SAMPLE TOURS
Galapagos and Amazon Biodiversity Adventure
20 days
$3,600* pp
Visiting Galápagos, Ecuador, & the Amazon
Base Hotel Areas:
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island
Puerto Baquerizo, San Cristóbal Island
Puerto Velasco Ibarra, Floreana Island
Puerto Villamil, Isabela Island
Ecuador highlands
Amazon jungle
Trip Highlights
11-nights in the Galápagos Islands
Accompanied by a top naturalist
All mainland logistics taken care of!
3-nights Amazon jungle
Itinerary Summary
Day 1. Arrival in Quito
Day 2. Papallacta Day Tour
Day 3. To the Jungle
Day 4. Jungle
Day 5. Jungle
Day 6. Jungle - Quito
Day 7. Flight to San Cristóbal, Galápagos
Day 8. Cristobal Highlands
Day 9. Cristobal Northern Coast
Day 10. Floreana - Isabela
Day 11. In and around Puerto Villamil
Day 12. Isabela - Sierra Negra Volcano
Day 13. Isabela - Santa Cruz
Day 14. North Seymour & Bachas
Day 15. Bartolome Island
Day 16. CDRS & Highlands
Day 17. Volunteer Day
Day 18. Flight to Quito
Day 19. Otavalo Day Tour
Day 20. Depart Ecuador
For a deeper look at this adventure, please read the detailed itinerary below.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Quito
Welcome to the Adventure! Your journey begins as soon as you touch down in the vibrant city of Quito.
After a warm greeting at the airport, you'll be whisked away to your hotel, where the excitement of the days ahead will start to build. Rest up - tomorrow, the exploration begins!
Day 2: Old Quito & the Equatorial Line
Today, we journey over the Andes to the thermal springs of Papallacta, with chances to spot condors, spectacled bears, and stunning highland wildlife. After enjoying the springs and nature walks, we quickly descend into the start of the Eastern cloud forest, where vibrant hummingbirds and diverse bird species await.
Day 3: Into the Heart of the Amazon
The Jungle Awaits! A short morning flight takes you to Coca, where your Amazon adventure begins. Glide down the Napo River on a motorized canoe, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.
As you arrive at Yasuni National Park, your senses will be on high alert. After a hearty lunch, your naturalist guide will lead you on your first jungle trek - an exhilarating start to your Amazonian journey.
Day 4-5: Jungle Immersion
Adventure in the Wild! These two days are packed with exploration as you delve deeper into the mysteries of the Amazon.
From canoeing through hidden lagoons to spotting exotic wildlife and learning the secrets of the jungle from your guide, every moment will bring new thrills. The jungle is alive with color and sound, and you'll be right in the heart of it all.
Day 6: Return to Quito
A Morning of Magic! Rise early to soak in the last of the jungle’s magic before heading back to Quito.
By midday, you’ll be back in the city, with time to relax and relive the incredible memories you’ve just made.
Day 7: Flight to the Galápagos – San Cristobal
Off to the Enchanted Islands! Your adventure continues as you fly to the Galápagos Islands. Upon arrival in San Cristobal, your top-notch naturalist guide will welcome you.
After a delicious lunch, dive into the fascinating history at the Interpretation Center and snorkel at Cerro Tijeretas, where you’ll encounter your first taste of Galápagos marine life.
Day 8: Highlands of San Cristobal
A Day with Giants! Journey to the lush highlands of San Cristobal, where giant tortoises roam in their semi-natural habitat.
After a farm-fresh lunch, head back to the coast for an unforgettable snorkeling experience at La Loberia, where sea lions and marine iguanas play in the surf.
Day 9: Northern Coast Adventure
Sailing to Wonders! Set sail for Isla Lobos, where frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies abound.
Your journey continues to the stunning Playa Puerto Grande and concludes with a snorkel at Kicker Rock - a dramatic volcanic formation rising from the sea. This is a day of natural beauty that will leave you breathless.
Day 10: Explore Floreana – Arrive at Isabela
Embark on a 2.5-hour speedboat ride to Floreana Island, where history and natural wonders collide.
Explore pirate caves, uncover a true crime mystery, and snorkel along vibrant coastlines.
Afterward, enjoy another scenic 2.5-hour journey to Isabela Island, where you’ll settle into your base for the next few days of adventure.
Day 11: In and around Puerto Villamil
Start your day with a refreshing pre-breakfast snorkel at Concha de Perla. After breakfast, visit the Tortoise Breeding Centre and walk past flamingo lagoons. In the afternoon, explore Tintoreras by boat and foot, spotting penguins, turtles, and sharks, followed by an exciting snorkel among lava formations.
Day 12: Sierra Negra Volcano Adventure
Volcanic Wonders! Venture to the summit of Sierra Negra Volcano, boasting the world’s second-largest crater. Hike along the rim, witnessing awe-inspiring views and recent volcanic activity. Afterward, unwind on Isabela’s serene beaches—a perfect end to an adventurous day.
Day 13: Isabela to Santa Cruz
A Journey of Contrast! Enjoy a final snorkel in Isabela’s lagoons before making your way to Santa Cruz.
Upon arrival, you’ll explore Tortuga Bay, a pristine beach surrounded by towering cacti and home to a myriad of wildlife.
Day 14: North Seymour and Bachas Beach
A Wildlife Wonderland! Embark on a journey to North Seymour, where you’ll encounter a dazzling array of wildlife, from land iguanas to blue-footed boobies.
After a walk through this natural haven, relax on the powdery sands of Bachas Beach, with a chance to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.
Day 15: Bartolome Island
Crown Jewel of the Galápagos! Today’s destination is the iconic Bartolome Island, known for its spectacular volcanic landscape.
Snorkel with playful Galápagos penguins and marvel at the dramatic vistas that define the Galápagos experience.
Day 16: Charles Darwin Research Station & Highlands
Conservation in Action! Learn about the critical conservation efforts at the CDRS, and see the saddleback tortoises and hatchlings at the breeding center.
Then, head to the highlands to witness giant tortoises in their natural habitat, explore volcanic craters, and walk through ancient lava tubes—remnants of the islands’ fiery past.
Day 17: Volunteer Day
Giving Back to Paradise! Experience the satisfaction of contributing to the preservation of these incredible islands.
Spend the day volunteering with a local conservation project, helping to protect native plants and combat invasive species.
Day 18: Return to Quito
A Last Glimpse of Paradise! Cross the islands one last time as you make your way to the airport for your flight back to Quito.
Upon arrival, settle into your hostel and savor the memories of your Galápagos adventure.
Day 19: Otavalo Day Tour
A Cultural Feast for the Senses! Journey north to the bustling market town of Otavalo, where vibrant colors, sounds, and smells fill the air.
Explore the largest indigenous market in South America, discover hidden gems in surrounding villages, and enjoy a delightful lunch in a charming colonial house.
Day 20: Depart Ecuador
Farewell to Adventure! As you board your flight, take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary journey you’ve just completed.
From the Amazon jungle to the enchanted Galápagos Islands, Ecuador has left an indelible mark on your soul. Until next time!
What's included?
Included
Hostel-type accommodation with 1-4 beds per room, meals for each day in the detailed itinerary, airport transfers and guides.
Not Included
$200 Galápagos National Park entrance fee, $20 airport transit fee, roundtrip airfare between your home, Quito and Galápagos, some meals as indicated in the itinerary, tips for yacht crews, guides, naturalists, laundry, beverages not with the meal, excess baggage charges, or other items of a personal nature. Price also excludes any insurance coverage for trip cancellation/interruption, MedEvac Emergency Insurance, travel accident, travel delay, baggage delay or baggage theft (we recommend you obtain coverage for these)