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About the Ecuadorian Odyssey
At a glance...
Country: Ecuador
Duration: 15 days/14 nights
Activity: Trekking, snorkeling, boating, kayaking, sightseeing
Travel style: Guided
Difficulty grade: Moderate to challenging (High altitude, substantial ascents)
Comfort: 3*-4* hotels, exquisite eco-lodges, and haciendas
The best of Ecuador awaits you! Our 15-day Ecuadorian Odyssey combines the county’s three main ecosystems — the Andes mountain range, the Amazon river basin, and the Galapagos Islands — into one incredible itinerary that includes snorkeling, canyoning, kayaking, birdwatching, and of course, trekking.
This itinerary — along with the inclusion of all domestic flights — is entirely new and is unique only to Hobnail. Holly and Mark have worked closely with our Hobnail Ecuador director, Christian Valencia, (see his bio below) to create an experience that is truly one of a kind.
You will begin your Odyssey with a journey into Ecuador’s Amazon River Basin, a captivating expanse of lush rainforests, winding rivers, and vibrant biodiversity that makes it one of the most unique and alluring destinations for anyone with a love of nature (and that probably includes you). Highlights include trekking into the jungle to spot Andean spectacled bears and tapirs, experiencing natural stone water slides, kayaking to indigenous villages, visiting with a shaman of the Kichwa locals, and enjoying the amazing hummingbird reserve of Guango.
This region, part of the larger Amazon rainforest, is a haven for an extraordinary array of wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, and countless species of colorful birds and insects.
Next comes a visit to the high country. Ecuador’s Andes Mountains, particularly the “Avenue of Volcanoes,” present an awe-inspiring landscape where towering peaks, snow-capped summits, and verdant valleys converge. The area is also steeped in rich cultural heritage, with vibrant indigenous communities, traditional markets, and historic haciendas.
You’ll trek one of the Andean jewels of Ecuador — the crater rim of the astounding Quilotoa volcano — before visiting the art gallery of famous Andean painter, Julio Toaquiza Tigasis, and hiking to nearly 17,000 feet on the slopes of the iconic Cotopaxi volcano. Wow!
The last six days are all about the incomparable Galapagos Islands. A UNESCO World Heritage site, these islands stand unparalleled in their natural beauty and ecological significance. This archipelago, isolated in the Pacific Ocean, is home to a remarkable array of endemic species, including the iconic giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas. The unique ecosystems of the Galapagos, preserved in their pristine state, offer unparalleled opportunities for wildlife observation, snorkeling, and diving in crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life. A visit to the Galapagos Islands is not just a journey into a natural wonderland but also an exploration of the living laboratory that inspired Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution.
If the Galapagos portion of the Ecuadorian Odyssey were a standalone adventure, you would be hard pressed to find a better island experience. You will visit the giant tortoises, enjoy exhilarating boat tours, snorkel through incredible lava tunnels, and swim with a bevy of marine wildlife. Free time can be spent enjoying your oceanside, 4-star hotel, walking the beaches, sampling fresh-caught seafood, and perusing the local gift shops. What an incredible way to wrap up an already life-changing experience!
Ecuadorian Odyssey
- Because the weather in Ecuador changes very little throughout the year, this itinerary is available year round! Choose any 15-day block (with at least 60 days advanced notice) and contact us directly with your dates. Once they are approved, we will send you a booking link.
Odyssey Details
- Highlights
- Included
- Not included
- Difficulty level
- Insurance
- About the itinerary
- Visa and passport
- Transportation
- Galapagos weather
- Sustainability
- Our guides
- What we ask of you
- After booking
Trek off the beaten path
Our guides will take you on Andean trails largely unknown by other trekkers. No traffic jams here!
Enjoy local cuisine
Try the best of Ecuadorian and Andean eats prepared in the tradition of the region.
Spend six amazing days on the Galapagos archipeligo
Experience the unique ecosystems that inspired Darwin’s Theory of Evolution.
Marvel at the “Avenue of Volcanoes”
This 200-mile stretch is flanked by eight dizzyingly-high volcanic mountains striding south of Quito down the Andean spine.
Experience altitudes up to 17K feet
After careful acclimatizing, you’ll hike to nearly 17K feet on the Cotopaxi volcano.
Interact with the culture and ecosystems of the Amazon River Basin
Trek through the jungle landscapes, spot Amazonian wildlife, and visit with the indigenous residents.
Stay at cozy, family-run lodges
Relax after challenging days of hiking in unique, family-run lodges like La Floresta and Cuello de Luna Hacienda.
Immerse yourself into the warm Andean culture
Whether at indigenous livestock markets, island shops, highland farms, Amazon jungles, or village art galleries, you will take in a welcoming culture unlike anyplace in the world.
Explore the historic city of Quito
Take some time to peruse the historic architecture, local restaurants, and vibrant shopping of this amazing city.
- Hobnail Trekking Co. long-sleeve trekking shirt and ball cap
- Custom Hobnail mobile app
- Opportunities to get to know your fellow trekkers include an invitation to a private Facebook or WhatsApp group for your trek, group training hikes if trekkers live in proximity to each other, and other local social gatherings
- Accommodation in 3* and 4* hotels and haciendas, and glamping in the Amazon rainforest
- All domestic flights
- All meals on the trek as specified in the itinerary
- Water, various juices, coffee, celebratory indigenous beverages
- Local, English-speaking leader and guide(s)
- Private ground transportation throughout the trip
- Transport from and to airport
- All national park fees, museum entrance fees, taxes, and permits
- Snorkeling gear
- Trekking poles
- Kayaking gear
- The company of new friends and the experience of a lifetime
- Travel insurance (See the Travel Insurance section on this page for details)
- International flights
- Meals not included on the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages, non-scheduled drinks
- Tips for drivers, guide(s), etc.
- Spending money, including for souvenirs
- Personal trekking equipment (hiking boots, clothing, etc.)
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- All expenses associated with nonscheduled departure or transportation
We rate this trip as a difficulty level of 3 out of 5. No prior experience is required, and your guides will always brief you about safety and proper use of gear on every leg of the trip.
The hiking in San Cristobal is easy, mostly flat, with a short challenging uphill at the end. Santa Cruz is also easy, with hiking on flat terrain. In the Amazon area, kayaking is at a beginner level on a Class I river with small, fun rapids. The trekking at Quilotoa and Cotopaxi can be a little more challenging because of the high elevation of the Andes.
We recommend that you have at least a fair amount of hiking and trekking experience, and expect to have to push through some challenging uphill climbs. (After all, if it were all easy, it wouldn’t be called “adventure travel,” right?)
OK, here’s where we get serious. Hobnail requires that all trekkers purchase travel/medical insurance that covers them properly for all trekking activities.
There are a lot more details you need to know about travel insurance than we want to put in this limited space — including stuff about trip cancellations and what company we recommend — so when you’re ready, pop over to our Travel Insurance page.
Even though we have a detailed itinerary, changes can be made by your guides due to weather or safety reasons. Please also note that none of the wildlife sightings mentioned on the itinerary are guaranteed.
Make sure to check your visa and passport validity and requirements per country. It is important your passport is valid for at least 6 months before your travel. (Note: A visa is not necessary for U.S. citizens.)
Driving time can take longer than expected in Ecuador depending on weather, traffic, and general road conditions. We only use late-model, comfortable vehicles no matter the size of the group. While in the Galapagos, the speed boat from Santa Cruz to Isabela can be a bit challenging for those not accustomed to boat travel, so we highly recommend that you carry seasickness medicine with you during that part of the trip.
Although the islands are located on the equator, the Humboldt Current brings cold water to them, causing frequent drizzles during most of the year. The weather is periodically influenced by the El Niño events, which occur about every 3 to 7 years and are characterized by warm sea surface temperatures, a rise in sea level, greater wave action, and a depletion of nutrients in the water.
During the season known as the garúa (June to November), the temperature by the sea is 22 °C (72 °F), a steady and cold wind blows from south and southeast, frequent drizzles (garúas) last most of the day, and dense fog conceals the islands. During the warm season (December to May), the average sea and air temperature rises to 25 °C (77 °F), there is no wind at all, there are sporadic, though strong, rains and the sun shines.
Weather changes as altitude increases in the large islands. Temperature decreases gradually with altitude, while precipitation increases due to the condensation of moisture in clouds on the slopes. There is a large range in precipitation from one place to another, not only with altitude, but also depending on the location of the islands, and also with the seasons. The precipitation also depends on the geographical location. During March 1969, the precipitation over Charles Darwin Station, on the southern coast of Santa Cruz was 249.0 mm (9.80 in), while on Baltra Island, the precipitation during the same month was only 137.6 mm (5.42 in). This is because Baltra is located behind Santa Cruz with respect to the prevailing southerly winds, so most of the moisture gets precipitated in the Santa Cruz highlands.
There are significant changes in precipitation from one year to another, too. At Charles Darwin Station, the precipitation during March 1969 was 249.0 mm (9.80 in), but during March 1970, it was only 1.2 mm (0.047 in). On the larger islands, the pattern of generally wet highlands and drier lowlands impacts the flora. The vegetation in the highlands tends to be green and lush, with tropical woodland in places. The lowland areas tend to have arid and semi-arid vegetation, with many thorny shrubs and cacti, and almost bare volcanic rock elsewhere.
We do our best to not produce any trash; we believe that recycling is not enough so we try to avoid using any plastic or materials that pollute our environment. Every day we work towards being a zero-waste tour operator, and our staff is well trained to leave the least impact possible in our service areas. We also work closely with local indigenous communities in the different regions. By doing so, we are able to teach our guests about the rich Ecuador culture while helping the people preserve their traditions and lands. By working directly with local peoples, we are able to create a sustainable touristic income for the community.
All of our guides have a professional background from the Tourism University, meaning that they have a degree in guiding, so their knowledge and skills when leading a group are top-notch. Each guide has many years of experience and they all have taken additional courses for other outdoor activities as well as have International First-Aid certifications. Finally, our guides are all extremely personable and strive to deliver the travel experiences of a lifetime.
We consider our treks to be adventures, not vacations. We’re not Hobnail Vacation Company, after all! Don’t get us wrong; we like vacations as much as the next person, but with our treks, you need to be physically and mentally ready. Here’s what we ask of you:
- You thoroughly read all the information we send you prior to departure.
- You get yourself an accountability partner and train properly. This doesn’t mean doing a few squats two weeks before departure.
- You familiarize yourself with your gear prior to leaving. Practice adjusting your backpack, filtering water if necessary, etc.
- If you purchase new boots, they are broken in well in advance of departure.
- When on trek, you FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS OF YOUR GUIDE. His or her only concern is helping you achieve your goal safely and in good health, but this won’t happen unless you follow their advice. This includes – but is not limited to – food recommendations, speed of pace, when to sleep and when not to, when to walk and when to rest, when to turn around due to illness, etc.
- When on trek, you treat your guide and the locals you encounter with the utmost respect. We are guests in their country and very grateful to be there.
All of these things may seem like common sense — and they are — but we feel that we must mention them. Hobnail’s goal is to provide you with the best experience possible, and you have an important role in achieving that goal.
A few days after registering for a trek (with at least a $500 deposit), we will give you a call (if you’re available) to say hello and answer any initial questions you may have. If you use WhatsApp, we will invite you to join a private group just for your trek. This is a great way to interact with your fellow trekkers, and possibly your guide, before departure. You can post questions in the group anytime you’d like, talk about the cool gear you’re planning to take with you, organize group hikes if you live near each other, and generally just get to know those who will be sharing this incredible experience with you.
Within the first weeks after your trek is confirmed, you will receive a Welcome Box from us. It contains stuff that you can use during training as well as on the trek itself, and some other just fun things to get you (even more) excited about your trip.
You’ll also receive a link to your personalized Hobnail app, which is full of great information including a day-by-day schedule, gear lists, beautiful photography, and yet another way to contact us – through its messaging service. As your trip gets closer, we will load your flights and other more specific information into the app so you’ll feel even more secure in knowing where you’ll be staying and even how to get around the airports you’ll travel through.
The closer you get to your trek, the more you’ll hear from us — but of course, you can reach out any time you have a question.
What happens if my trek is not confirmed?
If the minimum number for the trek you booked is not reached before the 60-day booking deadline, you will be eligible for either a refund or to transfer your deposit to another trek. See details HERE.
Our Mobile App
When you book, we send you the login credentials to your own, customized app. By departure, your app will contain your flight info, passport, and travel insurance docs, as well as your full itinerary, points of interest, and other amazing stuff.
TREK ITINERARY
Day 1: Welcome to Ecuador and Quito
Upon your arrival at the airport in Quito, you will be greeted by our friendly staff who will transfer you to your hotel. Quito is the capital of Ecuador and is known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city is located in the Andes Mountains, providing a beautiful backdrop for your stay. At around 6pm, you will attend a briefing where you will receive extra important information about your tour and meet your fellow travelers (if you haven’t already).
Hotel: Dan Carlton or similar (Elevation: 9,000 feet)
Day 2: Kayak adventure and shamanic encounter
After breakfast, we will travel (about four hours) to the Amazon Basin and Punin village, stopping to enjoy a coffee a hummingbird reserve. After arriving at the Arajuno River, we’ll enjoy a welcome picnic and a detailed safety briefing about the kayaking activity and proper equipment use.
The Arajuno River is calm – a Class 1 river with friendly small rapids – perfect for beginners. No prior experience is needed, as our expert guides provide careful instruction to ensure a smooth and enjoyable paddle. Gliding along the river, you’ll be a first-hand witness to the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest and will likely spot some of the many colorful bird species (and possibly even monkeys and otters) that inhabit the shoreline.
After about two hours of paddling, we’ll arrive at our riverside glamping site, nestled in a peaceful setting near the Kichwa community. Enjoy a refreshing drink upon check-in and unwind before a delicious traditional dinner is served.
Amazonian Kichwas are a group of indigenous Kichwa peoples in the Ecuadorian Amazon, with minor groups across the borders of Colombia and Peru. This group is known for preserving traditional customs, languages, and practices despite modern influences. Visitors to a Kichwa village can experience authentic cultural exchanges, including traditional dances, music, and rituals. Additionally, the Kichwa people are skilled artisans, creating intricate crafts and textiles. Engaging with the Kichwa community offers a unique glimpse into Ecuador’s diverse cultural landscape and a deeper appreciation for indigenous ways of life.
In the evening, a local Kichwa shaman will visit camp to share insights into the spiritual practices and medicinal traditions of the jungle – a truly unforgettable cultural experience.
Transfer to the river by car: 4 hours
Kayaking distance: 10 miles
Kayaking time: 2 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Lodge: Glamping at the Arajuno River Amazon (elevation 2,000 feet)
Day 3: parrot clay lick, jungle trek, and kichwa visit
This morning you’ll start the day with a short, 10-minute canoe ride to visit a parrot clay lick, where vibrant Amazon parrots gather each morning to consume mineral-rich clay, an essential ritual that helps to detoxify their diet.
After taking all the pictures (I mean, when are you going to witness a sight like this again?!), you’ll return to camp for breakfast.
Next, you’ll prepare for a 2-3 hour jungle trek where your guide will introduce you to the diverse flora and fauna of the Amazon and explain the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem. Educational, but fun!
In the afternoon, you’ll visit a nearby Kichwa community for an immersive cultural experience. Enjoy a traditional meal, visit the local school that’s supported by our program, and if time allows, join a friendly soccer game with the children (spoiler alert: they’ll probably win). Here, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase authentic, beautiful handmade crafts from local women artisans, supporting their sustainable livelihood.
Back at the campsite, unwind with a refreshing swim in the river or gather around the bonfire. We highly recommend opting in to the optional night hike to discover the fascinating nocturnal life of the rainforest, which includes insects and amphibians.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Lodging: Glamping at the Arajuno River Amazon (elevation 2,000 feet)
Day 4: Final kayak trip and Amazon lagoon exploration
After breakfast, you’ll leave this amazing camp for a final kayaking adventure, paddling back down the Arajuno River.
You’ll be met at the take-out spot and transferred to a nearby private reserve and lagoon, where you’ll hop in a canoe and look for monkeys, colorful birds, and other wildlife as you explore this unique area.
After lunch, we’ll continue to Banos and will enjoy a short hike to Pailon del Diablo waterfall, relax in a local hot spring, and take part in a beer tasting.
Kayaking: 2 hours (about 10 miles)
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Hotel: Cuello de Luna or similar (elevation 10,000 feet)
Day 5: Waterfalls and The Swing at the End of the World
After breakfast, we will travel by van to the Manto de la Novia waterfalls. Our first stop will be an exhilarating cable car ride to have a nice view of the Bride’s Veil waterfall, followed by a visit to the Swing of the End of the World, a place famous for a National Geographic-winning photo that was taken in 2014. The Swing is a thrilling attraction near Baños, at the edge of a steep cliff overlooking the lush Tungurahua Valley. This iconic swing, attached to a treehouse known as “La Casa del Árbol,” offers adventurous visitors a chance to soar out into the void with breathtaking views of the active Tungurahua Volcano in the distance. The Swing is not only an unforgettable experience, but also a perfect photo opportunity, capturing the essence of Ecuador’s dramatic landscapes.
Transfer to Hacienda Leito: 1 hour
Elevation: 6,000 feet at the waterfalls
Elevation: 9,000 feet at the Swing
Day 6: Bears and tapir trails
Today will feature our first activity at high elevation. We’ll start with an early breakfast followed by a one-hour drive to the Llanganates National Park, where our local friends are protecting the territory of the Andean bears and tapirs. We will trek at an elevation of around 12,000 feet for about five hours, following the tracks of these endangered species, and with some luck, we might catch a glimpse of them. We will also view many species of wildflowers, including some colorful orchids.
In the afternoon, we will return to the hacienda for some drinks and a delicious dinner.
Transfer by car to the trail: 1 hour
Hiking distance: 5 miles (can be flexible)
Hiking time: 8 hours
Highest elevation: 12,000 feet
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hotel: Hacienda Leito (elevation 8,000 feet)
Day 7: Quilotoa volcano rim hike
After a great night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we will depart for the Quilotoa Volcano, a breathtaking caldera filled with a stunning turquoise lake. This natural wonder is a result of a volcanic eruption and offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of geological forces.
Trek along the rim of the volcano, taking in the incredible views of the crater and the surrounding landscapes. If the skies are clear, we will see many other volcanoes in the distance. The trail is moderately challenging, often fairly level interrupted by short, rock ascents and descents.
After completing our trek and enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, we will continue by van to Tigua where we’ll visit a well-known art gallery showcasing beautiful paintings by local artist Julio Toaquiza Tigasi and his family. You’ll probably have the chance to meet and visit with Mr. Tigasi and/or his talented family members and learn more about his unique style of documenting the indigenous lifestyle of the area surrounding Quilotoa.
Finally, we will head back to our hacienda, a picturesque lodge nestled in the heart of nature.
Travel by car to the Quilotoa volcano: 3 hours
Travel by car to hacienda: 1 hour
Trekking distance: 6 miles
Trekking duration: 5 hours
Maximum elevation: 12,800 feet
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Hacienda: Cuello de Luna or similar (elevation 10,000 feet)
Day 8: Cotopaxi Reserve and glaciers trek
After breakfast, we will have a short drive to the Cotopaxi Reserve, home of the highest active volcano of Ecuador, for an exhilarating last day of our Odyssey. With a similar elevation to Tanzania’s Mt. Kilimanjaro, Cotopaxi features a perfect conical shape and is a thing of beauty.
The trail will take us first to the base camp, after which we will continue to the glaciers.
In the afternoon, we will drive back to Quito where you will have a unique beer experience and enjoy a wonderful dinner at a local traditional restaurant.
Travel by van to the trail in Cotopaxi:1 hour
Travel to Quito: 2 hours
Trekking distance: 2 miles
Trekking duration: 2 hours
Maximum elevation: 16.800 feet
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Hotel: Swissotel Quito or similar (Elevation: 9,000 feet)
Day 9: Travel to the Galapagos and hike to the giant tortoises
After a great breakfast at the hotel, our staff will transfer you from Quito to the airport and help you with the process of checking in for the flight to the Galapagos. Once landed in the islands, we will cross the Itabaca Channel by boat and then drive to the Twin Craters for a short walk to learn about these volcanic formations.
After a freshly made lunch at the El Chato Reserve, we will go on a short hike to look for the famous Giant Tortoises of the Galapagos! These ancient reptiles, which can live over a century, embody the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos archipelago. Found nowhere else on Earth, they are a testament to the islands’ isolated and pristine environment. Visitors to the Galapagos have the rare opportunity to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat, witnessing firsthand their slow, deliberate movements and remarkable size. The Giant Tortoises play a crucial role in their ecosystem, shaping the landscape as they graze on vegetation. Experiencing the Galapagos Islands means encountering one of nature’s most extraordinary creatures and gaining a deeper appreciation for the importance of conservation and biodiversity.
We’ll also explore a lava tunnel as your guide teaches you about the flora and fauna of this ecosystem. A lava tunnel on the Galapagos Islands is a natural underground passage formed by flowing lava during volcanic eruptions. As lava erupts and flows, the outer layers cool and solidify while the inner molten material continues to flow, eventually draining away and leaving behind a hollow tube. These tunnels are fascinating geological formations, showcasing the islands’ volcanic origins. We will check out a tunnel to witness stunning rock formations and unique ecosystems, often teeming with various species that thrive in this unusual environment.
Next, we go by car to the town of Puerto Ayora, stopping along the way at the Santa Cruz Brewery to taste the different types of beer made there. Finally, we will arrive at the hotel in the late afternoon.
Flight times: 1:45 hours from Quito to Guayaquil with a layover of 45 minutes, 1:45 hours from Guayaquil to Baltra.
Transfer from Baltra to the Giant Tortoises reserve: 15 minutes by bus, 15 minutes by ferry, 30 minutes by car
Hiking distance: less than 1 mile. (1 hour because of explanations and photos)
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hotel: La Isla
Day 10: Travel to Isabela, boat tour at Tintoreras
After breakfast, we will begin the day with a 2-hour speed boat cruise to Isabela Island, after which, the rest of the morning is yours to explore or just relax on the beach.
In the afternoon, you will have a boat tour to visit Tintoreras, where you will be able to see schools of rays and sharks as well as the world’s largest colonies of marine iguanas. These remarkable reptiles are the only iguanas that have adapted to a marine environment, capable of swimming and foraging in the ocean. They primarily feed on algae, which they scrape off rocks underwater. Marine iguanas have evolved flattened tails for swimming and strong limbs for clinging to rocks in strong currents. Their distinctive appearance, with spiky crests and varying colors, combined with their extraordinary adaptation to the harsh marine environment, make them a fascinating and iconic species of the Galapagos archipelago.
Later, you will have some time to go snorkeling in the same area to look for marine life including colorful fish, friendly sharks, rays, iguanas, penguins, and more.
After returning to the hotel in the late afternoon, enjoy a visit to the local pubs for a sunset drink.
Cruise time by boat from Santa Cruz to Isabela: 2 hours
Hiking in the afternoon in Tintoreras: Less than 1 mile (around an hour with explanations and photos)
Meal included: Breakfast, lunch
Hotel: Cormorant or similar
Day 11: Lava tunnel snorkeling
Enter a world like no other at Los Tuneles. Famous for its arch like volcanic formations, this is ecosystem brims with different species of animals and is a nesting ground for blue-footed boobies. Possible sightings include white-tip reef sharks, penguins, golden and eagle rays, and many others. Explore the area above water and below as our expedition takes us by boat, snorkel, and foot. Lunch will be served on board, after which we will travel back to town.
Boat ride duration: 1 hour each way.
Hiking: Less than .5 miles.
Snorkeling time: Twice at 1 hour each depending on the water level and conditions.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hotel: Cormorant or similar
Day 12: Flight to San Cristobal, hiking and snorkeling at Darwin Bay
In the morning, we will take a 45-minute flight to San Cristobal. This flight is one of the highlights of the trip and will provide you with amazing views of the islands.
Upon arriving at San Cristobal, we will drop off our luggage at the hotel, drive a short distance to visit the Galapagos National Park Interpretation Center, and go hiking up Frigatebird Hill. This area allows for exploration of the dry forest with beautiful views of the ocean, and we will end the day with a snorkel at Darwin Bay and a swim with the sea lions. Incredible!
Flight time: 45 minutes
Transfer from the airport to the hotel: 10 minutes by car
Hiking distance: 3-mile loop
Hiking time: 2 hours total with explanations at the Interpretation center.
Snorkel time: 1 hour
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hotel: Golden Bay Hotel or Seaside Boutique Hotel
Day 13: Cruise to Kicker Rock, snorkel, boat tour
We start our day hopping on the boat for a fifty-minute ride through sapphire-blue waters to one of the most jaw-dropping places in the Galapagos — Kicker Rock. Towering 500 feet above the surface, this volcanic formation is the doorway to some of the best wildlife sightings of our time in the Galapagos. We will also take a dip beneath the waves of the channel that cuts through the middle of the formation for the chance to encounter white tip reef sharks, rays, sea lions, turtles, an array of fish and if luck is on our side, even hammerhead sharks.
We will have two opportunities to explore this underwater paradise followed by a visit to one of the pure, white-sand beaches forming the reserve. Lunch will be served on board the boat. Our day ends with a cruise back to the town where you can explore on foot and enjoy the serenity of a night in the Galapagos.
Boat ride duration: 1 hour each way.
Snorkeling time: Twice of 1 hour each depending on the water level and conditions.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Hotel: Golden Bay or Seaside
Day 14: Flight Back to Quito
In the morning, after breakfast, we bid farewell to the enchanted islands and board a flight back to Quito.
Flight from San Cristobal to Quito: 2 hours
Meals included: Breakfast
Hotel: Swissotel Quito
Day 15: Departure
We hate to see you go! After breakfast, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight home. We hope you’ll take with you many happy memories of the breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, rich history, and vibrant flora and fauna that you encountered during this amazing stay in Ecuador.
Meals included: Breakfast
Transfer to airport: 1 hour
GENERAL INFORMATION
How is Ecuador different from its neighbors?
Ecuador stands out from its neighboring countries with its extraordinary geographic diversity and rich cultural tapestry. While countries like Peru and Colombia are renowned for their historical sites and vibrant cultures, Ecuador offers a unique blend of coastal, Andean, and Amazonian environments all within a compact area, making it one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. This diversity is mirrored in its culture, which combines indigenous traditions with Spanish colonial influences, creating a distinct and vibrant heritage. Additionally, Ecuador is home to the Galápagos Islands, a natural wonder that offers unparalleled wildlife experiences, setting it apart from its regional counterparts.
About Ecuador's Galapagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands are a global treasure trove of biodiversity, renowned for their unique and diverse wildlife. Located off the Pacific coast of Ecuador, these volcanic islands are home to species found nowhere else on Earth, such as the iconic Galápagos tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. The islands’ isolation and varied ecosystems, ranging from arid deserts to lush highlands, have fostered an extraordinary range of plant and animal life. This rich biodiversity was famously studied by Charles Darwin, contributing to his theory of evolution by natural selection. Today, the Galápagos Islands remain a living laboratory of evolutionary biology, attracting scientists and nature enthusiasts from around the world.
Ecuador's adoption of u.S. currency
In 2000, Ecuador made a significant economic shift by adopting the U.S. dollar as its official currency, a move known as dollarization. This decision was made in response to a severe financial crisis marked by hyperinflation and the collapse of the national currency, the sucre. By adopting the U.S. dollar, Ecuador aimed to stabilize its economy, curb inflation, and restore investor confidence. While dollarization brought about greater monetary stability and reduced inflation rates, it also meant that Ecuador lost control over its monetary policy, relying instead on the fiscal and economic decisions of the United States. Despite these challenges, dollarization has been largely credited with helping to stabilize Ecuador’s economy in the years following its adoption. From a travel perspective, it provides even more convenience and reason for Americans to visit this incredibly beautiful and welcoming country.
Ecuadorian Odyssey
- Because the weather in Ecuador changes very little throughout the year, this itinerary is available year round! Choose any 15-day block (with at least 60 days advanced notice) and contact us directly with your dates. Once they are approved, we will send you a booking link. To join our July 4-18 departure, give us a shout!
