Visit colonial cities, indigenous villages with busling local markets, the dense Amazon rainforest, breathtaking mountain peaks or the ecological marvel of the Galapagos Islands.
The soundtrack to Ecuador is a collection of great hits: the crunch of leaves under foot as an exotic animal wakes from its afternoon slumber, the piercing cries of colourful birds in the misty Amazon, the bellows of far-off smouldering volcanoes and the rhythmic clatter of sluggish trains rumbling along rickety mountain-side tracks.
There's the gentle ripple of Pacific coast waves lapping a tranquil golden beach, the flutter of pigeon wings in a leafy colonial era square, the hauntingly beautiful harmonies of traditional Andean music and the hustle and bustle of markets in sleepy hillside villages. Ecuador is a mosaic decorated with colonial gems and packed with miles upon miles of verdant rainforest. Best of all, are the magnificent Galápagos Islands waiting to be discovered on an expedition yacht that will take you close to nature and friendly wildlife.
We invite you to browse our selection of Ecuador and Galapagos holidays below. These itineraries have been carefully planned by our destination specialists to optimise your time and provide an in-depth perspective on Ecuador.
Download Our Ecuador, Galapagos Brochure
View our webinar with live video link reports from Yachts cruising the Galapagos Islands and our guides in Guayaquil, Cuenca, Quito, Mashpi Lodge and Hacienda Zuleta
Popular Tours
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Ecuador & Galapagos Family Tour
13 Nights from £6,148
Quito - Otavalo - Cloud Forest - The Line of the Equator - Cotopaxi National Park - 7-night family orientated Galapagos Islands Cruise
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Bellavista Tour
14 Nights from £6,698
Quito - Riobamba "Avenue of Volcanoes" - Cuenca - Guayaquil - 7-night Galapagos Islands Cruise
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Primavera Tour
19 Nights from £7,936
Quito - Amazon Lodge - Quito - Riobamba - Cuenca - Guayaquil - 7-night Galápagos Islands Cruise
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Samba Explorer Cruise Tour
9 Nights from £6,136
Quito - 7-night M/S Samba Galapagos Cruise
brazil, argentina, peru, ecuador-galapagos, caribbean
Poseidon Tour
40 Nights from £27,502
Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu - Buenos Aires - Lake Titicaca - Cusco Region - Machu Picchu - Lima - Amazon Cruise - Quito - Galapagos Cruise - BVI Br…
peru, ecuador-galapagos
Yasuni Tour
22 Nights from £9,948
Quito - Amazon Cruise - Quito - Avenue of the Volcanoes - Cuenca - Guayaquil - Lima - Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu - Cusco
Top Attractions in Ecuador & Galapagos
Places to visit
Things to do
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Every journey is unique, and questions are part of the process. This FAQ covers the most common topics to help you prepare, while our advisers are always on hand for more personal guidance.
Best time to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos
When is the best time visit Ecuador and the Galapagos?
Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands can be visited year-round, with each season offering its own appeal. The country's compact size means you can experience the Andes, Amazon, and coast within a shor distance, while Galapagos have a unique climate driven by ocean currents rather than traditional seasons.
December to May - Warm and Calm Seas in the Galapagos
This is thw warm season in the Galapagos, with calmer waters, occasional tropical showers, and average temperatures of 26-30°C. The sea is warmer for swimming and snorkelling, and the islands are lush and green. Wildlife activity is exceptional, seas turtles nest, marine iguanas display bright colours, and many bird species court and breed. It is also a pleasant time to visit mainland Ecuador, with sunnier conditions in the Andes and clearer views of the volcanoes.
June to November - Cooler, Drier Conditions and Active Wildlife
Driven by the Humboldt Current, this is the cool and dry season in the Galapagos. Expect air temperatures of 22-26°C, cooler seas, and occasional misty garua mornings. Despite being drier, this period is excellent for wildlife, sea lions give birth, blue-footed boobies perform their mating dance, and large schools of fish attract penguins and seabirds. On the mainland, it is best time for clear trekking conditions in the highlands and for exploring markets, cloud forests, and Andean villages.
Amazon and Coastal Ecuador
The Amazon is hot and humid year-round (around 28-32°C), with slightly less rain from August to November, offering the best wildlife-viewing conditions. Ecuador's Pacific coast is warmest from December to April, ideal for beach stays in Manta or Puerto lopez, while May to November brings cooler, overcast days and occasional drizzle.
Ecuador and the Galapagos Travel FAQS
Do I need visa to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos?
British and most EU passport holders do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days in Ecuador. A special Galapagos Transit Control Card must be purchased before entering the islands.
How long is the flight from the UK to Ecuador?
There are not direct flights from the UK. Most routes connect via Madrid or Amsterdam to Quito or Guayaquil, with total journey times of around 13-15 hours.
How many days should I spend in Ecuador and the Galapagos?
Allow 7-10 days for a Galapagos cruise or island-hopping itinerary. Many travellers combine this with 5-7 days on the mainland to explore Quito, the Andes, or the Amazon.
Which countries can I combine with Ecuador?
Ecuador combines well with Peru, Colombia, or the Galapagos Islands themselves as an add-on to mainland itineraries.
Is it safe to travel to Ecuador and the Galapagos?
Yes, most visits are trouble-free. Tke normal precautions in large cities such as Quito and Guayaquil. The Galapagos Islands are considered very safe for visitors.
Do I need to vaccinations for Ecuador adn the Galapagos?
No mandatory vaccines are required, but yellow fever vaccinaton is recommended if visiting the Amazon region. Routine vaccines such as hepatitis A and typhoid are also advised. Consult your GP or travel clinic.
Ecuador and the Galapagos Travel Essentials
Language and Culture
Spanish is the official language. Ecuador is rich in Andean, Amazonian, and the coastal traditions, while the Galapagos offers a unique blend of pristine nature and conversation culture.
Festivals and Events
Inti Raymi (June), Quito's Independence Day (August), and Carninal (February or March0 are major celebrations.
Currency and Money
The US Dollars (USD) is the official currency. ATMs are available in towns and cities, but cash is essential in the Galapagos.
Must-Try Food and Drink
Ceviche, locro de papa (potato soup), roasted guinea pig (cuy), and Ecuadorian chocolate are highlights. In the Galapagos, enjoy fresh seafood including lobster and fish stews.
Travel Tips
- Internal flights are required to reach the Galapagos (from Quito or Guayaquil).
- Book cruises well in advance, especially December-January and June-August.
- Pack lightweight clothing for the coast, warmer layers for the Andes, and snorkelling gear for the Galapagos.
Specialist Knowledge
Since 1999, we have crafted unique itineraries using our technology and extensine first-hand travel experience and local inspections
Your Perfect Tour
Your holiday is tailored by our specialist advisors to match your preferences, interests and budget using our kowledge of each destination
The Best Local Guides
Our local guides are specialy selected as your hosts providing an authentic insight into local life, culture, activities and visits
Travel Confidence
Our organisation provides local tour services and guides so you travel with confidence, reliability and 24-hour support
Complete a form or call our specialist advisors to start planning your trip. Please provide as much information as possible, and we will aim to respond to your enquiry the same or next working day.
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HIGHLIGHTS - 20 June 2026
BEACH RESORTS - Superb: Idyllic Setting, Remote Islands
PERU - Machu Picchu, Andean Landscapes, Historic Heritage
GALAPAGOS, ECUADOR - Friendly Wildlife on the Islands
BRAZIL NATURE - NEW Atlantic Forest Birdwatching Trails
BRAZIL IMPERIAL - NEW Brazil Royal Family Heritage
HONEYMOONS & CELEBRATIONS - "en Tete-a-Tete"
TRAVEL INSURANCE essential comprehensive cover