Galapagos & the Amazon Rainforest Escorted Tour ECUADOR 12 NIGHTS FROM
£2199 per person
Your JOURNEY An unbeatable 12-night experience awaits on this adventure across the Galapagos Islands and the Amazon Rainforest. Expect nothing less than comfort and elegance at each of the five hotels you’ll stay in, providing the ideal retreat after a number of exciting activities and excursions each day. Daily breakfast, all transfers, six lunches and three dinners are also included to make your trip truly as seamless as possible.
What’s INCLUDED Return flights English-speaking tour guide throughout All transfers Daily breakfast Six lunches and three dinners Life jackets, snorkelling masks and fins 4-night stay at the 5* Swissôtel Quito (or similar) in a Premiere Room 1-night stay at the 3* Hotel Alisamay (or similar) in a Standard Room 3-night stay at the Suchipakari Ecuadorian Jungle Lodge (or similar) in a Standard Room 2-night stay at the 3* Hotel Fiesta (or similar) in a Standard Room 2-night stay at the 3* Hotel Blue Marlin (or similar) in a Standard Room Visit to Banos de Agua Santa town and the Pailon Del Diablo Waterfall Guided trekking and wildlife observation in the Amazon Rainforest
Interaction with an Amazonian Kichwa community Visit to Anaconda Island and the AmaZOOnian animal rescue centre Hummingbird watching at the Guango Lodge Santa Cruz highlands hike alongside the giant Galapagos tortoises Half-day tour of Academy Bay Guided visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station Guided tour of Isla Lobos
PLEASE NOTE that hotels may be substituted for similar hotels of the same star ratings ENTRANCE FEES to the Galapagos National Park not included and are payable on arrival (approximately $100 per person, cash only). Entrance fee to the Amazoonico Rescue Centre is not included and is payable locally ($5 per person), an Ingala transit card is $20 per person, to be purchased locally (cash only), there is a pier fee of $5 per person which is payable on arrival at the docks.
Quito ECUADOR A stunning country that straddles the equator on South America’s west coast, Ecuador is a picture-perfect location where visitors can admire white-sand beaches, the Amazonian rainforest and the incredible Andes. Quito, the Ecuadorian capital, has an Old Town that has been named a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site thanks to its stunning colonial squares and vibrant architecture scattered throughout the beautiful cobbled streets. Don’t leave the area without visiting the cathedrals and taking a ride on the Quito cable car, which will raise you 12,000 feet in the air for views that will have you pinching yourself. An otherworldly experience is guaranteed on the nearby Galapagos Islands, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds; incredible nature and wildlife on the islands, and thriving city life on the mainland.
Galapagos ISLANDS
A beautiful cluster of volcanic archipelagos that are home to an uncountable amount of various wildlife species, the Galapagos Islands is a location full of breath-taking biodiversity that needs to be seen to be believed. Ecuador lies approximately 926 kilometres to the east of the islands, making it the ideal multi-centre adventure to explore both the mainland and the tropical paradise. The islands have an exceptional range of must-see areas
and attractions including San Cristobal, Santa Cruz and the Mindo Cloud Forest. No trip is complete without admiring the giant native tortoises, swimming with the majestic sea lions and snapping pictures of the iguanas basking in the sunshine. There are several volcanoes in the area too, including Cotopaxi, an active stratovolcano known for its nearsymmetrical cone, which is located in
the Andes Mountains and is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world at a staggering 5,897 metres. It is also known as being home to one of the few equatorial glaciers in the world, attracting mountaineers and climbers from all over the world.
Anaconda Island AMAZON RAINFOREST
Observe incredible animals such as squirrel monkeys and prehistoric birds on the Amazon Rainforest’s Anaconda Island before visiting a family in one of the indigenous communities to learn their traditions and cultivation habits. The island itself spans a beautiful 27 hectares located between the Napo and Arajuno Rivers in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, surrounded by a truly breath-taking variety of flora and fauna.
Galapagos & the Amazon Rainforest
ITINERARY
DAY 1 Upon arrival in Quito, you will be transferred to Swissôtel Quito. Depending on your arrival time, either spend the day at your leisure or explore the Old Town before having a welcome briefing from your trip leader at the hotel in the evening. SWISSÔTEL QUITO Located in the Floresta neighbourhood of Quito, Swissotel Quito is an elegant, five-star establishment within close proximity to the thriving old city. Guests can expect to be within walking distance from plenty of shops, restaurants, museums and cultural landmarks while the hotel offers comfortable rooms and a spa for the ultimate unwind. There are also three on-site restaurants serving the likes of Ecuadorian cuisine and Japanese fare.
DAY 2 After breakfast, you will spend the day at Banos de Agua Santa town, which is located on the foothills of the Tungurahua volcano, active since 1999. Here, you will visit the second highest waterfall in Ecuador, the Pailon Del Diablo before arriving at another waterfall called El Manto de la Novia where you will ride in a cable car traversing the canyon of the Pastaza River. You will then have time to explore the town before being transported to your hotel, Hotel Alisamay. HOTEL ALISAMAY
The ideal rest stop for relaxation and unwinding during your Ecuadorian adventure, Hotel Alismay is a four-star hotel located in BaĂąos. Each room is spacious and comfortable, and offers guests a balcony, a private bathroom, a television, Wi-Fi and a telephone. Additionally, other services at Hotel Alisamay include a swimming pool for adults and children, a whirlpool, a sauna and a Turkish bath along with a 24-hour front desk and cafeteria serving daily breakfast. .
Galapagos & the Amazon Rainforest
ITINERARY
DAY 3 After breakfast, the morning will be spent exploring the beauty of the Amazon Rainforest while travelling along a river in the heart of the jungle. Upon arrival at the Amazon Eco-Lodge, you’ll enjoy a tropical snack before being briefed by a naturalist guide and enjoying lunch. In the evening, you’ll embark on a night walk to capture the nocturnal sounds and movements of many animals. DAY 4 After breakfast, you’ll spend the morning with an Amazonian Kichwa community to learn about their way of life. You’ll sample the famous “chicha” beverage as well as traditional dishes before returning back to the lodge.
DAY 5 After breakfast, take the canoe to visit the “Anaconda Island” where you’ll observe a variety of wildlife. Then, you’ll visit a family in one if the indigenous communities to observe their traditions and cultivation habits. After lunch, you’ll visit the AmaZOOnian, which is a rescue centre protecting a number of different animals, including a range of endangered species. SUCHIPAKARI ECUADORIAN JUNGLE LODGE Immersed in the compelling natural world of the Amazon rainforest, the Suchipakari Ecuadorian Jungle Lodge is in the perfect location for guests to admire the incredible biodiversity of the River Napo. The accommodation options at the lodge are second to none, providing comfortable beds and a number of modern amenities to enhance your stay. Guests can also expect a restaurant, a bar and a spa for the ultimate unwind.
Galapagos & the Amazon Rainforest
ITINERARY
DAY 6 After breakfast, you’ll visit the Guango Lodge, a paradise for hummingbird lovers. You’ll have the chance to observe the bits and admire the scenic vistas on a hike in the forest-covered mountains. In the afternoon, you’ll return back to Quito and have the rest of the day at your leisure. DAY 7 After breakfast, enjoy the city of Quito at your leisure or opt for a number of optional tours (extra charge) including a walking tour, a Mindo Cloud Forest tour or exploration of the Otavalo Indigenous market.
DAY 8 After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to the Island of Baltra in the Galapagos Islands. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to Santa Cruz to visit the highlands, which are home to the iconic giant Galapagos tortoises. Enjoy lunch before searching for the tortoises and visiting the lava tubes. You’ll be transferred to Hotel Fiesta where you’ll have a briefing about the following day from your local guide. Enjoy the evening at your leisure. SANTA CRUZ An island best known for its sandy beaches and crystalline waters, Santa Cruz is set within Ecuador’s Galapagos National Park. Exploration is the most exciting pastime on this stunning archipelago, from the magnificent sea turtles and marine iguanas below the surface of Tortuga Bay to the Charles Darwin Research Station where the island’s most extensive collection of preserved plant life are housed.
DAY 9 After breakfast, you will enjoy a half-day tour of Academy Bay where you can swim and snorkel with a range of exotic fish and marine life as well as the famous sea lions. You can then climb to a nearby viewpoint to see white-tipped reef sharks swimming in the ocean before taking a walk along the Playa de los Perros, where you’ll see many sea iguanas basking in the sun. You’ll be transferred back to Hotel Fiesta for an overnight stay. HOTEL FIESTA With the style of service described as ‘handmade hospitality’, a stay at Hotel Fiesta ensures that you’re taken care of from check-in to check-out. Hotel Fiesta provides ample and comfortable space to relax and unwind after a day excursions, offering well-equipped rooms with amenities and private bathrooms. Guests can expect to be just steps away from a number of diving centres while the hotel itself offers a bar, a restaurant and a games room.
Galapagos & the Amazon Rainforest
ITINERARY
DAY 10 After breakfast, you’ll enjoy a guided visit to the Charles Darwin research station to learn about the efforts done by the national park for conservation. In the afternoon, you will take a boat from Santa Cruz to San Cristóbal where you will be transferred to Hotel Blue Marlin for a briefing with a local guide. Enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure. HOTEL BLUE MARLIN A quaint hotel located just 350 yards from the picturesque seafront promenade; Hotel Blue Marlin goes above and beyond when it comes to personalised guest hospitality thanks to the small collection of 14 rooms and the 24-hour reception desk. Guests are invited to enjoy a refreshing cocktail by the outdoor swimming pool or enjoy a delicious American-style breakfast at the on-site restaurant. For those who want to explore the surrounding area, the resort is within walking distance from local restaurants, the beach and even a local market.
DAY 11 After breakfast, you will be transferred to the dock for a short boat ride to the nearby Isla Lobos. Here, you will embark on a guided tour to observe marine life and land animals before relaxing on one of the many white coral beaches on the island. In the afternoon, you’ll go on a guided walk to the interpretation centre and the frigate hill to admire the beautiful landscapes.
DAY 12 After breakfast, enjoy the morning at your leisure before being transferred to San CristĂłbal airport for a flight back to Quito. Enjoy an overnight stay at SwissĂ´tel Quito. DAY 13 After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home.
Upgrade YOUR TRIP Ecuador’s Best Bits ADD 5 NIGHTS from an extra
£779 per person
WHAT’S INCLUDED All transfers Daily breakfast, 2 lunches and 1 dinner All entrance fees as described in the itinerary. Excursions and guided visits: Exploring the tropical forest of Mindo, Chocolate making process, discover the Otavalo handicraft market, Relax by hot springs Explore Cotopaxi National Park + Walking sticks for Cotopaxi national park. 2 nights in 4* Septimo Paraiso Ecolodge in a Standard room 1 night in 3* Hacienda Pinsaqui in a Standard room 1 night in 4* Papallacta Spa Resort in a Standard room 1 night in the 5* Swissotel Quito in a Standard business room Certified expert English-speaking tour leader.
ITINERARY DAY 1
On the first day of our adventure, we will drive north of Quito to witness the equator monument complex. Visiting the middle of the world is a mandatory stop once you are in Ecuador, you’ll have the opportunity to be able to stand on both sides of the hemispheres, north and south, at the same time and feel the neutral forces of the equator. On our way, we will also stop for a view of the Pululahua crater, the third largest inhabited volcano crater in the world, hosting more than 400 people. After, we will reach the little town of Mindo, nestled into the cloud forest. This area is filled with a wide variety of plants and animal life – perfect for a nice introduction to the diversity of Ecuador. Mindo and its surrounding cloud forest are a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially for hummingbirds! In the afternoon we will visit a chocolate distributor, where you can take a tour of the process of the cocoa, from harvesting the seed to the final product, like as a delicious brownie or a cup of real hot cocoa. Overnight stay in: 4* Septimo Paraiso, Standard room.
DAY 2
We will explore the pristine cloud rain forest
Upgrade YOUR TRIP of Mindo, crossing cable cars and hiking along waterfalls, surrounded by a lush green forest filled with toucans, hummingbirds and colorful birds. In the afternoon, you will have some free time to enjoy the several optional outdoor activities offered in this area. Overnight stay in: 4* Septimo Paraiso, Standard room.
from the surrounding organic fields and share precious moments of conviviality with them. In the late afternoon, we will reach the luxury volcanic hot springs resort of Papallacta, where you will have the chance to relax at the spa resort surrounded by the view of the majestic Andean mountains. Overnight stay in: 4* Papallacta Spa Resort, Standard room.
DAY 3
DAY 5
Drive back up into the highlands and reach the Pan-American Highway heading north on the way to the famous indigenous town of Otavalo. Here, admire the endless number of handicrafts from the local people. Take time to stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets, which are filled with Otavalo indigenous people wearing the traditional blue ponchos. Visit their handicraft market, with its wonderful textiles, native paintings, ceramics, jewelry, tapestries and more at bargain prices. In Otavalo, there will be enough time for shopping and cultural interaction. In the afternoon, we will drive to Cotacachi to witness the impressive leather goods of the town and enjoy the beauty of this small village. There will be some free time for you to explore the shops or simply relax while sipping on one of the best coffees in Ecuador in the main plaza. Later we will arrive at the beautiful, historical hacienda of Pinsaqui where we will stay overnight. Enjoy a typical Andean cocktail as welcome, and learn about the history of this place. Overnight stay in: 3* Hacienda Pinsaqui, Standard room.
DAY 4
Today we will first visit Cotacachi Cayapas ecological reserve to see the breath-taking scenery of the crystalline-clear waters of this active volcano and the amazing surrounding landscapes. At the end of an hour-long hike along the rim of the Cuicocha Crater Lake, we will take a boat ride to the center of the crater to observe the activity of this volcano, watching bubbles coming up from the center of the caldera. Later, we will head to Peguche, a small village located in the heart of the Andes, where you will live an unforgettable cultural experience, immersing yourself in the true spirit of the South-American highlands. You will help the local people prepare a delicious lunch using the fresh products harvested the same day
After breakfast, following a last dip in the open-air hot springs, we will drive south on the Pan-American Highway to the highest active volcano in the world, Cotopaxi. The snow-capped volcano is surrounded by the national park, home to abundant plant life, a rich fauna and Inca ruins. We will begin our visit at the interpretation center at the entrance of the park, before continuing our drive across the páramo to the Limpiopungo Lake. During a short walk around the lake we can observe a variety of birds and enjoy the stunning views of the almost symmetrical cone of the Cotopaxi volcano. Afterwards, drive back to Quito for our last dinner. Overnight stay in: 5* Swissotel Quito, Standard business room.
DAY 6
Today our trip in mainland will end and you will have your international connection flight. Take with you your memories and photos and leave a piece of your heart, as you will want to return to Ecuador soon to experience more of this enchanted land. We wish you a “buen viaje”!
Upgrade YOUR TRIP Explore more of SOUTH AMERICA’S HIGHLIGHTS with an extension to PERU WHAT’S INCLUDED Flight from Quito to Lima
ADD 12 NIGHTS from an extra
£1399 per person
Domestic return flights from Lima to Cusco All transfers Daily breakfast, two lunches and two dinners All entrance fees as described in the itinerary: Excursions and guided visits: Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, City tour of Cusco and Lima, and more Full day aboard the Peru Rail Titicaca train 1 afternoon tea per person while aboard the Perurail Titicaca train with live music and dancing typical of the Cusco area 3-night stay at the 4* Hotel José Antonio Miraflores in a Standard Room 4-night stay at the 4* Costa Ramada Del Sol Cusco in a Contemporary Room 1-night stay at the 3* Hotel Agustos Urumbamba in a Standard Room 1-night stay at the 4* star Jaya Hotel in a Superior Room 2-night stay at the 4* Hotel Hacienda Puno in a Standard Room
Upgrade YOUR TRIP ITINERARY
before being taken back to Cusco where you will stay.
DAY 1
DAY 7
DAY 2
DAY 8
Arrival in Lima. A representative will transport you to Hotel José Antonio Miraflores. Day at your leisure. After breakfast, you will fly to Cusco. A representative will transport you to your hotel, Costa Ramada Del Sol. Rest of the day at your leisure.
DAY 3
After breakfast, you will embark on a city tour of Cusco before returning to your hotel in the evening.
DAY 4
After breakfast, you’ll head to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. You’ll stop at Pisac for lunch (payable locally) before journeying to Ollantaytambo and the Chinchero market. You will be transported to Hotel Agustos Urubamba for an overnight stay.
DAY 5
After breakfast, you will journey by expedition train to Aguas Calientes for a guided walking tour of Machu Picchu. After this, explore the site at your leisure before being transported to Jaya Hotel for an overnight stay.
DAY 6
After breakfast, the morning is at your leisure, or you can embark on a second visit to Machu Picchu (extra charge). In the afternoon, take the expedition train to Poroy
After breakfast, you will head to Moray and the salt mines of Maras before driving back to Cusco. After breakfast, you will spend the day aboard the Peru Rail Titicaca train where you will indulge in gourmet cuisine and admire the stunning scenery. Arrive in Puno for an overnight stay at Hacienda Puno.
DAY 9
After breakfast, you will be transferred by speedboat to the floating Uros islands followed by a visit to Taquile. Admire views of Lake Titicaca and explore the island before returning to Puno.
DAY 10
After breakfast, it’s time for your flight back to Lima before spending the evening at your leisure.
DAY 11
After breakfast, enjoy a city tour of Lima around all the significant sites. Night stay in the Hotel José Antonio Miraflores.
DAY 12
After breakfast, enjoy your day at leisure. In the evening will take place a farewell dinner. Final stay at Hotel José Antonio Miraflores.
DAY 13
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
If you want to enhance your South American escape even further, there are a range of optional excursions and activities available during your leisure time in Quito. From shopping at the Otavalo Market Fair to unwinding at the Papallacta Hot Springs Spa Resort, there truly is something for everyone. Please note: the following activities are at your own expense and can be organised by your representative.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
COTOPAXI BIKING ADVENTURE from $150 per person You’ll drive roughly two hours through the Avenue of Volcanoes, and arrive to meet your guide who will inform you about the Paramo Ecosystem in the Cotopaxi National Park. Your biking experience begins at 13,000 feet of elevation, and you will ride towards the Pucara Ruins where you will have lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll continue riding for an hour to the Hacienda Santa Ana. Please note: Guests are advised to wear biking shorts or pants, a t-shirt, a fleece and biking or tennis shoes. You will be riding for two to four hours at a rough distance of 20 miles and an elevation gain of 300 feet.
COTOPAXI VOLCANO DAY ADVENTURE from $95 per person You’ll be picked up from your hotel and transported to Cotopaxi National Park for a visit to the natural history museum before continuing up the mountain. Once you descend, you’ll drive across to the Limpiopungo Lake to enjoy the stunning views of the landscape. You’ll arrive back in Quito in the late afternoon.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
DISCOVER QUITO UNESCO CITY ON TWO WHEELS from $65 per person Led by a team of professional guides, you will jump on a TREK X Calibre toexplore Quito’s unique sites including the colonial UNESCO city, local markets, traditional artisan’s workshops and even an ice cream shop for a few tastes.
QUITO CITY TOUR EXPERIENCE: LEARN - TASTE – HELP, from $65 per person Explore the unique side pf Quito, beginning with visits to the likes of the Golden Church and San Francisco Square before stopping at a local workshop where the candy “Colaciones” is created. Lunch is a local affair, made by the people and the products of the area. In the afternoon, before returning home, you will visit the Proyecto Salesiano Foundation, which is dedicated to educating and supporting local homeless children.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
TRADITIONAL QUITO CITY TOUR & ECUADOR LINE from $75 per person This city tour takes you to the residential neighbourhoods at the northern end of the metropolis, visiting landmarks such as the Guapulo Mirador and the Legislative Palace and much more. You’ll stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage site of the downtown area before reaching the Ecuador Line and visiting the INTI NAN museum.Foundation, which is dedicated to educating and supporting local homeless children.
MINDO CLOUD FOREST, from $125 person
After a two hour drive, you’ll take a cable car to enter the Mindo Nambillo Forest Reserve and embark on a two-hour guided hike. After this, take a soak in the waterfalls, have lunch in town (not included) and take an optional tour of the chocolate factory or do an activity such as zip lining or tubing (extra cost). On your way back to Quito, you’ll stop at the Sachatamia Reverve to view over than 20 species of hummingbirds.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
OTAVALO MARKET FAIR from $85 per person You’ll be picked up at 8am on Saturday to visit South America’s most famous Indian fair. Explore the vibrant Otavalo handicraft market with its wonderful textiles, native paintings, tapestries and more at bargain prices. Next, you will visit Cotacahi, an area famous for its leather articles, and have lunch before heading to the small village of Peguche, which is known for its waterfalls. You’ll arrive back in Quito in the late afternoon.
PAPALLACTA HOT SPRINGS SPA RESORT FROM $85 PER PERSON Your first stop on this tour is the Papallacta Lagoon, located in the Páramo vegetation and has stunning views. Next, you’ll continue on to the hot springs and the “Termes de Papallacta” where short hikes can be done to observe colourful orchids and birds. Enjoy some time to soak into the volcanic pools or spa treatments (extra charge). You’ll arrive back in Quito in the late afternoon.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
QUILOTOA ENCHANTED CRATER LAKE from $99 per person You’ll be picked up at 7am for a full-day cultural tour beginning with a visit to a local indigenous market and a drive to Laguna Quilota for views of the Andean mountains. Before lunch, you’ll visit a local indigenous home for interaction with inhabitants. The tour includes a hike down into the Laguna Quilotoa, a sparkling emerald lake inside the inactive volcano crater. The return hike takes one hour, or there is the option of renting a mule for $12.
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Available limited time only | Published in November 2019
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