However you’ll be walking at a leisurely pace, initially over grassland trails. Your efforts to reach the peak will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the Pasochoa crater, and beyond you’ll survey the mountains surrounding Quito, including identifiable snow-draped volcanoes including the imperious Cotopaxi.
Later you descend to the Pita river canyon, a downhill walk of about 3 hrs through grasslands and low forests, ending at your rural lodge, Chilcabamba, situated at an altitude of about 3,500m, with tantalising views of Cotopaxi beyond.
This rustic mountain lodge in the Avenue of the Volcanoes in the Ecuadorian Andes is situated at 3,500m but is dwarfed by the much higher peaks which surround it. There are epic views of Cotapaxi volcano, and everything about the location invites you to step outside and explore; plenty of activities are on offer, including walking and horse riding.
The lodge is mindfully eco-friendly, constructed from recycled materials but the shiny wooden furnishings and earthy colours give it a cosy feel, enhanced by the open fire in the living room. The lodge welcomes up to 24 guests in seven independent rooms equipped with private bathrooms with showers and three family cottages. They all have in-room stoves.
Wifi is sporadically available and there’s a laundry service. The lodge is managed by a couple who do not speak much English but are helpful and welcoming. Simple meals are served.
Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge has received a LATA Responsible Tourism ‘One to Watch’ award. The lodge is built from natural materials, organic waste is composted, and wastewater cleaned by a biodigester. Much of the lodge food and souvenirs is sourced locally, supporting local businesses and artisans.
Today is a definite highlight: you head into Cotopaxi National Park, one of the most delightful protected areas of Ecuador. When the weather cooperates, views of the volcano Cotopaxi ‘s ice-clad, near symmetrical cone are awe-inspiring. You start at the Pita river, fed by the volcano itself and which you follow for much of the walk.
The hike enters the Cotopaxi National Park near an archaeological site – Pucara de Salitre – where you will be able to observe a variety of migrant and resident Andean birds. On the way, you might also spot some of the wild horses, deer or llamas which make the park their home, as well as gorgeous seasonal mountain wildflowers and wild and remote highland scenery. Finish your walk at Lake Limpiopungo, speckled with birdlife. During this adventure, you will stop to enjoy a picnic in the crisp alpine environment, and return by road after the day’s exploration to your cosy mountain lodge, Chilcabamba.
This comfortable mountain lodge hotel, with thatched roof and adobe walls built using traditional Andean construction techniques is set in the heart of Cotopaxi National Park in the Avenue of the Volcanoes, the pride of Ecuador’s glorious highland landscapes.
Set at an altitude of 3,750m, it has magnificent views of Mount Cotopaxi and is a good choice for lovers of outdoor activities, with hikers, mountain bikers, horse-riders and hikers taking advantage of its cosy facilities.
The lodge is used as a base for those wishing to acclimatise before climbing the volcano. It’s pretty basic, but its lounging areas with a wood-burning stove and beamed ceilings and the airy restaurant with picture windows offering glorious views are most welcoming. All rooms have their own independent heating system, and private bathroom with permanent hot water.
This is the culmination of all your efforts: the final push up to the snowline on the majestic slopes of Cotopaxi. From the lodge you will drive in your private vehicle to the parking area of the Cotopaxi mountain refuge. You will then walk for approximately an hour before reaching the mountaineers’ lodge, and hike from there to the edge of the glacier, a further hour beyond.
From this point the northern side of the mountain offers a spectacular panorama. You will be able to identify (with the help of your guide) all the ground you have covered since the first day of your adventure.
For many of you, this will be the highest place on earth you have ever reached, some 5,100m above sea level and the sense achievement will be great. The descent, which will take approximately 2 hrs, follows the same route back to the vehicle and we head back to Quito.
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.
The active volcano Pichincha glowers over Quito, a dynamic city which, at 2,850m, is one of highest capital cities in the world. Quito is divided into two contrasting districts. The modern zone is characterised by towering glass buildings and houses banks, international companies, hotels, shops and restaurants, while the central colonial area where your hotel is located has well-conserved and recently spruced-up white-washed architecture, open air markets and graceful Spanish-style mansions and churches.
In the morning there’s a walking tour of colonial Quito, where you will survey the grand buildings of the cathedral and government palace, as well as some of the other ornate baroque churches which cluster in the historic core. You have the afternoon at leisure to continue exploring, or just relax.
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 head off to the airport for our jet flight to the Galápagos Islands, which takes from 2-3 hours, depending on whether there is a stop in Guayaquil. Baltra is a tiny island which hosts the Islands’ principal airport. You’ll be collected and taken by boat to Puero Ayora, the principal town on Santa Cruz Island, where your hotel sits in an oasis of tranquility not from the centre of all this lively little resort’s activity.
You have time to explore the town, its little shops, bars and restaurants (you may need to step over the odd iguana), head off to the snow-white beach where sea-lions laze, or visit the world-famous Charles Darwin Research Centre, a brisk 1.3km walk from the hotel on the edge of town.
Founded in 1959, the Charles Darwin Foundation is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of the Galápagos Islands and its flora and fauna. There are many projects going on at any given time, such as the removal of introduced species, monitoring the health of certain animal or plant populations, and helping set fishing limits.
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.
In geological terms, ‘grieta’ means crevasse or crack. Las Grietas is a place where you can swim or snorkel (equipment provided) in cool ocean waters between two high cliffs where the earth has opened a fissure.Take a water taxi from the pier at Puerto Ayora to a point from where you walk to La Grietas, following a short trail which begins sandy and rocky and winds up crossing over a jagged lava field, through a cactus forest, and up a sandy path once again. Upon arriving at Las Grietas walk down narrow wooden steps to a jumble of large boulders. From there, you can climb carefully into the calm, crystal-clear water, which shimmers with a gem-bright, aquamarine glow. There’s a short tunnel from one pool to another, allowing you an adventurous swim underwater.
Following a picnic lunch, walk for 2.5km through a forest to one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, blessed with fine white sand – follow the beach to Playa Mansa for a guided kayak ride in the sheltered waters of Tortuga Bay.
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.
Take an early morning speed boat to Isabela Island. Once you have checked in at your accommodation you will visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre, a 1km walk along a hand built walkway from Puerto Villamil, passing salt water mangrove lagoons inhabited by flamingos and marine iguanas. Isabela is the only island with several species of tortoises. The distances between the volcanoes and the different environments have allowed five different species to evolve. At the breeding centre you can see these different examples of tortoises up close at various stages of development from small hatchlings, to juveniles, to sub adults until they are eventually ready to be introduced to the wild where they can live to be over 100 years old and weigh a hefty 200kg.
After lunch, continue on to Tintoreras, a group of small islands near the village of Puerto Villamil. The islands are named after the white tipped ‘Tintoreras’ reef sharks which swim in these calm waters. On Tintoreras you will also see almost all of the archipelago’s signature wildlife: sea-lions, turtles, rays, penguins, pelicans and blue footed boobies. After walking on the island, you can snorkel in the bay. Don’t be surprised if some of the penguins or sea-lions jump in to play alongside you in the water! You will have the pleasure of sharing the experience with other Galápagos visitors.
Just a 5 minute walk from the centre of Puerto Villamil and its low-key but welcoming cafés, bars and shops, this property also enjoys a privileged location right on the town’s beautiful white sand beach. The hotel’s ten rooms are housed in five single storey blocks and are all spacious, comfortable and with A/C, TV, safety deposit box and private bathroom with shower. The décor is pleasant with an almost cottagey feel.
At the front of the property is a pleasant decking area with tables, chairs and loungers giving guests the opportunity to enjoy relaxing in the sea breeze. A restaurant and bar are also available on site. Isabela’s Tortoise Breeding Centre and flamingo lagoon are within relatively easy walking distance, as is ‘Iguana crossing’ – a specific spot where these fascinating and unique reptiles make their way between the warm brackish lagoon waters and the cooler nutrient-rich ocean. Activities such as snorkelling and kayaking can be organised from the hotel.
Volcanic eruptions created all the islands of the Galápagos, and you will get to witness this geologic process first-hand as you explore Isabela, one of the youngest and most volcanically active islands of the archipelago. This 16km hike usually begins with some morning fog and rain but not to worry, the sun will be shining by the time you reach the rim of the Sierra Negra Volcano. This vast crater which is the largest in the archipelago and the second largest in the world is one of the most active volcanoes in the Galapagos, last erupting in 2005.
The crater views are so expansive photographs struggle to convey its size, but you should bring your camera and binoculars anyway. Head towards Volcan Chico through a martian landscape of black and pinkish rock desolate of vegetation and at first appearance void of all life, though on closer inspection reveals small lizards scurrying among the rocks. Enjoy a picnic lunch with spectacular views over central and northern parts of Isabela and in the distance the islands of Fernandina to the west and Santa Cruz to the east before returning to your hotel.
Just a 5 minute walk from the centre of Puerto Villamil and its low-key but welcoming cafés, bars and shops, this property also enjoys a privileged location right on the town’s beautiful white sand beach. The hotel’s ten rooms are housed in five single storey blocks and are all spacious, comfortable and with A/C, TV, safety deposit box and private bathroom with shower. The décor is pleasant with an almost cottagey feel.
At the front of the property is a pleasant decking area with tables, chairs and loungers giving guests the opportunity to enjoy relaxing in the sea breeze. A restaurant and bar are also available on site. Isabela’s Tortoise Breeding Centre and flamingo lagoon are within relatively easy walking distance, as is ‘Iguana crossing’ – a specific spot where these fascinating and unique reptiles make their way between the warm brackish lagoon waters and the cooler nutrient-rich ocean. Activities such as snorkelling and kayaking can be organised from the hotel.
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 - 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.
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.
- 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.
- Isabela (Albemarle)
Active volcanoes and dramatic lava flows give Isabela Island the most striking landscapes in the Galápagos. Around Puerto Villamil, spot flamingos in coastal lagoons and giant tortoises at the breeding centre. Further afield, Punta Vicente Roca is one of the Galápagos’ outstanding marine sites, making Isabela Island an unforgettable addition to any Galápagos holiday.
With gentle hillwalking and a couple of a bit more challenging climbs, this holiday offers a unique perspective on the deeply traditional rural lifestyle of the indigenous Andean communities in Ecuador while at the same time you appreciate glorious mountain scenery.
Having explored the markets, craft villages and fertile valleys studded with snow-clad volcanoes, you will fly to the Galápagos Islands – rather than join as more conventional cruise you’ll spend for a few days discovering a select few of the contrasting islands with walks, water-based activities and short trips by motor launch. The famous trusting wildlife is everywhere to be seen, both from afar and way up close.
Ben Line
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
1-2hr drives by private vehicle in and around Quito. 2 flights (3.5hrs and 2hrs). 2 speedboats (2hrs each).
- Accommodation
You’ll be staying at countryside lodges and a remodelled old residence in mainland Ecuador, a beachfront hotel and a friendly guesthouse-style hotel in the Galápagos Islands.
- Meals
Breakfast daily. Lunch days 2,3,9,10,11. Full board days 4,5.
- Summary Of Nights
12 days, 11 nights: Otavalo region 2, Cotopaxi region 3, Quito 2, Galápagos 4 (Santa Cruz and Isabela Islands).
- Currency
The unit of currency in Ecuador is the US dollar.
- Budget
It is very difficult to give a guideline for essential expenses, but as most meals are included you should only need an extra $20-30 a day for drinks and souvenirs.
- How To Take It
Cash machines are available in Quito, and 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 especially in the Galápagos. Dollar bills should be in good condition, soiled or torn bills may be refused. You can take sterling or euros, but the exchange rate is not always competitive or even available, restricting the number of places where you can change money.
- Tipping
Tips are normally welcomed and expected. Local guides often rely on their tip as a significant proportion of their income. We recommend approximately $US5-10 per person per day for each of guides and drivers, depending on the size of the group.
- Insurance
Travel insurance is essential. Details of our recommended policy can be found on our Travel Insurance page.
- 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, fit visitors who have hiking experience and are used to an active lifestyle at home.
- Climate
Lying at over 2,500m on the Equator, the highlands have a permanent spring-like climate. The rainy season in the Andes runs between November and April when there are showers most afternoons, so this departure falls in the height of the dry season when the sun is strong during the day, but at night the temperature drops dramatically (maybe as low as freezing point.). Given the proximity to the equator, altitude is the determining factor with regard to temperature. In the mountains at any time of year you should expect a variation between 15°C and 25°C.
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.
- 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.
- Altitude
Your hikes are at high altitude (2,800-5,100m). A small minority of visitors may suffer temporarily from altitude sickness. Symptoms vary; most common are mild headaches, slight nausea and breathlessness. If you don’t recover in a day or two speak to our representatives; in very rare instances it is necessary to descend to lower altitudes. Most people are unaffected and 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 suffering any symptoms.
Please refer to our Briefing Dossier for further information.
- Clothing And Special Equipment
You should go prepared to encounter all seasons. A light fleece jacket and a waterproof waterproof/breathable shell makes a good combination for highland regions. You will need good walking boots, waterproof trousers, scarf, hat and gloves. Some trekkers like to use trekking poles: best to bring your own.
Sun screen and sunglasses are also highly recommended.
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 such as malaria prophylactics. 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.
Cases of Zika virus have been reported in parts of Latin America. If you’re pregnant, or planning to be, you should follow the advice of the National Travel Health Network and Centre
- 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.
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.
Pick up handcrafted souvenirs and people watch at a bustling indigenous market.
Base yourself at the Galapagos Islands on a cruise or in a hotel to relax and revive.
Explore the Galápagos islands on foot, by kayak, mountain bike, snorkelling and diving.
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
Isamar Hotel is a small and very friendly property right on a snow-white beach on Isabela Island in the Galapagos.
Mainao is a cheerful Moorish-style mid-range hotel in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island.
A cosy and friendly countryside hacienda with a peaceful setting in the Ecuadorian Andes.
Papagaio
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