Ecuador & Galapagos Active Adventure
17 days from £4300 pp
Hike, bike, swim and kayak your way around Ecuador’s multitude of natural wonders. From snow-capped volcanoes and mountain valleys, to the remarkable Galapagos archipelago via the steamy cloud forest, this active trip is one for the outdoor enthusiasts.
Trip Highlights
- Awe-inspiring Cotopaxi National Park on horse-back
- World famous bird watching in Mindo Cloud Forest
- Pack your walking boots for a Volcano hike
- Snorkel with sea turtles and playful sea lions
Our Expert Tip
”Its worth investing in some good quality binoculars, especially if you are a birder. This trip shows off some of the worlds best wildlife and birds”
Sam, Founder
Detailed Ecuador & Galapagos Itinerary
Day 1 – 2: Quito
Begin your Ecuador & Galapagos Active Adventure. After being welcomed at the airport and taken by private car to your boutique hotel, you have time at leisure to rest, relax, and acclimatise. The following day we take a walking tour of the UNESCO-listed colonial centre, with optional cultural activities afterwards such as a cooking class, chocolate tour, or visits to artisanal workshops.
Day 3 – 4: Cloud Forest
Journey approximately two hours outside Quito into the lush and magical cloud forest, where you’ll stay in a charming eco-lodge nestled along the banks of a babbling river and protected forest. The area is known for world class birdwatching and nature walks, but also offers optional river tubing, zip lining, horse riding and wild swimming for the active traveler.
Day 5 – 7: Otavalo
Ascend into the mountainous Otavalo region for three days of hiking through stunning landscapes, shimmering crater lakes and indigenous villages. Begin with a beautiful walk around the deep blue Cuicocha Crater Lake. The following day explore the colourful indigenous craft markets of Otavalo as well as a visit to the workshop of a renowned traditional ‘Master Weaver’. On your final day, hike to a nearby valley known for its distinct cultural identity, where you will visit a local family for an authentic cooking class in their home kitchen.
Day 8 – 9: Cotopaxi
Driving south towards Cotopaxi National Park, check-in for two nights at a charming mountain lodge featuring stunning views of the iconic snow-covered volcano that gives the park its name. Your time here is at leisure to arrange guided horse riding, mountain biking or treks with the lodge, or set out into the national park by foot yourself for some independent adventures.
Day 10 – 12: Santa Cruz, Galapagos
Return to Quito airport and fly to one of the worlds greatest outdoor destinations, the Galapagos Islands. Settle in to your hotel, from where you can walk or cycle to nearby beaches or visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. The next day take a private boat excursion to one of the neighbouring islands, to walk and snorkel amongst the iconic wildlife that makes the Galapagos so special.
Day 13 – 16: Isabela, Galapagos
Reached by an exhilarating speedboat journey, Isabela Island offers a quieter version of the Galapagos. Your time here includes opportunities for kayaking and snorkeling amongst reef sharks, sea turtles and penguins, and a stunning full day trek up and around the rim of the mighty Sierra Negra volcanic crater. Each afternoon return to your boutique hotel on a gorgeous white sand beach, perfect for relaxing and taking in the amazing sights of the Galapagos.
Day 17: Depart
When to Go
Includes
- All accommodation
- Excursions
- Transport
- Private guides
Excludes
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa cost
- Tips
Why Book With Travel Differently
Passionate and experienced
- Each member of the team has over a decade of experience in the industry
- Our 5* client reviews reflect our service & standards
- We are a fully independent & owner-run tour operator
- Our holidays include full financial protection & ATOL coverage
- We are destination experts, ensuring authentic & reliable advice
Committed and Responsible
- We only work with trusted, hand-picked partners
- Every holiday is thoughtfully crafted to ensure a positive impact
- Our tours & experiences are unique, memorable & immersive
- We work with certified & respected local guides & drivers
- Judge us by the company we keep. Read more here
Tailor-made and Personal
- No two trips are the same, our holidays are 100% bespoke
- We design personal, genuine cultural connections & experiences
- From planning to travel, you’ll have one dedicated point of contact
- Our support is available around the clock during your holiday
- We take care of the details, so you don’t have to
Need More Inspiration?
Want to combine multi-countries, take less flights, or include a hike in Patagonia? Thinking of a longer sabbatical holiday, or staying in some luxury yurts? It’s all possible; all our holidays are tailor-made with a focus on responsible travel. Take a look at more ideas below, and contact our experts.
