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Amazing Ecuador: From Amazon to Galapagos

Ecuador in 12 Days, 10 Nights in Destination

GROUP TOURSSolo TravelerAdventureNatureSummer in AmericaChristmasBeachSpringHidden gemWinter
Valentine, Travel Expert

Valentine
Travel crafter

Feel the thrill of the Amazon’s raw beauty, the awe of Baños' majestic waterfalls, the warmth of Quito’s vibrant culture, and the wonder of the Galápagos Islands. Connect deeply with nature, culture, and yourself!

Trip Highlights

  1. map-pin-check-icon
    Amazon
  2. map-pin-check-icon
    Galapagos Islands
  3. map-pin-check-icon
    Guayaquil
  4. map-pin-check-icon
    Middle of the World Monument
  5. map-pin-check-icon
    Quito
  6. map-pin-check-icon
    San Cristobal Island

Included

  1. All flights

  2. Accommodation

  3. All transfers

  4. Activities

  5. Some meals

Availability

  1. Departures available until March 2027

  2. Available Group tours

  3. Solo travelers from + £ 440

  4. Add up to 5 nights to your stay

  5. WHAT'S THIS?

Categories available

  1. charm included

  2. superior from + £ 700

  3. WHAT'S THIS?

From

£ 4,909

£ 2,199

/person

-55%

Book with an expert:

+44 20 4571 6769

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Exoticca is fully ABTA and ATOL protected

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Best Price Guarantee

SmartFare has secured the lowest fares on flights & services for this trip

Itinerary

Discover the wonders of Ecuador and the Galápagos on this unforgettable journey. Explore Quito's colonial charm, venture into the Amazon rainforest, and admire the stunning waterfalls of Baños. Visit the Middle of the World and then fly to San Cristóbal to experience its unique wildlife and pristine landscapes. A perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure awaits!

1st Day: UK/Ireland - Quito

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Arrive at your departure airport in the UK/Ireland, ready for your flight to Quito.* Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in. Quito, Ecuador’s capital, is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, which earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1978. With its rich history, breathtaking views, and vibrant culture, the city seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern energy, making it one of the most captivating destinations in South America. Overnight stay in Quito.

*If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.), you must arrive at the airport the night before the scheduled departure day.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Dann Carlton Quito - Stan... or similar
tripadvisor rating

884 Reviews

See our full selection

2nd Day: Quito - Tena - Amazon

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Breakfast at the hotel. Throughout the day, a representative will contact you to review your full itinerary, day by day, and answer any questions you may have. In the morning, set out to explore colonial Quito, visiting a traditional market, the city's charming narrow streets, and its iconic plazas.

Afterward, journey from the Ecuadorian highlands to the highest point of the road in the páramos of Papallacta before descending into the eastern jungle. Upon arrival at the jungle lodge, enjoy a delicious included dinner.

Later, embark on an exciting night walk around the lodge to uncover the secrets of the Amazon after dark. This guided experience offers a rare glimpse into the region’s fascinating nocturnal wildlife. Listen to the symphony of the jungle as you spot colorful frogs, spiders, owls, and even snakes—all under the guidance of an expert naturalist. This short yet captivating adventure is perfect for those looking to experience the rainforest's mystery and beauty at night without venturing too far. Overnight stay in Tena.

Distance covered today: 240 km by bus (approximately 6h).

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Suchipakari Lodge or similar
tripadvisor rating

242 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Quito City Tour

Moderate

See more
included
Night-walk in Tena

Moderate

See more

3rd Day: Amazon

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Full board at the lodge. This morning, set out on a guided wildlife walk through the secondary forest, a unique ecosystem that has regenerated after past disturbances, fostering a rich variety of plant and animal life. Wander along lush jungle trails and observe the region’s incredible biodiversity up close. Keep an eye out for monkeys, colorful birds, frogs, and insects—and with a bit of luck, even sloths or wild cats. Walk through dense vegetation filled with towering trees, exotic plants, and medicinal flora used by indigenous communities. Guided by a naturalist, you’ll gain insight into the intricate relationships between the Amazon’s flora and fauna while immersing yourself in the sounds of the rainforest, from singing birds to the rustling leaves of hidden wildlife.

After lunch, enjoy free time to relax and unwind at the lodge's facilities. Overnight stay in Tena.

Please note: The lodge will provide details on optional activities, which can be booked and paid for directly on-site.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Suchipakari Lodge or similar
tripadvisor rating

242 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Wildlife walk in Tena

Moderate

See more

4th Day: Amazon - Tena - Baños

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we’ll depart from Tena and head to the majestic city of Baños, renowned for its adventure sports and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. During the journey, after approximately a 3.5-hour drive, we’ll stop to admire the spectacular Pailón del Diablo waterfall, one of Ecuador’s most breathtaking natural wonders. To fully appreciate its beauty, you’ll take a 30-minute walk to reach a hanging bridge, offering a panoramic view of the impressive 80-metre waterfall of the Río Verde. The water cascades into a basin, creating swirling whirlpools and foam at the base, which is why the waterfall is named “Pailón,” meaning a large pot or container, evoking the visual effect of the falling water.

You’ll then have free time for lunch (not included). Afterward, the journey continues to Baños, where you’ll pass by several other waterfalls, including the Manto de la Novia. Once in Baños, you’ll have the opportunity to sample the city’s traditional sweets: Melcochas and Sugar Cane Juice, both made from locally harvested sugarcane. We also recommend you indulge in our optional wellness experience with dinner*. Overnight stay in Baños.

*Wellness Experience with dinner: Unwind at the serene Luna Volcán Spa in Baños, Ecuador. Enjoy a traditional Baño de Cajón hot bath, relax in mineral-rich thermal pools, and savor a gourmet meal made from local ingredients, all while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Sangay Spa Hotel - Standa... or similar
tripadvisor rating

369 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Visit to the Pailón del Diablo Waterfall

Moderate

See more
included
Melcochas and Sugar Cane Juice tasting

Light

See more
Optional
Wellness experience with dinner

Light

See more

5th Day: Baños - Quito

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Breakfast at the hotel. Then depart from the natural beauty of Baños to return to Quito. If the weather permits, enjoy stunning views of the Avenue of the Volcanoes and the towering Cotopaxi Volcano.

Continue the journey with a visit to the Middle of the World, where you'll explore the Inti Ñan Museum and take part in fascinating experiments that demonstrate the unique effects of being right on the equator.

You'll also visit the Middle of the World Monument—the iconic landmark marking the equatorial line. Be  sure to capture a memorable photo standing with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere! Overnight stay in Quito.

The total transfer time is approximately 5 hours, not including the visits made along the route.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Dann Carlton Quito - Stan... or similar
tripadvisor rating

884 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Visit to the Middle of the World Monument

Light

See more
included
Visit the Intiñan Museum

Light

See more

6th Day: Quito

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today you have a free day in the city of Quito to relax at your own pace, but we also recommend you to join our optional activities: a tour to Otavalo* and a traditional Ecuadorian dinner**. Overnight stay in Quito.

*Tour to Otavalo: Discover Otavalo, starting with stunning mountain views, Chirimoya fruit in Guayllabamba, and Cayambe biscuits. Explore Cuicocha Crater Lake, visit Cotacachi for leatherwork, and shop at Plaza de Ponchos. 

**Traditional Ecuadorian dinner experience: Experience dining at Pim’s Panecillo, perched on El Panecillo Hill with stunning views of Quito. Relish a variety of Ecuadorian and international dishes made with fresh ingredients, all while enjoying the breathtaking city scenery.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Dann Carlton Quito - Stan... or similar
tripadvisor rating

884 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

Optional
Traditional Ecuadorian dinner experience

Light

See more
Optional
Tour to Otavalo

Light

See more

7th Day: Quito - San Cristobal, Galapagos Islands

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Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport in Quito to take your flight to the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival at the enchanted islands, transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon we will take a walking tour of the city of Baquerizo Moreno to explore the main attractions. Also you can join a fun optional kayak tour*. Overnight stay in San Cristobal.

*Kayaking experience: Explore San Cristóbal Island’s breathtaking coast on a kayaking adventure. Glide past volcanic cliffs, secluded beaches, and hidden coves. Take a break to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, spotting reef fish, rays, and harmless sharks!

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
hotel Casa Opuntia or similar
tripadvisor rating

313 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Walking tour of San Cristobal

Moderate

See more
Optional
Kayaking experience

Moderate

See more

8th Day: San Cristobal, Galapagos Islands

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Breakfast at the hotel. Embark on an exciting journey through the Highlands of San Cristóbal, visiting iconic natural sites, enjoying a scenic lunch break, and exploring the island’s stunning coastal regions. This is the perfect opportunity to discover the unique wildlife and landscapes of the Galápagos.

Start by visiting La Galapaguera, a tortoise conservation center in the Highlands, where you'll observe the famous giant Galápagos tortoises in their natural habitat and learn about the efforts to protect these iconic creatures.

Next, head to Puerto Chino, a beautiful, remote beach perfect for relaxation, swimming, or simply soaking in the breathtaking surroundings. Afterward, enjoy a lunch break (not included), and end the day at La Lobería, a popular spot to watch sea lions basking in the sun or swimming in the bay. Overnight in San Cristóbal.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
hotel Casa Opuntia or similar
tripadvisor rating

313 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Visit to the Highlands of Santa Cruz

Moderate

See more

9th Day: San Cristobal, Galapagos Islands

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today you have a free day and to make the most of it we recommend you to choose one of our optional activities: a 360º tour of the island including snorkeling in Kicker Rock’ or a visit to Tijeretas and Playa Man with a ceviche cooking demonstration. Overnight in San Cristóbal.

*360° Island tour with snorkeling at Kicker Rock: Embark on an adventurous tour of San Cristóbal Island! Explore Rosa Blanca’s mangroves, Punta Pitt’s red-footed boobies, snorkel at Bahía Sardina, hike Punta Pucuna’s lava tunnels, and end the day with snorkeling at Kicker Rock, where, with a bit of luck, you may encounter turtles, manta rays, or even sharks in the crystal-clear waters.


**Visit to Tijeretas and Playa Mann with ceviche cooking demonstration: Experience the best of San Cristóbal Island on a tour to Tijeretas, the Interpretation Center, and Playa Mann. Enjoy breathtaking views, spot frigatebirds, and learn about the island’s rich history. Next, indulge in a ceviche-making session  guided by a local Galapagueña woman and translated by your guide. Discover the art of preparing ceviche by mixing fresh seafood, citrus juices, and local spices. Savor your culinary creation while soaking in the picturesque surroundings and tranquil atmosphere of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno!


Please note: You can only choose one between these two optional activities.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
hotel Casa Opuntia or similar
tripadvisor rating

313 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

Optional
360° Island tour with snorkeling at Kicker Rock

Active

See more
Optional
Visit to Tijeretas and Playa Mann with ceviche cooking demonstration
See more

10th Day: San Cristobal, Galapagos Islands - Quito

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Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, transfer to San Cristóbal airport for your flight to Quito. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in and enjoy some free time to relax and unwind. Overnight stay in Quito.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Holiday Inn Quito Airport... or similar
tripadvisor rating

227 Reviews

See our full selection

11th Day: Quito - Night on board

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Breakfast at the hotel.* Unfortunately, it's time to end this adventure. At the designated time, take a shared transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK/Ireland.

Please note: Depending on the flight departure time you may arrive back in the UK/Ireland today.

*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

12th Day: UK/Ireland

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Arrive in the UK/Ireland and end of this extraordinary trip.

Select a day to go to next step

May 2025
June 2025
July 2025
August 2025

Categories Available:

charm

From £ 2,199

Selected
  • Accommodation in Charm category hotels.
check-icon
superior

From £ 2,899

  • Accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.

Accommodation: 10 Nights

Included activities

Included

Quito City Tour

Included activity for day 2 in Quito

Explore Quito, Ecuador’s historic capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This panoramic tour showcases iconic landmarks, stunning views, and rich culture. A perfect introduction to the city!

Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

Physical rating:

Moderate

Pick up time will inform at destination.

more information
Included

Night-walk in Tena

Included activity for day 2

Night-walk through the jungle to admire the nocturnal wildlife as the rainforest comes to life after sundown.

Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: 20:00 Approx

Physical rating:

Moderate

Natural jungle trails not suitable for people with physical mobility difficulties. / It is suggested to bring a flashlights and insect repellent.

more information
Included

Wildlife walk in Tena

Included activity for day 3 in Amazon

Wildlife walk through the secondary rainforest of the Amazon. Look out for tropical wildlife and appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of the jungle.

Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: 08:30 Approx

Physical rating:

Moderate

Natural jungle trails not suitable for people with physical mobility difficulties. / It is suggested to bring a flashlights and insect repellent.

more information
Included

Visit to the Pailón del Diablo Waterfall

Included activity for day 4 in Banos

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Tena’s Amazon rainforest to Baños, with a stop at the iconic Pailón del Diablo waterfall. Experience stunning landscapes, suspension bridges, and the mist from the roaring waters below.

Duration 01:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

Physical rating:

Moderate

more information

Show more

Available Activities

Activities are subject to availability. The price for each optional activity will be shown in the next step of the booking process.
Optional

Wellness experience with dinner

Suggested activity for day 4 in Banos

Unwind at Luna Volcán Spa in Baños, Ecuador, amid volcanic landscapes. Enjoy a Baño de Cajón, thermal pools, and a gourmet dinner. Views vary by weather. Food options will be shared at the destination for advance selection.

Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: 18:00 Approx

Physical rating:

Light

Spa treatments have an additional cost and require advance reservation; the view depends on the weather, and the menu must be selected in advance from the available options.

more information
Optional

Traditional Ecuadorian dinner experience

Suggested activity for day 6 in Quito

Dine at Pim’s Panecillo atop El Panecillo Hill, offering stunning views of Quito. Enjoy a mix of Ecuadorian and international dishes made with fresh ingredients, all while admiring the breathtaking cityscape.

Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: 18:00 Approx

Physical rating:

Light

Please note that the view depends on the weather, and the menu must be selected in advance from the available options.

more information
Optional

Tour to Otavalo

Suggested activity for day 6

Explore Otavalo with scenic views, Chirimoya fruit, Cayambe biscuits and Plaza de Ponchos. Visit Cuicocha Crater Lake and Cotacachi for leatherwork. Meet a local Otavaleña who will share insights into their culture and traditions.

Duration 05:00h Approx. Pick up time: 08:00 Approx

Physical rating:

Light

more information
Optional

Kayaking experience

Suggested activity for day 7 in San Cristobal Island

Join a thrilling kayaking adventure along San Cristóbal Island’s stunning coast. Paddle past volcanic cliffs, beaches, and coves. Stop to snorkel among vibrant marine life, including reef fish, rays, and harmless reef sharks!

Duration 01:30h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

Physical rating:

Moderate

Please note that if your flight arrives after 3pm the activity might get rescheduled for the following day.

more information

Show more

The price includes

  • Departures from main UK/Ireland airports.
  • International flights: Canada - Quito, Quito - Canada.
  • Internal flights: Quito - Galapagos, Galapagos - Quito*.
    more information
  • 10 nights accommodation in Charm category hotels.
    See hotels included
  • 8 breakfasts and Full-Board in Amazon.
  • Transfers.
  • Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.
    See itinerary
  • All air taxes & fuel surcharge.
  • ATOL Protection.
  • English-speaking guide in the indicated activities.

Not included

Entrances, drinks, tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included.

Transit Control Card (TCC) and entrance to the Galapagos National Park. Galapagos transit control card is mandatory and is checked at the airport in both Quito and Guayaquil before travel to the Galapagos Islands. Cost US$20 per person (subject to change) and made by cash payment.

At the airport Galapagos passengers must present their transit control card (TCC) with their passport and pay the entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park. Cost: US$200 for adults and US$100 for children.

If your destination is in the USA or Canada, or if your selected flights to a different destination have connections in the USA or Canada, it is mandatory to have an ESTA (for USA) or an eTA (for Canada) before travelling.

ESTAhttps://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/

eTAhttps://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta.html 

*Documentation of the internal flights will either be available in the "My bookings" section in your "Customer Area" 14 days before your trip or delivered to you on arrival at your destination. It is essential to fill in the passport information correctly for each passenger in the given boxes at the end of the reservations process.

If you would like to travel with children, please contact Customer Services to find out the conditions.

We strongly recommend you consult your doctor regarding the possible effects of altitude sickness before you travel.

For the flight to Galapagos we will transfer you to the airport 3 hours in advance in order to complete the required formalities.

Travelers with passports from the following countries are required to present a tourist visa in their country of origin:

 
Afghanistan, Angola, Bangladesh, Burma, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Haiti, India, Iraq, Iran, Kenya, Libya, Mali, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Republic of Congo, Senegal, North Korea, Syria, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Venezuela, Vietnam, Myanmar and Yemen.
  • Entry requirements

    Minimum of 6 months validity with one passport page. Mandatory travel insurance.

  • Visa

    No visa required for stays of up to 90 days

  • Currency

    US Dollar

  • Language

    Spanish

  • Electricity

    Types A and B, 110 V North American type plug

  • Health

    Please consult your doctor regarding the vaccination against yellow fever and malaria prophylaxis. Travellers over 60 years must consult their doctor as the Yellow Fever vaccine can have serious side effects.

  • Time zone

    UTC -5

  • Other useful information

    It is mandatory for tourists to carry a valid health insurance policy.

  • Tourist Office website

    https://ecuador.travel/en/

Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline’s website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.

Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same, or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.

In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or cancelled without prior notice. 

Galapagos transit control card (TCC) is mandatory and is checked at the airport in both Quito and Guayaquil before travel to the Galapagos Islands. Cost US$20 per person (subject to change) and made by cash payment.

At the airport Galapagos passengers must present their transit control card (TCC) with their passport and pay the entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park. Cost: US$100 per person until July 31, 2024, and from August 1, 2024 US$200 for adults and US$100 for children.
 
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office offer up-to-date travel advice by visiting www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +44 20 8068 3176 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met.

While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.

 

Room allocation: We will do our best to accommodate your family in the same room. If availability doesn't permit this, we guarantee your family will be accommodated as close together as possible. Children will always be accomodated in a room with at least 1 adult.

Car seats: Not available in all destinations. Feel free to take your own if you need one.

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