Ecuador & Galapagos Holidays
The Amazon Rainforest, Andean Villages and Galapagos Islands
Primavera Tour - 19 Night Itinerary
Experience close encounters with friendly wildlife on a Galapagos Islands cruise, fascinating cultures in the Amazon rainforest and awe-inspiring volcanoes in the Andean mountains.
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Tour Route
- Quito & Otavalo Market - 2 Nights
- Amazon - 4 Nights
- Quito - 1 Night
- Avenue of the Volcanoes - 1 Night
- Cuenca - 3 Nights
- Guayaquil - 1 Night
- Galapagos Cruise - 7 Nights
Travel Highlights
- Enjoy our most comprehensive tour of Ecuador
- Get closer to nature and mind-boggling wildlife on a 7 night Galapagos Cruise
- Stay 4 nights in a remote Amazon lodge with daily excursions in the rainforest with expert guides
- Drive through the cinematic Avenue of the Volcanoes
- Explore the charming colonial centres of Cuenca and Quito
- Visit a local Indian market in the Andes
- Ride the Devil's Nose Railway and marvel at the lagoons of the Cajas National Park
This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of departure date, route, duration, flights, cabin, hotels, transport and excursions.
Tour Itinerary
Quito & Otavalo Market - 2 Nights
Day 1 - Fly from London to Quito
Day 2 - Otavalo and guided tour of Quito
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Saturday, 14 December 2024
Fly from London to Quito
Take a daytime flight to Quito, arriving the same evening, where you will be met by our representative and taken to your hotel. This is also the opportunity for our guide to provide you advice, explain your programme and answer any questions you may have.
Sunday, 15 December 2024
Otavalo and guided tour of Quito
We take a trip to the Andean town of Otavalo to visit its magnificent market, where men and women with long plaited hair, dressed in their traditional clothes, sell all types of weavings, handicrafts and homegrown produce. We return to Quito to explore the colonial quarter with its narrow cobblestone streets and many beautiful churches. We also visit the Archaeological Museum.
Rincon Puembo
Quito - Tourist Hotel
The Rincon de Puembo is located 20 minutes from Quito's new airport, in the small town of Puembo, making it ideal for travellers having to overnight in between flights. The accommodation is all found in a replica colonial-style street, with wonderful traditional touches. Perfect for relaxing by the pool and taking a rest stop from your Ecuadorean itinerary.
Casa San Marcos
Quito - First Boutique
Almost hidden away in the Old Town of Quito, this restored mansion houses a hotel which is part art gallery, part antiquarian, part restaurant. Its spacious gallery has many pieces by national and international artists. The six rooms are comfortably and stylishly furnished, all with private bathroom. the hotel also commands excellent views of the "Panecillo" one of Quito's great landmarks. The hotel restaurant serves Ecuadorean delights as well as Mediterranean cuisine.
Casa Gangotena
Quito - Deluxe Hotel
Situated in a newly-restored historic mansion overlooking Plaza San Francisco in the heart of the Old Town, the three-story Casa Gangotena has 31 luxury rooms: a showcase of eye catching style, contemporary design, antiques, furnishings, fine dining, modern technologies and quintessential comforts. Beautifully and eclectically appointed, the hotel invites its guests to explore and to relax, whether in the dining room, glassed-in patio, garden redolent with the perfume of native flowers, wood-panelled library, or else atop its panoramic third-floor terrace. Sophisticated and eclectic, historic yet contemporary, at Casa Gangotena style, passion and service blend seamlessly and delightfully.
The hotel includes several 'experiences' for its guests at no extra cost, including San Francisco’s courtyards & Brewery, Museo del Carmen Alto, San Fransisco Choir & Bell Tower and Chocolate Quiteno tasting.
Rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Amazon - 4 Nights
Day 3 - Fly to Coca, transfer to your Amazon Lodge
Day 4 - Amazon lodge and excursions
Day 5 - Amazon lodge and parrot clay licks
Day 6 - Amazon Lodge and canopy observation tower
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Monday, 16 December 2024
Fly to Coca, transfer to your Amazon Lodge
Our day starts with a flight into the Amazon and a trip up river to our Amazon lodge located in the peace and tranquility of virgin rainforest, overlooking a lagoon. Choose from either the tourist class Yasuni Lodge or the first class Napo Wildlife Centre, both located about 2 hours downriver from Coca airport. Each lodge is on a full board basis with included walks and excursions with expert guides every day. Other optional activities are available, such as fishing and kayaking, at the lodge.
Tuesday, 17 December 2024
Amazon Lodge and excursions
Today your resident naturalist guides take you on a variety of hikes, both by night and by day, canoeing trips up creeks and exploring the rainforest to observe the exuberant vegetation and the vast, dense tree canopy.
Wednesday, 18 December 2024
Amazon Lodge and parrot clay licks
Today we experience the parrot clay licks to observe flocks of brightly-coloured macaws, parrots and parakeets as they descend to feed on the soil, extracting vital minerals to help them digest the fruit and seeds found in the jungle. At some, sightings have also been reported of tapirs, ocelots, owls and others animals. Later on, we will hike along the forest trail to visit a local community learning about their every-day-life activities, routines and their ancestral customs and traditions. Then we take a 30 minutes walk through the forest and enjoy lunch. We return to the lodge by riverboat.
Thursday, 19 December 2024
Amazon Lodge and canopy observation tower
Today, we visit the canopy observation tower, a high platform 36 metres high from which you will get a close up view of the most amazing views of the jungle. Here, birds that are just virtually impossible to see from the jungle floor will pass right past you. Flocks of vibrantly coloured tanagers, blue-and-yellow macaws and large toucans fly past in the early mornings and afternoons. In the afternoon, trek deep into a rain forest to discover the mysterious wildlife hiding in the interior. Observe the endemic Golden Mantle Tamarin monkey, rare insects and snakes! We also visit the black water Añangu Lake and streams home of different species of fish and mammals such as the Giant Otter.
Yasuni Kichwa Lodge
Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador - Tourist Lodge
Local English speaking guides take you on excursions, showing a faschinating knowledge, which is practical and empiric, rather than academic. You can also interact with the people going on excursions in the jungle, rivers and stream, and viditing the canopy observation tower and clay lick where macaws and parrots congreagate. The lopdge is located two hours by canoe downriver from Coca airport. It is a hotel within the community and take a maximum of 40 guests in comfortable, spacious cabins with private facilities and balconies with a hammock, safe deposit box, hot water, ventillation and plugs to charge baterries. The beds are comfortable with sheets, blankets and mosquito nets. There is also a large dining room with thatched roof: the feedback is that the food is excellent.
Napo Wildlife Centre
Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador - First Lodge
This ecotourism project includes the conservation of over 53,000 acres of the most pristine Amazon Rainforest within the Yasuni National Park, an important biosphere reserve and the largest tract of tropical rainforest in Ecuador. You will be met at Coca airfield and taken to the bank of the river Napo for the two hour journey by motorised canoe to the Lodge.
Once you arrive and settle into your room you will have a programme of daily guided excursions and walks to experience the exuberance of the Amazon rainforest.
The rates include all meals and a choice of guided tours by foot or canoe.
Quito - 1 Night
Day 7 - Return to Quito
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Friday, 20 December 2024
Return to Quito
Transfer by riverboat to Coca airport for your flight to Quito for a 1-night stay.
Rincon Puembo
Quito - Tourist Hotel
The Rincon de Puembo is located 20 minutes from Quito's new airport, in the small town of Puembo, making it ideal for travellers having to overnight in between flights. The accommodation is all found in a replica colonial-style street, with wonderful traditional touches. Perfect for relaxing by the pool and taking a rest stop from your Ecuadorean itinerary.
Casa San Marcos
Quito - First Boutique
Almost hidden away in the Old Town of Quito, this restored mansion houses a hotel which is part art gallery, part antiquarian, part restaurant. Its spacious gallery has many pieces by national and international artists. The six rooms are comfortably and stylishly furnished, all with private bathroom. the hotel also commands excellent views of the "Panecillo" one of Quito's great landmarks. The hotel restaurant serves Ecuadorean delights as well as Mediterranean cuisine.
Casa Gangotena
Quito - Deluxe Hotel
Situated in a newly-restored historic mansion overlooking Plaza San Francisco in the heart of the Old Town, the three-story Casa Gangotena has 31 luxury rooms: a showcase of eye catching style, contemporary design, antiques, furnishings, fine dining, modern technologies and quintessential comforts. Beautifully and eclectically appointed, the hotel invites its guests to explore and to relax, whether in the dining room, glassed-in patio, garden redolent with the perfume of native flowers, wood-panelled library, or else atop its panoramic third-floor terrace. Sophisticated and eclectic, historic yet contemporary, at Casa Gangotena style, passion and service blend seamlessly and delightfully.
The hotel includes several 'experiences' for its guests at no extra cost, including San Francisco’s courtyards & Brewery, Museo del Carmen Alto, San Fransisco Choir & Bell Tower and Chocolate Quiteno tasting.
Rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Avenue of the Volcanoes - 1 Night
Day 8 - Experience Cotopaxi Volcano
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Saturday, 21 December 2024
Experience Cotopaxi Volcano
Your journey continues as we head for the hills to explore the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes' and most particularly, the perfectly formed cone-shaped Cotopaxi Volcano which rises to a height of 5,897 metres. The volcano is set in the wild treeless páramo of the Cotopaxi National Park with stunning views. We stop at an Indian village where local weavers demonstrate their skills on the traditional shuttle looms and continue to Riobamba to enjoy its thermal springs surrounded by stunning scenery. Lunch is included today.
Hacienda El Porvenir
The Avenue of Volcanoes, Cotopaxi & Riobamba - Tourist Hacienda
Only one and a half hours drive from Quito, Hacienda El Porvenir is the ideal spot to explore Cotopaxi Volcano and its surroundings. Located in Cotopaxi National Park, the farmhouse is 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) above sea level surrounded by four volcanoes. El Porvenir is a working ranch with local produce served in the dining room. Other public facilities include a spa, stables and many activities to enjoy.
El Porvenir has 22 suites and rooms of three different types: suites, traditional and low cost glamping. The heated rooms have king, queen or twin beds, private bathroom, minibar, FREE WI-FI (the internet coverage is not reliable) - and breakfast is included. Glamping rooms are simple and with shared bathrooms.
Activities/tours available:
General tours: 3 summit volcano challenge, 4 nights/5 days; Cotopaxi National Park Full day tour.
Mountain Biking: full day tour; Volcano ride, 4 nights/5 days; Volcano advanced, 3 nights/4 days; Volcano 2 nights/3 days.
Horse riding: full day tour; Chagras Way horse riding tour 4 nights/5 days.
Multi adventure (combination of trekking, horse riding and mountain biking): Cotopaxi exploration 3 nights/4 days; Highland family, 4 nights/ 5 days; The Condor Path, 1 night/2 days; Volcano, 2 nights/3 days; Volcano, 2 nights/3 days.
Trekking and climbing: 3 summit challenge, 4 nights/5 days; Lodge to lodge trek, 3 nights/4 days; Volcano trek, 5 nights/6 days.
The rates are on a bed and breakfast basis or choose an all-inclusive activity package - please ask us for details.
Cuenca - 3 Nights
Day 9 - Devil's Nose Railway, Ingapirca and Cuenca
Day 10 - The Gualaceo Valley
Day 11 - Guided tour of Cuenca
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Sunday, 22 December 2024
Ingapirca and Cuenca
Today we journey south to Cuenca, a charming colonial city, embraced by silent mountains. On the way ride on the jaw dropping Devil's Nose Railway through the most spectacular scenery and we stop at the small Inca archaeological site of Ingapirca. We also enjoy an included lunch.
Monday, 23 December 2024
The Gualaceo Valley
A full day of exploration to the fertile Gualaceo Valley and Chordeleg, passing remote villages and farmsteads amidst quite beautiful gently rolling hills. Lunch is also included today.
Tuesday, 24 December 2024
Guided tour of Cuenca
Morning guided tour of Cuenca including a visit to a Panama Hat factory and the elegant La Inmaculada Cathedral. After an included lunch, the rest of the day is at leisure enjoying this charming colonial town.
Mansion Alcazar Boutique Hotel
Cuenca - Luxury Hotel
The Mansion Alcazar Boutique Hotel is quite simply the best hotel in Cuenca. Located in the historic centre, it is one of only a few hotels that retain private gardens. The building has a rich history and was beautifully renovated in 2001 by the present owners.
Public facilities include a bar, lounge and the elegant Casa Alonso Restaurant offers the best Ecuadorian and International Cuisine. The exclusive spa is the ideal place to relax, rest and enjoy a selection of massages and skin-wellness treatments. The gardens are beautifully kept and a super place to relax.
There are 23 rooms and suites, either garden or patio facing. Each room and suite is individual and decorated differently. They are equipped with comfortable and colonial-style furnishings, TV, digital telephone system, safe deposit box, elegant bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, quality amenities and accessories.
The rates are on a bed and breakfast basis including afternoon English tea.
Guayaquil - 1 Night
Day 12 - Cajas National Park and Guayaquil
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Wednesday, 25 December 2024
Cajas National Park and Guayaquil
We drive through evergreen cloud forests to Cajas National Park, with many lakes, lagoons and rich wildlife including Andean condors, giant hummingbirds and raccoon-like coatis. After an included lunch, we continue to Guayaquil where we check into our hotel for a 1-night stay.
Hacienda La Danesa
Guayaquil - First Hacienda
Located an hours drive from Guayaquil, Hacienda La Danesa is an excellent way to begin or end your journey in Ecuador if you prefer the untamed countryside to staying in Guayaquil. Owned by the Olsen Peet family, the Hacienda has many lovely touches including a relaxing spa, beautifully designed rooms and many rural activities to enjoy.
Public facilities include a dining room, spa, bar and well kept gardens. The Hacienda also has its own 500 hectare working farm and uses the organic produce in the ingredients for delicious Ecuadorean dishes served every day. A swimming pool is opening in late 2019.
The 6 rooms are a mix of restored stables, heritage bedrooms, a garden cottage and a family garden cottage. Each air-conditioned has private bathroom, binoculars, private hammock, mini bar, coffee machine and a yoga mat. Fresh coffee and fruit juice is delivered to your room each morning.
Included activities to enjoy include tubing, guided walks, cycling and milking on the farm. Other optional activities include horse riding, chocolate making classes and a wellness programme.
The rates are on a bed and breakfast basis and include soft drinks.
Galapagos Cruise - 7 Nights
Day 13 - Fly to the Galapagos Islands for 7-night cruise
Days 14-19 - Galapagos cruise with daily guided excursions
Day 20 - Return to UK
Day 21 - Arrive in the UK
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Thursday, 26 December 2024
Fly to the Galapagos Islands for 7-night cruise
Take a domestic flight to the Galapagos Islands, where you transfer to your chosen ship, either the tourist class Cachalote Explorer or the superior first class Beluga. Both cruise ships include full board accommodation with daily excursions from knowledgable local naturalists.
Friday, 27 December 2024
Galapagos cruise with daily guided excursions
Enjoy the next 6 days exploring the incredible environment of the Galapagos. Observe basking marine iguanas, waved albatrosses, blue and red footed boobies, 500lb tortoises and friendly sea lions. The wildlife lives here without fear of humans; in fact you feel like you are a guest in their natural home. Every morning and afternoon enjoy guided excursions and activities including walking tours of each island visited, swimming with sea lions and snorkelling. Our expert naturalist will guide you to ensure you see as much friendly wildlife as possible and return home with unforgettable memories.
Saturday, 28 December 2024
Daily guided excursions
Sunday, 29 December 2024
Daily guided excursions
Monday, 30 December 2024
Daily guided excursions
Tuesday, 31 December 2024
Daily guided excursions
Wednesday, 01 January 2025
Daily guided excursions
Thursday, 02 January 2025
Return to UK
Fly back to the mainland and connect with your return overnight flight home.
Friday, 03 January 2025
Arrive in the UK
Arrive in the UK in the morning.
Cachalote Explorer
Galapagos Islands - Tourist Motor Yacht
Enjoy the small ship experience of cruising from island to island, getting close to the shore, feel the breeze and listening to the sea. After the morning and afternoon landings ashore, you can enjoy the spacious sundeck areas, sunbathe and admire the sea lions playing around you.
The Cachalote Explorer accommodates up to 16 passengers in 8 air conditioned double cabins, all with private bathroom facilities. There is a crew of 9 including your Galapagos Naturalist Guide that will take you on daily excursions.
Beluga
Galapagos Islands - First Motor Yacht
The M/Y Beluga is a spacious and comfortable superior first class motor yacht accommodating up to 16 passengers in 8 double cabins. One of these has an additional berth which becomes a triple room which is ideal for families.
Beluga is fully air-conditioned, has spacious social areas with all the comforts and facilities of a superior first class Galapagos yacht, including panoramic windows in the lounge and dining area and a large sundeck for relaxing, sightseeing or sunbathing.
Enjoy daily excursions ashore led by expert naturalist guides, fascinating evening talks and explorations by dinghy.
Ocean Spray
Galapagos Islands - Luxury Catamaran
The Mega-Catamaran Ocean Spray cruises at 15 knots, one of fastest cruising speeds in the Galapagos. Add to this cabins with private balconies and the luxury of space for relaxation and al fresco dining and you will be smitten. The vessel features beautifully upgraded public areas and cabins, offering a contemporary and luxury on board experience.
Accommodating a maximum of just 16 guests, the elegant design includes a huge sundeck with teak flooring and a jacuzzi. On the main deck, enjoy fabulous cuisine in a stunning dining room, relax in the lounge - and enjoy a drink at the bar on the upper deck.
Ocean Spray offers a good choice of itineraries, from a 4 day introduction to the Galapagos to a 15 day mega cruise where you'll thoroughly explore the Galapagos from end-to-end.
The fully air-conditioned cabins are also spacious, each very well appointed as you would expect for a luxury ship, with private bathroom with shower, twin or double bed and your own private balcony looking out to sea.
Included in the price is use of wet suits, snorkelling equipment and the on board kayaks, further enhancing your enjoyment and experience. In summary, the Ocean Spray offers exceptional comfort and service in a stylish, relaxed atmosphere.
Price Guidelines
Season | Low Season | High Season | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Travel Dates | 1 Jan-30 June, 6 Sept-15 Dec | 1 July - 5 Sep, 16 Dec - 31 Dec | ||
Room Arrangement | Tourist | First | Tourist | First |
Multiple Travellers - Twin Room | £8,231 | £9,770 | £8,553 | £10,040 |
Single Traveller - Own Room | £10,653 | £12,817 | £10,143 | £13,812 |
Prices are a guideline per person, for travel within the next year and booking early and are subject to availability. Please see below what is included and request a detailed quotation with a guaranteed price for your specific departure date and for Special Events, Summer, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.
What's Included
- 21 Days / 19 Nights
- International flights (1 overnight)
- Internal flights
- Accommodation as shown on the itinerary
- 19 breakfasts, 15 lunches and 15 dinners
- 7-night Galapagos Islands cruise including daily excursions
- Transfers to and from airports
- Transport throughout the itinerary
- Excursions listed, all with expert, English-speaking guides
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