Quito, the capital. BB

Meet our representative at Quito International Airport for transfer to the Le Parc Hotel located in the business area of Quito, only 10 minutes away from the airport.

Day 2:

Colonial art and the mystic surrounding hills.

Tour the colonial center in a horse-drawn carriage to experience the jewel of baroque art and architecture; churches, monasteries and narrow streets reflect people’s artistic creativity and blends of indigenous and Spanish cultures. Drive to El Panecillo, the Temple to the Sun God, for a panoramic view of the city. Lunch at El Itchimbìa, the “Sacred Hill of the Radiant Sun”, a name given by the Quitu-Caras, the pre-Incan inhabitants of this land, the former northeast limit of the city prior the conquest. In the afternoon browse the amazing world of plants in Quito’s botanical garden which has a display of more than 1,200 orchid species, along with some other Ecuadorian flora. BBL

Day 3 - 7:

The Galapagos Islands

Nature enthusiasts of all ages are welcome!!! This fabulous journey has been designed to meet the expectations of the whole family, lots of fun all together!!! Snorkeling with sea lions, swim amongst marine iguanas and sea turtles and learn about the fascinating path of evolution. You will tour the islands aboard M/V Santa Cruz. The natural wonders of Galapagos are brought within your reach in a most delightful manner. Explore these unique environs at your own pace, supported by knowledgeable guides and enjoyable company. . M/V Santa Cruz is an opportunity to observe, experience, explore and learn all about the rugged beauty of the Galapagos in the most comfortable and enchanting way.

Day 3:

Santa Cruz- Cerro Brujo

Transfer from your hotel for the flight to the Galapagos Islands. After arrival in the Galapagos, you will be immediately transferred by bus to the dock to board the MV Santa Cruz. You will be allocated your cabin and there will be an introductory welcome talk. Later on you will have lunch onboard followed by the boat´s safety drill. In the afternoon your first walk in Cerro Brujo includes a brackish water lagoon frequented by lagoon birds, pintail ducks, sandpipers, sanderlings and more. Further inland, there is a natural nesting site for land iguanas and arid-zone vegetation. It can be a rewarding location for bird watching: Darwin’s finches, Galápagos mockingbirds, the endemic Galápagos flycatcher and yellow warblers are all regular sightings. In the evening will reveal the expedition plans and highlights for the day ahead.

Day 4:

Bartolomé Island

Transfer from your hotel for the flight to the Galapagos Islands. After arrival in the Galapagos, you will be immediately transferred by bus to the dock to board the MV Santa Cruz. You will be allocated your cabin and there will be an introductory welcome talk. Later on you will have lunch onboard followed by the boat´s safety drill. In the afternoon your first walk in Cerro Brujo includes a brackish water lagoon frequented by lagoon birds, pintail ducks, sandpipers, sanderlings and more. Further inland, there is a natural nesting site for land iguanas and arid-zone vegetation. It can be a rewarding location for bird watching: Darwin’s finches, Galápagos mockingbirds, the endemic Galápagos flycatcher and yellow warblers are all regular sightings. In the evening will reveal the expedition plans and highlights for the day ahead.

Day 5:

Rabida Island (Jervis)

Arrive at Rabida Island (wet landing) on a red-colored beach, caused by the unusually high content of iron in the volcanic sand. A stroll along the beach of this small island (1.9 sq. mi.) will allow you to observe a large colony of sea lions, marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers and several species of Darwin’s Finches. Very close to the beach, hidden behind a strip of green saltbush, is a salt pond where at times Greater Flamingos are known to migrate. This is a great place to snorkel from the beach, both for beginners as well as for experienced snorkelers, due to the unique combination of underwater species and submarine landscapes. During navigation to our next island, we will keep our eyes open for the always enjoyable dolphins. Today's afternoon starts with a dry landing for a view of the coast and the interior of North Seymour Island, one of the few uplifted islands in Galápagos Archipelago. The trail leads guests to explore colonies of blue footed boobies, magnificent frigate birds, and swallow-tail gulls. The sandy shore is teeming with Galápagos sea lions and marine iguanas. Vegetation is made up of cacti, Palo Santo trees and Salt Bushes. After a complete inspection and awe inspiring visit, we will continue with our tour following a short briefing and lunch.

Day 6:

Highlands of Santa Cruz Island

A morning bus ride will take you to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island for a special opportunity to view the islands’ most famous reptiles: the giant tortoises in their wild habitat. What a privilege to see an endangered species in this lush environment! Look for Darwin’s finches (most of them from the tree-finch group), particularly the famous Woodpecker Finch. Enjoy a fantastic lunch at the Finch Bay Eco Hotel in Puerto Ayora as you continue to take in your surroundings.
Our next stop will be the world famous Charles Darwin Research Station where we will see firsthand the captive breeding programme for the giant tortoises. Here we witness the relentless efforts and results of all the field work which have been carried out in the name of science. An Impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest and many land birds can be also see during this part of our trip. Then, a stroll along the main street of Puerto Ayora gives you a glimpse of how Galapagueños live in this magical paradise. Browse in the many handcraft shops as you search for that perfect item that will forever remind you of your visit. Return aboard the MV Santa Cruz to hear the plan for next day’s amazing adventure.

Day 7:

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristóbal (Chatham) Island)

Disembark at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. This small attractive port along a crescent-shaped bay is the provincial capital of the Galápagos Islands (population 4,000). It was this very same island that Charles Darwin first visited back in September 1835. Visit the San Cristóbal Interpretation Center, located in a natural setting, which will enable to understand more about the natural history of the Galápagos, with a great and proud emphasis on human history and conservation. Return to the airport in order to take the flight back to Quito. Enjoy a beautiful night in Quito at Le Park Hotel.

Day 8 & 9:

Mindo – Nambillo Protected Forest

This morning you head northwest to Septimo Paraiso Responsible and Sustainable Cloud Forest Lodge located inside the Mindo- Nambilo Protected Forest. This eco- business includes conservation and community work, joining economic ventures and job opportunities with ecology and respect for the cloud forest. The Reserve has one of the largest bird counts of the north-western area of Pichincha, with 328 species of birds. Several species of mammals can be found such as puma, spectacled bear, black howler monkey, capuchin monkey, Andean coati, armadillos, white tailed and brocket deer, two toed sloth to name just a few. The Lodge has 22 luxurious rooms with private bathrooms, hot water from its own spring and an elegant, old country style decoration. The lodge has with a beautiful heated pool and jacuzzi with spacious solarium area. Rafting, tubing, rapelling, mountain bike, kayaking and other exciting adventures are all part of this close encounter with nature.

Day 8:

Mindo

After breakfast drive towards Septimo Paraiso located at just 2 hours from Quito. Our first stop the Middle of the World monument marking the line of the equator - straddle both hemispheres at once and visit enlightening museums. After this we will get a glimpse of the sites of the northwest region: from waterfalls and virgin forest, to the trout farms. Lunch at the lodge followed by a nap or swim in the pool. In the afternoon you can hike through trails with birdfeeders - hummingbirds will feed literally right in front of you. Enjoy dinner at the lodge. The adventure continues at night with a walk searching for wildlife.

Day 9:

Mindo - Papallacta

Today is the day for the adventurous! A short drive to the launch point at Mindo river for tubing, a popular sport that involves reclining on an inner tube and drifting down the mellow rapids. With helmets and life jackets, your expert guide will lead your family on a unique, safe and fun adventure! Continue the day´s adventures with the tarabita, and a short hike to the waterfall Cascada Nambillo. Back to the lodge for lunch and depart to Termas de Papallacta Spa- Resort . Overnight at Papallacta.

Day 10 & 11:

Papallacta

Termas de Papallacta spa- resort offers their visitors health, recreation, adventure and rest. Perched on a high Andean valley at the entrance route to the Ecuadorian Amazon jungle, the spa–resort offers relaxing in the thermal baths, indulging in pampering spa treatments, or embark on adventure walks at the Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve. The rooms are situated next to the thermal pools for the exclusive use guests. The hotel restaurant offers delicious Ecuadorian and international cuisine using ingredients from their organic kitchen garden.

Day 10:

Papallacta FB

A full day of relaxation with the whole family, do as little or as much as you like! Enjoy the thermal baths, spa treatments and thermal pool.

Day 11:

Papallacta HBB

After breakfast, a hike to the Rancho del Cañón protected area extending over 625 acres (250 hectares) located at the entrance of the Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve. This is an exciting way to appreciate and learn about the local flora and fauna which boasts a number of species endemic to the area, including more than 160 bird species, tapirs, anteater bears and many more. Lunch at the resort. In the afternoon a visit to the 'Exploratorio', the area's research and interpretation centre that provides detailed information on the protected area and its surroundings. Late in the afternoon you will travel back to Quito to spend the night at Le Parc Hotel.

Day 12 & 13:

Quito – Cotopaxi

“ Where the cold whisper of the Andes is the guide for an encounter with your inner-self “
Tierra del Volcánis one of the most beautiful and privileged places in Ecuador, nestled on the foothills of Cotopaxi which is the highest active volcano in the world. At Tierra del Volcán you will be lodged in fascinating hacienda houses. If you´re in the mood for an adrenaline rush a broad range of activities are available: horseback riding, mountain biking, trekking, hiking, bird watching and much more.

Day 12:

Cotopaxi

Drive south through the ´Avenue of Volcanoes´ towards Cotopaxi National Park located about 75 kilometers from Quito. The Cotopaxi, the neck of the moon in Kichwa, is part of the chain of volcanoes around the Pacific plate known as the Pacific Ring of Fire. The Cotopaxi National Park covers 33,390 hectares. The mammals present in the area are red brocket deer, Andean fox, and white-tailed deer. Rarer species frequenting the park include Andean Speckled Bear and pumas. Once on the spot, you will be able to choose either climbing up to the refuge (from 4500 to 4800 meters) for a great view of the area, or hike around Limpiopungo Lake with many chances to spot birds such as Andean Gulls.

Day 13:

Cotopaxi

Start the day with a hearty breakfast followed by horseback riding on the majestic paramos along several paths where you will have the chance to spot brave bulls, wild horses and local flora and fauna. Be part of the most important event in the "hacienda" you can help to milk the Normand cows or feed their lively calves. Learning to milk a cow is a perfect and relaxing activity after a morning full of emotions!

Day 14 – 16:

Cotopaxi – Baños

From the Avenue of the Volcanoes to the Avenue of Waterfalls. Fantastic scenery as you depart from Cotopaxi Volcano, passing through native markets to the waterfalls near Baños enjoying the cloud forest and hot springs around this village.

Day 14:

Cotopaxi – Baños

Departing the land of volcanoes land, we visit the indigenous village of Salasaca, where weavers are well known for their tapestries. Continuing to Baños, we pass over the Pastaza Canyon and admire its impressive scenery. Overnight in Baños. Accommodation at Luna Runtun.

Day 15:

Baños

Depart by car towards the impressive "Pailon del Diablo" considered the world’s 10th highest waterfall. The hike starts at Río Verde (Green River) through scrubby vegetation to a hanging bridge over the river below the falls. A detour before the bridge leads to an overlook right where the waterfall cascades. It´s an unbelievable feeling as hundreds of water drops land on your face! Return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon relax your body and soul in the volcanic spa or walk barefoot on the fertile earth of the gardens. Plant a tree and name it! Finally, enjoy the sunset with outstanding and unforgettable views. Overnight at Luna Runtun.

Day 16:

Baños – Quito

This morning stroll around the city to see the main attractions in town. The Basilica, dedicated to the Virgin of the Holy Water, a place of pilgrimage for locals who come to thank the Virgin for several miracles and get blessed. Tour San Martin Zoological Gardens to see the management of endangered species and injured animals native of the cloud forest and Amazonia. Depart to Quito, lunch in Hosteria La Cienega. Overnight at Le Parc hotel.

Day 17:

Transfer out

Private transfer for the flight home.