Volcanoes and Galapagos

15 days
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4.6/5 Excellent
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Small Group Tour
Discover the spectacular wildlife and fascinating cultural blend of mainland Ecuador, before exploring the 'enchanted Isles' of the Galapagos. Experience this natural paradise from a different perspective, staying on land on Santa Cruz and Isabela islands. Andean communities - Visit rural indigenous villages with sublime mountain views around Otavalo Gal...
19%
$5,055
From$4,110
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate

Highlights

    • Discover the wild paradise of the Galapagos as well as local life on mainland Ecuador
    • Visit local communities living in the mountainous highlands around Otavalo
    • Stay in hotels on Santa Cruz and Isabela Islands and search for iconic Galapagos wildlife

What's this trip about?

    Discover the spectacular wildlife and fascinating cultural blend of mainland Ecuador, before exploring the 'enchanted Isles' of the Galapagos. Experience this natural paradise from a different perspective, staying on land on Santa Cruz and Isabela islands. Andean communities - Visit rural indigenous villages with sublime mountain views around Otavalo Galapagos Islands - Spend one week getting up close to the remarkable wildlife of Darwin's paradise islands Cloud Forest - Visit the Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve, a protected area that is home to a stunning array of hummingbirds and butterflies Avenue of the Volcanoes - Take a walk in the Cotopaxi National Park, with views to the snowcapped cone of Cotopaxi Volcano

Details

Itinerary focusOff the Beaten Path
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 20 people
Age range16 to 85 years
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityQuito
End CityQuito

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Hiking & Walking

Destinations

  • South America
  • Ecuador

Attractions

  • Bar
  • Cotopaxi
  • Cotopaxi National Park
  • Darwin
  • Galapagos
  • Galapagos Islands
  • Guayaquil
  • Isabela Island
  • Mindo
  • Otavalo
  • Puerto Villamil
  • Quito
  • Santa Cruz
  • Sucre

Activities

  • Hiking

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Join trip in Tumbaco, near Quito

Arrive in Tumbaco, a quiet rural neighbourhood of Quito located around 20 minutes from the airport and 45 minutes from the downtown city centre. Ecuador's mountain capital is, at 2,850m, the second highest capital in Latin America, lying in a narrow valley at the f...

Day 2 Travel to Otavalo via Parque Condor; visit Peguche village

We'll go straight to rural Ecuador today, driving north towards the small market town of Otavalo. Set within a fertile valley encircled by imposing sacred mountains, Otavalo is idyllically situated and is well-known for its thriving indigenous communities. This area i...

Day 3 Walk at the Laguna Cuicocha; share in rural life at indigenous communities; visit Otavalo Market

We'll drive out to the tranquil setting of Cuicocha this morning, a turquoise crater-lake located at 3,100m, approached through a wonderful landscape of alpine vegetation. We will walk on a segment of the trail that goes around the lake (an easy walk of approximately ...

Day 4 Drive to the Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve; visit the community of Yunguilla and a chocolate factory

We take a spectacular drive today, leaving the sparse mountain landscapes of Otavalo for the dense cloud forest on the slopes of the western Andes. En route we may make a small stop at a local biscuit factory, to try fresh bizcochos made in a wood oven. We'll also cro...

Day 5 Explore the cloud forest on foot and by cable car; visit a hummingbird garden; drive to Quito

An early start this morning gives us the best chance of spotting Mindo's bird life at a time when they are most active. One of our first stops is at a hummingbird garden, catching some of the iridescent colours of the many hummingbird species that feed here. We'll the...

Day 6 Walking tour of Quito's UNESCO Heritage Old Town

Ecuador's capital is one of the best preserved colonial cities of the Americas, and a UNESCO Heritage Site with a rich blend of colonial architecture, imposing churches and busy markets. We will visit some of the main sites, including La Compania church with its elabo...

Day 7 Drive the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Cotopaxi National Park; walks at the Limpiopungo Lagoon

Our journey today takes us through some of the most impressive mountain scenery in the entire country, into the landscapes so aptly described by the German explorer Alexander von Humboldt as the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes'. The spectacular Cotopaxi National Park is our ...

Day 8 Fly to the Galapagos; view giant tortoises in the Santa Cruz highlands

The Galapagos are an isolated chain of volcanic islands supporting a distinct and unique flora and fauna, including prehistoric creatures found nowhere else on earth. Of the extraordinary animals to be found in the Galapagos many are reptiles, such as the giant tortoi...

Day 9 Boat to Isabela Island, overnight in Puerto Villamil

This morning we leave Santa Cruz and journey west by speed boat for approximately 2.5 hours. Our destination is nearby Isabela Island, where we will spend the next two days. The largest of the Galapagos Islands, Isabela is formed from five volcanoes, of which two ...

Day 10 Walk up Sierra Negra Volcano; afternoon snorkel

The beauty of staying on land during a trip to the Galapagos is having the opportunity to explore its volcanic side. The geological formation of the Galapagos lends itself to hiking, and the scenery is just as impressive as the wildlife. Today we start by taking a wal...

Day 11 Tintoreras Islands trip; return by boat to Santa Cruz

Formed from volcanic lava flow, the tiny islets of the Tintoreras Islets are fantastic for viewing wildlife, and accessible by a short boat trip from Puerto Villamil. On land, there is an array of birdlife and an abundance of the famous marine iguanas that are endemic...

Day 12 Discover Seymour, Plazas, Bartolome or Santa Fe Island

We will be discovering one of the smaller islands of the Galapagos today, and our plan is at the mercy of the yacht schedule departing from Santa Cruz. The island visited could be either Seymour, Bartolome, Santa Fe or Plazas Island - but no matter which island we wil...

Day 13 Visit Tortuga Bay; afternoon Charles Darwin Station visit

This morning we take a walk to Tortuga Bay (5km return walk) where we have the opportunity to swim at one of the most spectacular beaches of the entire chain, an important turtle nesting ground. After lunch we will visit the nearby Charles Darwin Research Station ...

Day 14 Fly to Quito on the mainland

Leaving the Galapagos behind we fly to Quito on the mainland (there may be a touchdown in Guayaquil en route). On arrival we will once again transfer to our hotel in the Tumbaco suburb of the city and enjoy a last evening together as a group.

Meals Provided : Breakfast

Day 15 Trip ends in Quito

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Tumbaco, Quito. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Quito at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you would l...

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Dates & Availability

Price From $4,110
Price per day$274
Last Updated: 4/26/2024
Start Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Single Room (Optional)
Availability
04 May 2024
18 May 2024
$4,660
$550
8 spots left
25 May 2024
08 Jun 2024
$4,140
$540
10 spots left
08 Jun 2024
22 Jun 2024
$4,110
$550
11 spots left
22 Jun 2024
06 Jul 2024
$4,180
$540
13 spots left
27 Jul 2024
10 Aug 2024
$4,250
$540
12 spots left
07 Sep 2024
21 Sep 2024
$4,270
$540
13 spots left
05 Oct 2024
19 Oct 2024
$4,660
$550
13 spots left
19 Oct 2024
02 Nov 2024
$4,680
$550
7 spots left
26 Oct 2024
09 Nov 2024
$4,400
$550
11 spots left
09 Nov 2024
23 Nov 2024
$4,530
$540
9 spots left

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Explore!.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Explore! Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
Excellent
6,513
Great
2,167
Average
377
Disappointing
116
Terrible
53
M

Michelle

Apr 2024

Written on

Volcanoes and Galapagos

fantastic time was had by all. We were lucky that we had a very small group, in next to no time we were all friends Diego our Tour Manager was brilliant. Very helpfu...

M

Michelle

Apr 2024

Written on

Volcanoes and Galapagos

This trip was truly once in a lifetime! The itinerary was well thought out, so that we saw the huge diversity that Ecuador had to offer- from stunning volcanic lands...

A

Andrew

Apr 2024

Written on

Volcanoes and Galapagos

Our guide Diego showed us his love of Ecuador, enthusing over the wildlife of the high Andes and Galapagos alike. I chose the diversity of this itinerary and was not...

V

Valerie

Apr 2024

Written on

Volcanoes and Galapagos

What a fabulous trip! Ecuador is an amazing, beautiful, wonderful country. I was a little concerned initially by the trouble out there, but I need not have worried. ...

C

Christine

Feb 2024

Written on

Volcanoes and Galapagos

Very varied activities. Suited me because I wanted to be land based on the Galapagos Islands to be able in the evening wandering along the beach watching the iguanas...

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Tour Operator

Explore!

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About Explore

We've been taking small groups on adventure vacations for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the world's most trusted adventure travel companies with over 350 trips to more than 100 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travelers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline, there is something for every kind of traveler with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.


Why we love this operator
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
What they’re known for
Famous for our expert local guides that help ease the unknowns of adventure travel while bringing a unique richness and spontaneity to each and every

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Logistics

Transportation & Flights

Bus, Boat, Flight,

Transportation & flights

Bus, Boat, Flight
Guides
Explore Tour Leader, Boat Crew, Driver(s), Local Guide(s), Naturalist(s)
Cancellation policy
These conditions are applicable to Discovery & Wildlife, Cycling, Walking and Family Trips. These conditions were updated November 2022. Booked a Polar trip? Please refer to our Polar booking conditions. To make it easy to know the detail of our flexibility, we’ve put it in a grid (these terms apply to all trips apart from our Polar Voyages.) Standard cancellations or changes within 69 days of travel If you’re getting closer to your trip, cancellation charges will apply as follows: For trips confirmed by 31st December 2022: 59-42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100% For trips confirmed from 1st January 2023: 69 -42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100%
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Ecuador: Visas are not required by UK, Australian, New Zealand, US and Canadian citizens, and your passport will be stamped on arrival into the country. In order for this entry stamp to be granted on arrival, you may be required to show proof of travel insurance valid for the duration of your trip. Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry; this is a strict legal requirement from the Ecuadorean government. Without this minimum validity entry to the country will be denied. Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office. USA: If your flights pass through the USA, even if only in transit, you will require either a visa or an ESTA (an e-visa). Please read on for more information. Citizens of the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and passport holders from several EU countries can apply for an ESTA under certain conditions. This applies if you enter the country by sea or by air, and this must be done online via https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov, no later than 72 hours prior to travel. Travellers who have not registered before their trip are likely be refused boarding. You must have a biometric passport to apply for an ESTA. UK passports which are biometric feature a small gold symbol (camera) at the bottom of the front cover. If you have visited Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen since 2011 or are dual nationals of these countries, you cannot travel with an ESTA and instead you will need to apply for a visa from the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. If you are unable to provide a valid visa before boarding flights to the US, or entering via another method, you may not be permitted to travel. You should also be aware that if you have travelled to or have been in Cuba since the 12th of January 2021, you will not be eligible for an ESTA visa waiver and will need to apply for a US visa. You should consult the US State Department website to determine which you will need. Your ESTA application will ask for Point of Contact information. Please note that if you're only transiting through the USA then this is not required. If you're visiting or staying in the USA on an Explore trip, then our USA contact information will be listed on your final documentation which you will receive approximately 3-4 weeks before departure. Entry requirements for the USA can change regularly, therefore, please ensure you have the most up to date information before you travel by checking the US embassy website. Visa applications - http://london.usembassy.gov/niv/apply.html Canada: An electronic travel authorisation (ETA) is required by British citizens transiting via Canada. For more information see the official Canadian government website: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta.asp Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office
Meals Included
  • Breakfast : 14
  • Lunch : 3
Age Requirements
16 to 85 years
Additional Information
Trip ID
explore-GPS

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