Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands
Enchanting and diverse, Ecuador boasts a wealth of unique environments, from abundant cloud forest reserves to remote volcanic islands.
Ecuador's rich heritage and geographic diversity make it an excellent destination for an array of travellers. A luxury holiday to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands could see you adventuring through the Ecuadorian Amazon, touring the UNESCO World Heritage streets of Quito's old town and encountering rare wildlife on a cruise around the Galapagos Islands.
A rising eco-destination, Ecuador is home to some of the most spectacular natural landscapes on the continent. The Ecuadorian Amazon, encompassing approximately one-third of the country's land area and one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with dozens of luxury lodges ideally situated near the most accessible regions of the rainforest. Discover the enchanting Mindo Cloud Forest, west of Quito, famed for its distinctive flora and fauna, including 450 species of tropical birds, butterflies, and rare orchids, best explored on an exhilarating zipline ride or immersing hike through trails lined with waterfalls.
Visit South America's best-preserved historic centre in Quito, with an eclectic cityscape of European, Moorish and Inca architecture, and walk amidst exquisite plazas, grand cathedrals and colourful facades, or view the city from above on a cable car journey to the Andes, one of the highest in the world. The port city of Guayaquil, Ecuador's second-largest city, is famed for its gorgeous promenade, vibrant nightlife, and excellent culinary scene, making it ideal for a quick visit.
Situated over 600 miles from Ecuador reside The Galapagos Islands, one of the world's most fascinating archipelagos, renowned for its raw nature and beauty. One of the region's most sought-after natural destinations, the chain of over 100 volcanic islands is home to an array of endemic species, including the Marine Iguana and the Galapagos Penguin, making it an unrivalled location for wildlife spotting. Off the coast, the islands' seas are home to about 3,000 marine species, including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, making them ideal for snorkelling, diving, and boating.
Our Top Ecuador and Galapagos Experiences
- Go bird-watching in the Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve.
- Snorkel the marine-rich waters of the Galapagos Islands.
- Hike the Quilotoa Loop in the Andes Mountains.
- Explore the UNESCO centres of Quito and Cuenca.
Best Time to Visit
Weather variations in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are generally mild and the result of regional differences, however, is it worth noting the highlands endure a drier season from June to September. Outdoor, cultural and wildlife exploration, however, can be enjoyed all year round.
Weather variations in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are generally mild and the result of regional differences, however, is it worth noting the highlands endure a drier season from June to September. Outdoor, cultural and wildlife exploration, however, can be enjoyed all year round.
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Founded on the ruins of an Inca city in the 16th century, visiting Ecuador's historic capital city, Quito can be likened to travelling through the ages with its fascinating contrast of modern architecture and dense concentration of historic colonial structures. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage site status in 1978, Quito cradles one of the most well-preserved historic centres in all of Latin America in Plaza de la Independencia.
Constructed in the early 20th century, the Nariz del Diablo Railtrack was built to accommodate travel across the steep and narrow paths of the Devil's Nose mountain ridge. Today, a train ride across the tracks offers the best seat in the house to view the majestic Andes mountains.
Located North of Cuenca, the Ingapirca site is Ecuador's largest and best-preserved Inca structure. Situated atop a hill, the site contains a fascinating selection of ancient architectural features, particularly the Temple of the Sun, an elliptically shaped structure formerly used as a ritual site. The site houses a small Cañari museum where visitors can learn more about the culture, or you can head to the nearby village of Cañar and witness the living culture today.
Nestled on the western slopes of the Andes, the Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve is a top Ecuadorian ecotourism site, boasting a breathtaking landscape populated with lush tropical vegetation, rolling green mountains, waterfalls, rivers and hundreds of streams. The perfect setting for adventure, visitors can enjoy watching out for local bird species, embarking on hikes, zip-lining through the forest and much more.
Residing on the Galápagos Island of Isabela, Sierra Negra is one of six volcanoes that form the body of the island. Sitting 1124m above sea level, the volcano is characterized by its expansive caldera, recognized as the second largest in the world, and the unusual landscapes that huddle around it. A hike to Sierra Negra will require a guide, however, with panoramic views of Isabela at the summit and a birds-eye view of the impressive crater, we think it's worth a climb!
Named after the resident colony of sea lions that inhabit it, Isla Lobos is a small, flat-island situated just off the coast of San Cristobal. The distance between the islet and San Cristobal is often characterised by its optimal marine exploration conditions, calm and teeming with marine life.
Language:
Spanish
Currency:
United States Dollar
Timezone:
GMT-5
Best Time To Travel:
December - April
Flight Time:
16 hours
Direct Flights:
Country Combinations::
Peru
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