Experience Ecuador Tour

Upon arrival at Quito Airport, you’ll meet your guide who will transfer you to your hotel. Nestled among Andean peaks, Quito is the world’s second-highest capital and boasts one of the most breathtaking settings globally. Originally settled by the Quitu tribe in the first millennium, Quito played a significant role in the Inca Empire before being destroyed and re-founded by Spanish conquistador Sebastián de Benalcázar in 1534.

The colonial center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, is one of the largest and best-preserved in Latin America, home to excellent museums, churches, and art galleries.

Photo: PatricioHidalgoP

Your day begins with exploring the vibrant streets and squares of the largest historical center in the Americas in a unique adventure for the senses. Together, we will uncover the traditions, history, and local life of this enchanting city.

Our route takes us along the Street of the Seven Crosses, offering views of old colonial homes and churches on our way to Independence Square, where the Government Palace is located.

Photo: Facebook – San José de El Poblado

As we continue through these historic streets, you’ll have the chance to meet a local family that makes a living by creating traditional sweets known as colaciones.

We’ll delve deeper into the heart of Quito, passing by historic buildings made of volcanic stone. The stunning views of the sculpted Church of the Company will make you long to explore its interiors.

To learn more about this and other churches, we’ll visit the workshops of the master craftsmen from “The Escuela Quiteña.” These artists preserve the secrets of colonial art in Quito’s churches and museums and are responsible for restoring altars and paintings in these historic gems. They will share their techniques with us and allow us to try our hand at creating our crafts.

Our next stop will be La Ronda, a historical and bohemian neighborhood of the city. Known for its association with art, crafts, gastronomy, and entertainment, it is also the oldest street in Quito.

Here, we’ll also visit a traditional coffee shop to sample some intriguing ice cream flavors or a traditional sweet, depending on the weather.

Finally, you’ll visit the “Panecillo” hillside, which offers breathtaking views of both the old and modern city, surrounded by the rolling Andes Mountains. At the top stands one of Quito’s most iconic monuments: the Panecillo Virgin. Built from nearly seven thousand pieces of aluminum, this Virgin Mary is unique for its wings—making it the only Virgin Mary with wings in the world.

As part of the Quito Six Senses City Tour, you’ll visit the “Equatorial Line” complex. Located at latitude 0º 0’0”, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to straddle both hemispheres or hop between them in the blink of an eye.

The monument is the centerpiece of a park with gift shops and restaurants. The site holds significant importance in Andean solar-based cosmovision, recognized by ancient Andean people thousands of years ago. The Ethnographic Museum at the complex provides a comprehensive overview of Ecuador’s diverse cultures and geography.

At the end of the day, you’ll return to your hotel.

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Photo: jkraft5

After a well-deserved rest and a lovely breakfast, you’ll meet your guide again, this time to embark on an adventure into the jungle.

First, you’ll visit Guango Lodge, a small tourist facility surrounded by 180 hectares of temperate forest with diverse bird species. Located at 2,700 meters, you’ll enjoy a short hike with fantastic views and photo opportunities of the 15 species of hummingbirds that frequent the area.

Next, you’ll visit the natural springs of Papallacta, situated between the Andes and the Amazon. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the beautiful Antisana Mountain while relaxing in the hot springs, which are included in this visit.

After lunch, you’ll head to Hakuna Matata in Napo Province. This private hacienda covers approximately 150 hectares and offers a wide range of activities. Upon arrival, the staff will assist with your luggage and provide a complimentary welcome drink and dinner at the renowned Pangaea Restaurant.

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© Expedia

After an early wake-up, you’ll leave the lodge with your guide at 5:30 am for a day filled with adventure. You’ll drive to the tranquil Arajuno River, a branch of the Napo River, where you’ll board a canoe.

The Arajuno River winds through the forest, passing high shores lush with vegetation. As you observe birds, you’ll appreciate the serene, less-traveled nature of the river. The sight of egrets, red-rumped caciques, tanagers, and more species will be awe-inspiring.

After disembarking from the canoe, there will be a short walk to a salt lick that attracts birds. It’s recommended to bring binoculars to observe the birds landing on trees and making their way to the salt lick. You may also spot free-living monkeys, though their noises might scare the birds away. If it rains, your guide will adjust the itinerary accordingly.

Photo: Mark Alexander

Following birdwatching, your guide will take you to the Santa Bárbara indigenous community, home to 23 families totaling up to 120 inhabitants. The community leader will introduce you to various traditions, including the production of “Chicha,” a traditional drink that you can sample once it’s finished. You’ll then enjoy a jungle buffet prepared by the community, featuring local specialties such as carachama and catfish, smallmouth fish, roasted chontacuro, yucca, ripe plantain, the heart of palm salad, guayusa leaf tea, fruits, and cocoa. All ingredients are freshly picked or caught and prepared on-site.

If you’re still hungry, the guide will provide sandwiches and fruit for later. Energized by this organic meal, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the community’s culture through traditional dances performed by children, try your hand with a blowgun and spear, and see the impressive Ceibo tree with its enormous roots. You can also purchase crafts made by the community, with the proceeds going to their communal fund for buying canoe parts, feathers, fabrics, and other items.

After a brief farewell from the community leader, you’ll head to the expansive 2,500-hectare Jatun Sacha Reserve. This incredible protected area features a tropical forest where you’ll discover flora and fauna, such as bamboo and walking palm trees that move up to 10 centimeters per year. Following a 1.5-hour canoe ride, you’ll return by car to the small town of Misahuallí, where you’ll enjoy a typical lunch and a short walk on the beach to see several capuchin monkeys.

You’ll then return to the hotel to relax and enjoy a three-course dinner.

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Photo: © Hakuna Matata

Today, you’ll partake in a Chocolate Tour, learning to produce authentic chocolate from bean to bar. While it was traditionally believed that cocoa domestication began in Mesoamerica (Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras) around 2,000 BC, recent studies indicate that at least one variety of Theobroma cacao originated in the Upper Amazon (Ecuador) and has been used in the region for over 5,000 years.

On this tour, you’ll start with this variety of Theobroma cacao. You’ll open, smell, and taste the pure fruit from the cocoa beans and, after the entire process, end up with the “brown gold.”

Upon returning to the lodge, you can relax by the pool, in a hammock with a cocktail, or continue exploring the area by walking or horseback riding. In the evening, another three-course meal will await you in a special jungle atmosphere.

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Photo: aedkais

After a hearty breakfast at Hakuna Matata Lodge, you’ll continue to Baños, a valley renowned for its waterfalls and hot springs. Baños has become a hub for international travelers seeking temperate weather, a small-town atmosphere, and a base for exploring Ecuador’s great outdoors.

Named for its famous hot springs and thermal baths, Baños offers activities ranging from waterfall visits to horseback riding. Don’t miss the active Tungurahua volcano, visible from anywhere in Baños. You’ll take a short tour and visit the city center. Later, you’ll embark on a waterfall route, including Agoyán, Heaven’s Door (Puertas del Cielo), Wedding Veil (Manto de la Novia), Devil’s Cauldron (Pailón del Diablo), Machay, and more.

You’ll then travel to Riobamba for a memorable experience at ShamuiCo, a restaurant dedicated to respecting the flavors of traditional Ecuadorian products. Samuel, the chef and owner, brings his extensive culinary experience from Europe to create exquisite dishes that highlight the traditional products, aromas, and flavors of the Ecuadorian Andes.

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Photo: pajarosvolandophotos

On this day, you will first visit Guamote, a small mountain village located about an hour south of Riobamba. This village is predominantly indigenous, with Kichwa being one of the main languages spoken. Tradition plays a significant role in daily life here, and the market is a vivid example of this.

The market is divided into two parts. The first section is dedicated to large animals such as sheep, cows, bulls, and pigs. In the second part, you’ll find smaller animals like chickens, guinea pigs, rabbits, and piglets. It’s a lively and colorful scene where locals barter and discuss prices.

After you visit the market, you will continue along the Pan-American Highway to Ingapirca, Ecuador’s most significant Inca ruins. Dating back to the 15th century, these ruins include a mix of temples, terraces, and a fortification, believed to have been both a religious and administrative center. A guided tour will provide insights into the historical significance of the site, and a museum offers displays of ceramics and jewelry.

You’ll then head towards Cuenca, where you will spend the night. Cuenca is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and charming ambiance.

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Photo: DanFLCreativo

Cuenca, Ecuador’s third-largest city, is celebrated for its beautiful red-tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, and vibrant plazas. Today, you will embark on a full-day city tour to appreciate the city’s historical and cultural richness.

You will begin with a visit to the Panama Hat Museum, where you will learn that these hats originate from Ecuador, not Panama. Next, explore Cuenca’s Colonial Downtown, including the New Cathedral with its impressive domes and the Abdon Calderón Park.

Following a local lunch, visit Pumapungo Archaeological Park, which showcases the remnants of the ancient Inca city and various pre-Columbian artifacts.

In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to wander Cuenca’s charming streets, visit the Flower Market, or explore the Museum of the Central Bank with its extensive collection of Ecuadorian artifacts.

In the evening, savor a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the diverse experiences of your trip.

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Photo: El País – John Coletti (Getty images)

This morning, you will visit the Gualaceo and Chordeleg communities. Chordeleg is renowned for its jewelry and ceramics, while Gualaceo is known for its traditional Andean folklore. Enjoy exploring these vibrant communities and sampling local cuisine.

After lunch in one of Gualaceo’s traditional restaurants, return to Cuenca for a visit to the Nuns’ Convent. The Religious Art Museum within the convent is celebrated for its collection of religious artworks and artifacts, offering a deep dive into Ecuadorian spiritual and artistic heritage.

The evening is free for you to explore Cuenca’s dining options and enjoy its local cuisine.

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© Casa de La Cultura

After breakfast, you’ll depart for Cajas National Park, renowned for its stunning array of lakes, lagoons, and diverse flora and fauna. Participate in activities such as hiking and bird-watching while exploring this beautiful natural environment. Visit the Interpretation Center at La Toreadora Lake to learn more about the park’s ecology and conservation efforts.

Cajas National Park has been a significant natural corridor since pre-Inca times, and evidence of ancient roads and trading routes can still be found here.

Continue your journey towards Guayaquil, where you will have lunch at a traditional banana and green plantain hacienda, exploring agrotourism and savoring local Pacific Coast cuisine.

Photo: ivstiv

In the evening, you will arrive in Guayaquil, the largest city on the Pacific coast of Ecuador. Start your visit at the Historic Park, which recreates different habitats from the region’s past. Next, visit Malecon Simon Bolivar and the historical Las Peñas neighborhood, known for its colorful wooden houses and panoramic views from Santa Ana Hill.

Then, you will head up to your hotel.

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Photo: DanFLCreativo

Today, after breakfast, you will be greeted by your guide, who will transfer you to Guayaquil Airport in time for your Galapagos flight and to board the Galapagos Seaman Journey Cruise.

AM: FLIGHT TO GALAPAGOS

You will fly to the Galapagos Islands today. As per Galapagos regulations, a fee of $20 USD is required for the migration control card. Upon arrival in San Cristobal, you must pass through an inspection point at the airport to ensure that no foreign plants or animals are introduced to the archipelago. At this point, you will also need to pay for entry to the Galapagos National Park: $100 for foreign passengers and $50 for children under 12 years old. Your guide will then collect your luggage and transport it to the bus. You will reach the Catamaran Seaman Journey via a motorized boat known as a panga

PM: SAN CRISTOBAL, INTERPRETATION CENTER

The Interpretation Center features lush gardens and breathtaking ocean views. Here, visitors can learn about the geological and human history of the islands, as well as conservation and natural history. As the oldest Natural History museum in the Galapagos, it aims to preserve the archipelago and is both inspiring and educational.

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Photo: DanFLCreativo

AM: SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND, GALAPAGUERA

You will make a brief visit to the Galapaguera, a great spot to observe Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat. San Cristobal Island is home to endemic species such as the Mockingbird (Nesomimus melanotis), lava lizard (Microlophus bivittatus), Chatham Leaf-toed Gecko (Phyllodactylus leei), and tortoises. This area features a large beach that serves as a nesting zone for marine tortoises. From January to May, you may see the tracks of female tortoises who have climbed the dunes to lay their eggs.

PM: CERRO BRUJO

Cerro Brujo is a stunning white coral beach where you can swim, watch birds and sea lions, and snorkel. This was the first coast Charles Darwin visited in 1835. The lava landscape is home to seabirds like blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, herons, frigate birds, and shorebirds. The protected bay is known for its young tortoises that swim around.

Photo: marktucan

AM: ESPAÑOLA ISLAND, GARDNER BAY

Located on the northeastern coast of Hood, Gardner Bay boasts an excellent beach for relaxing, swimming, kayaking, and spotting sea lions (Zalophus wollebaki). In the crystal-clear waters, you may also see sharks. This area is home to three species of Darwin’s finches: a subspecies of the large-billed cactus finch (Geospiza fuliginosa), the small-beaked ground finch (Geospiza fuliginosa), and the singing finch (Certhidea olivacea). Both resident and migratory birds can be observed here.

PM: SUAREZ POINT

Suarez Point is ideal for spotting blue-footed boobies, albatrosses, and Nazca boobies. This oceanfront site is where large waved albatrosses use the cliffs as launching pads. The highlight of this area is the impressive blowhole, which shoots water up to 75 meters high, providing excellent photo opportunities.

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Photo: SL_Photography

AM: CORMORANT POINT, CHAMPION ISLET

Cormorant Point features one of the best flamingo lagoons in the Galapagos and is among the largest on the islands. It is situated between two tuff lava cones, creating a unique atmosphere. Besides flamingos, you can observe various shorebirds such as common stilts and white-cheeked pintail ducks. The two distinct beaches here are “The Green Beach,” which has a high olivine crystal content, and the “Flour Sand Beach,” composed of coral. Following a fascinating walk, you’ll visit Champion Islet, an excellent spot for snorkeling and observing underwater wildlife, including sea turtles, sea lions, and numerous fish near the coral reef.

PM: POST OFFICE BAY

Historically, Post Office Bay was the site of a wooden barrel placed in the 18th century by the crew of a whaling ship. Since then, it has been used by sailors and tourists as a post office. The idea is to hand-deliver letters or postcards to their intended destinations. This site also served as the landing area for some of the first colonists. The afternoon here is meant for relaxation on the beach and enjoying the beauty of the Galapagos.

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Photo: stockcam

While most visitors come to the Galapagos to marvel at its natural wonders, it’s also valuable to learn about the islands’ protection and conservation efforts. This experience offers insight into these aspects and a deeper connection with nature. After the morning excursion, you will be transferred to Baltra Airport for your flight to the mainland. Upon arrival in Guayaquil, you will be transported to your city hotel.

Photo: Alexis Penot

After a delightful breakfast, depending on your flight time, you will be taken to the airport for your international connection.

Photo: ampueroleonardo