Ecuador Tours
Few places on earth offer such a striking landscape as Ecuador. You can spend your morning on a beautiful Pacific beach and your afternoon high on a mountain top at 15,000 ft. The country is divided north to south by the Ecuadorian Andes, which include the second highest mountain on the continent and the highest active volcano in the world. These precipitous peaks abruptly fall away to the Pacific in the west and to the Amazon in the east, separating the two expanses of tropical forest with a saw-toothed spine of glaciated peaks.
Deeply embedded in this spiritually rich environment lie a mix of cultures that have been vying for their own claim of the intrinsic and physical resources. A complex history, whose beginnings can still only be theorized about, has seen numerous indigenous cultures, eventually absorbed by the Inca Empire only to be ended abruptly by Spanish conquistadors. But to this day, 25% of the population is indigenous, and the list of languages in the country includes names like Otavalo, Salasaca and Aupa.
Rapid urbanization in recent decades has left the rural population scattered amidst large-scale farms, dense forest and jagged peaks. Unfortunately, like many developing nations, Ecuador has a history of rapid resource extraction, including expansive, unsustainable logging of forests and unsound mining practices. While pressure is still quite high to maintain or increase the income from these projects, there has been mounting opposition from the global, as well as local, communities. Now, numerous community cooperatives and non-government organizations (NGOs) are working to replace these practices with more sustainable industry, supplemented by eco-tourism efforts, and are working to restore the habitats in previously damaged areas. The people of Ecuador have also turned their attention to economic growth, productivity and sustainable development.
Popular Itineraries
Ecuador - Science, Galapagos Islands - 8 Days
Package Includes
Day 1 – International flight to Quito
Upon arrival in Quito we will be greeted at the airport by our Sustainable Horizon Program Leader. From the airport we will head to the historical center of Quito and settle into our hotel.
Day 2 – Travel to the Galápagos Islands
In the morning, we will take the bus to the airport as our journey to the Galápagos Islands begins. The flight takes approximately three hours (with a short layover), and upon arrival to Baltra Island, our local Assistant Group Leader will greet us and accompany us on a boat across a small channel to Santa Cruz Island.
Once on Santa Cruz, we will board the bus that will take us to the small city of Puerto Ayora where we will be staying for the next few days. On the way, we will have our orientation meeting where we will discuss the exciting days to come. We will also stop to see Los Gemelos, famous twin volcanic craters.
Upon arrival in Puerto Ayora, we will enjoy lunch and visit the Charles Darwin Center. Here we will learn about the Darwin Center ́s work on the islands, and we will have the opportunity to visit the giant tortoise breeding center as well as some Galápagos land iguanas. Next, we will settle into our family owned lodging, where we will be staying for the next few days, and enjoy a delicious dinner.
After dinner we can rest and relax at our lodging, or spend some time exploring Puerto Ayora.
Day 3 – Santa Cruz Island – Bahía area and Tortuga Bay Beach
This morning, we will take a short boat trip to explore Camaño Islet, one of the best spots for snorkeling around Santa Cruz! The boat will also take us to a site where we will see large cracks in a rocky outcropping where sharks come to rest. Our visit will continue to Dog Beach, well known for its huge marine iguana population during certain months of the year. We will also visit the sea lion beach, a favorite place for the local sea lions to come mingle.
We will return to Puerto Ayora for lunch. In the afternoon we will explore Tortuga Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the islands with white coral sand. Here we hope to see sea turtles (from which the beach got its name), sea lions, iguanas, blue-footed boobies and an amazing cactus forest.
Finally, we will return to our lodging for dinner.
Day 4 – Floreana Island
We leave early in the morning to take a boat to Floreana Island. Upon arrival, we will take a chiva, a local open-air bus, up to the highlands of Floreana Island. Here we will hike through the National Park area, where giant tortoises from different islands have been placed. From here we continue down to the place where the first island inhabitants used to live and we will learn about their amazing history.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we will stop at a site called Devil´s Crown for some bird watching. Our boats then take us to the Champion Islet where we will snorkel with sea lions, tropical fish, and marine turtles. Upon arrival in Santa Cruz we will take a walk down to the fisherman’s harbor to see what the catch of the day is.
Day 5 – North Seymour Island
Today we take a boat to visit North Seymour Island. The trip will take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. We will do an easy hike across the island and watch frigate birds and blue-footed boobies nests. If we arrive during the mating season, we might see some of their mating rituals. We will also see finches, pelicans, tropical birds, an iguana colony and a sea lion colony. After a hearty box lunch, we will board our boat again to go to Bachas Beach to finish the day snorkeling. We will return to Santa Cruz in the late afternoon.
This evening we will have a farewell dinner to celebrate and reflect upon our time in the Galápagos.
Day 6 – Galapágos Islands – Quito
After breakfast, we will head to the airport on Baltra Island. Today we depart from the Galápagos Islands and return to Quito. We will enjoy a hearty box lunch before boarding our plane. Upon arrival, we will visit a convent in old town that will be opened exclusively for our group. At the convent we will opportunity to climb to a viewpoint from which we will have an amazing view of the historical center lit up at night. Finally, we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7 – Nanegalito Cloud Forest
After an early breakfast, we will head to the northwestern part of the Andes, the transition region to the coast. Here we will visit a private reserve for a bird’s eye view of the cloud forest, a hotspot for biodiversity in the Ecuador. We will gear up and take an adrenaline-filled flight through the primary and secondary forest on zip-lines! We will also learn how combining sustainable agriculture and reforestation with native species is possible in this region.
After lunch at the private reserve, we may go inner tubing on a nearby river, or visit the Tulipe pre- historic site. This archaeological site is culturally rich and mysterious, formed by several pools in different shapes that were filled with water for astronomical and ritual uses.
We head back to Quito, and this evening we have our final dinner celebration on a hill overlooking the city of Quito. During dinner we will reminisce about the time we shared together in Ecuador.
Day 8 – Departure
Today our Ecuador adventure comes to a close as we depart early for our flight out of Quito.
- Roundtrip flights to Quito, Ecuador
- Roundtrip flights from Quito to Baltra Island
- Three night accommodations in Quito
- Four night accommodations on Santa Cruz Island
- All meals – Seven breakfasts, seven lunches and seven dinners
- Program Leader/Guide with the group throughout the full program
- Transportation throughout the program (buses, boats, etc)
- Galapagos island entrance and park fees
- Charles Darwin Center
- Tour Santa Cruz Island – Bahía area and Tortuga Bay Beach
- Tour Floreana Island
- Tour North Seymour Island
- Nanegalito Cloud Forest Tour
- Zip lines
- Inner tubing or visit Tulipe pre- historic site
- Snorkel gear rentals
- Trip delay and medical insurance coverage up to $50,000 per person
- One free place for chaperone for every Ten paying passengers (single occupancy in the hotels)
Day 1 – International flight to Quito
Upon arrival in Quito we will be greeted at the airport by our Sustainable Horizon Program Leader. From the airport we will head to the historical center of Quito and settle into our hotel.
Day 2 – Travel to the Galápagos Islands
In the morning, we will take the bus to the airport as our journey to the Galápagos Islands begins. The flight takes approximately three hours (with a short layover), and upon arrival to Baltra Island, our local Assistant Group Leader will greet us and accompany us on a boat across a small channel to Santa Cruz Island.
Once on Santa Cruz, we will board the bus that will take us to the small city of Puerto Ayora where we will be staying for the next few days. On the way, we will have our orientation meeting where we will discuss the exciting days to come. We will also stop to see Los Gemelos, famous twin volcanic craters.
Upon arrival in Puerto Ayora, we will enjoy lunch and visit the Charles Darwin Center. Here we will learn about the Darwin Center ́s work on the islands, and we will have the opportunity to visit the giant tortoise breeding center as well as some Galápagos land iguanas. Next, we will settle into our family owned lodging, where we will be staying for the next few days, and enjoy a delicious dinner.
After dinner we can rest and relax at our lodging, or spend some time exploring Puerto Ayora.
Day 3 – Santa Cruz Island – Bahía area and Tortuga Bay Beach
This morning, we will take a short boat trip to explore Camaño Islet, one of the best spots for snorkeling around Santa Cruz! The boat will also take us to a site where we will see large cracks in a rocky outcropping where sharks come to rest. Our visit will continue to Dog Beach, well known for its huge marine iguana population during certain months of the year. We will also visit the sea lion beach, a favorite place for the local sea lions to come mingle.
We will return to Puerto Ayora for lunch. In the afternoon we will explore Tortuga Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the islands with white coral sand. Here we hope to see sea turtles (from which the beach got its name), sea lions, iguanas, blue-footed boobies and an amazing cactus forest.
Finally, we will return to our lodging for dinner.
Day 4 – Floreana Island
We leave early in the morning to take a boat to Floreana Island. Upon arrival, we will take a chiva, a local open-air bus, up to the highlands of Floreana Island. Here we will hike through the National Park area, where giant tortoises from different islands have been placed. From here we continue down to the place where the first island inhabitants used to live and we will learn about their amazing history.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we will stop at a site called Devil´s Crown for some bird watching. Our boats then take us to the Champion Islet where we will snorkel with sea lions, tropical fish, and marine turtles. Upon arrival in Santa Cruz we will take a walk down to the fisherman’s harbor to see what the catch of the day is.
Day 5 – North Seymour Island
Today we take a boat to visit North Seymour Island. The trip will take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. We will do an easy hike across the island and watch frigate birds and blue-footed boobies nests. If we arrive during the mating season, we might see some of their mating rituals. We will also see finches, pelicans, tropical birds, an iguana colony and a sea lion colony. After a hearty box lunch, we will board our boat again to go to Bachas Beach to finish the day snorkeling. We will return to Santa Cruz in the late afternoon.
This evening we will have a farewell dinner to celebrate and reflect upon our time in the Galápagos.
Day 6 – Galapágos Islands – Quito
After breakfast, we will head to the airport on Baltra Island. Today we depart from the Galápagos Islands and return to Quito. We will enjoy a hearty box lunch before boarding our plane. Upon arrival, we will visit a convent in old town that will be opened exclusively for our group. At the convent we will opportunity to climb to a viewpoint from which we will have an amazing view of the historical center lit up at night. Finally, we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7 – Nanegalito Cloud Forest
After an early breakfast, we will head to the northwestern part of the Andes, the transition region to the coast. Here we will visit a private reserve for a bird’s eye view of the cloud forest, a hotspot for biodiversity in the Ecuador. We will gear up and take an adrenaline-filled flight through the primary and secondary forest on zip-lines! We will also learn how combining sustainable agriculture and reforestation with native species is possible in this region.
After lunch at the private reserve, we may go inner tubing on a nearby river, or visit the Tulipe pre- historic site. This archaeological site is culturally rich and mysterious, formed by several pools in different shapes that were filled with water for astronomical and ritual uses.
We head back to Quito, and this evening we have our final dinner celebration on a hill overlooking the city of Quito. During dinner we will reminisce about the time we shared together in Ecuador.
Day 8 – Departure
Today our Ecuador adventure comes to a close as we depart early for our flight out of Quito.
Ecuador - Service, Science, Amazon, Galapagos - 15 Days
Package Includes
City tour of Quito
Pailón del Diablo Waterfall Tour
White water rafting, zip lines or hot springs tour on the way back from the Amazons
Tour in Quito Colonial
Visit to the Otoval Indigenous Market
Visit to Quitsato and the Equatorial line
Bicycle ride in Isabela
Visit to the Wall of Tears
Visit to Flamingo Beach
Local Giant Tortoise Breeding Center
Two snorkeling tours
Sierra Negra and Chico Volcanoes hike
Puerto Villamil Beach
Visits to Dog Beach, Tortuga Beach and Lion Beach
2 night camping in Isabela Island
Day 1 – International Flight to Quito
Upon arrival in Quito, we will be greeted at the airport by our Sustainable Horizon Group Leader. From the airport we will head to the historical center of Quito and settle into our hotel.
If we arrive with daylight to spare, we will visit the Panecillo Hill for a spectacular 360 degree view of the city and its surrounding neighborhoods or we will walk through various plazas and streets surrounding our hotel. Tonight we will have our first traditional Ecuadorian meal.
Day 2 – Quito – Amazon
After breakfast as a group, we will have our orientation meeting. We will then take a walking tour through various plazas and neighborhoods surrounding our hotel, and, if time allows, we will visit some local candy shops to learn how traditional candy is made. Later, we will return to the hotel to pick up our bags and start our trip to the Amazon Region.
Along the way we will stop for lunch and explore one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Ecuador, Pailón del Diablo (The Devil’s Cauldron), which lies in a region where the Andean highlands begin to give way to the amazing climate of the Amazon. Then we will continue to our small host community or ecological and animal rescue center where we will be spending the next few days. We will be met by our host families or by the ecological center´s personnel and get to know each other over dinner.
Note: There are two options for lodging in the Amazon Region: with host families in the local community, or in volunteer housing at the ecological center. The two places are located a 10 minute drive from each other.
Days 3 – 5 – Service Project and Host Community
For the next few days, we will work on a much-needed service project in the Amazon region. We will work between four and six hours per day, depending on the service project. For our service location, we will choose between two options: the local community or the animal rescue center at the ecological center.
Projects in the local community may include reforestation in and around the community, helping to improve the infrastructure of the local school, teaching basic English and/or providing environmental education to school children and other community members.
One of the ecological center’s main goals is to rescue wild animals that have been kept in captivity or trafficked illegally, and rehabilitate them in an effort to reintroduce them to their natural habitat. Possible projects include infrastructure improvement such as re-fencing the enclosures that keep the animals safe, building water reservoirs, and building classrooms for local training in conservation. Additional projects related to the daily maintenance of the center such as feeding the animals and cleaning their living spaces, reforestation, and clearing trails and walkways for visitors to see the animals in a zoo-like setting are also a possibility.
We will also visit surrounding attractions during our time in the community or at the ecological center. For our final evening in the community, we will gather with our hosts for a celebratory farewell dinner.
Day 6 – Adventure in the Amazon – Quito
After breakfast we will say our goodbyes to our new friends in the Amazon before heading back to Quito. Along the way we will stop to enjoy one of the following activities: white water rafting, a zip line canopy tour above primary and secondary forest, or a visit to hot springs to relax. (You must choose one option).
Upon arrival to Quito, we will have a nice traditional dinner and return to our hotel to rest up for our trip to the Galápagos Islands.
Day 7 – Travel to the Galápagos Islands
In the morning, we will take the bus to the airport as our journey to the Galápagos Islands begins. The flight takes approximately three hours (with a short layover), and upon arrival to Baltra Island, our local Assistant Group Leader will greet us and accompany us on a boat across a small channel to Santa Cruz Island.
Once on Santa Cruz, we will board the bus that will take us to the small city of Puerto Ayora where we will be staying for the next few days. On the way we will stop to see Los Gemelos, famous twin volcanic craters. Upon arrival in Puerto Ayora, we will enjoy lunch and visit the Charles Darwin Center. Here we will learn about the Darwin Center´s work on the islands and we will have the opportunity to visit the giant tortoise breeding center, as well as some Galápagos land iguanas. Next, we will walk to meet our host families, who will be waiting to welcome us with a nice dinner.
Note: Family owned lodging for the whole group (a type of guest house) is an alternative to staying with host families.
Days 8 – 9 – Santa Cruz Island and Service Project
For the next few days we will work on a much-needed service project on the island of Santa Cruz. On the first day, we will meet in the morning to be briefed on the project.
Possible service projects may include teaching basic English to elementary schoolchildren or the improvement of school infrastructure such as painting or the construction of playgrounds. There are also opportunities for projects that focus on organic agriculture, reforestation with endemic species, the removal of invasive species, and more. All projects directly benefit the local community and are accompanied by comprehensive discussions about the importance and impact of our work, the local reality in Galápagos and the daily issues that threaten the animals and their fragile environment.
During our service days we will take breaks to visit nearby attractions such as a wild giant tortoise ranch, lava tunnels, coffee plantations and small beautiful beaches.
Most days we will work between four and six hours. We will then join local community and family activities. Some of the activities may include sports such as soccer or basketball, cooking lessons, salsa dance lessons or simply walking around downtown.
Day 10 – Isabela Island – Snorkeling and Island History
Today, we will pack our overnight bags for our trip to Isabela Island. The boat ride takes approximately two hours. Upon arrival, we will take a bicycle ride along the coast to the Wall of Tears. Here we will learn a bit of the island’s history as a penal colony and explore the site where prisoners were forced to build a wall of lava rocks. We will also be able to see a flamingo lake, and if we have time, we may visit the local giant tortoise breeding center.
After lunch at a local restaurant in the village, we will take smaller boats to explore Las Tintoreras, an area outside the village of Puerto Villamil. As we walk the shore we will keep our eyes peeled iguanas, birds and sea lions. Next, we will head back to our boat for snorkeling equipment and prepare for an exciting snorkeling adventure in the beautiful waters around Isabela. Here we may see sea turtles, sting rays, sea lions and of course many kinds of fish.
Finally, we will travel by bus to the highlands of the island where we will visit a private reserve. Here we will also have delicious dinner and a comfortable camping experience in nature.
Day 11 – Isabela Island – Sierra Negra Volcano
After breakfast, we will take our bus to the trailhead of the Sierra Negra Volcano. From here we will start our full day trek along the amazing volcanic landscapes. We will hike for approximately five to six hours (with breaks for water and a box lunch) until we reach Chico Volcano. Throughout the hike we will learn about the history and geology of this and other islands. We will walk over old lava flows and enjoy some of the most amazing and unique landscapes in the world. We will see how several craters have been formed, and if we have time we may visit a sulfur mine. The Sierra Negra’s crater is considered to be the second largest in the world. The beauty of this site is also combined with great bird watching in the surrounding area. The birds that are seen most frequently in the area are finches, Galápagos mockingbirds, owls and the stunning red and black vermilion flycatchers known locally as pájaros brujos (Warlock Birds). We will return to Puerto Villamil, where we will rest and relax on the beach after our morning trek.
This evening, we will return to the private reserve in the highlands to enjoy dinner and rest for the night.
Day 12 – Santa Cruz Island – Bahía Area and Tortuga Bay Beach
Today we will wake up really early in order to return to the main port to start our boat trip back to Puerto Ayora. Upon arrival, we will have breakfast and get ready for a short boat ride to visit Camaño Islet, one of the best spots for snorkeling from Santa Cruz! The boat will also take us to a site where we will see huge cracks in a rocky outcropping where sharks come to rest. Our visit will continue to Dog Beach, well known for its huge Marine Iguana population during certain months of the year. We will also visit the sea lion beach, a favorite place for the local sea lions to come mingle.
We will return to Puerto Ayora for lunch. In the afternoon we will explore Tortuga Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island with white coral sand. Here we hope to see sea turtles (from which the beach got its name), sea lions, iguanas, blue footed boobies and an amazing cactus forest.
Day 13 – Galápagos Islands – Quito
Today we depart from the Galápagos Islands and return to Quito. We will enjoy a hearty box lunch before boarding our plane. Upon arrival, we will visit the old town, also known as Quito Colonial, to visit a convent that will be opened exclusively for us. At the convent we will also have the chance to climb to a viewpoint from which we will have an amazing view of the historical center all lit up at night. Finally, we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 14 – Equatorial Line and the Otavalo Indigenous Market
Today we will have a leisurely morning and a delicious breakfast at our hotel. Next, we will then make our way to Otavalo and visit the famous indigenous market. On our way, we will stop for a visit at the Quitsato, located on the equatorial line. Here we will have the opportunity to stand in two hemispheres at one time, learn about how early indigenous communities took advantage of astronomy to organize their culture.
Once in Otavalo, we will have time to explore the indigenous market. We will find typical indigenous handcrafts such as hammocks, bags, ponchos and necklaces amongst other more modern souvenirs such as t-shirts and paintings. After a traditional lunch, we will visit one of the nearby lakes.
Finally, we will head back to Quito for our final dinner celebration on a hill overlooking the city of Quito. During dinner we will reminisce about the time we shared together in Ecuador. After dinner we will return to our hotel to rest before our international flight home.
Day 15 – Departure
Today our Ecuador adventure comes to a close as we depart early for our flight out of Quito.
- Roundtrip flights to Quito, Ecuador
- Four night accommodations in Quito
- Four night accommodations in the Amazon
- Six night accommodations in Galapagos
- All meals: 14 Breakfasts, 14 Lunches, 14 Dinners
- Program Leader/Guide with the group throughout the full program
- Bus Transportation and Driver throughout the program
- Service projects and all materials in Amazon and Galapagos
- Tours on the mainland:
City tour of Quito
Pailón del Diablo Waterfall Tour
White water rafting, zip lines or hot springs tour on the way back from the Amazons
Tour in Quito Colonial
Visit to the Otoval Indigenous Market
Visit to Quitsato and the Equatorial line
- Local flight to and from Galapagos
- All transportation in Galapagos (buses and boats)
- Tours in Galapagos Archipelago:
Bicycle ride in Isabela
Visit to the Wall of Tears
Visit to Flamingo Beach
Local Giant Tortoise Breeding Center
Two snorkeling tours
Sierra Negra and Chico Volcanoes hike
Puerto Villamil Beach
Visits to Dog Beach, Tortuga Beach and Lion Beach
2 night camping in Isabela Island
- Last night in Quito dinner celebration
- Trip delay and medical insurance coverage up to $50,000 per person
- One free place for chaperone for every Ten paying passengers (single occupancy in the hotels)
Day 1 – International Flight to Quito
Upon arrival in Quito, we will be greeted at the airport by our Sustainable Horizon Group Leader. From the airport we will head to the historical center of Quito and settle into our hotel.
If we arrive with daylight to spare, we will visit the Panecillo Hill for a spectacular 360 degree view of the city and its surrounding neighborhoods or we will walk through various plazas and streets surrounding our hotel. Tonight we will have our first traditional Ecuadorian meal.
Day 2 – Quito – Amazon
After breakfast as a group, we will have our orientation meeting. We will then take a walking tour through various plazas and neighborhoods surrounding our hotel, and, if time allows, we will visit some local candy shops to learn how traditional candy is made. Later, we will return to the hotel to pick up our bags and start our trip to the Amazon Region.
Along the way we will stop for lunch and explore one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Ecuador, Pailón del Diablo (The Devil’s Cauldron), which lies in a region where the Andean highlands begin to give way to the amazing climate of the Amazon. Then we will continue to our small host community or ecological and animal rescue center where we will be spending the next few days. We will be met by our host families or by the ecological center´s personnel and get to know each other over dinner.
Note: There are two options for lodging in the Amazon Region: with host families in the local community, or in volunteer housing at the ecological center. The two places are located a 10 minute drive from each other.
Days 3 – 5 – Service Project and Host Community
For the next few days, we will work on a much-needed service project in the Amazon region. We will work between four and six hours per day, depending on the service project. For our service location, we will choose between two options: the local community or the animal rescue center at the ecological center.
Projects in the local community may include reforestation in and around the community, helping to improve the infrastructure of the local school, teaching basic English and/or providing environmental education to school children and other community members.
One of the ecological center’s main goals is to rescue wild animals that have been kept in captivity or trafficked illegally, and rehabilitate them in an effort to reintroduce them to their natural habitat. Possible projects include infrastructure improvement such as re-fencing the enclosures that keep the animals safe, building water reservoirs, and building classrooms for local training in conservation. Additional projects related to the daily maintenance of the center such as feeding the animals and cleaning their living spaces, reforestation, and clearing trails and walkways for visitors to see the animals in a zoo-like setting are also a possibility.
We will also visit surrounding attractions during our time in the community or at the ecological center. For our final evening in the community, we will gather with our hosts for a celebratory farewell dinner.
Day 6 – Adventure in the Amazon – Quito
After breakfast we will say our goodbyes to our new friends in the Amazon before heading back to Quito. Along the way we will stop to enjoy one of the following activities: white water rafting, a zip line canopy tour above primary and secondary forest, or a visit to hot springs to relax. (You must choose one option).
Upon arrival to Quito, we will have a nice traditional dinner and return to our hotel to rest up for our trip to the Galápagos Islands.
Day 7 – Travel to the Galápagos Islands
In the morning, we will take the bus to the airport as our journey to the Galápagos Islands begins. The flight takes approximately three hours (with a short layover), and upon arrival to Baltra Island, our local Assistant Group Leader will greet us and accompany us on a boat across a small channel to Santa Cruz Island.
Once on Santa Cruz, we will board the bus that will take us to the small city of Puerto Ayora where we will be staying for the next few days. On the way we will stop to see Los Gemelos, famous twin volcanic craters. Upon arrival in Puerto Ayora, we will enjoy lunch and visit the Charles Darwin Center. Here we will learn about the Darwin Center´s work on the islands and we will have the opportunity to visit the giant tortoise breeding center, as well as some Galápagos land iguanas. Next, we will walk to meet our host families, who will be waiting to welcome us with a nice dinner.
Note: Family owned lodging for the whole group (a type of guest house) is an alternative to staying with host families.
Days 8 – 9 – Santa Cruz Island and Service Project
For the next few days we will work on a much-needed service project on the island of Santa Cruz. On the first day, we will meet in the morning to be briefed on the project.
Possible service projects may include teaching basic English to elementary schoolchildren or the improvement of school infrastructure such as painting or the construction of playgrounds. There are also opportunities for projects that focus on organic agriculture, reforestation with endemic species, the removal of invasive species, and more. All projects directly benefit the local community and are accompanied by comprehensive discussions about the importance and impact of our work, the local reality in Galápagos and the daily issues that threaten the animals and their fragile environment.
During our service days we will take breaks to visit nearby attractions such as a wild giant tortoise ranch, lava tunnels, coffee plantations and small beautiful beaches.
Most days we will work between four and six hours. We will then join local community and family activities. Some of the activities may include sports such as soccer or basketball, cooking lessons, salsa dance lessons or simply walking around downtown.
Day 10 – Isabela Island – Snorkeling and Island History
Today, we will pack our overnight bags for our trip to Isabela Island. The boat ride takes approximately two hours. Upon arrival, we will take a bicycle ride along the coast to the Wall of Tears. Here we will learn a bit of the island’s history as a penal colony and explore the site where prisoners were forced to build a wall of lava rocks. We will also be able to see a flamingo lake, and if we have time, we may visit the local giant tortoise breeding center.
After lunch at a local restaurant in the village, we will take smaller boats to explore Las Tintoreras, an area outside the village of Puerto Villamil. As we walk the shore we will keep our eyes peeled iguanas, birds and sea lions. Next, we will head back to our boat for snorkeling equipment and prepare for an exciting snorkeling adventure in the beautiful waters around Isabela. Here we may see sea turtles, sting rays, sea lions and of course many kinds of fish.
Finally, we will travel by bus to the highlands of the island where we will visit a private reserve. Here we will also have delicious dinner and a comfortable camping experience in nature.
Day 11 – Isabela Island – Sierra Negra Volcano
After breakfast, we will take our bus to the trailhead of the Sierra Negra Volcano. From here we will start our full day trek along the amazing volcanic landscapes. We will hike for approximately five to six hours (with breaks for water and a box lunch) until we reach Chico Volcano. Throughout the hike we will learn about the history and geology of this and other islands. We will walk over old lava flows and enjoy some of the most amazing and unique landscapes in the world. We will see how several craters have been formed, and if we have time we may visit a sulfur mine. The Sierra Negra’s crater is considered to be the second largest in the world. The beauty of this site is also combined with great bird watching in the surrounding area. The birds that are seen most frequently in the area are finches, Galápagos mockingbirds, owls and the stunning red and black vermilion flycatchers known locally as pájaros brujos (Warlock Birds). We will return to Puerto Villamil, where we will rest and relax on the beach after our morning trek.
This evening, we will return to the private reserve in the highlands to enjoy dinner and rest for the night.
Day 12 – Santa Cruz Island – Bahía Area and Tortuga Bay Beach
Today we will wake up really early in order to return to the main port to start our boat trip back to Puerto Ayora. Upon arrival, we will have breakfast and get ready for a short boat ride to visit Camaño Islet, one of the best spots for snorkeling from Santa Cruz! The boat will also take us to a site where we will see huge cracks in a rocky outcropping where sharks come to rest. Our visit will continue to Dog Beach, well known for its huge Marine Iguana population during certain months of the year. We will also visit the sea lion beach, a favorite place for the local sea lions to come mingle.
We will return to Puerto Ayora for lunch. In the afternoon we will explore Tortuga Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island with white coral sand. Here we hope to see sea turtles (from which the beach got its name), sea lions, iguanas, blue footed boobies and an amazing cactus forest.
Day 13 – Galápagos Islands – Quito
Today we depart from the Galápagos Islands and return to Quito. We will enjoy a hearty box lunch before boarding our plane. Upon arrival, we will visit the old town, also known as Quito Colonial, to visit a convent that will be opened exclusively for us. At the convent we will also have the chance to climb to a viewpoint from which we will have an amazing view of the historical center all lit up at night. Finally, we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 14 – Equatorial Line and the Otavalo Indigenous Market
Today we will have a leisurely morning and a delicious breakfast at our hotel. Next, we will then make our way to Otavalo and visit the famous indigenous market. On our way, we will stop for a visit at the Quitsato, located on the equatorial line. Here we will have the opportunity to stand in two hemispheres at one time, learn about how early indigenous communities took advantage of astronomy to organize their culture.
Once in Otavalo, we will have time to explore the indigenous market. We will find typical indigenous handcrafts such as hammocks, bags, ponchos and necklaces amongst other more modern souvenirs such as t-shirts and paintings. After a traditional lunch, we will visit one of the nearby lakes.
Finally, we will head back to Quito for our final dinner celebration on a hill overlooking the city of Quito. During dinner we will reminisce about the time we shared together in Ecuador. After dinner we will return to our hotel to rest before our international flight home.
Day 15 – Departure
Today our Ecuador adventure comes to a close as we depart early for our flight out of Quito.
Ecuador - Service, Amazon, Otavalo - 11 Days
Package Includes
Day 1 – International Flight to Quito
Upon arrival in Quito we will be greeted at the airport by our Sustainable Horizon Group Leader. From the airport we will head to the historical center of Quito and settle into our hotel.
Optional: If we arrive with daylight to spare, we will visit the Panecillo Hill for a spectacular 360 degree view of the city and its surrounding neighborhoods. Tonight we will have our first traditional Ecuadorian meal.
Day 2 – Quito – Amazon
After having breakfast as a group, we will have our orientation meeting. We will then take a walking tour through various plazas and neighborhoods surrounding our hotel, and, if time allows, we will visit some local candy shops to learn how traditional candy is made. Later, we will return to the hotel to pick up our bags and start our trip to the Amazon Region.
Along the way we will stop for lunch and explore one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Ecuador Pailón del Diablo (The Devil’s Cauldron), which lies in a region where the Andean highlands begin to give way to the amazing climate of the Amazon. Then we will continue to our small host community or ecological and animal rescue center where we will be spending the next few days. We will be met by our host families or by the ecological center’s personnel and get to know each other over dinner.
Note: There are two options for lodging in the Amazon Region: with host families in the local community or in volunteer housing at the ecological center. The two places are located a 10 minute drive from each other.
Days 3 – 7 – Service Project and Host Community
For the next five days, we will work on a much-needed service project in the Amazon region. We will work between four and six hours per day depending on the service project. For our service location, we will choose between two options: the local community or the animal rescue center at the ecological center.
Projects in the local community may include reforestation in and around the community, helping to improve the infrastructure of the local school, teaching basic English and/or providing environmental education to school children and other community members.
One of the ecological center’s main goals is to rescue wild animals that have been kept in captivity or trafficked illegally, and rehabilitate them in an effort to reintroduce them to their natural habitat. Possible projects include infrastructure improvement such as re-fencing the enclosures that keep the animals safe, building water reservoirs, and building classrooms for local training in conservation. Additional projects related to the daily maintenance of the center such as feeding the animals and cleaning their living spaces, reforestation, and clearing trails and walkways for visitors to see the animals in a zoo-like setting are also a possibility.
We will also visit surrounding attractions during our time in the community or at the ecological center. Some of these activities may include: Help families with traditional daily activities, Visit the local trapiche which is the place where raw sugar cane is transformed in blocks of sugar and other sugar products, Visit a ethno botanical park where we will learn about the traditional use of many plants and trees that belong to the jungle, Hike through the forest to a hidden waterfall, Traditional cooking lessons, Meet with a local shaman (local traditional healer), Soccer game with local community, Dance lessons with local community
For our final evening we will gather with our hosts for a celebratory farewell dinner.
Day 8 – Thermal Springs
After breakfast, we will say good-bye to our new friends in the Amazon and head to the Papallacta thermal springs. These springs are located in the Andes mountain range and are naturally heated by an active volcano. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a traditional, local lunch and then we will have the afternoon and evening to relax at the springs. We will spend the night at a nearby lodge resting up for our trip to Otavalo tomorrow.
Day 9 – Equatorial Line and the Otavalo Indigenous Market – Quito
After breakfast at the lodge, we will head towards the north of the highlands in direction of Otavalo. On our way, we will stop for a visit at the Quitsato scientific project located on the equatorial line. Here we will learn about how early indigenous communities took advantage of astronomy to organize their culture.
Once in Otavalo, we will have time to explore the indigenous market and the town of Otavalo. We will find typical indigenous handcrafts such as hammocks, bags, ponchos and necklaces amongst other more modern souvenirs such as t-shirts and paintings. After having a nice lunch we will head back to Quito.
Upon arrival we will visit the old town, also known as Quito Colonial, to explore a convent that will be opened exclusively for us. At the convent we will also have the chance to climb to a viewpoint from which we will have an amazing view of the historical center all lit up at night. We will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 10 – Canopy Adventure in the Cloud Forest
After an early breakfast, we will head to the northwestern part of the Andes that is considered the transition region to the Coast. Here we will explore the cloud forest area, considered one of most diverse spots in the country. Here we will have the opportunity for an adrenaline-filled canopy zipline tour above primary and secondary forest in a private reserve. We will also learn about how agriculture and reforestation with native species is possible in this region.
After lunch at the private reserve, we may go inner tubing on a nearby river or visit Tulipe, a culturally rich and mysterious archaeological site formed by several pools in different shapes that were filled with water for astronomical and ritual uses.
This afternoon we will head back to Quito for our final dinner celebration on a hill overlooking the city of Quito. During dinner we will reminisce about the time we shared together in Ecuador. After dinner we will return to our hotel to rest before our international flight home.
Day 11 – International Flight Home
Today our Ecuador adventure comes to a close as we depart early for our flight out of Quito.
- Roundtrip flights to Quito, Ecuador
- Three night accommodations in Quito
- Six night accommodations in the host community in the Amazons
- One night accommodations in Papallacta Area
- All meals including: 10 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 10 Dinners
- Program Leader/Guide with the group throughout the full program
- Bus Transportation and Driver throughout the program
- Panecillo Hill Tour in Quito
- City tour in Quito
- Pailón del Diablo Waterfall Tour
- Papallacta hot springs visit on the way back from the Amazon
- Visit to Quitsato Scientific Project
- Tour in Quito Colonial and old convent
- Visit to the Otovalo Indigenous Market
- Zip lines in the Andes
- Inner tubing on a river (depending on water rainfall and water level)
- Last night in Quito dinner celebration
- Trip delay and medical insurance coverage up to $50,000 per person
- One free place for chaperone for every Ten paying passengers (single occupancy in the hotels)
Day 1 – International Flight to Quito
Upon arrival in Quito we will be greeted at the airport by our Sustainable Horizon Group Leader. From the airport we will head to the historical center of Quito and settle into our hotel.
Optional: If we arrive with daylight to spare, we will visit the Panecillo Hill for a spectacular 360 degree view of the city and its surrounding neighborhoods. Tonight we will have our first traditional Ecuadorian meal.
Day 2 – Quito – Amazon
After having breakfast as a group, we will have our orientation meeting. We will then take a walking tour through various plazas and neighborhoods surrounding our hotel, and, if time allows, we will visit some local candy shops to learn how traditional candy is made. Later, we will return to the hotel to pick up our bags and start our trip to the Amazon Region.
Along the way we will stop for lunch and explore one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Ecuador Pailón del Diablo (The Devil’s Cauldron), which lies in a region where the Andean highlands begin to give way to the amazing climate of the Amazon. Then we will continue to our small host community or ecological and animal rescue center where we will be spending the next few days. We will be met by our host families or by the ecological center’s personnel and get to know each other over dinner.
Note: There are two options for lodging in the Amazon Region: with host families in the local community or in volunteer housing at the ecological center. The two places are located a 10 minute drive from each other.
Days 3 – 7 – Service Project and Host Community
For the next five days, we will work on a much-needed service project in the Amazon region. We will work between four and six hours per day depending on the service project. For our service location, we will choose between two options: the local community or the animal rescue center at the ecological center.
Projects in the local community may include reforestation in and around the community, helping to improve the infrastructure of the local school, teaching basic English and/or providing environmental education to school children and other community members.
One of the ecological center’s main goals is to rescue wild animals that have been kept in captivity or trafficked illegally, and rehabilitate them in an effort to reintroduce them to their natural habitat. Possible projects include infrastructure improvement such as re-fencing the enclosures that keep the animals safe, building water reservoirs, and building classrooms for local training in conservation. Additional projects related to the daily maintenance of the center such as feeding the animals and cleaning their living spaces, reforestation, and clearing trails and walkways for visitors to see the animals in a zoo-like setting are also a possibility.
We will also visit surrounding attractions during our time in the community or at the ecological center. Some of these activities may include: Help families with traditional daily activities, Visit the local trapiche which is the place where raw sugar cane is transformed in blocks of sugar and other sugar products, Visit a ethno botanical park where we will learn about the traditional use of many plants and trees that belong to the jungle, Hike through the forest to a hidden waterfall, Traditional cooking lessons, Meet with a local shaman (local traditional healer), Soccer game with local community, Dance lessons with local community
For our final evening we will gather with our hosts for a celebratory farewell dinner.
Day 8 – Thermal Springs
After breakfast, we will say good-bye to our new friends in the Amazon and head to the Papallacta thermal springs. These springs are located in the Andes mountain range and are naturally heated by an active volcano. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a traditional, local lunch and then we will have the afternoon and evening to relax at the springs. We will spend the night at a nearby lodge resting up for our trip to Otavalo tomorrow.
Day 9 – Equatorial Line and the Otavalo Indigenous Market – Quito
After breakfast at the lodge, we will head towards the north of the highlands in direction of Otavalo. On our way, we will stop for a visit at the Quitsato scientific project located on the equatorial line. Here we will learn about how early indigenous communities took advantage of astronomy to organize their culture.
Once in Otavalo, we will have time to explore the indigenous market and the town of Otavalo. We will find typical indigenous handcrafts such as hammocks, bags, ponchos and necklaces amongst other more modern souvenirs such as t-shirts and paintings. After having a nice lunch we will head back to Quito.
Upon arrival we will visit the old town, also known as Quito Colonial, to explore a convent that will be opened exclusively for us. At the convent we will also have the chance to climb to a viewpoint from which we will have an amazing view of the historical center all lit up at night. We will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 10 – Canopy Adventure in the Cloud Forest
After an early breakfast, we will head to the northwestern part of the Andes that is considered the transition region to the Coast. Here we will explore the cloud forest area, considered one of most diverse spots in the country. Here we will have the opportunity for an adrenaline-filled canopy zipline tour above primary and secondary forest in a private reserve. We will also learn about how agriculture and reforestation with native species is possible in this region.
After lunch at the private reserve, we may go inner tubing on a nearby river or visit Tulipe, a culturally rich and mysterious archaeological site formed by several pools in different shapes that were filled with water for astronomical and ritual uses.
This afternoon we will head back to Quito for our final dinner celebration on a hill overlooking the city of Quito. During dinner we will reminisce about the time we shared together in Ecuador. After dinner we will return to our hotel to rest before our international flight home.
Day 11 – International Flight Home
Today our Ecuador adventure comes to a close as we depart early for our flight out of Quito.
