Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands 

Day Three: Mindo Cloud Forest

This morning, we wake up to a lovely breakfast followed by a leisurely hike. Thrill seekers may wish to go whitewater rafting or "tubing", or try a canopy zip line (sailing along one of 13 zip lines over the beautiful canopy of the Mindo Cloud Forest.)

One of the highlights today is a visit to the butterfly nursery, where we watch gargantuan butterflies emerging from their jewel-like cocoons.

Day Four: Otavalo Market

Today, we travel along the Pan-American Highway to the indigenous town of Otavalo. We can stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the indigenous people wearing their traditional blue ponchos and visit their handicraft market, with its wonderful textiles, native paintings, ceramics, jewellery, and tapestries.

In the afternoon, we drive to Cotacachi, famous for its impressive leather goods. Enjoy some free time and explore the shops or simply relax in the main plaza where we can find one of the best coffees in Ecuador.

Day Five: Cuicocha Crater Lake - Sacha Warmikuna Project

Today we visit Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve to see the breathtaking scenery of the crystalline-clear waters of this active volcano and the amazing surrounding landscapes. At the end of an hour-long hike along the rim of the Cuicocha Crater Lake, we take a boat ride to the center of the crater to observe the activity of this volcano, watching bubbles coming up from the centre of the caldera.

Day Six: Otavalo - Papallacta Hot Springs

After breakfast, we make our way to our next stop, pausing at the picturesque Papallacta Lagoon, known for its stunning scenery. We then continue to the hot springs at Termas de Papallacta, where we’ll enjoy a short hike with our guide, who will explain the richness of this unique ecosystem. Along the trail, look out for delicate orchids and colourful birds. Afterwards, take some time to unwind in the soothing volcanic pools or treat yourself to one of the optional spa therapies.

Day Seven: Flight from Quito to the Galapagos

We head out early for our flight to the Galapagos Islands, landing on San Cristóbal Island. Our first stop is La Lobería, home to a large colony of Galapagos sea lions. During this excursion, there’s a chance to spot red-billed tropicbirds, blue-footed and Nazca boobies, as well as yellow warblers, frigatebirds and several species of Darwin’s finches along the beach. Among the rocks, keep an eye out for marine iguanas – found only here in the Galapagos.

Day Eight: Kicker Rock excursion & snorkelling

This morning, we take a boat to Kicker Rock, located off the coast of San Cristóbal and also known as the Sleeping Lion (León Dormido). Once part of a volcanic cone, this striking formation has been shaped by the sea into two sheer cliffs rising 500 ft (150 m) above the ocean. Now a protected natural monument, it’s a spectacular sight — with tropicbirds, frigatebirds and boobies soaring overhead. Beneath the surface, the clear waters reveal a dazzling array of marine life, from colourful reef fish to hammerhead and white-tip sharks. After lunch, we’ll spend some time relaxing on the beach before returning to the hotel.

Day Nine: Day at Leisure

Today is a day at leisure, giving us the freedom to relax, explore at our own pace or simply soak up the surroundings.

For those who’d like to make the most of the day, there’s an optional full-day excursion to Española Island – one of the most iconic and wildlife-rich islands in the Galapagos. Home to unique species such as the waved albatross, marine iguanas and the vibrant blue-footed booby, it’s a nature-lover’s paradise. The visit includes a guided hike, birdwatching and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

Day Ten: Santa Cruz Island and the Charles Darwin Research Station

In the morning, we travel to Santa Cruz Island and make our way to the El Chato Reserve in the island’s highlands, home to the famous Galapagos giant tortoises. Hiking through El Chato’s lush landscape alongside these gentle giants is an unforgettable experience. We may also spot other highland wildlife, including pintail ducks, egrets, flycatchers, finches and frigatebirds.

Day Eleven: Academy Bay Tour Exploration

After breakfast, we enjoy a half-day tour of Academy Bay, where we can swim and snorkel (equipment provided) with all kinds of exotic fish and marine life, as well as the famous sea lions. Renowned for being curious animals, we may be lucky enough to have them swim alongside us.

Afterwards, we climb to a nearby viewpoint, and if we are lucky, we may spot white-tipped reef sharks swimming in the ocean below.

Day Twelve: Flight Back to Quito

After our final breakfast on the Galapagos Islands – and a few last photos of the sea lions – we transfer to Baltra Airport for our flight back to the mainland, then continue on to our hotel. This evening, we come together to enjoy a farewell dinner and share memories of our incredible adventure.

Day Thirteen: Departure day

Today we enjoy our final breakfast together and depart for Quito airport for our flight home.