Ecuador & Galapagos in Luxury
14 days from £9,550 pp
Ecuador & Galapagos in Luxury is a private, 14-day tailor-made journey staying at Mashpi Lodge in the cloud forest, a historic hacienda near Otavalo, a 5* Galapagos cruise and Finch Bay Hotel on Santa Cruz. Prices start from £9,550 per person and include accommodation, private guides, transfers, excursions and Galapagos flights. It suits those who want Ecuador’s wildlife and culture with exceptional food, service and comfort throughout. See more of our luxury journeys.
Trip Highlights
- Stay at Mashpi Lodge, one of South America’s most celebrated lodges
- Birdwatching, waterfall hikes, canopy walks and Sky Bike
- Unique Andean customs and delicious food at a charming Hacienda
- Luxury touches on your 5* Galapagos cruise
Our Expert Tip
”During your stay at Finch Bay, be sure to take a refreshing dip at Las Grietas…one of the most unique swimming holes in the Galapagos Islands”
Sam, Founder
Luxury Ecuador & Galapagos Itinerary: Day by Day
Day 1-2: Quito
Welcome to Ecuador, the start of your luxury journey. Upon arrival in Quito you will be privately transferred to B-Corp Hotel Carlota and enjoy an evening at leisure.
The next day, take a private full-day cultural city tour, that combines the classic UNESCO-listed heritage sites with a unique art and chocolate tasting experience. This is Quito, done differently.
Day 3-5: Cloud Forest
Journey into the misty Cloud Forest and arrive at one of the South America’s most spectacular and sustainable luxury lodges; Mashpi Lodge, set in its own private reserve of around 1,300 hectares of cloud forest.
During your stay, enjoy a range of included activities; from birdwatching, guided forest walks to waterfall hikes and thrilling rides on the Gondola and Sky Bike, experiencing the best of Ecuador’s Cloud Forest.
Day 6-7: Otavalo
Rise early for some final cloud forest activities, before heading up into the breathtaking mountain scenery of Otavalo, where you will stay at 5* Hacienda Zuleta.
During your time here you will be able to explore South America’s most famous indigenous market, visit the workshop of an expert weaver, enjoy hiking and horse riding against a backdrop of lakes and volcanoes, and immerse yourself in the farm lifestyle.
Day 8-11: Galapagos Islands
Return to Quito airport and fly to the Galapagos Islands to begin your journey through this remarkable wildlife wonderland. Whether you choose a small boutique cruise, a luxury yacht or spacious catamaran such as the Galaxy Sirius Cruise, with your own balcony and rooftop hot-tub, your days will be filled with unique wildlife encounters.
See giant tortoises and blue footed boobies, swim with sea lions and turtles, walk along white-sandy beaches and stark volcanic rock formations. Speak to our experts about choosing the best Galapagos boat for your ideal holiday.
Accommodation: 4 nights on a luxury cruise or boutique boat
Day 12-13: Beach stay
End your luxury Galapagos journey on the island of Santa Cruz and unwind at Finch Bay Hotel, a beachside hotel near Puerto Ayora.
Optional activities range from hiking with a private guide, snorkelling expeditions, scuba diving lessons, and exploring the beautiful Tortuga Bay on foot. Delicious food, sea views and a spa make this a heavenly way to end your luxury holiday Galapagos journey.
Day 14: Depart
Fly from Baltra to Quito or Guayaquil to connect with your international flight. Prefer to stay on land? See our Galapagos Island-Hopping Adventure.
When to Go
Best time for a luxury Ecuador and Galapagos holiday
This trip works all year. In the Galapagos, December to May brings warmer water and calmer seas, while June to November is cooler, with richer marine life. In the Andes around Otavalo, June to September is driest. Mashpi Lodge and the best Galapagos boats have few rooms and cabins, so we recommend booking 9–12 months ahead, especially for Christmas, Easter and the summer holidays.
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.
