Compare Galapagos Islands Sailing by Adventure Unbound vs 8 Days in Ecuador's Heartland: From Mountains to Hot Springs by Responsible Travel

Day 1:

Arrive Guayaquil, Ecuador.  You are met outside the customs and immigration area at the airport and escorted to the luxurious Wyndham Hotel.

Day 2:

 Transfer from the hotel to the airport and fly to the Galapagos.  You land on the island of Baltra where the U.S. Air Force built a runway during WWII.  Upon arrival you are met by Encantada yacht staff and drive 10 minutes from the airport to the Itabaca channel where a five-minute ferry ride takes you to the island of Santa Cruz.  From here you travel across the island, stopping to see some of the giant Galapagos tortoises at a nature preserve along the way. Upon arrival in the seaside town of Puerto Ayora there is time to visit the Charles Darwin Research Center. Later in the afternoon we board the yacht and settle in to our cabins.  After dinner in the harbor, we pull anchor and begin our travels towards the island of Genovesa.

Day 3:

We arrive in the morning at the island of Genovesa and have a dry landing at El Barranco, or Prince Phillip’s steps where a steep, rocky path leads to the top of a high cliff. There are spectacular views from here and the opportunity to observe red-footed boobies, short-eared lava owls, Galapagos doves and Galapagos swallows. Back at the water we have our first snorkeling adventure. Then, we return to the boat and continue to Darwin Bay to find a white- sand coral beach and a half-mile trail that winds through mangrove trees filled with various birds.  We should see Nazca boobies, red-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls among other birds. There are also tide pools to explore and an opportunity to snorkel in the bay and enjoy fascinating interactions with curious, playful sea lions.

Day 4:

We arrive at the island of Bartolomé, a small island formed by two tuff cones attached to Santiago Island.  On this extinct volcano we find fine-particle ash hardened into shades of red, black and green.  This is the home of the iconic Pinnacle Rock and we climb a trail of stairs to the summit of the volcano for panoramic views across the island and to distant islands.  We return to a golden-sand beach to enjoy the sun and a perfect place for snorkeling.  With luck we may see Galapagos penguins and perhaps even have a chance to snorkel with them! Then we continue to Sullivan Bay where there is a large lava field of fascinating patterns, the result of explosions of gas or water coming forth from the once-molten lava. There’s another chance to snorkel in crystal clear waters.

Day 5:

Today we visit Bainbridge Rock, just off the coast of Santiago Island.    A trail follows the coastline where there are tide pools and grottos filled with sea life. This is an excellent chance to see the Galapagos fur seal bathing in the sun. We then take a panga (dinghy) ride in Chinese Hat which is a place of fairly recent volcanic activity and a few intact lava tunnels. This is another place to snorkel and swim in tranquil blue waters, watching colorful fish and playing with young sea lions.

After lunch on the boat we head to the northern part of the island of Santa Cruz to visit Caleta Tortuga Negra, a small bay surrounded by mangroves and only accessible by dinghy.  It’s a safe haven for marine life such as white tip reef sharks, sea turtles and various rays such as manta rays and eagle rays.

Day 6:

Our last day on the Encantada has still more discovery.  We go to the official visitor site of Seymour North where there is a large breeding colony of frigate birds and blue-footed boobies. The trail leads up among their nests while you watch your step as there are also land and marine iguanas. There’s also time to snorkel along the island’s rocky coast.  It’s a special place to end our Galapagos adventure and then return to the Itabaca Channel for a short transfer back to the Baltra airport and a flight to Guayaquil. On arrival in Guayaquil, transfer to the hotel and overnight.  Dinner is on your own.

Day 7:

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Encantada

Return home or continue exploring Ecuador. We are happy to arrange extensions to visit historic haciendas of the highlands; a jungle lodge in the Amazon or on to Peru and Machu Picchu.

DAY 1: WELCOME TO ECUADOR: LET YOUR ADVENTURE BEGIN!

We extend a warm welcome to Ecuador, and we couldn't be more excited to have you here! Your journey begins with a sense of relaxation and anticipation as you embark on a scenic 45-minute drive into the enchanting city of Quito. Along the way, the picturesque landscapes will provide a delightful backdrop as you receive a comprehensive overview of the itinerary for your upcoming adventures, setting the stage for a truly memorable experience. Upon your arrival and check-in at your hotel, we recommend taking some time to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Quito and explore its captivating cultural offerings. Situated at an astonishing elevation of 9,350 feet (2,850 meters), Quito proudly stands among the highest cities in the world, and its breathtaking views are sure to leave you in awe.

Meals: -
Accommodation: Quito

DAY 2: ANDEAN ADVENTURE: FROM ANCIENT CLOCKS TO CRAFT MARKETS

Our journey takes us along the iconic Pan-American Highway, heading north to the Quitsato solar clock. This culturally significant site, constructed in pre-Hispanic times, was designed to track the solstices and equinoxes. It's also the very spot where the equator line intersects, marking it as the literal center of the world.

To truly savor the local flavors, we make a delightful pit stop for a cup of Ecuadorian coffee or rich chocolate, accompanied by delectable biscuits - oven-baked treasures bursting with unmatched flavor. What's even more special is that we'll have the chance to witness the entire baking process. Our next destination is the vibrant town of Otavalo. Just a short drive away, we pause at a scenic viewpoint
overlooking the breathtaking San Pablo Lake, with the majestic Mount Imbabura standing tall in the background. Soon after, we'll arrive at South America's largest and most renowned indigenous handicraft market (open every day of the week).

Take a stroll around La Plaza de los Ponchos, with approximately 2 hours to explore and shop for unique treasures. We then head to Cotacachi, known for its craft market specializing in high-quality leather products. You'll have about 45 minutes to peruse the charming shops. Our final stop takes us to the stunning Cuicocha Lagoon, nestled at 3068m (10,065.62 ft) within an active volcanic crater, complete
with picturesque islets or domes, a natural wonder you won't want to miss.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Quito

DAY 3: CITY TOUR QUITO

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, setting the tone for a day of exploration. You'll be picked up and whisked away to the captivating Historic Center of Quito, where every cobblestone, plaza, and colonial structure tells tales of centuries gone by. This cherished district earned its UNESCO Cultural Heritage of Humanity designation in 1978, and it's not hard to see why.

Our adventure begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring Basilica, a neo-Gothic masterpiece. Its stained- glass windows come alive with vibrant floral scenes, while playful gargoyles pay homage to the country's rich wildlife. Climb the towers for a sweeping view that will surely steal your breath away.

Next, step into the grandeur of the San Francisco convent, a sprawling testament to history, and be captivated by the opulent baroque splendor of La Compañía church, where various artistic styles seamlessly blend within gold-adorned interiors.
As the afternoon unfolds, the day is yours to roam at your own pace. Take the time to absorb the city's unique charm, and who knows, you might just stumble upon your special discoveries.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Quito

DAY 4: COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK - QUILOTOA LAGOON – BAÑOS

After a delicious breakfast, you will continue north to Cotopaxi National Park. You will visit Lake Limpiopungo, located in the highlands of the park. Here, you will have a spectacular view of Cotopaxi Volcano's gigantic cone. Lake Limpiopungo offers a variety of birds, and occasionally even wild horses.

A short walk around the lake will allow you to admire the Andean plant and animal life along the way.to visit another volcanic wonder: Quilotoa. This 2-mile (3 km) wide crater lake is filled with 820 feet (250 m) of mineral-rich green water. Hike along the lake's outer rim, enjoying the views from three lava domes, or follow a path to the lake itself. Hiking in the area, especially uphill, can be challenging, so
consider renting a mule for some help along the way.

After exploring the lake, it's time to travel south to Baños de Agua Santa, a city on the edge of the Amazonian Basin known for its hot springs and nearby waterfalls.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Baños de Agua Santa

DAY 5: FREE DAY IN BAÑOS: (OPTIONAL ACTIVITY) - BAÑOS THROUGH THE VOLCANOES AVENUE

Experience the magic of Baños, the doorway to the Amazon rainforest, nestled in the shadow of the lively Tungurahua volcano. Here, you'll find a climate that's just right, setting the stage for thrilling adventures and encounters with nature. And of course, you can't miss a dip in the inviting hot springs that have made this village a must-visit for travelers.

Start your day by following the picturesque Route of the Waterfalls, beginning at the Agoyan dam. You'll make your way to the stunning Manto de la Novia Waterfall, where you'll have the chance to hop on the Tarabita (a cable car) for a ride across the Rio Patate to explore the waterfall on the other side. As you journey on, you'll reach the Mirador de San Jorge viewpoint before arriving at the awe-inspiring Pailón del Diablo, a waterfall that stands tall at around 100 meters. A leisurely 30-minute stroll through a tropical mountain forest will take you to the base of this natural wonder, followed by a relaxed 45–60-minute walk back up. Afterward, you'll return to Baños for a leisurely afternoon on your terms.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Baños de Agua Santa

DAY 6: FREE DAY IN BAÑOS: (OPTIONAL ACTIVITY) - CHIMBORAZO: A BREATHTAKING ASCENT TO THE CLOSEST POINT TO THE SUN

Join us on an extraordinary adventure to Chimborazo Mountain, where you'll encounter the unparalleled tranquility of standing at the Earth's nearest point to the sun, a moment that will render you speechless and quite possibly breathless. Hike to astounding altitudes exceeding 5000 meters at the grand "El Chimborazo." Our excursion commences in the charming town of Baños. After a quick breakfast pitstop along the Panamerican Highway E35, we venture to the Chimborazo Fauna Reproduction Reserve. At the Hermanos Carrel Refuge, situated at a breathtaking 4800 meters, we start our ascent to the Whymper Refuge, perched at almost 5000 meters. The most adventurous among us can journey even higher to surpass the 5000-meter threshold. A well-deserved box lunch at the upper refuge precedes our descent to the lower refuge and our return to Baños, where you can reflect on an extraordinary day.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Baños de Agua Santa

DAY 7: FROM RAINFOREST TO RELAXATION: VISIT TO PAPALLACTA HOT SPRINGS

Get ready for a day packed with Ecuadorian wonders! Our adventure kicks off in the morning in Puyo, where you can grab a delightful breakfast (not included) to fuel your day. Then, it's off to Paikawe Lagoon for some enchanting wildlife encounters and a playful canoe ride. Ever wondered about the magic of Ecuadorian chocolate? Get the insider's scoop and even taste a bit!

Next, we'll visit the Santa Rita neighborhood for a tour of a cocoa farm, followed by a traditional lunch experience (not included). In the afternoon, prepare for ultimate relaxation at the Papallacta Hot Springs. These soothing waters hold the very essence of volcanic energy, offering a truly rejuvenating experience. Whether you're into local delicacies, scenic hikes, or spa treatments, there's something for everyone here. As the day draws to a close, we'll make our way back to the vibrant city of Quito.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Quito

DAY 8: PRIVATE TRANSFER TO QUITO AIRPORT FOR DEPARTURE

At the designated time for your international flight, your private driver will be waiting for you at your hotel lobby to help you with your luggage and drive you to the airport for your departure.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: -