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.
No country in Latin America has managed to perfect the luxury sustainable travel experience quite as well as Chile. On this trip, you will stay at the finest lodges in the Atacama, Patagonia and Lake District, all of which often have sublime service, delicious food, and inclusive guided activities. Bookend the holiday in Chile with a 5-star boutique hotel in Santiago and a relaxed fine-dining wine lodge.
Begin this activity-focused itinerary in the Argentinian Lake District, where horse-riding, hiking and rafting are included at your charming hacienda. Continue to Southern Patagonia, visiting iconic Perito Moreno Glacier by kayak, and spending an exhilarating few days at a luxury inclusive wilderness lodge. End your luxury Argentina holiday by trekking and canoeing through Tierra del Fuego from Ushuaia; The Town at the End of The World.
Looking for adventure holidays to Argentina? Escape the crowds on this unique itinerary, visiting the country’s more tranquil natural wonders. Combine the wildlife hotspots of the Ibera Wetlands where you’ll see caiman, capybaras and howler monkeys, with coastal Patagonia, home to penguins, sea lions and guanacos. Continue south where you will stay at charming estancias, and explore glistening glaciers and snow-capped mountains, with opportunities for horse-riding, trekking, fishing, and enjoying the views with a traditional local barbeque and Argentinian wine.
Delve into the heart of Argentina on an extraordinary journey through its northern regions. Explore the breathtaking waterfalls and lush jungles of Iguazu and Macona, delve into the rich history of San Ignacio, and immerse yourself in the wildlife haven of Ibera.
Venture further into the high-altitude landscapes surrounding Salta, the cultural gem of Purmamarca, and the charming town of Cachi. Indulge in the flavours of the vineyards in Cafayate and embark on unforgettable drives across the mesmerising and secluded Puna region. This trip promises an adventure of epic proportions! If you’re seeking adventure travel in Argentina, this slow-paced trip ticks all the boxes.
Indulge in the ultimate travel experience on our luxury Argentina tours. Expect to be treated to complete comfort and exceptional VIP experiences. Dine behind closed doors and take a private river cruise in Buenos Aires. Stay at the country’s most luxurious eco-lodge at Iguazu Falls. Sample the finest gastronomy amongst the vineyards of Mendoza. Uncover Patagonia’s great outdoors from a unique 5-star wilderness estancia. And finish your Argentina luxury holiday at a plush gaucho retreat.
Starting from the Peru-Bolivia border at Lake Titicaca, spend a night at a charming lodge on Sun Island, where you can enjoy the peaceful traditional way of life against a beautiful backdrop. Continue via the fascinating capital, La Paz, to the otherworldly landscapes of the Altiplano.
Here you can stay in a hotel made from salt and a luxury dome perched directly on the Salt Flats, as you explore the most remarkable sites in the region. Finish back in La Paz, or continue by land to Chile.
Our best holiday to Colombia for variety and culture, this ‘Cities, Colour, Coffee and Caribbean’ holiday takes you on an exploration of the colours and vibrancy throughout the country. Explore the legendary coffee region, learning the bean-to-cup journey while sampling some of the world’s finest brews.
Stroll through the vibrant streets of Filandia and explore the bustling city of Medellin, known for its botanical gardens and fascinating recent history. Take in the lush landscapes of El Peñol, travel around via tuk-tuk, and hike through the diverse ecosystems of Tayrona National Park. Finally, enjoy some well-earned downtime on the Caribbean beaches of Rosario Islands for swimming and snorkelling.
Slow travel through Colombia on our hidden highlights eco holiday. Explore archaeological monuments and trek the Tatacoa desert to witness incredible starry skies with little to no light pollution.
For food lovers, experience the unique flavours of Popayan, a UNESCO-declared city of gastronomy. Do things differently by taking a street art tour to learn how talented local artists have turned tragedy into vibrant expressions of art and culture. Discover an abundance of landscapes, lagoons, mountains and nature on this unique holiday to Colombia.
Then, veer away from the well-trodden path to experience the more remote spots of this beautiful country. Learn about local traditions and find hidden treasures while staying in our favourite boutique lodges in Colombia.
See the Andean Condor up close, experience the Caribbean coast with no other soul in sight, discover the hidden beaches of Tayrona with your guide and explore Cartagena’s cultural and architectural secrets…all while staying in handpicked properties with 5* service, delicious food and local sustainability in mind. This trip offers one of the finest holidays in Colombia for those seeking culture, cuisine and adventure.
Combine luxury and adventure on this bespoke holiday to Colombia. Explore the culinary scene of Bogota at the Paloquemao Farmers Market before taking a colonial city tour including a VIP cable car ride. A salsa-lover’s paradise, you can get under the skin of Cali as your guide takes you to see world-famous salsa shows.
Holidays to Colombia are never complete without a visit to the coffee region, where we explore the Cocora Valley and quaint streets of Filandia. Visit colourful vibrant Medellin before experiencing a change of scenery at a renowned private wildlife reserve in Turbaco. Keep an eye out for Howler Monkeys and White-headed Titis.
Then it’s time for some luxury relaxation in Rosario Islands, where you can have a private boat trip and snorkel in clear waters trying the delicious daily catch.
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
