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.
Integrity is a glamorous Galapagos Island cruise vessel. It stands at an impressive 141 feet and boasts state-of-the-art stabilisers and engine vibration control systems, promising a smooth and relaxing trip for those on board. Integrity’s luxurious cabins boast personal climate control, a flat-screen television and satellite television, while communal areas include a jacuzzi, covered bar, library and dining area.
Cormorant II is often hailed as the best cruise line for Galapagos Island adventures. This luxurious vessel, a brand-new mega-catamaran, has 9 elegant suites, a dedicated “Hotel Manager,” and a crew of 11. Guests staying in a premium suite are even treated to a private balcony and jacuzzi. The Cormorant II prides itself on being carbon neutral, ensuring that your plush stay is guilt-free and doesn’t come at the expense of the environment and the surrounding ecosystems.
A wilderness river cruise offers the most incredible way to discover the exotic creatures and extraordinary landscapes of the Amazon. Traverse the most remote reaches of the world’s largest tropical rainforest, where encounters with pink river dolphins, monkeys, and manatees await you at every turn.
Become one of the lucky few to uncover the world’s most remote continent with a nature cruise through Antarctica. Sail the legendary Drake Passage as you venture deep into the Polar Desert, passing cathedral-sized icebergs and immense glaciers. Throughout your adventure, you’ll have the remarkable opportunity to witness incredible wildlife, including blue whales, gentoo penguins, and fur seals, welcoming you to their wild homeland.
When it comes to the best wildlife cruises, it’s hard to beat one of the most biodiverse places on earth: The Galapagos Islands. This unspoiled archipelago boasts some of the highest levels of endemism on the planet. Step aboard an eco-cruise and soar from island to island, encountering the likes of giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies and colourful sally-foot crabs.
The diversity of Chile is perfectly captured in this highlights itinerary. Tick off the otherworldly landscapes and steaming volcanoes of the Atacama, and the breathtaking lakes and shimmering glaciers of Patagonia, via the vibrant cities of Santiago and Valparaíso. Staying at good quality midrange hotels, not only ensures comfort but also allows you to save money for unforgettable experiences along the way.
Enjoy Chile’s famous landscapes differently on this fully immersive adventure. Trek to your heart’s content around the mountains of Torres del Paine, kayak in glacial lakes, cycle through Vineyards, stomp the streets of Santiago, horse-ride to the Moon Valley, and bathe in Atacama hot springs. Active by day, relaxing by night.
Chile is one of the world’s real wilderness playgrounds, and this itinerary places you at the heart of its natural wonders. After a relaxed introduction at a charming vineyard, enjoy extended stays at sustainable luxury lodges in both the arid Atacama Desert and glistening Torres del Paine. Take your pick from a daily menu of included activities, returning to the lodge each evening for delicious food and sublime Chilean wine.
Discover Chile’s dramatic landscapes and fascinating cultures on this leisurely-paced journey. After a week exploring Santiago, Valparaíso and the Winelands, continue south to discover the Lake District and Chiloe, including visits to local farms and community cooking classes. End with an in-depth six-night Atacama experience, allowing you to go beyond the usual tourist highlights once again in one of South America’s most stunning settings.
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.
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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
