Ecuador and Galapagos Holidays

The Galapagos Islands are unlike anywhere else on earth. A paradise for rare birds, iconic wildlife and rich biodiversity. Ecuador is also quite simply one of the most diverse countries on the planet, featuring an astonishing array of wildlife, landscapes and indigenous cultures albeit in an area only slightly larger than the UK. From the Amazon Jungle to Galapagos Islands, via the mighty Andes mountains, our bespoke journeys will suit every nature enthusiast. We design the best Galapagos islands holidays.

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Trek Amongst Volcanoes

Base yourself near Otavalo town or Cotopaxi National Park – or both when there is time – for unforgettable treks past sparkling lakes and snow-capped peaks. Read more about the best things to do in Ecuador.

Meet Galapagos Wildlife

One of the world’s ultimate wildlife experiences is obviously a holiday to the Galapagos Islands. Meet Giant Tortoises, Blue Footed Boobies, Marine Iguanas, and basically everything in between. Read more about the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands.

Amazon with the Kichwa

Immerse yourself in the unspoilt Ecuadorian Amazon, before staying in a comfortable eco-lodge hosted by the indigenous Kichwa community. An experience unlike any other. La Selva Lodge is one of our top Eco Lodges in The Ecuadorian Amazon.

Stay in a Hacienda

Spend a day or two experiencing the horse-riding, sheep-herding, cheese-making way of life in a traditional rural retreat. If you have not tried horse-riding previously, this is certainly the place.  Read more about our active adventure tours

Birds of the Cloud Forest

This misty but mysterious landscape is also home to one of the highest concentration of bird species on the planet. A twitchers paradise, especially if you can extend your stay here. Combine a visit to the Cloud forest with your Galapagos Islands Holidays.

Witness Andean Culture

From the colourful Otavalo market to the colonial gems of Quito and Cuenca (the highlands) are basically awash with true cultural gems. Hence these are must-visits during an Ecuador holiday. Read more about the best things to do in Ecuador.

Please reach us at info@traveldifferently.co.uk if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Travel Ecuador and Galapagos Greener

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 and Galapagos Islands Holidays 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.

Travel Ecuador and Galapagos Slower

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. Galapagos Islands holidays are best enjoyed at a slower pace. Read more about our slow travel and sabbatical holidays.

Travel Ecuador and Galapagos Fairer

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. Read more about our commitment to responsible travel.

Travel Ecuador and Galapagos Better

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.

Population

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.

Timezones

Ecuador standard time zone is GMT-5.

The Galapagos is one hour behind (GMT-6)

Money & Currency

Ecuador has used the US Dollar as it’s national currency since the year 2000.

When to Travel

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.

When to book

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

For a fully bespoke holiday – Enquire Now