100% customisable travel idea
Off the coast of Ecuador After Quito, the Galápagos from island to island
Ecuador - Quito - Galápagos
100% customisable travel idea
Ecuador - Quito - Galápagos
100% customisable for you
When you arrive, you have a private transfer to the historic centre where you’ll stay two nights in a colonial house dating from 1925. Completely restored by artists from the renowned Escuela Quiteña, it is filled with light. The owners have created three bedrooms around a lovely inner courtyard, where it’s very pleasant to sit and have a drink or read after exploring the city. The interiors are understated and elegant, with light tones set off by beautiful parquet flooring and wooden furniture. On the rooftop, a small area to relax has been set up, offering unbeatable views of the city.
Included - Private tour of the colonial capital. Quito Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It has changed so very little that at times you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time to the era of the Royal Audience. The checkerboard layout is preserved, with vibrant colours brightening up the rows of single-storey houses, adorned with Spanish balconies and interspersed here and there with imposing civil and religious buildings. Examples include the cathedral, Carondelet Palace and the Church of San Francisco, which houses the Virgin of Quito, venerated throughout the northern Andes. As for the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús (Church of the Society of Jesus, 1605-1765), it shows who held influence at the time - those able to employ the best artists from the Quito School. Along the way, make sure you taste the local drink, canelazo: a hot blend of aguardiente (alcoholic spirit), cane sugar, water and cinnamon.
You have a private transfer to the airport and flight to San Cristóbal Island, gateway to the Galápagos Islands. Another private transfer to your accommodation for two nights in a white villa overlooking the port and the bay. This simple, unpretentious yet comfortable property has large picture windows throughout to let in lots of light. Guests especially appreciate the warm welcome from the owner and the terrace, which is ideal for relaxation and contemplation.
The capital island of the Galápagos, San Cristóbal, is the most eastern isle in the archipelago and home to a large colony of sea lions. Near Playa Mann, the interpretation centre traces the geological and natural history of the island group. With its beaches, secret coves and hiking trails, San Cristóbal lends itself beautifully to walking. So, put on a pair of comfortable shoes and set out to explore wherever you wish!
Optional -Snorkelling at the Leon Dormido Rock (or Kicker Rock); a full day with a private guide for an in-depth exploration of the island.
You have a private transfer to the airport, then a flight to Isabela. Every image of this memorable hop over untouched lands of unreal beauty is etched into our memory. Once on the island, you have a private transfer to your hotel for three nights, which combines simplicity, comfort and a pleasant atmosphere. Set on the edge of a beautiful sandy beach, it extends into a large garden planted with palm trees, flowers and native plants. At lunchtime, head up to the top floor of the building for a beautiful view of the ocean from the restaurant. Afterwards, unwind with a short siesta in one of the hammocks.
Already included - Isabela with a local guide . Follow in the footsteps of a local resident for an intimate discovery of Isabela along the water. Nothing is really planned in advance; your guide for the day will accommodate your wishes, interests and whatever’s happening at the time. Along the way, they will share valuable information about the archipelago and some well-kept secrets of Isabela.
Included - Full day sailing around the Cabo Rosa lava tunnels. Many colonies of birds nest here, such as masked boobies, blue-footed boobies and pelicans, as well as sea lions. The landscapes, shaped by the sudden cooling of lava flows as they meet the sea, are breathtaking. After cruising through this living picture, put on your mask and snorkel to slip beneath the surface and encounter the underwater wildlife.
At your disposal - bicycles for the day. Cycling is the perfect way to discover Isabela on your own. Several trails cross the island, alternating between paved paths and dirt or sand tracks. They are well-marked and lead to villages or beaches, crossing paths with a multitude of animals and spectacular scenery along the way. Why not stop off at the breeding and conservation centre for the island’s endemic giant tortoises?
Optional -Private hike around Sierra Negra and Chico volcanoes.
You have a private transfer to the port and a sail over to Santa Cruz Island. Another private transfer takes you to your final accommodation, where you’ll stay for three nights. Your hotel has many appealing features, starting with the bright, spacious bedrooms; some open onto a balcony with views of the bay. From the property’s façade to its public areas, everything is understated and elegant, with the freshness of white and the charm of wood. The swimming pool offers the perfect escape during the hottest part of the day, and the jacuzzi is perfect for relaxing later on, in the afternoon or evening.
Included - North Seymour Island. Located north of Baltra Island, this islet is named after the British Royal Navy officer, George Francis Seymour. It’s a small, uninhabited volcanic island, covered with dry vegetation - opuntia (prickly pear cactus) thrive here. Land iguanas, blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds nest here by the hundred. Back on Santa Crux, Las Bachas on the north coast is one of the most remarkable sites in the archipelago for its rich wildlife, both on land and in the sea. Appreciate it fully throughout the day with your passionate guide, not only on foot, but also in the water, as a snorkelling session is planned.
From the dock in Puerto Ayora, it’s just a few minutes by boat to Las Grietas - a saltwater channel ideal for swimming and snorkelling in complete tranquillity. To avoid busy times, it’s best to visit early in the morning. The path that runs alongside the water is lined with cacti and leads to Los Alemanes beach, then on to a salt flat. Along the way, there is a lovely view of the whole site. In the afternoon, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about ongoing research into the natural environment and its conservation. Then stop at Tortuga Bay to relax and observe the marine life. Or go for a walk in the highlands of Santa Cruz, among lava tunnels, forests and El Chato Ranch, a giant tortoise reserve.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Guayaquil, then return international flight. Overnight flight, arrive the next day.
This suggested itinerary can be customisable down to the smallest detail, including duration, stops and content. An à la carte menu of experiences is also available to create a journey that reflects who you are.
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