Ecuador Packages: Quito & Galapagos Cruise

• Ecuador tour package to Quito & Galapagos Islands
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Start your Ecuador experience by exploring Quito, the second highest capital city in Latin America. The city is blessed with one of the most spectacular settings of any city in the world. Flanked by the staggering peaks of the lush Volcano Pichincha to the west, and cradled by a low ridge to the east, Quito guarantees a mountain view from almost every vantage point in the city. Quito also boasts one of the most attractive historic centers in South America. The exquisite architecture, combined with the dramatic volcanic mountains surrounding the city and the large indigenous population, is what really makes this city so memorable. 

Once you have had your fill of mountain vistas, journey to the remote Galapagos Islands, located nearly 600 miles (1,000 km) off of Ecuador’s coast. While in the Galapagos, whether on land or at sea, there is always an unexpected natural wonder to be found. Giant tortoises grunt in distant highlands, prehistoric marine iguanas hiss and spit sprays of salt, pink flamingos adorn the shores of hidden lagoons, flightless cormorants and tiny penguins dart amongst colorful schools of fish, while elegant tropical birds glide through deep blue skies. All this and more will keep you in a state of wonder as you explore the islands on your Galapagos cruise.

Day 1 : Arrival to Quito
Day 2 : Quito City Tour & Mitad del Mundo Tour
Day 3 : Arrival to Galapagos & Begin Galapagos Cruise
Day 4 : Galapagos Cruise
Day 5 : Galapagos Cruise
Day 6 : Galapagos Cruise
Day 7 : Departure from Galapagos

Contact our team of professionals with any questions you may have to write us at travel@galapagosforless.com

Day 1: Arrival to Quito

• You will be met at the Quito airport by a Galapagos For Less representative who will take you to your comfortable Quito hotel. The transfer time from the Quito airport to most hotels is between 1 hour and 1 hour and 30 minutes. 
• You will have the remainder of the day to relax at your hotel or explore Quito at your leisure. 
• Overnight in Quito.

Day 2: Quito City Tour & Mitad del Mundo Tour

• Today your exploration of Quito continues with a full-day Quito City Tour and Mitad del Mundo Tour. 
• The Quito City Tour will take you into the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you will enjoy panoramic views of Alameda Park and the Basilica, and stroll down the Street of the Seven Crosses (Garcia Moreno) named for the seven stone crosses the Spanish built there after conquering the city. You will also visit the Plaza Grande, also known as Independence Square, which is surrounded by some of the most exquisite buildings in Ecuador, such as the Presidential Palace and the famous Compañia de Jesus. Lastly, you will visit Plaza de San Francisco, renowned for its spectacular setting in the shadow of Volcano Pichincha, where you will tour the San Francisco Church and Monastery. 
• Next on the tour, the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World), about 45 minutes outside Quito, where the Equatorial Monument stands. The monument marks the place where a French expedition located the equator in the 17th century. Here you will visit the interactive Intiñan Solar Museum and learn more about the historical and modern science behind determining the location of the equator. 
• At the end of the tour, you will return to your Quito hotel and have the remainder of the day to spend at your leisure. 

Day 3: Arrival to Galapagos & Begin Galapagos Cruise

• Start your journey to the Galapagos Islands with a transfer to the airport for your flight from Quito to the Galapagos.
• Upon arrival, you will be picked up at the Baltra airport by a representative and transferred to the port to board your confirmed Galapagos cruise ship.
• After checking in, you will enjoy a briefing by the cruise staff and time to rest and relax as you set sail in the Galapagos. Depending on your confirmed cruise ship, you may have an afternoon island visit today where you will explore the first of several Galapagos islands and possibly see some unique wildlife up close. 

Day 4: Galapagos Cruise

• Today you will continue to explore the Galapagos Archipelago aboard your comfortable Galapagos cruise ship.
• Your exact itinerary will vary depending on your confirmed cruise ship, however, you will be able to visit some of the most beautiful islands of the archipelago and enjoy land tours with expert naturalist guides. Depending on your ship, you may also be able to enjoy water activities such as snorkeling or scuba-diving.
• On most days you will enjoy a morning excursion, then a return to the ship for lunch and time to relax before setting off on another adventure in the afternoon. Following dinner on the ship, you may also enjoy informative presentations from your naturalist guides about the wildlife and unique habitats found on the islands, as well as a briefing on the activities that you will be enjoying during the next day. 
• Overnight on Galapagos cruise ship. 

Day 5: Galapagos Cruise

• The adventures continue with more exploration of the Galapagos Islands. The islands offer some of the best wildlife viewing in the world, not only because the animals themselves are beautiful and interesting, but also because many of the species are virtually fearless. Through a quirk of evolution, large predators failed to evolve here, resulting in a unique sense of security in the island's animal population. This means that the famous blue-footed booby will perform its awkwardly elegant two-step mating dance right under your nose, oblivious to your camera, mockingbirds will hop onto your shoes, or you could watch sea lions perform figure eights to show off their swimming prowess as you snorkel nearby. 
• Overnight on Galapagos cruise ship. 

Day 6: Galapagos Cruise

• Following breakfast on your cruise ship, you will enjoy your final full day at the Galapagos with more island visits as well as time to rest and relax as you take in the stunning scenery. 
• While the wide variety of wildlife is impressive, the island landscapes are another unique attraction. You will be awed by the beautiful beaches, stunning lava fields and towering volcanoes during this unforgettable experience. 
• Overnight on Galapagos cruise ship. 

Day 7: Departure from Galapagos

• This morning you will return to land to meet your transfer to the airport for your flight to mainland Ecuador and journey home or to continue to your next destination.
• Alternatively, browse our full range of Ecuador tour destinations to continue exploring the Galapagos or visit other wonderful locations in Ecuador.

Price per Person
Pricing upon request. Please contact a Travel Advisor.

Price per Person
Pricing upon request. Please contact a Travel Advisor.

Top Pick Quito Hotels

Hilton Colon Quito 5*

Avenida Amazonas y Patria Avenida, Quito

This 5-star luxury Quito hotel is conveniently located only 20 minutes from the Quito airport and a 10-minute walk from the city's historic center. This fully-equipped and elegant hotel is perfect if you are looking to pamper yourself and enjoy a carefree vacation. Relax in the fitness center, spa, or swimming pool, and treat yourself to a delicious meal in one of the hotel's five exquisite restaurants, or simply rest in your modern and luxurious room. All rooms and suites are stylishly decorated in a contemporary fashion and provide spacious areas for you to relax in style.

Restaurant Internet Laundry Service Room Service Gym Spa Parking Swimming Pool

Hilton Colon Quito Photos & Info »

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Hotel Anahi 4*

Tamayo 687 y Wilson, Quito

This new luxury boutique Quito hotel is probably one of the best hotels in all of Ecuador. The elegant hotel successfully combines contemporary and traditional Ecuadorian styles, giving it an air of authenticity while offering great comfort and stylish décor. As a reminder of the city's fascinating and complex history, each room is uniquely decorated to emphasize different elements of Ecuador's cultural heritage. The hotel's architecture, however, focuses on simplicity with a carved wood and stone center bringing an air of serenity to the entire place. Enjoy instant relaxation in the hotel's wellness zone equipped with a Jacuzzi, hammam, and massage room.

Restaurant Laundry Service Spa

Hotel Anahi Photos & Info »

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Hotel Vieja Cuba 3*

Diego de Almagro 1212 y La Niña, Quito

Located in Quito's newest commercial district and inside a majestic renovated colonial house, the Hotel Vieja Cuba comprises 26 rooms offering all the amenities that comfortable modern life requires. The stylish rooms, with their wooden furnishings and warm colors, are cozy and create a peaceful haven where guests can rest after a long day of sightseeing. The 3 restaurants and the coffee-bar are all characterized by the distinctive touch of the various chefs who manage to exquisitely combine African, French, Spanish and Chinese influences into a delicious Cuban gastronomy.

Restaurant Internet Laundry Service

Hotel Vieja Cuba Photos & Info »

See all Quito hotels

Top Pick Galapagos Boats

Galapagos Journey I

The Galapagos Journey I is a luxury power catamaran offering high quality and comfortable cruises in the Galapagos Islands since 2006. The boat comprises 6 twin bed cabins and 2 suites equipped and decorated with the highest standards in mind. The M/C Galapagos Journey I is a very spacious yacht with larger-than-average inside and outside social areas. The Catamaran has lots of open deck space allowing guests to make the most of the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands. It is also offers a wide range of activities such as snorkeling, sea kayaking, and excursions with a naturalist multilingual guide.

Galapagos Journey I Photos & Info »

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Grand Odyssey

The Galapagos Grand Odyssey is a brand new luxury yacht, offering the highest level of comfort of any boat its size in the Galapagos Islands. Its features resemble but also surpass those of the already highly praised Odyssey I. Among the amazing features of this boat are a sundeck where guests can enjoy the spectacular views, a Jacuzzi, a restaurant and bar, gym, and mini-spa.

Grand Odyssey Photos & Info »

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Galapagos Legend

Enjoy the paradise of the Galapagos Islands while navigating in this 114-passenger luxury expedition Galapagos cruise ship that was totally renovated in December 2001. The Galapagos Legend has all-new passenger accommodations with 1,800 square meters of social areas. Built with marine-certified materials that fulfill Safety of Life at Sea specifications, you will be well cared for on this beautiful vessel.

Galapagos Legend Photos & Info »

See all Galapagos Boats

Included:

• 2 hotel nights in Quito and 4 nights on a Galapagos cruise ship
• Breakfast at all hotels
• All tours stated in the itinerary with English-speaking guides
• Ground transportation & entrance fees
• All meals on the Galapagos cruise

Not Included:

• Airfare
• Lunches and dinners (unless otherwise specified)
• Airport taxes
• Tips
• $110 National Park entrance fee for the Galapagos 

Additional Services in Quito

• Teleferico Tour
• Full-Day Tour to Cotopaxi Volcano
• Otavalo Market Tour
• Mindo Cloud Forest Tour
• Papallacta Hot Springs Tour

Teleferico Tour

Enjoy Quito from above with this half-day tour on the Teleferico. This cable car located on Cruz Loma, a hill on the slopes of the active Pichincha Volcano. You will depart from an altitude of around 9,600 ft, before arriving at the top at over 13,200 ft. Once you reach the end of the cable car, you will walk approximately 30 minutes to reach the lookout point. On clear days, travelers can catch a glimpse of snow capped volcanoes in the distance, as well as views of Quito from the lookout point. 

Once you reach the lookout point, there is a trail that leads up to the very peak of the volcano, however, this is only recommended for experienced hikers due to the high altitude. You can also just enjoy the stunning views and grab a bite to eat or a hot chocolate at one of the restaurants at the top.  This can also be a great activity for families with children as there is a small amusement park at the base of the Teleferico.

Be sure to take a jacket and dress in layers as it can be windy and much colder than in Quito when you reach the top of the cable car. The experience will last between 3 and 4 hours. 

 

Note: This tour requires a 30 minute uphill walk in high altitude.

Price per Person
Pricing upon request. Please contact a Travel Advisor.

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Full-Day Tour to Cotopaxi Volcano

After breakfast at your Quito hotel, you and your guide will begin the scenic drive to Cotopaxi National Park, winding through the Avenue of the Volcanoes and its towering peaks lining the road. With its perfect snow-covered cone, the Cotopaxi Volcano is one of the main landmarks in Ecuador and the highest active volcano in the world.

The diverse landscape is rich with various flora and fauna and you will have a chance to spot chuquiragua (Mountaineer´s flower), wild horses, llamas, and deer. You will also get the opportunity to visit Limpiopungo Lake, near Rumiñahui volcano, or take a scenic hike before eating lunch in a traditional hacienda (not included). The entire experience will last approximately 8 hours. 

 

Included: Transport to/from Quito, English-speaking guide, National Park Entrance.

Not Included: Bottled water, food, tips.  

 

*Note: Prices are per person and based on a private tour with a minimum of two travelers. For single traveler pricing, please consult with a Travel Advisor. 

Price per Person	$ 169

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Otavalo Market Tour

This full-day experience will take you to the well-known Otavalo market, considered by many to be a "must see" on any trip to the Quito area. The market is located approximately 2-hours by car from Quito, and you will stop along the way to take in the incredible Andean landscape. 

The market is known for a variety of traditional handicrafts, particularly textiles. Many vendors offer tapestries that are woven either on Spanish looms or traditional indigenous back strap looms. Otavalo retains its cultural heritage and it is not uncommon to see locals in traditional clothing including ponchos and wide-brimmed hats for the men and embroidered blouses and beaded necklaces for the women. 

You will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch during the day (not included), before returning to your hotel in the late afternoon. The entire experience will last approximately 8 hours. 

 

Included: Transportation to/from Quito and English-speaking guide. 

Not Included: Bottled water, food, or tips. 

 

Note: Prices are per person and based on a minimum of two travelers. For additional pricing options, please consult with your Travel Advisor. 

Price per Person	$ 169

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Mindo Cloud Forest Tour

This full-day adventure into the cloud forest near Quito is perfect for nature lovers. The small town of Mindo is surrounded by primary and secondary forests and is known for incredible flora and fauna, including hundreds of different bird species, a range of butterflies and beautiful orchids. 

Mindo is located approximately 2.5-hours outside of Quito by car and during the tour you will visit a local butterfly garden and enjoy a cable car ride across the treetops to explore an area with several beautiful waterfalls. 

You will be able to enjoy lunch near Mindo (not included) before returning to Quito in the late afternoon. The entire experience will last approximately 8 hours. 

 

Included: Transportation to/from Quito, Entrance fee for Butterfly Garden and Cable Car, and English-speaking guide

Not Included: Bottled water, food, or tips

 

Note: Prices are per person and based on a private tour with a minimum of two travelers. For additional pricing options please check with your Travel Advisor. 

Price per Person	$ 189

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Papallacta Hot Springs Tour

Located between the Cayambe and Antisana Volcanoes, the hot springs form ten thermal pools that range in temperature from 30 to 70 degrees Celsius (86 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit). Legend has it that Inca royalty enjoyed these natural hot springs hundreds of years ago. 

Papallacta is located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes outside of Quito by car. During the drive you will pass through several Andean villages and cross the Papallacta Pass, located at a breathtaking 4,200 meters (13,800 ft) above sea level, before descending into the high Andean jungle near Papallacta.  

During the tour, you will be able to relax and enjoy the hot springs at your leisure as well as explore some of the surrouding areas with your guide. 

 

Included: Transportation to/from Quito, entrance fee to hot springs, and English-speaking guide

Not Included: Bottled water, food, or tips. 

 

Note: Pricing is per person and based on a private tour with a minimum of two travelers. For additional pricing options, please check with your Travel Advisor. 

Price per Person	$ 179