Ecuador is quite simply one of the most diverse countries on the planet, featuring an astonishing array of wildlife, landscapes and indigenous cultures in an area only slightly larger than the UK. From the Amazon Jungle to Galapagos Islands, via the mighty Andes mountains, this is a country for every nature enthusiast.
Go deep on this journey through a remarkably diverse little country. Explore indigenous markets, steamy cloud forests, volcanoes, lakes, the Amazon basin, Inca ruins, colonial cities, working farms, and the Galapagos Islands. Designed at a leisurely pace to immerse yourself in the true spirit of Ecuador.
Explore the Galapagos away from the cruise ships, by staying on two very different islands; Santa Cruz (lush, green, busy) and Isabela (rocky, volcanic, quieter). Kayak with Sea Turtles, snorkel in crystal clear waters, hike to volcanic craters, sleep under the stars on a Giant Tortoise Reserve, relax on a paradise beach, and of course come face-to-face with all of the Galapagos’ iconic creatures.
Go deep on this journey through a remarkably diverse little country. Explore indigenous markets, steamy cloud forests, volcanoes, lakes, the Amazon basin, Inca ruins, colonial cities, working farms, and the Galapagos Islands. Designed at a leisurely pace to immerse yourself in the true spirit of Ecuador.
Explore Ecuador in supreme comfort. Stay at a historic hacienda amongst Otavalo’s lakes and volcanoes, enjoy the cloud forest from the iconic Mashpi Lodge, and explore colonial Quito with a cacao-infused twist. Complete your Galapagos Island holiday with a choice of deluxe boutique cruise or safari-style.
As Featured in the Guardian Explore two of Latin America’s most spectacular countries in-depth, combining the unmissable highlights of Machu Picchu, the Amazon and the Galapagos, with less visited but equally rewarding experiences in the Sacred Valley, Cloud Forest, and Ecuadorian Andes.
Base yourself near Otavalo town or Cotopaxi National Park – or both – for unforgettable treks past sparkling lakes and snow-capped peaks.
One of the world’s ultimate wildlife experiences to tick off on a holiday to the Galapagos Islands. Meet Giant Tortoises, Blue Footed Boobies, Marine Iguanas, and everything in between.
Immerse yourself in the unspoilt Ecuadorian Amazon, staying in a comfortable eco-lodge hosted by the indigenous Kichwa community.
Spend a day or two experiencing the horse-riding, sheep-herding, cheese-making way of life in a traditional rural retreat.
This misty and mysterious landscape is home to one of the highest concentration of bird species on the planet. A twitchers paradise.
From the colourful Otavalo market to the colonial gems of Quito and Cuenca (the highlands) are awash with true cultural gems. These are must-visits on Ecuador holidays.
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Here at Travel Differently, we appreciate the toll that modern tourism has taken on many of the world’s most precious natural wonders. So we offer greener holidays to the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador.
For our Ecuador adventure tours, we work exclusively with accommodations and activity providers who are committed to operating in a way that is respectful of their local environment. Additionally, we offset the emissions of each trip by 150% to ensure our holidays have a net positive impact on the environment.
Our Ecuador and Galapagos adventure tours involve travelling at a slow pace, allowing you to truly experience everything that the archipelago has to offer. Not only does this give you more time to uncover all of the wonders to be found on the islands, but ensures the benefits extend to a broader range of local communities.
We ensure our holidays to the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador operate in as fair a way as possible by actively engaging and supporting local communities. We only work with companies in the destinations that share our commitment to social development and sustainability.
Our carbon offset schemes also support the local communities on top of the environment, reducing poverty, inequality, and reliance on fossil fuels.
As a 100% independent boutique tour operator, we specialise in luxury Galapagos holidays. We offer a fully personalised service that includes direct communication with our founder. Each trip is thoughtfully crafted to cater to your individual needs, preferences and interests, guaranteeing you the most unforgettable getaway possible in this unique corner of the world.
Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge – A simple yet charming lodge, made from local and recycled materials, beautifully positioned on the edge of Cotopaxi National Park. Perfect for those seeking peace and exploration.
Stay here as part of our Classic Ecuador Highlights itinerary
Galapagos Safari Camp – The clue is in the title at this unique property, based on a classic African luxury safari experience. Sleep in luxury under canvas, soak up the views, and explore the archipelago’s iconic flora and fauna.
Stay here as part of our Ecuador Wilderness Escape
Hacienda Zuleta – Spend a day or two experiencing the horse-riding, sheep-herding, cheese-making way of life in a traditional rural retreat.
Stay here as part of our Ecuador in Luxury itinerary
Magic Galapagos – Set in a private reserve in the highlands of Santa Cruz island, Magic offers raised tents and treehouse accommodation, with a chance to admire the native Giant Tortoises that regularly wander through the grounds. A peaceful base for wider exploration.
Stay here as part of our Classic Ecuador Highlights itinerary
Mashpi Lodge -Situated in the bird-watcher’s paradise of the Ecuadorian cloudforest, Mashpi sets new standards for Eco-design in the region.
Stay here as part of our Ecuador in Luxury itinerary
Napo Wildlife Centre – Immerse yourself in the unspoilt Ecuadorian Amazon, based in this stylish and comfortable lodge hosted by the indigenous Kichwa community.
Stay here as part of our Ecuador Wilderness Escapes itinerary
Ecuador’s total population is around 18 million, with just 25,000 living in the Galapagos.
The capital is Quito, at an altitude of 2,850m.
Ecuador standard time zone is GMT-5.
The Galapagos is one hour behind (GMT-6)
Ecuador has used the US Dollar as it’s national currency since the year 2000.
Situated on the Equator, Ecuador is a real year-round destination. The mainland is at its driest June to September, but that is also a slightly rougher time to take to take to the seas on a Galapagos cruise.
Most hotels can be booked as late as 2-3 months before travel, however specialist ecolodges or Galapagos cruises can often be fully booked up to a year in advance
