(10 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis) Quito, Galapagos, Otavalo Valley
This tour perfectly combines the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands with the fascinating but little-known cultural traditions of mainland Ecuador.
Begin in Quito, which is set in a verdant valley in the Andes mountains. With your private local guide, tour the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s filled with Spanish colonial-era architecture. Explore the most interesting back streets, hidden courtyard gardens and historic churches with spectacular interiors. Visit a workshop where the next generation of artisans train in woodcarving, ironwork, gilding and other traditional crafts. Perhaps shop for a high-quality Panama hat—an Ecuador original—in the best local boutique.
Next, spend five days exploring the Galapagos Islands—a dream destination for nature lovers—on one of our preferred expedition cruises. Each day, tour different islands with an expert naturalist, and get close to giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas and other iconic Galapagos wildlife. See the cycle of life up close, which depending on the season, might include mating rituals, newborns feeding, territorial squabbles, and more. Snorkel among sea turtles, playful sea lions and schools of brightly colored fish. Upon request, we arrange private yacht charters, SCUBA diving and other options in the Galapagos.
Return to mainland Ecuador and spend two nights at a historic hacienda in the beautiful Otavalo region, a bucolic highland landscape of rolling hills, farms and indigenous villages beneath snow-capped volcanic peaks. Visit local indigenous food and craft markets, and stop by select workshops to meet artisans and shop for high-quality handwoven wool textiles, delicate embroidery, leather goods, and other traditional and modern crafts. Dine on special meals at private haciendas and estates. If desired, also enjoy privately guided horseback riding, hiking or mountain biking on private land and through the rural countryside.
Return to Quito for a final night before your return or onward flight.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1
Arrive Quito
Private arrival transfer to hotel for 2 nights
Day 2
Quito
Full-day private touring
Day 3
Quito – Galapagos Islands
Transfer and flight to Galapagos Islands for a 5-day cruise
Days 4-6
Galapagos Islands Cruise-based excursions and activities
Day 7
Galapagos Islands – Quito – Otavalo Valley
Transfer and flight to Quito. Private arrival transfer to hacienda for 2 nights
Day 8
Otavalo Valley
Full-day privately guided activities on site and in environs
Day 9
Otavalo Valley – Quito
Private touring and flexible shopping in local villages and environs. Lunch at hacienda or private estate en route to Quito for 1 night
