Ecuador In Style
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
The smallest of the Andean countries, Ecuador nevertheless punches well above its weight. Straddling the equator, this tiny gem is packed with cloud forests and snow-capped mountains, shimmering jungles and colonial cities. With UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Amazonian rainforests and the unique wildlife of the Galapagos on offer, it is perfect for adventurers of all interests.
In Quito you’ll get a chance to explore its colonial wonders and the importance of chocolate production ...
The smallest of the Andean countries, Ecuador nevertheless punches well above its weight. Straddling the equator, this tiny gem is packed with cloud forests and snow-capped mountains, shimmering jungles and colonial cities. With UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Amazonian rainforests and the unique wildlife of the Galapagos on offer, it is perfect for adventurers of all interests.
In Quito you’ll get a chance to explore its colonial wonders and the importance of chocolate production to Ecuador's history, before heading west to the award-winning Mashpi Lodge, set within an incredible cloud forest. There will then be a chance for air-biking, swimming and night safaris before returning to Quito. Continue to Otavalo and stay at Hacienda Zuleta to discover the area on horseback and the conservation work carried out there, as well as meet an artist in an indigenous art workshop and a local resident in a cooking class.
The second part of the adventure then takes you to the remarkable Galapagos Islands, one of the world's most biodiverse places, for a luxury cruise. Home to giant Galapagos tortoises and marine iguanas, you will get a chance walk alongside them and swim with penguins and sea lions whilst taking a tour of the fascinating Charles Darwin Research Station. Then, spend two nights on land at one of National Geographic's Unique Lodges of the World before ending the incredible 15-day adventure.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Stay in characterful, eco and luxury accommodations including a Galapagos cruise
- Explore Otavalo market, one of the most famous and largest indigenous markets Latin America
- Bicycle through the forest canopy and get close to hummingbirds and giant butterflies in the cloud forest
- Dodge sea lions and aquatic turtles as you snorkel in the marine life-rich waters of the Galapagos
- Discover how master weaver Miguel Andrango creates indigenous art in his workshop in Otavalo
- Learn to cook traditional meals in a local home of the Zuleta community
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: ARRIVE QUITO
DAY 1: ARRIVE QUITO
Upon your arrival in Quito you will be welcomed at the airport and escorted to your hotel. Take this evening to rest and acclimatise to the altitude (2,800m)
DAY 2: QUITO
DAY 2: QUITO
Today you will explore the city's beautifully ornate and well-preserved old town. The tour starts with a visit to the impressive gothic-style basilica church before walking through the main colonial plazas filled with palaces, cathedrals and monasteries. Then visit the hill in the south, where you will see the Our Lady of the Panecillo statue and wonderful views of the city. In the afternoon, experience Ecuador’s history of cocoa and a chocolate tasting at Republica del Cacao, who preserve authentic and sustainable chocolate production.
DAY 3: QUITO - MASHPI
DAY 3: QUITO - MASHPI
You will be met and transferred to Mashpi Lodge this morning. Your journey will flank the equatorial line and then continue downhill and along windy roads, passing the archaeological site of Tulipe and various farming communities. Mashpi is more than a five-star lodge, it was conceived and planned to provide unique travel experiences to complement this extraordinarily biodiverse corner of the world, now protected as a nature reserve. Spend your days at Mashpi taking part in the numerous activities on offer; all activities are included in your stay.
DAY 4: MASHPI
DAY 4: MASHPI
Why not spend today visiting the Butterfly Life Center, walking the ‘Howler Monkey Trail’ to reach it. Your naturalist guide will share their extensive knowledge with you. Return to the lodge and soak in the jacuzzi or enjoy a relaxing massage before embarking on a night safari, learning about the use of camera traps in the area.
DAY 5: MASHPI
DAY 5: MASHPI
Today you can experience the cloud forest canopy in a new perspective. Mashpi’s ‘Air Bicycle’ allows two people to pedal along an elevated cable, crossing a river and ravine. Following the 20-minute bike ride, you can explore more trails to find waterfalls, an observation tower and the 32 species of hummingbird that inhabit the forest.
DAY 6: MASHPI - ZULETA VALLEY
DAY 6: MASHPI - ZULETA VALLEY
Your last morning at Mashpi allows time to explore more forest trails or simply relax. You will then be driven to your hotel near Otavalo, armed with a packed lunch. Check into your hacienda and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. This is a stunning 17th century hotel and a working farm belonging to former Ecuadorian President Galo Plaza Lasso and his family. Visit mountain lakes and vistas on ranch’s own breed of horses, find hidden trails with centuries of history by foot or bike, see and learn about endangered species at the Condor Huasi facilities or take up a local embroidery class.
DAY 7: ZULETA VALLEY
DAY 7: ZULETA VALLEY
Today you will visit the Indian market in Otavalo, famous for its craft work. The market is held every day on one of the town squares at the foot of the majestic Mt. Imbabura. Your guide will provide you with a map of the market for your own exploration before taking you to Agato where you will meet the master weaver Miguel Andrango in his workshop, whose indigenous art has exhibited in the United States. He will show you how he spins and naturally dyes Alpaca wool to sue in his artwork.
DAY 8: ZULETA VALLEY - QUITO
DAY 8: ZULETA VALLEY - QUITO
After a leisurely morning at the hacienda, later enjoy a cooking class at a local’s home in the Zuleta community, where your host will also share stories of their life and home. In the afternoon, you will be transferred back to Quito.
DAY 9: QUITO - GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
DAY 9: QUITO - GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
You will be taken to Quito airport for your flight to Baltra. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the harbour to board your luxury Galapagos cruise ship. The ‘Endemic’ has only 8 suites and is maintained to highest standards seen in the Galapagos by twelve crew and staff including a naturalist guide. Spend the afternoon hiking Dragon Hill on Santa Cruz Island and snorkelling offshore.
DAY 10: GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
DAY 10: GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
The plan for today is to explore the beaches, waters and rock formations of San Cristobal Island. Kayak, snorkel and hike today in search of sea lions, hammerhead sharks, reef fish, sea turtles and flycatchers.
DAY 11: GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
DAY 11: GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Today will be spent around Española Island, home to fantastic snorkelling spots, white-sand beaches and the majestic waved albatross (April–Jan). There is also the chance to see blue-footed boobies and nazca boobies here.
DAY 12: GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
DAY 12: GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Santa Fe Island is a small, yet memorable island and this morning will be spent hiking it in search of the Santa Fe rice rat and prickly cacti. The next spot is Santa Cruz Island, most famous for hosting the Charles Darwin Station and Fausto Llerena Breeding Center. Discover how Galapagos tortoises are bred here and released into the wild in order to save this endemic species.
DAY 13: GALAPAGOS CRUISE – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND (GALAPAGOS)
DAY 13: GALAPAGOS CRUISE – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND (GALAPAGOS)
The ship takes us to South Plaza Island this morning, occupied by a healthy population of cacti and marine iguanas, as well as the bright red sesuvium plant. After taking some photos of this otherworldly island, disembark at Santa Cruz Island for your transfer to Finch Bay Lodge, one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World.
DAY 14: SANTA CRUZ ISLAND (GALAPAGOS)
DAY 14: SANTA CRUZ ISLAND (GALAPAGOS)
Today is at leisure. Located on the beachfront of southern Santa Cruz Island, Finch Bay has its own private beach with only 27 rooms. Just a few steps from the lodge are the waters of the Pacific Ocean and mangrove forests, allowing for snorkelling and surfing excursions. The excursions provided are top-notch as they have their own yacht, diving equipment and expert guides. Other activities include cycling and hiking.
DAY 15: SANTA CRUZ ISLAND (GALAPAGOS) - DEPART QUITO
DAY 15: SANTA CRUZ ISLAND (GALAPAGOS) - DEPART QUITO
You will be transferred to Baltra airport this morning for your onward flights.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Hacienda Zuleta, Zuleta Valley
Hacienda Zuleta is a colonial working farm that belongs to the family of Mr. Galo Plaza lasso, a former president of Ecuador. The hacienda has 17 beautifully decorated bedrooms, all with their own fire place; there are antique gardens along with cosy living and reading rooms, offering a peaceful atmosphere. Delicious home cooking and regional cuisine is offered daily. Zuleta Valley is a paradise for outdoor activities and exploration, including riding, hiking, birdwatching, biking and nature walks, as well as the embroidery workshops in Zuleta village, Huasi Condor Project and ancient Caranqui pyramids. The hacienda offers stunning vistas as it lies in the spectacular Andean mountain range of Ecuador at 9,600 feet (2,800 meters) above sea level.
Casa Gangotena, Quito
A beautifully restored colonial house occupying a corner of the capital’s most prominent square, Casa Gangotena offers the ultimate luxury is Quito. The five star hotel retains its colonial heritage with a few contemporary touches. The 31 spacious suites have high ceilings with huge marble bathtubs or shower rooms. The restaurant is only to the public for lunch and afternoon tea so there is a sense of privacy at breakfast and dinner.
Mashpi Lodge, Mindo
A modern luxury lodge set in more than 3,000 acres of cloud forest in northern Ecuador just 2 ½ hours from Quito, Mashpi Lodge is an intimate base from which to explore the biodiversity of this region. The Ecuadorian Chocó is known for being a super-rich area in biodiversity and this gorgeous lodge is an oasis of comfort after having a good hike in the forest. With entire walls made of glass the forest is ever present, as is the comfort and high levels of service. The 22 rooms are spacious with connecting rooms available for families. There are large public areas, a dining room, massage room and a Jacuzzi with panoramic windows looking out to the tranquil environment. This is a birdwatcher’s paradise with the opportunity to take forest walks and visit local communities.
Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, Santa Cruz Island
One of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, the Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel is your base for exploring the Galapagos, whether you are island hopping or taking a cruise. Located on the beachfront of southern Santa Cruz Island, the four-star eco-hotel offers rooms and suites with a neutral palette to match the natural and peaceful setting. With just 27 rooms (6 are beachfront) and its own private beach, it provides an intimate and relaxing option in town. Ocean views are provided in some rooms, but the best views come from the wooden walkways which wind through the Galapagos greenery. The restaurant uses only fresh and sustainable ingredients for its Ecuadorian and international dishes. Only a few steps from the lodge are the waters of the Pacific Ocean and mangrove forests making snorkelling and surfing excursions easy to organise independently. The excursions arranged by the hotel however are top-notch as they have their own yacht, diving equipment and expert guides allowing you to make the most of these incredible islands without venturing too far from the hotel. Other activities include cycling and hiking.
Endemic, Baltra Island
The state-of-the-art ‘Endemic’ luxury yacht first began navigating in the summer of 2018, providing the ultimate experience in Galapagos cruising. Its innovative design means more space on board which can be felt from the large lounge area to the spacious cabins. For some downtime, guests can return to one of eight exquisite suites, which really set the ‘Endemic’ apart. Each panoramic cabin is fully furnished with contemporary décor and features plenty of natural light, floor to ceiling windows and its very own outdoor balcony. As well as the main and upper decks, the ‘Endemic’ vessel also boasts a sky deck where guests can spend their leisure time lounging in the equatorial sun from the sundeck loungers and a jacuzzi or enjoying alfresco dining, succulent barbeques and refreshing drinks. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is maintained to highest standards seen in the Galapagos by twelve crew and staff including a naturalist guide.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED
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WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
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Richard is our Latin America expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
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