Wildlife Wonders of the Cloud Forest and Galapagos Islands
13 days from £6,900
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.
Transfer to your hotel in Quito, the Andean capital of Ecuador. The active volcano Guagua Pichincha, to the east, glowers over the dynamic city which, at 2,850m, is one of the 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 has well-conserved and spruced-up 16th-century buildings, open-air markets and graceful Spanish-style mansions and churches.
With a fantastic location on a cobbled street just around the corner from the old city’s central square, Casona de la Ronda is a small converted mansion that has been carefully restored to mirror the rich colonial history of its surroundings. The building abounds with character, and the courteous staff are committed to the highest levels of service.
The stylish, spacious and eminently comfortable guestrooms face out onto a pretty covered courtyard. Décor includes plenty of traditional features such as polished wood floors, stone walls and local textiles and paintings, but delicate floral murals, an impressive living wall of native plants and some bold design choices add a boutique edge. There’s a strikingly decorated viewpoint room looking out across the historic centre to the summit of El Panecillo, and a cosy lounge with an open fireplace. The restaurant, painted in a rich shade of burnt orange and lined with antique mirrors, serves a mixture of excellent local and international fare.
Get to know Quito on a full-day excursion taking you on a historical journey through Ecuador’s capital city. You will learn about its ancient pre-Columbian origins, its foundation and the transition through its Colonial and Republican periods. After a drive up to a viewpoint for a bird’s-eye view of the city’s layout, stroll through the colonial centre, founded by the Spanish on the ruins of an Inca settlement. Admire the Baroque architecture and art; its many plazas; the cobblestone street of La Ronda with its flowery balconies; and the splendidly restored Jesuit church.
With a fantastic location on a cobbled street just around the corner from the old city’s central square, Casona de la Ronda is a small converted mansion that has been carefully restored to mirror the rich colonial history of its surroundings. The building abounds with character, and the courteous staff are committed to the highest levels of service.
The stylish, spacious and eminently comfortable guestrooms face out onto a pretty covered courtyard. Décor includes plenty of traditional features such as polished wood floors, stone walls and local textiles and paintings, but delicate floral murals, an impressive living wall of native plants and some bold design choices add a boutique edge. There’s a strikingly decorated viewpoint room looking out across the historic centre to the summit of El Panecillo, and a cosy lounge with an open fireplace. The restaurant, painted in a rich shade of burnt orange and lined with antique mirrors, serves a mixture of excellent local and international fare.
Transfer by road along winding mountain passes through the varying elevations of the cloud forest. You will stay at a charming property based deep in the forest, surrounded by well-marked hiking trails designed to get you in amongst the chattering and squawking of the bountiful bird life.
For an even more extraordinary experience we recommend upgrading to a stay at Mashpi Lodge. This contemporary eco-lodge sits in the heart of the Mashpi Reserve, home to a sensational variety of flora and fauna, including nearly 400 species of bird. Potential activities there include: birdwatching, jungle and waterfall hikes, canopy tower climbs, canopy sky-bike rides; And the Dragonfly – an unparalleled gondola journey through the jungle treetops, at eye level with some of the forest critters that are normally difficult to spot from the ground.
Set amongst the densely wooded slopes of the Andes, above the Mindo region – just 52km from Quito – lies the Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve, a conservation area set up in 1991 by a British-Colombian couple on a ridge between two valleys, renowned for its birdlife. The reserve, with over 8km of trails, protects a huge area of temperate pre-montane cloud forest that attracts a large variety of birds (including hummingbirds) generally not found at lower elevations. Over 170 animal species have been recorded here, including the elusive Andean ‘cock of the rock’ and the relatively recently ‘discovered’ olinguito, which is thought to be related to racoons.
At 2,200m above sea level, mists regularly shroud the trees, creepers, orchids and broad-leaf vegetation which, along with the orchestral performance of bird calls, creates a fairy-tale atmosphere. The eco-lodge provides an intimate forest experience for guests in a variety of room types, most of which have magnificent views of the surrounds. In spite of the lodge’s relative simplicity, the rooms feel comfortable and homely, and the food has an excellent reputation. Setting out on foot from the lodge, you’ll find clear trails and four waterfalls to explore.
Enjoy two full days of activities within the reserve. There are several well signposted trails for you to follow, either with a guide (at additional cost) or on your own.
Bellavista’s 400-hectare reserve is home to a huge variety of birds, including the mountain toucan, white-faced nunbird and countless hummingbirds. It is also home to some spectacular flora, with many different species of orchids, just some of those hiding beneath the canopy. 270 kinds of mammals also roam these lands.
There are also several different waterfalls and conservation projects that can be seen, with sustainable tourism, sustainable agriculture and sustainable development all key focuses for the region.
Set amongst the densely wooded slopes of the Andes, above the Mindo region – just 52km from Quito – lies the Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve, a conservation area set up in 1991 by a British-Colombian couple on a ridge between two valleys, renowned for its birdlife. The reserve, with over 8km of trails, protects a huge area of temperate pre-montane cloud forest that attracts a large variety of birds (including hummingbirds) generally not found at lower elevations. Over 170 animal species have been recorded here, including the elusive Andean ‘cock of the rock’ and the relatively recently ‘discovered’ olinguito, which is thought to be related to racoons.
At 2,200m above sea level, mists regularly shroud the trees, creepers, orchids and broad-leaf vegetation which, along with the orchestral performance of bird calls, creates a fairy-tale atmosphere. The eco-lodge provides an intimate forest experience for guests in a variety of room types, most of which have magnificent views of the surrounds. In spite of the lodge’s relative simplicity, the rooms feel comfortable and homely, and the food has an excellent reputation. Setting out on foot from the lodge, you’ll find clear trails and four waterfalls to explore.
After enjoying another morning at the lodge, transfer back to Quito for an overnight stay near the airport.
The Holiday Inn is a convenient accommodation option located just 5-minutes’ drive from Quito Airport, in a tranquil setting with mountain views in almost every direction. Guests can reach the historic city centre in around 30 minutes (subject to traffic), or head to the centre of the world ‘Mitad del Mundo’, which lies around 45 minutes to the north.
The property itself is modern and stylish, with facilities including an outdoor swimming pool (with terrace bar), a gym and a spa featuring hydromassage and Turkish baths. The on-site restaurant serves continental and American style breakfasts, with a la carte local and international cuisine for lunch and dinner.
The rooms are spacious with king or queen-sized beds, ensuite bathrooms and Wi-Fi. Many rooms also come with sweeping views over the highland scenery.
A free airport shuttle usually operates every hour in both directions.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos Islands where you will embark your vessel for a 7-day/6-night cruise around the archipelago. Your naturalist guide will be waiting to take you to the quayside.
The Treasure of Galápagos is a small, stable catamaran with good value guest cabins and facilities including a shaded bar, loungers and a Jacuzzi.
The nine air-conditioned cabins all have a contemporary design and are furnished with a sofa and small desk. Unlike on most other mid-range vessels, the Treasure’s cabins also have their own private outdoor balconies where guests can sit and relax between excursions.
The ship is equipped with complimentary snorkelling equipment so you can enjoy the marine environment from a more intimate perspective.
The Galápagos Islands emerged in the Pacific Ocean 6 million years ago following a spate of volcanic activity and, isolated from the continental mainland, have become home to unique plant and animal species. Without fear of humans, they are sufficiently trusting to allow you to approach them and observe them up close. The islands were the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, which formed the basis for his revolutionary book ‘On the Origin of Species’, published in 1859.
Although geologically constantly on the move, these islands remain suspended in time, with giant tortoises, iguanas, penguins, frigate birds, waved albatross, blue-footed boobies and a wealth of rare flora all thriving there. For many, the fascinating and unique wildlife and natural beauty of the islands are matched by the thrill of being at sea. Find a spot on deck as you make your way through the ocean, often trailed by flocks of birds and playful dolphins.
The itinerary for your days in the Galápagos will depend on your date of departure and is subject to change. There are normally two landings a day to seek out the different wildlife that inhabits the islands.
The Treasure of Galápagos is a small, stable catamaran with good value guest cabins and facilities including a shaded bar, loungers and a Jacuzzi.
The nine air-conditioned cabins all have a contemporary design and are furnished with a sofa and small desk. Unlike on most other mid-range vessels, the Treasure’s cabins also have their own private outdoor balconies where guests can sit and relax between excursions.
The ship is equipped with complimentary snorkelling equipment so you can enjoy the marine environment from a more intimate perspective.
Disembark the vessel and transfer to the airport for your flight back to the mainland and onward flight home or contact us for ideas on how to continue your adventure.
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 - Mindo and the cloud forest
Mindo Cloud Forest. Just a couple of hours from Quito, this pocket of cloud forest Ecuador is rightly proud of shelters around 450 species of tropical birds alongside orchids, butterflies and cascading waterfalls, making Mindo Cloud Forest holidays one of the most rewarding side trips from the capital.
You begin in Quito, Ecuador’s cultural capital steeped in colonial history, but with a keen movement towards modernity and a growing reputation for culinary splendour. Then head northwest to the cloud forest, where the varied elevations and resulting divergence of flora provide the range of habitats and food sources required to host a vast array of distinctive and beautiful birds. The tour ends with a 6-night cruise around the Galapagos Islands, arguably the greatest wildlife spectacle in the world, and of course, once the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.
You will stay in a mid-range hotel in old-Quito, a comfortable and memorable eco-lodge in the cloud forest, a convenient airport hotel, and a spacious upper-mid-range vessel in the Galapagos, meaning you can spend your days searching for photo perfection, safe in the knowledge that a comfortable bed awaits you every evening.
Maggie Wilson
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 road transfers (approx. 2 hrs each); 2 flights (approx 2-3 hrs depending on routing); 7-day/6 night cruise.
- Accommodation
You will stay in a mid-range hotel in old-Quito, a comfortable and memorable eco-lodge in the cloud forest, a convenient airport hotel, and a spacious upper-mid-range vessel in the Galapagos that holds a maximum of 16 passengers.
Upgrades and alternate options are possible. Please contact us for details.
- Meals
Breakfast daily; Full board on days 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12.
- Summary of Nights
13 days, 12 nights: Quito 2, Cloud Forest 3, Quito Airport 1, Galapagos 6.
- Currency
The unit of currency in Ecuador and the Galápagos is the US dollar.
- How To Take It
Cash machines are available in all major cities and towns, 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. 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 they are not included, 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 expect a tip of some kind and so it is useful to have spare change for hotel porters, taxi drivers and the like. It is common to leave 10 – 12% in restaurants.
Tips are also common for guides and crew members on Galapagos cruises.
Tipping guidelines can be found in our Briefing Dossier.
- 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). Hikes in the cloud forest and the Galapagos Islands can be challenging and on uneven terrain, but, with some collaboration, your guides will normally be able to match the trails to your level of mobility and fitness.
- 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; In August and September it’s often cloudy and cool, and a stiff breeze makes the waters choppier. High and Low seasons reflect demand rather than the best time to go. Many boats are in dry dock in September.
- 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.
Please refer to our Briefing Dossier for further information.
- 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 and in the jungle. 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). Snorkelling equipment is included but you may prefer to bring your own. Aqua-socks or rubber sandals are useful for embarking and disembarking on wet landings.. For June to November departures, wetsuits are recommended, as the waters can be chilly for snorkelling. Some vessels will charge an additional cost for these onboard.
Don’t forget your binoculars, camera, charger and memory cards.
Please get in touch with the office before departure if you have any doubts. Good equipment is very important and hard to come by in South America and the Galápagos Islands.
- 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.
Explore the historic centre of the Ecuadorian capital in the company of a knowledgeable guide.
Discover the Galápagos Islands for yourself – this is one of the most sought-after experiences in travel, and the reality does not disappoint.
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.
Discover a lush habitat of tropical wildlife, orchids and hummingbirds in the steamy cloud forest of Mindo.
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
An eco-lodge providing an intimate forest experience for guests in a variety of room types, most of which have magnificent views of the surrounds.
A convenient accommodation option located just 5-minutes’ drive from Quito Airport, in a tranquil setting with mountain views in almost every direction.
The Treasure of Galapagos is a fine choice for visitors seeking a cruise on a small, intimate and modern catamaran.
Papagaio
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