Wild Galapagos & Ecuador
Meet the magnificent wildlife of the exotic Amazon rainforest and enchanting Galapagos Islands on this unforgettable trip of wildlife encounters and experiences. From the culture of Quito to the biodiversity of the Yasuni National Park and the ethereal beauty of the Galapagos Islands, the natural beauty, bird, marine and wildlife of the region is hard to beat.
Journey highlights
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Discover Ecuador’s culture and history from the locals with a stay in Quito’s Illa Experience Hotel and the chance to learn crafts from the locals, as well as exploring the fabulous UNESCO-listed Old Town.
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Immerse yourself in the Amazon rainforest, and enjoy hiking and canoe safaris scouting for monkeys, sloths, tamarins and pigmy squirrels by day, toads, frogs, and snakes by night. And do not miss the colourful sight of a parrot clay lick.
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Indulge in a range of sea and land-based excursions in the wondrous Galapagos Islands experiencing a luxury safari camp in Santa Cruz and on board the sumptuous Cormorant II for 4 nights, hiking the volcanic landscapes, visiting the giant tortoise reserves, swimming and snorkeling alongside sea turtles, penguins, sea lions and rays.
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Our Wild itineraries focus on wildlife encounters in their natural habitat, with expert guides and premium accommodation.
- Wild itinerary:Our Wild Journeys focus on wildlife encounters in their natural habitat, with expert guides and premium accommodation
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
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Ecuador & the Galapagos can be visited year round. The higher the altitude in the Andes, the cooler it becomes, especially at night. June to September is the best time to enjoy the Andes as this is the drier season. From January to June it is typically hot in the Galapagos and sees sunny days and blue skies interspersed with showers, while the rest of the year is generally cloudier and cooler. From July to September the seas can be heavier and boats tend to go into dry dock for their annual refurbishment around this time. The average temperature ranges from a pleasant 20°C to 28°C, however being on the equator the sun is very strong. Due to limited permits in the Galapagos we advise to book well in advance.
Itinerary
Fly to Quito
Quito, Ecuador
The adventure starts in historic Quito, Ecuador’s delightful capital city, with a two-night stay at the Illa Experience Hotel. A deluxe boutique hotel, this 10-bedroom property aims to introduce Ecuadorian culture to guests with a range of ‘experiences,’ that include ice-cream making, traditional sweet snacks and a Panama hat making demonstration. The hotel is housed in a former colonial mansion and has been thoughtfully restored with original features and elegant furnishings. Located in the San Marcos neighbourhood, a magnet for artists, writers, and musicians, many of the city’s main attractions are within easy walking distance.
Highlights of the city include the colonial Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A charming labyrinth of cobbled streets, historic houses, impressive churches and beautiful plazas, there is much to admire and explore. Do not miss Independence Plaza which is flanked by the Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, Carondelet Palace, and the Municipal Palace. La Compañía de Jesús Church includes a beautifully ornate and gilded interior, while the Monastery of San Francisco boasts a grand baroque interior and iconic statue of the winged Virgin of Quito as the main altar.
The city is overlooked by La Virgen del Panecillo a majestic sculpture on the hillside of El Panecillo. It’s a major landmark of the city and worth the climb for sweeping views of the urban sprawl and surrounding volcanoes. For more expansive views, take the El Teleférico cable car (known locally as TelefériQo) from the city up the slope of the dormant Volcán Pichincha to the summit, Cruz Loma. The adventurous can climb even higher, via a hiking route that leads to the top of the volcano.
Another famous landmark is the Equatorial Monument, located around 45-minutes north of the city, which marks the exact Middle of the World. The latitude here is 0º, and you can stand with a foot in each hemisphere. Inside the monument you will find the Ethnographic Museum, with exhibits that focus on the different regions and peoples of Ecuador.
During your time in Quito, chocolate lovers may wish to enjoy a chocolate tasting session and discover more of the history and production of Ecuadorian chocolate. In fact, the whole food scene is booming. With many chefs rediscovering the country’s indigenous produce, Ecuador is fast becoming an exciting destination for South American cuisine, so do check out the restaurants.
Accommodation: Illa Experience Hotel ( 2 nights )
Amazon, Ecuador
From the bustling capital, you will now travel deep into the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. After a short 40-minute flight to Coca, you will board a boat for the 2-hour journey to La Selva Jungle Lodge. With snacks and water provided, you can sit back and soak up the sights and sounds of the forest, keeping your eyes peeled for the primates and toucans that live here. Once the boat has docked in Puerto Providencia, there is a short paddle boat journey to reach the lodge (motorised transport is not permitted within the reserve), which will be your base for the following three nights.
The lodge is in the heart of the rainforest, within Ecuador’s Yasuní Biosphere Reserve, adjacent to the Yasuní National Park, one of the most biodiverse areas of the planet. Perched on the edge of Lake Garzacocha, La Selva was one of the Amazon’s first rainforest lodges and offers 18 comfortable suites, a restaurant and spa, all constructed from sustainable bamboo.
With close ties to the local community, expert bilingual, and native guides, La Selva offers a range of tours and activities for guests to experience this incredible part of the world. Two guides accompany guests on jungle and river excursions, an English-speaking naturalist, and a local guide native to the area, particularly skilled in spotting reptiles, mammals, and birds.
Enjoy guided hiking in the forest and canoe rides on the lake, learning about the diverse plant and wildlife from the experts. These trips can also be taken at night, a thrilling experience where you can hear the nocturnal sounds of the forest. Look out for capuchin monkeys, pigmy squirrels, tamarins, and sloths during the day and tarantulas, whip-scorpions, toads, frogs, and snakes at night. A highlight of La Selva is a 35m high Observation Tower. The viewing platform nestles in the branches of a giant kapok tree, giving fabulous views of the forest canopy. From here, you can spot many different species of bird, insects, monkeys, and flowers in the company of the guides.
There are also incredible star gazing opportunities and a chance to visit some of the indigenous communities that live near La Selva, to learn more about their way of life. Another highlight is the chance to see the remarkable sight of a parrot clay lick. Accompanied by your guides, you will travel by motorised canoe along the Napo River to one of the spots where a host of colourful parrots, parakeets and macaws gather to lick the clay of the riverbank. The minerals and salts of the clay are an essential part of their gut health, helping the birds to digest the fruits and seeds they feed on.
For those looking for solitude, kayaking is a wonderful way to explore in your own time. The kayaks are kept by the dock, with paddles and life jackets provided. Paddling the lake, you’ll have the opportunity to see monkeys, Hoatzins, and many other tropical birds.
Along with all the above activities, La Selva offers two optional excursions. The first is a visit to see the conservation work of the Charapa Turtle Adoption Program and the second is a chance to visit the Pañacocha River Delta and take a canoe trip on Pañacocha Lake, known as Piranha Lagoon in the native Kichwa language. The surrounding rainforest is home to primates and many rare bird species, while the waters are the ideal habitat for piranhas, pirarucu (one of the world’s largest freshwater fish), as well as white caiman.
Accommodation: La Selva Jungle Lodge ( 3 nights )
Quito, Ecuador
On the last day of your Amazon adventure, you will be transferred back to Puerto Providencia and Coca, for a flight back to Quito. After a night at the Vacation Inn Airport Hotel, the following morning you will take a 2-hour flight to the incredible volcanic archipelago of the Galapagos Islands.
Accommodation: Vacation Inn Quito Airport ( 1 night )
Galapagos, Ecuador
It’s time to head to the waters for four nights aboard the luxury mega-catamaran Cormorant II. As you explore many of the islands you will experience a near-noiseless, eco-friendly sailing expedition to get up close to the stunning bird, marine and wildlife habitat thriving in the Galapagos. Onboard you can expect contemporary, stylish décor and furnishings. The expansive Main Deck features floor-to-ceiling windows and a wonderful 180-degree view from the front-facing lounge and dining area. There is also an Observation Deck for panoramic wildlife watching. You will also have access to a dedicated Cruise Manager and knowledgeable bilingual naturalist, to enhance the experience.
Setting sail from Santa Cruz you will take an overnight journey to arrive in Genovesa, where you can enjoy a hike from Prince Phillip’s steps at El Barranco, you can take the steep rocky path up the cliff-face to enjoy vast views and observe the red-footed boobies, short-eared lava owl, Galapagos swallows and doves. In the afternoon you will be taken to Darwin Bay, a gorgeous white and coral beach where hikes, snorkeling and kayaking are on offer. You can embark on a half mile trail winding through the mangroves filled with land birds, you will arrive at a collection of tidal pools home to playful sea lions.
The following morning you will sail to South Plaza Island, home to one of the largest sea lion colonies as well as colourful yellow and red land iguanas. A 2 ½ km hike will take you through this rugged volcanic landscape with cliff-edge views. In the afternoon you will set sail for Santa Fe Island, home to the small, picturesque bay and anchorage on the island’s northeast coast. The bay has two trail options, one leading to a scenic cliff top viewpoint, and the other spanning from a small beach to the tall prickly pear cactus forest.
The next day takes you on a dinghy ride for more snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking at Pitt Point on San Cristobal, the north-eastern tip of the island. Home to frigatebirds, storm petrels, and all three types of booby birds: the Nazca, blue-footed and red-footed boobies. Also, a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming taking in the marine life and colony of sea lions. In the afternoon you will visit Witch Hill on the island, boasting one of the most picturesque beaches in the Galapagos and home to host of wildlife including sea turtles, rays and booby birds, offering plenty more swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
The final day will see you visit the ‘David Rodriguez’ breeding center inland at San Cristobal, you will witness hatchling turtles from their birth until they are 120 days old when the grown turtles are taken to their natural habit. Rounding off your trip to these beautiful islands perfectly. Sadly, it’s now time to leave the wondrous Galapagos Islands to fly back to Guayaquil for your final night in Ecuador.
Accommodation: Cormorant II ( 4 nights )
Guayaquil, Ecuador
Tonight, you will stay at the Hotel del Parque. A former 19th century catholic hospice restored to all its former glory, this elegant boutique hotel is located within the tropical Parque Historico. Overlooking the Daule River and surrounded by stunning botanic gardens, this is one of Guayaquil’s finest hotels. Guests can walk through the park’s nature trails and visit its wildlife sanctuary, even when it is closed to the public. Having enjoyed many wildlife adventures of a lifetime, the following morning you will be taken to the airport to begin your journey home.
Accommodation: Hotel del Parque ( 1 night )
Fly home (via Guayaquil)
Call us on 212 660 0228 to start planning your holiday.
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 2024 | $14,400 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| January 2025 | $14,400 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| February 2025 | $14,400 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| March 2025 | $14,400 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| April 2025 | $14,400 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| May 2025 | $14,400 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| June 2025 | $14,400 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| July 2025 | $14,400 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| August 2025 | $14,400 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| September 2025 | $13,700 | $3,400 | plan your trip |
| October 2025 | $13,700 | $3,400 | plan your trip |
| November 2025 | $13,700 | $3,400 | plan your trip |
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December 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,400
Deposit from*$3,600
-
January 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,400
Deposit from*$3,600
-
February 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,400
Deposit from*$3,600
-
March 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,400
Deposit from*$3,600
-
April 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,400
Deposit from*$3,600
-
May 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,400
Deposit from*$3,600
-
June 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,400
Deposit from*$3,600
-
July 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,400
Deposit from*$3,600
-
August 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,400
Deposit from*$3,600
-
September 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$13,700
Deposit from*$3,400
-
October 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$13,700
Deposit from*$3,400
-
November 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$13,700
Deposit from*$3,400
- plan your trip
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