Ecuador Packages: Colonial Treasures & Exotic Galapagos

• Ecuador tour package to Quito & Galapagos Islands
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Discover Quito on your Ecuador travel adventure, the second highest capital 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 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. 

Escape city life in the remote Galapagos Islands, one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world, spectacularly located along the equator nearly 600 miles (1,000km) off the coast of Ecuador. On this Galapagos Islands tour, you can snorkel in turquoise-water coves with giant tortoises, mingle with white-tipped reef sharks and manta rays, walk through lava tubes, hike alongside iguanas, and get up close and personal with sea lions, penguins, and blue-footed boobies. Experience the diverse ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands while spending your evenings in comfortable lodges. Perfect for those who don’t want to get sea sick!

Day 1 : Arrival to Quito
Day 2 : Quito City Tour & Mitad del Mundo Tour
Day 3 : Arrival to Galapagos & Transfer to Santa Cruz Island
Day 4 : Santa Cruz Island Tour & Transfer to Isabela Island
Day 5 : Isabela Island
Day 6 : Isabela Island & Return to Santa Cruz Island
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 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 you will enjoy an exciting full-day Quito City Tour and Mitad del Mundo tour. 
• First, 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. From here you will head to 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 explore the Plaza de San Francisco, renowned for its spectacular setting in the shadow of Volcano Pichincha, where you will tour the historically rich San Francisco Church and Monastery. 
• Next on the tour, you will visit the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World), about 45 minutes from 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 to learn about the historical and modern science behind determining the exact location of the equator. 
• At the end of your tour, you will return to your Quito hotel and spend the evening at your leisure. 

Day 3: Arrival to Galapagos & Transfer to Santa Cruz Island

• Start your journey to the Galapagos with a transfer to the airport for your flight from Quito to the Galapagos Islands.
• Upon arrival to the Baltra Airport, you will be met by a representative who will transfer you to the port for a short ferry ride to nearby Santa Cruz Island. 
• On Santa Cruz Island you will be transferred to your lodge in Puerto Ayora and have time to settle in and have lunch at the lodge before starting to explore the Galapagos with your expert naturalist guides.
• In the afternoon you will begin your Galapagos adventures with a visit to Los Gemelos (The Twins), two gigantic collapsed lava chambers. This startling sight is an incredible reminder of the forceful power of nature. 
• From here, you will visit a 600-acre private reserve where you can watch giant tortoises roaming freely. Walking through fields, you will have the unique opportunity to mingle with these peaceful and gentle giants. Follow this incredible experience with a walk inside the impressive natural lava tunnels that are located nearby. Stalagmites, stalactites, mineral-colored walls, 20-foot high ceilings, and the rippled floor formed from lava create an unusual atmosphere within the tunnels. 
• In the evening you will return to your lodge in Puerto Ayora for dinner and time to relax and prepare for the next day's adventures. 

Day 4: Santa Cruz Island Tour & Transfer to Isabela Island

• This morning you will continue your Galapagos adventure with a visit to Itabaca Channel, which separates Santa Cruz from Baltra Island. Located at about 45 minutes from the lodge, when you arrive at the Channel you will receive instructions on sea kayaking before starting the tour. 
• Once you are out on the water, you will follow the coastline and explore the beautiful scenery of the northern part of Santa Cruz Island. A boat will accompany your tour and you will be guided by certified specialists to ensure your safety at all times. From your sea kayak, you will take in the stunning views of shorecliffs populated by sea birds such as brown pelicans, blue footed boobies, frigate birds, and more. In the water, you may spot sea lions, green sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish. 
• Following the tour, you will return to the lodge for lunch before setting out for Isabela Island. The boat ride will last about 2 hours, but along the way you may be able to see whales, dolphins, manta rays or whale sharks. 
• You will check in to the Isabela Island lodge upon arrival and meet with your naturalist guide to learn more about the island's culture and history, as well as have some time to explore on your own. Following dinner at the lodge, you will have time to rest and relax for the remainder of the evening. 

Day 5: Isabela Island

• Be sure to fuel up at breakfast - this morning you will hike the Sierra Negra Volcano, which boasts an active crater measuring 10 kilometers (4 miles) across, the second largest caldera in the world. 
• You will start with a drive up to the slopes of the volcano, followed by a short walk up to the rim of the crater. From here you will walk for about 6 km along the rim of the crater, before stopping for a rest and snack. For those interested in further exploration, you can continue exploring with an additional 1 hour hike across sloping lava fields to Volcan Chico for spectacular views of the island, however, parts of this hike can be especially difficult.  
• In the afternoon, your tour continues to Campo Duro, a local organic farm where you'll enjoy a homemade lunch prepared by the owners. You'll also have the opportunity to hang out with the giant tortoises that live on the property. 
• The day ends with a walk through mangrove forests and snorkeling at Concha Perla, a clear bay populated by sea lions, green turtles, and more tropical fish than you can count. Alternatively, if you would like some time on your own, you can also walk to town to explore daily life in a Galapagos town.  
• In the evening you will return to the lodge for dinner and free time. 

Day 6: Isabela Island & Return to Santa Cruz Island

• After breakfast, you'll board a small boat and head to Las Tintoreras, a small group of islands located nearby. Along the way you may be able to see blue-footed boobies and Galapagos penguins. 
• At Las Tintoreras you will walk through lava fields that are home to colonies of marine iguanas. The trail will lead you to a small canal where white-tipped reef sharks like to rest. Characterized by black lava fields, deep green sea, and distant volcano peaks, this Galapagos adventure is one you won't soon forget. You'll also have a chance to swim and snorkel in the shallow bay surrounded by mangroves. 
• You will have lunch at the lodge before starting the journey back to Santa Cruz Island. 
• In the afternoon you will tour the world-famous Charles Darwin Research Station. The station is home to the rarest tortoise species in the world, has one of the most successful reptile breeding programs, and is supported by the work of over 100 scientists from around the globe.
• In the evening you will return to your lodge to enjoy your last night on the Galapagos Islands with dinner and a quiet evening.

Day 7: Departure from Galapagos

• Enjoy the last morning of your exciting Galapagos experience at your comfortable lodge. After breakfast, you will be transferred by ferry to the Baltra airport for your flight to mainland Ecuador and journey home or to your next destination.
• Alternatively, browse our full range of Ecuador travel destinations for additional options to continue exploring the Galapagos or visit other exciting 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 Hotels

Red Mangrove Aventura Lodge

Avenida Charles Darwin, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz

Built in 1995, this lodge boasts a unique architectural design which perfectly complements the nearby mangrove forest and seafront. Guests will feel as if they are still in the forest itself when entering the open air lobby which feels like a mere extension of the hotel's scenic grounds. Observe the incredible ecosystem of the mangrove forest and enjoy spectacular views of Puerto Ayora's bay from the hotel's common areas, or your hotel room if you choose to stay in a suite. The lodge is equipped with modern amenities for guests' comfort while the immaculate rooms and inviting social areas provide a pleasant atmosphere to rest after a long day exploring the island's many wonders. With its delicious Japanese and Galapagos fusion food, the restaurant is a favorite among locals who come for the cuisine and exceptional atmosphere. Rated the number one hotel in Puerto Ayora on Tripadvisor, this lodge and its phenomenal staff truly provide a memorable Galapagos experience.

Restaurant Internet Laundry Service

Red Mangrove Aventura Lodge Photos & Info »

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Red Mangrove Isabela Lodge

Avenida Conocarpus, Puerto General Villamil, Isabela

Isabela Lodge is located right on the seafront in Puerto Villamil, the island's main town. This is truly a magical setting that will leave guests with a feeling of serenity and tranquility found nowhere else. The lodge's friendly staff is committed to making your stay on Isabela Island as comfortable as possible, and they really go the extra mile to make sure that all your expectations are not only met, but exceeded. The large and comfortable wooden deck stands directly on the beach allowing guests to enjoy the best of views. The roof top terrace is also a perfect spot to delight in the outstanding panoramas, unobstructed as far as the eyes can see.

Restaurant Internet Laundry Service

Red Mangrove Isabela Lodge Photos & Info »

See all Galapagos Hotels

Included:

• 2 hotel nights in Quito, 2 nights on Santa Cruz Island (Puerto Ayora) and 2 nights on Isabela Island (Puerto Villamil) in comfortable hotels and lodges based on US standards
• Breakfast at all hotels
• All tours stated in the itinerary with English-speaking guides
• Ground transportation & entrance fees
• All meals at the Galapagos lodges

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