Aptly named as it’s bisected by the equator line, Ecuador packs a lot of punch for such a small country. Sandwiched between Peru to the south & Colombia to the north, one can spot parrots in the Amazon on a morning excursion before driving amidst Andean volcanoes, all before enjoying a seafood dinner on the coast.
Quito is truly the heartbeat of the country and the launching point for most of the exciting opportunities available to visitors. The city (along with Krakow, Poland) was the first World Cultural Heritage site declared by UNESCO and it’s easy to see why: the historical center is among the most pristine and well-preserved colonial districts in all of Latin America.
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From Quito, drive into the Sierra to explore 17th century monasteries, churches and plazas. Visit indigenous markets filled with colorful textiles and discover typical foods of the region. Or, enjoy a horseback ride in view the perfectly symmetrical Cotopaxi Volcano.
A trip to Ecuador is not complete without immersing oneself in the natural & wild beauty of the country. Visitors flock to the Galapagos Islands from around the world to observe some of the most unique animal life on display. Here, you can get up close and personal, swimming sea lions, observing the famous giant tortoises, prehistoric marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies and a host of other unusual species both on land and sea. Most visitors opt for a cruise to most efficiently see as much as possible, though hotel-based experiences are possible as well.
The Amazon, located just a quick flight from Quito, allows for visitors the thrill of spotting sloths, monkeys and more with naturalist guides. At night, there’s nothing quite like resting on a hammock, taking in all the sounds of the jungle.
For those looking to maximize their wildlife viewing experience, a combination trip visiting both the Galapagos and the Amazon is certainly the best way to do it!
If you’re looking to check two incredible places off your list in one trip, check out our Machu Picchu & Galapagos combination tour program.
Let’s design your ideal customized trip.
Sample Trips
Galapagos Cruise: 10-Day Itinerary
Situated some 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos archipelago and the surrounding marine reserve have been called a unique “living museum and showcase of evolution”…Continued
10 Days
Machu Picchu & The Galapagos Islands
A perfect combination of two of the most stunning destinations in South America, all tailor-made! Discover the crown jewels of both Ecuador & Peru on this amazing ten-day trip from the heights of the Andes…Continued
10 Days
Galapagos & Amazon Adventure
This is a dream vacation for wildlife enthusiasts. The Amazon, a place where the sounds & feel of the jungle engulfs your senses while you venture out from your lodge in search of monkeys, sloths and birds of all kinds…Continued
10 Days
Galapagos Tour: 7-Day Itinerary
This abbreviated version of our 10-day Itinerary is for those who don’t have as much time to explore the archipelago. Along with a visit to Quito, you will set sail on a 5-day cruise, checking off the highlights of this magical part of the world.