Ecuador & Galapagos Active Adventure
17 days from £4,300 pp
Our Ecuador & Galapagos Active Adventure is a private, 17-day tailor-made holiday for outdoor lovers, hiking crater lakes around Otavalo, riding and biking in Cotopaxi National Park, and kayaking and snorkelling on Santa Cruz and Isabela. Prices start from £4,300 per person and include accommodation, private guides, transport, excursions and Galapagos flights. A great choice for active travellers with good fitness who want to see Ecuador’s volcanoes, cloud forest and the Galapagos.
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
”It’s worth investing in some good quality binoculars, especially if you are a birder. This trip shows off some of the world’s best wildlife and birds”
Sam, Founder
Ecuador & Galapagos Active Itinerary: Day by Day
Day 1-2: Quito
After being welcomed at the airport and taken by private car to B-Corp Hotel Carlota, where you have time at leisure to rest, relax, and acclimatise.
Next day, stretch your legs on a guided walk through Quito’s UNESCO-listed old town, climbing to the Basilica towers for views over the city.
Day 3-4: Cloud Forest
Journey approximately two hours outside Quito into the lush and magical cloud forest, where you’ll stay at wonderful El Monte Lodge.
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 traveller.
Day 5-7: Otavalo
Ascend into the mountainous Otavalo region for three days of hiking through stunning landscapes, shimmering crater lakes and indigenous villages. There is the option of a 14 km, 4–5 hou loop around Cuicocha Crater Lake.
The following day explore the colourful indigenous craft markets of Otavalo as well as a visit to the workshop of master weaver Miguel Andrango. On your final day, On your final day, hike into the Zuleta valley, known for its Kichwa heritage and hand embroidery, and join a local family for a cooking class in their home kitchen.
Day 8-9: Cotopaxi
Driving south towards Cotopaxi National Park, check-in for two nights at Chilcabamba 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 world’s 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. Want more islands? Our 8-day Galapagos Island-Hopping Adventure adds Floreana.
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 snorkelling amongst reef sharks, sea turtles and penguins. Join a full-day guided trek to the rim of Sierra Negra, one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world, then continue across the lava fields of Volcán Chico, with views over Isabela’s coastline on a clear day. The route covers around 16 km return and takes 6–7 hours, so good walking boots and plenty of water are essential.
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
Speedboat back to Santa Cruz and fly from Baltra to Quito for your flight home. Prefer a slower pace? See our 3-week Ecuador itinerary.
When to Go
Best time for an active Ecuador and Galapagos holiday
June to September is the driest time in the Andes, with the clearest views for hiking around Cuicocha and riding in Cotopaxi National Park. December to May brings warmer water and calmer seas for kayaking and snorkelling in the Galapagos, though the Andes are wetter. October and November are a good balance of both. Ask us which month suits the activities you’re most excited about.
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
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.
