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.
If you want to get active in nature, you have chosen the right country! Start your adventure by rafting-in to your first lodge, continue with hikes, hanging bridges, canopy walks and zip lines whilst visiting the Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest, and finish with sea kayaking, snorkelling, and surfing lessons on the Pacific Coast. There’s even plenty of hot springs and beach time, to relax and recover.
Discover this incredible country beyond the highlights by exploring hidden gems such as Selva Verde Rainforest, Maquenque Wildlife Reserve, the Celeste River, and the surfing towns of the Nicoya Peninsula, as well as unmissable Tortuguero, Arenal and Monteverde. Visit chocolate plantations and agro-sustainable farms, kayak through mangroves, hike to waterfalls, bathe in hot springs, and fall in love with sunsets over black sand beaches.
Discover the ultimate in Costa Rican hospitality, staying in a selection of award-winning luxury eco lodges from Arenal to the Osa Peninsula, and ending with a stunning coastal villa. This itinerary is all about the most stunning views, finest food, and handpicked private activities throughout.
This bespoke Mexico holiday stretches from the cacti lined shores of the Pacific Baja California to the tropical Caribbean. Swim with whale sharks in the Sea of Cortez and eat cerviche on the uninhabited island of Espiritu Santo, before exploring the highlands of Central Mexico with its authentic food, culture, and archaeological sites around Mexico City, Puebla and Merida. End with some time relaxing in the Yucatan Peninsula, swim in under water caves and cenotes near Tulum, scale the temples of Coba and snorkel with Turtles in Ackumal. An ethical Mexico holiday.
Take in Guatemala’s dramatic landscapes and discover its fascinating history, from Mayan ruins to modern day traditions, whilst making the most of the great outdoors in this amazing holiday to Guatemala. Sample delicious street food and explore the volcanoes and coffee plantations nearby. Continue to Lake Atitlan and learn about traditions spanning centuries which are still very much a way of life today in rural Guatemala. Finish in the north in the dense virgin jungle at the ancient citadel of Tikal. The best active adventure holiday to Guatemala.
Embark on an epic overland journey across three remarkable countries. Explore welcoming Mexican culture in Oaxaca, San Cristobal and Merida, the imposing ruins of Palenque, Chichen Itza and Tikal, the stunning beaches of Belize’s coastline, and the rainforests, lakes and volcanoes of mysterious Guatemala. Slow travel through Central America staying in the best sustainable lodges and top luxury lodges in each location. Our best Central America adventure.
Embark on an exciting and active Nicaragua holiday, as you conquer zip-lining, hiking and surfing amongst pristine nature. Immerse yourself in enchanting cloud forests. Experience the raw power of volcanoes, before relaxing amidst lush coffee plantations. Explore ancient traditions and local customs. End your adventure basking on the paradise beaches of the Pacific coast.
Dive into breathtaking beauty with an eco adventure holiday to Panama. Embark on a journey through misty cloud forests, where lush greenery and exotic flora await your arrival. Perfect for those looking for a cultural holiday to Panama, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Panamanian culture, as you connect with vibrant traditions and warm-hearted indigenous locals. Let’s not forget about the awe-inspiring Panama Canal, a true engineering marvel that has shaped history. On your own tailor-made Panama holiday, every day is an opportunity for discovery and wonder.
Explore Latin America’s most spectacular countries in-depth on this amazing eco-luxury holiday to Peru Ecuador and Galapagos. Combine 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. Take a slower, deeper pace and really experience the best of these countries.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Please reach us at info@traveldifferently.co.uk if you cannot find an answer to your question.
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
