Grand Tour of the Ecuadorian Andes and the Galápagos Islands
About this trip
From its soaring Andean peaks and misty cloud forests to its vibrant Indigenous communities, colonial history, and Galápagos archipelago, Ecuador is a naturally and culturally diverse country that intrigues and delights visitors. Enjoy a comprehensive look at some of the country’s top highlights during this small-group adventure. Accompanied by a Holbrook representative and our local guides, we’ll start with a full day exploring historical Quito, then cruise among the Galápagos archipelago’s western islands. Back on the mainland, ascend into the Andean highlands, with time in Otavalo and surrounding mountain villages, the cloud forests of Mindo, and the majestic Avenue of the Volcanoes. Plus, we'll be exploring Ecuador and Galápagos together with national Emmy-winning host, director, and writer Joseph Rosendo and a television crew filming for his new travel series. This intimate experience is sure to be extra special!
PLEASE NOTE: This program will be accompanied by a television crew for the PBS program "Joseph Rosendo's Steppin' Out." By joining this trip, you consent to be filmed and understand that you may appear in the resulting footage.
PLEASE NOTE: Cruise itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. weather) or at the discretion of the captain, guide, or the Galápagos National Park.
Highlights
- Encounter the endemic wildlife of the Galápagos, including giant tortoises, land and marine iguanas, sea lions, Galápagos Penguins, and Flightless Cormorants.
- Discover fascinating geological history while trekking volcanoes and lava fields in the Galápagos, and hike to the summit of Bartolomé Island for impressive views of the eroded tuff cone of Pinnacle Rock.
- Learn about the culture of the Andean highlands as you stroll among the colorful stalls of the Indigenous artisan market in Otavalo, visit a rose farm, and enjoy a home-hosted culinary experience.
- Seek out colorful bird species and other fauna and flora in the Andean cloud forests and learn about several community conservation initiatives.
- Traverse the Avenue of the Volcanoes, a stunning stretch of Andean peaks that includes views of Cotopaxi, Antisana, and Chimborazo.
$4,900
Per person
About this price
Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.
Single room supplement $2200
What makes us different
Wildlife up-close
Cultural Discovery
Expert guides
Low stress travel planning
Flight arrangements
Service anytime
Daily Itinerary
Print ItineraryQuito
Quito
Galapagos
Galapagos
Galapagos
Galapagos
Galapagos
Galapagos
Puembo
Otavalo
Mindo
Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi/Puembo
Home
Pricing
Print Pricing$4,900
Per person
About this price
Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.
Single room supplement $2200
What's Included
- Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
- Full time guide per region for the duration of your program
- Airport transfers
- Internal flights relevant to itinerary
- Galapagos National Park fees
- INGALA card
- Bottled water or water refill station during transfers
- Non alcoholic beverage with meals
- Snorkel gear
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Items of a personal nature and tips.
- Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
A $4900 per person deposit and enrollment form is due to hold your space on this trip. The deposit is refundable less $100 cancellation fee until 95 days prior to departure. Cancellations after this date will result in loss of full deposit.
Cancellations after this date will result in loss of full deposit.
Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.
Single room supplement $2200
Final payment due date: December 08, 2024
Travel Info
Print Travel InfoEntry & Exit Requirements
U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Ecuador. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of departure.
For visits fewer than 90 days, visas will be issued upon arrival in Ecuador. Tourists may be required to provide evidence of return or onwards travel.
If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Embassy of Ecuador for the requirements based on your nationality.
Health Information
IMMUNIZATIONS
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.
There are no vaccinations required for entry into Ecuador (unless you are traveling from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccine is required).
Though not required for entry, the CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Ecuador.
Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.
MALARIA
Malaria is not known to be present in Guayaquil or Quito or in the Galápagos Islands. If you are concerned about malaria prevention, please consult your physician.
Other Insect-borne Illnesses
Other insect-borne illnesses are known to occur on mainland Ecuador, including dengue fever, leishmaniasis, Zika virus, and others. The CDC recommends that travelers to Ecuador protect themselves against insect bites: Cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).
As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.
SEA SICKNESS
If you’re prone to feeling queasy, we suggest you consult your physician for advice on the best ways to prevent motion sickness. We recommend that you avoid showering when the boat is in motion and remain cautious of activities while passing through rocky waters.
ALTITUDE SICKNESS
Upon arrival at locations of high elevation, shortness of breath and a pounding heart are normal responses to the lack of oxygen in the air. However, for some visitors, these symptoms can deteriorate into altitude sickness. Headache, extreme tiredness, dizziness, nausea, and loss of appetite are standard symptoms. Staying hydrated and well rested is important to adjust to the altitude. Avoiding heavy, fatty foods and alcohol in the days before arriving to altitude can help. Over-the-counter medications are also available to help prevent or alleviate symptoms. It’s advisable to avoid sleep medications, as they can slow breathing and respiration, which aid in getting the blood oxygenated while sleeping. Participants who take blood pressure medications should discuss this with their doctor as the medication can drop pressure too low at times.
SUN EXPOSURE
The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.
PHYSICAL FITNESS REQUIREMENTS
Visitors to the Galápagos Islands should be in good health and capable of walking over rocky, uneven, and potentially slippery terrain. Regardless of your physical stamina, bringing a walking stick will help maintain your balance.
Respiratory Illness Protocols
Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.
Resources
Print ResourcesVessel
Video: Galápagos Fitness Information
Video: Snorkeling in the Galapagos
Suggested Packing List
Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.
You may find many of these items in our Gear Store.
CLOTHING
Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, some hotels offer laundry service (at additional cost).
Pack clothing that can be worn in layers. At higher elevations, warm clothing is strongly recommended. Temperatures can get quite chilly, even near freezing, especially at night and early in the morning. It can also be windy at times. Consider packing a warm underlayer, as well as a warm, protective outer layer.
- A combination of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts (lightweight for sun and insect protection; heavier-weight for the cooler highlands)
- Shorts
- Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and insect protection; a warmer pair or two for higher elevations
- Undergarments
- Sleepwear
- Jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
- 1-2 bathing suit(s)
- Socks – Bring extra pairs.
- Shoes – You’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes or boots suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones, lava rock, and other uneven terrain. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. In the Galápagos, a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes is recommended. Note the M/C Tip Top II does not allow the same shoes used during island excursions to be worn onboard the boat; participants can either wear socks or have a separate pair of flip flops, tennis shoes or boat shoes to wear while on the catamaran.
- Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
- Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat; wool hat or beanie for higher elevations
- Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter
- Wetsuit – Shorty wetsuits are available to rent, but you may prefer your own if you already have one.
Personal toiletries
Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.
- Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant, etc. – Note: In the Galápagos, biodegradable shampoo and soap are provided onboard the boat; if you wish to bring your own, please make sure they are biodegradable to comply with conservation policies. If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites.
- Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
- Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Hair dryers are available onboard the boat and in most hotels.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Razor
- Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
- Personal hygiene products
- Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
- Biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Aloe vera gel
- A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed
In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.
MISCELLANEOUS
Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.
- Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
- Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
- Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
- Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
- Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
- Sunglasses with strap
- Small day pack for hikes and excursions
- Flashlight and/or head lamp
- Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
- Binoculars with lens cleaner
- Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
- Reusable water bottle
- Non-perishable snacks
- Pocket knife or multipurpose tool – Pack in your checked luggage.
- Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
- Notepad or travel journal and pen
- Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
- Walking stick with rubber tip (folding or collapsible, for walking on rough and uneven terrain)
- Swim mask/fins (snorkeling equipment is available to rent and often included for most groups)
- A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
- Money belt
- Converter and adapter for electronics
- Chargers for electronics
NOTE: There is a weight limit of 50 lbs. of checked luggage and one carry-on per person for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. Your luggage and/or carry-on may be subject to inspection by the Ecuadorian government in an effort to prevent the introduction of foreign plants and animals to the Galápagos Islands.
Questions
Contact Andrea Holbrook at Andrea@Holbrooktravel.com
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