Ecuador and Galápagos | Ultimate Ecuador: Biodiversity in the Amazon and Galápagos
About this trip
Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse countries on earth, encompassing varied ecosystems ranging from rainforest and cloud forest to highlands and coast. This ultimate Ecuador exploration introduces you to two biodiversity hotspots for an in-depth appreciation of the many wonders of this equatorial nation. Begin in the Ecuadorian Amazon to observe rainforest flora and fauna, then head to the volcanic landscapes of the Galápagos Islands and explore the wonders that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection, an idea that not only influenced his own life, but also changed the history of the world. Enjoy time in the bustling capital of Quito in the Ecuadorian Andes to round out the experience.
Highlights
- Look for primates, tropical birds, and other wildlife as you travel by boat down the Napo River into the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon.
- Learn about the Amazon’s Indigenous peoples and their relationship with the forest during guided hikes.
- Follow in Charles Darwin’s footsteps in the Galápagos Islands and come face-to-face with Blue-footed Boobies, giant tortoises, and sea lions.
- Discover fascinating geological history while trekking volcanoes and lava fields.
- Explore historical Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best-preserved colonial city center in Latin America.
What makes us different
Sustainable travel
We believe travel should have a positive impact on the world. We are committed to maintaining responsible travel practices and partner with ClimateSafe to provide carbon offsetting.
Custom-tailored trips
We can customize your itinerary so that it’s the ideal match for your interests, travel dates, and budget
Marketing support and resources
We have all the tools necessary to help you plan, promote and sell your trip
Low stress travel planning
We take care of all the details so you know your trip will be smooth sailing
Expert guides
We take pride in hiring local guides who are carefully selected for their knowledge, sensitivity and skill in the field
Flight arrangements
We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with arranging the flights for your group if desired
Daily Itinerary
Print ItineraryQuito
Day 1Upon arrival at the airport in Quito proceed through Immigration, Baggage Claim and Customs before exiting the secured area of the airport. A Holbrook representative will be waiting outside the exit door with a Holbrook sign to assist with your transfer to the hotel. Most flights arrive to Quito in the evening. No meals included on this day. Quito's elevation range from 9,223 ft - 9,883 ft. To minimize your chances of experiencing altitude sickness, try to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and fatty foods, consume high carbohydrate foods, and avoid strenuous exercise at high elevations.
Sheraton Quito Hotel
Quito
Day 2This morning after breakfast, we will officially meet our Ecuadorian guide who will be together with us throughout the program during the Welcome Orientation. Afterwards we will start our exploration of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by volcanoes, Quito is a unique city that boasts one of the largest and best preserved colonial centers in America. Visit La Compañía Church, Alabado Museum (pre Columbian art), and San Francisco Church. After lunch at a local restaurant, we will enjoy a visit to the Museo Casa del Alabado. We will return to our hotel in the late afternoon and have the rest of the day at leisure.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
Sheraton Quito Hotel
Amazonia - Napo River
Day 3After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a 45-minute flight to Coca also known as Puerto Francisco de Orellana. The port city is the capital of the Orellana province and one of the country's gateways to exploring the Amazon. Upon arrival, head to Francisco de Orellana port for the two hour boat ride down the Napo River - an important Amazonian tributary and country's longest river. We'll have box lunch on the boat. After disembarkation, we'll walk on a raised boardwalk to Pilchicocha Lake to board canoes for the final leg of our journey. Once we check-in, we will meet our local guides and have an orientation to our Amazon Lodge and activities. A typical day will begin at sunrise or earlier, to take advantage of the cool morning hours when the rainforest animals are most active. Afternoon excursions begin between 3:00-4:00 p.m. and often continue into the evening, when the nocturnal insect and frog chorus begins. In between activities, there is time to freshen up, relax, or swim in the black water lake home to many species of fish. During excursions, our group will be divided into small groups, each of which will be led by a native expert with knowledge of the rainforest's medicinal and other useful plants, and a bilingual naturalist educated in the biology and ecology of the area. Of the incredible 1,600 bird species registered in Ecuador, 600 (37 percent) have been seen at Sacha Lodge. That's almost 7 percent of the species found in the entire world! Enjoy observing birds at the mini tower and the butterfly house before dinner at the lodge. After dinner, accompany your naturalist guide on a night walk through the rainforest to view some of the hundreds of different species of mammals that can only be found at night. PLEASE NOTE: The flight to Coca has a limit of 50 lbs per person for checked luggage. The excess luggage can be left at Quito and our field staff will make the necessary arrangements for the transfer between Quito hotels.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
Sacha Lodge
Amazonia - Napo River
Day 4Begin the day at the Yasuni National Park Parrot Lick and learn about the life and habits of the local parrot population. The parrot lick is an exposed clay bank where brightly colored parrots of several different species gather in the morning hours. When weather conditions are ideal (sunny and dry) the parrots can often be seen perching on and eating the exposed clay. This activity is strictly weather-dependent since the parrots do not appear when it rains. In case of rain, we will try to visit the lick the next day. Activities will be substituted accordingly. After spending time at the clay lick, well stop at the Shipati Warmi project, an initiative run by and benefiting the women of the Providencia community of Yasuní. We'll learn about the people of Amazonia, about their daily lives - how they dry clothes in the jungle and the challenges of getting to school - their language, and customs. In the afternoon hike along the Liana Chica Trail arriving at the canopy walk, for spectacular views of the rainforest and the many different species of birds. Designed to be a self-standing rigid suspension, the canopy walk is one of only a few in the world! Located within Sacha´s private reserve, two miles from the shores of the Rio Napo and one mile from the lodge, the bird walk gives you the opportunity to get an up close and personal view of the rainforest canopy.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
Sacha Lodge
Amazonia - Napo River
Day 5Depart from the lodge after breakfast, and begin the hike on Lagartococha Trail. This trail offers the chance to learn more about the indigenous people and their relationship with the forest. Learn about the trees where residents believe the spirits of their ancestors live, and the mysterious "dwende" or devil man of the forest. After arriving at Lake Lagartococha, take a tranquil canoe ride through a natural swamp, which is home to anacondas, caimans, and capybaras. After the canoe ride, a walk on the other side of Largatococha may give you the opportunity to spot capuchin or squirrel monkeys playfully jumping through the trees. Return from the walk and head back to the lodge for a refreshing dip in the lake, or a nice relaxing nap in your personal hammock on your private balcony. After lunch, your local guide will teach you how to fish for the infamous razor toothed piranha. In the afternoon begin a silent canoe ride through the flooded Amazonian forest; to spot the shy and elusive river otter as well as the incredibly well camouflaged three toed sloth. After your ride through the flooded forest, arrive at Sacha´s 135 foot wooden tower built around an ancient Kapok tree. View vibrantly colored birds through powerful scopes, and watch the sunset with an amazing view of Mount Sumaco, a volcano. Possibly, you'll get a view of the snow covered caps of the Andes! A canoe ride back through the flooded forest at night provides for a different sensory experience; listen to the symphony of frogs and insects, nocturnal birds making their eerie nighttime calls, see the glowing eyes of the caimans, and watch for the several species of bats flying over your heads. Arrive back at Lake Pilchicocha to the welcoming lights of Sacha lodge. Our last night at the Amazon, we'll have a barbecue dinner in the lodge's outdoor dining area and say farewell to the Amazon and to our local guides.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
Sacha Lodge
Mindo
Day 6After breakfast transfer to Coca by boat for the late morning flight back to Quito. Upon arrival in Quito, we will transfer to a local restaurant for lunch. Continue your journey to the breathtaking Cloud Forest area, a nature lovers' paradise. Arrive in Mindo and enjoy orientation walk along Hotel Gardens
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
Sachatamia
Mindo
Day 7This morning, visit Milpe Bird Sanctuary, a 250 acre subtropical rainforest reserve with an altitudinal range of 3,350 to 3,770 feet and protecting an important tract of remnant forest in the Chocó foothills. This ecological gem offers bird enthusiasts a remarkable opportunity to walk in pathways. Be prepared to encounter a diverse array of stunning avian species, including the unique Club-Winged Manakin, Golden Manakin, the distinctive Umbrella Bird, and the striking Chocó Toucan. Following your morning among the birds, the journey continues to Mashpi village, a serene community situated within the biodiverse Chocó-Andean Forest. Here, you'll engage with local residents and gain a deeper understanding of their inspiring sustainable initiatives designed to safeguard their precious forest and the surrounding natural environment. Lunch, showcasing the comforting flavors indigenous to the Chocó forest, awaits you. This meal will be specially prepared by the Women of Mashpi association and served at a family-run reserve conveniently located beside the chocolate farm, ensuring a great transition to your next activity. The afternoon continues with a visit to an organic chocolate farm. This immersive tour will reveal the journey of cocoa, from its cultivation to its transformation into fine chocolate. You'll gain firsthand knowledge of the farm's holistic sustainable practices, covering everything from the creation of organic fertilizers and essential nutrients to land preparation, harvesting the cocoa pods, and finally, culminating in a delightful chocolate tasting that celebrates the rich output of their dedicated work. Please note, the farm tour is scheduled to commence at 2:00 PM and will conclude after approximately two hours. As the day's enriching discoveries draw to a close, you will comfortable return to the hotel, leaving the remainder of your evening free for personal relaxation
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
Sachatamia
Mindo
Day 8Join the environmental educational program focused on conservation, research, and sustainable agriculture. Learn about the significance of the Cloud Forest, its impact on human living, and the effects of global warming. Savor lunch prepared with local organic products and discover new flavors. Talking about Cloud and Choco Forest could not be complete without learning about one of the best coffees in the world, the high-altitude coffee! Visit a family-owned organic coffee farm to learn about the process of specialty coffee-making and participate in a coffee tasting activity, Return to the hotel. Rest of the afternoon free to enjoy the hotel facilities.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
Sachatamia
Puembo
Day 9Depart for Puembo today. En route, stop at the Pululahua geobotanical reserve for a short walk to observe something very unique, an inhabited volcanic crater that is located very close to the equator. Continue to a restaurant located at the border of the Pululahua volcano crater for lunch and a lecture by a geologist about Ecuador's Geology and Galapagos formations. Afterwards continue to the hotel to relax and get ready for our journey to the Galapagos Islands.
PLEASE NOTE: There is a 44 pounds weight limit for the flight the next day to Galapagos Islands. You can leave your extra luggage at this hotel, as we will be coming back for our last night to the same location.
- 5 day cruises are Thursday to Monday - West (B) or South (D)
- 4 day cruises are Monday to Thursday - North (A) or East (C)
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
Rincon de Puembo
Galapagos
Day 10Very early this morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to the Baltra Airport in Galapagos. Upon arrival you will be met by our naturalist guides will greet us at the airport and transfer us to the luxurious M/V Galapagos Legend. After lunch aboard the vessel, explore Bachas Beach, named for some wrecked World War II barges whose ribs are still visible in the sand this visitor site offers great swimming, a lovely walk along the shore,
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
M/V Galapagos Legend
Galapagos
Day 11After breakfast, land at James Bay (Puerto Egas) on Santiago Island to walk and observe sponges, snails, hermit crabs, a variety of shore birds, barnacles, the endemic four-eyed blenny, marine iguanas, and sea lions. After lunch, make a wet landing on Rábida Island to walk and observe marine iguanas, sea lions, Blue footed and Nazca Boobies, and Brown Pelicans. Arrive at a small saltwater lagoon where you may be able to see American Flamingos.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
M/V Galapagos Legend
Galapagos
Day 12This morning disembark on Isabela Island at Urbina Bay, a coral area at the base of Alcedo Volcano with land iguanas, Flightless Cormorants, and giant tortoises. Return to the yacht for lunch. In the afternoon, take a panga ride around Tagus Cove, located between the shoulders of two volcanic craters, which protect it from the open sea. Observe marine iguanas, sea lions, and a variety of birds, including Galápagos Penguins, Flightless Cormorants, and Blue-footed Boobies. This evening enjoy a presentation by your Galapagos guide before dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
M/V Galapagos Legend
Galapagos
Day 13Today visit Espinosa Point on Fernandina Island to observe a large colony of sea lions, marine iguanas, Flightless Cormorants, and clumps of lava cactus. Later this afternoon, we make a panga ride on Punta Vicente Roca to observe plenty of sea lions, marine iguanas, blue-footed and masked boobies, and flightless cormorants. There will be time for those who would like to swim and/or snorkel.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
included
M/V Galapagos Legend
Puembo
Day 14After an early breakfast we take the bus to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island for a visit to the native forests and the Twin Craters, two formations caused by the collapse of surface material caused by underground fissures. Afterwards transfer to Baltra for our flight back to Quito. Lunch will be on your own. At Baltra airport, there are opportunities to get a sandwich and drink. This afternoon at leisure. A farewell dinner will be served at the hotel.
Breakfast-Dinner
included
Rincon de Puembo
Flight
Day 15This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Breakfast-
included
Pricing
Print PricingPlease call 800-451-7111 for your price.
What's Included
- Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
- Full time guide per region for the duration of your program
- Galapagos National Park fees
- INGALA card
- Non alcoholic beverage with meals
- Snorkel gear
What's Not Included
- International airfare
- Items of personal nature
- Tips
- Travel Insurance
Travel Info
Print Travel InfoEntry & Exit Requirements
U.S. and Canadian 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).
Some physicians recommend that travelers get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines before visiting 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. According to the CDC, the estimated relative risk of malaria for U.S. travelers in Ecuador is low. If you are concerned about malaria prevention, please consult your physician.
Dengue Fever & Other Insect-borne Illnesses
Locally transmitted cases of dengue fever have been reported in Ecuador. Local transmission means that mosquitoes in the area have been infected with dengue and are spreading it to people. In addition, locally transmitted cases of chikungunya, Zika virus, and other insect-borne illnesses have previously been reported in Ecuador. The CDC recommends that travelers to Ecuador protect themselves against insect bites. 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.
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.
Resources
Print ResourcesVideo: 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 the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.
CLOTHING
Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two (eg sundress, polo shirt) if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.
Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day.
- A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection
- Shorts
- Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection
- Undergarments
- Sleepwear
- Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
- 1-2 bathing suit(s)
- Socks
- Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. 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.
- Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
- Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
- Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter
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.
- 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.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Razor
- Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
- Personal hygiene products
- Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
- 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
For more information, contact us at 800-451-7111 or email travel@holbrooktravel.com.
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Books to Read Before You Travel to the Galápagos
Here is a selection of books you may want to consider reading before (or after!) a journey to the Galápagos Islands.
FIELD GUIDES
Galápagos Wildlife, A Visitor’s Guide
by David Horwell and Pete
Ecuador: Four Worlds, One Country
Mainland Ecuador is a destination that often takes a back seat to its Central and South American neighbors, not to mention getting cast in the shadow of the ever-popular Galápagos Islands.
Galápagos Islands | Investigating Endemic Wildlife: Cruising the Western Route
Aboard M/C Tip Top II or V
11
Days |
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