Tailor Made Ecuador: Northern & Western Route
Overview
The Route
Explore Ecuador's diversity on a journey through its northern and western routes, featuring the vibrant city of Quito and the enchanting Galapagos Islands. Discover Quito's rich history and stunning colonial architecture nestled in the Andes. Then, venture to the Galapagos, where unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes await. From the bustling markets and historic sites of Quito to the pristine beaches and extraordinary marine life of the Galapagos, this journey offers a perfect blend of cultural and natural wonders.
Countries Visited
EcuadorPlaces Visited
Quito Galápagos IslandsTailor Made Ecuador: Northern & Western Route
11 Days | 10 nightsExploring Ecuador's Diversity: A Journey through the Northern & Western Routes
- Explore on a seven-night trip to the Galápagos Islands aboard one of three luxury boats - 'Origin,' 'Theory,' or 'Evolve' - operated by Ecoventura, a member of the Relais & Chateaux group.
- Explore several wildlife-rich areas with qualified scientist guides on daily trips.
- Observe distinctive island species up close, such as the giant tortoise, blue-footed booby, marine iguana, and sea lion.
- Take advantage of several chances to kayak, snorkel, walk, or unwind on the shore.
- Engage in a range of onboard activities, including guided stargazing and ecological talks focused on this remarkable area.
- Experience the historical charm of Quito, Ecuador's capital, by strolling along its cobblestone streets, admiring its colonial architecture, and exploring local art collections.
Itinerary
Quito
Upon arrival in Quito, the delightful capital of Ecuador, you will be greeted and privately transported to your accommodation.
Accommodation Options:
Quito
Today, accompany your guide on a walking tour of colonial Quito to explore its abundant art treasures and beautiful balconies. Admire San Francisco Church and its museum of religious art, along with La Compañía, which features dazzling gilded walls. Explore lively Independence Plaza, surrounded by the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral of Quito. Afterwards, visit Panecillo Hill to appreciate stunning views of the city and other Andean peaks. Indulge in a leisurely afternoon to immerse yourself in Quito's unique atmosphere at your own pace.
Accommodation:
Casa Gangotena
Galapagos
Travel to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal on the Galápagos Islands. Upon arrival, board a Zodiac for a quick trip to your luxurious expedition yacht, a Kimsa recommended vessel, docked in the bay. Sail after lunch until you reach Leon Dormido (Sleeping Lion), a vertical tuff cone rising 500 feet from the ocean. Observe the various species living on its cliffs, such as the blue-footed booby, Nazca booby, and frigatebird. This evening, you are invited to attend a cocktail reception with the Captain and crew, followed by a multi-course welcome supper.
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Galapagos
Visit Prince Philip’s Steps on Genovesa Island for excellent bird watching due to its diverse species. Swim or snorkel with sea lions directly off the beach in the warmer waters of the northern path. Later today, visit Darwin Bay, a beach with coral sand where swallow-tailed and lava gulls congregate near tide pools. Explore a forest of cactus and mangroves where colonies of great frigate birds nest. Observe the lively adult and young birds, including males displaying their vibrant red throat pouches.
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Galapagos
Anchor on the northern side of Santa Cruz to explore Las Bachas, where several vivid pink flamingos can be observed feeding in the interior lagoons, and walk along its extensive, sparkling white-sand beach. After lunch, return to the ship and then disembark atop Cerro Dragon to enjoy a splendid panoramic view of the bay and island scenery.
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Galapagos
Today, take a small boat to Punta Vincente Roca in the morning. After lunch, cruise through the Bolivar Channel to observe whales and maybe see dolphins swimming at the front of your elegant ship. Disembark at Urbina Bay on Isabela Island in the afternoon to explore four miles of coastal seabed exposed by a volcanic eruption, showcasing diverse marine life. Observe the remains of coral bones, some reaching waist height, following a wet landing on the shore. Observe the big and colourful Galápagos land iguanas that inhabit the island, as well as the odd giant turtle and other brilliant species.
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Galapagos
Travel to Fernandina Island to see Punta Espinoza and observe the impressive gathering of sea lions. Observe the resident bulls as they vigilantly protect their groups of female animals and remain alert for sharks that endanger the colony's young. Observe several marine iguanas at the largest colony in the Galápagos as they bask along the rocky shoreline. Subsequently, arrive at Tagus Cove on the western side of Isabela Island, a historically popular spot for pirates and whalers to anchor. Discover the coves with a panga or kayak to observe the Galápagos penguin, booby, pelican, and other seabirds. After supper, head to the upper deck to admire the glittering night sky as the ship crosses the equator for the last time on this journey.
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Galapagos
Today, you will find the dark red beach of Rabida. The Galápagos' geographic center has the most diversified volcanic rocks in the archipelago. Embark on a hike along a trail by the sea, where you may see marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers, and many types of Darwin's finches. Proceed to a saltwater lagoon where migrating greater flamingos gather and have the opportunity to snorkel among a large colony of lively and curious sea lions. After a lunch break on board, continue exploring this intriguing area of the Galápagos Islands.
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Galapagos
Awake at the vibrant harbor of Academy Bay on the island of Santa Cruz after a peaceful night on board. Disembark in Puerto Ayora and journey into the island's highlands, witnessing the gradual transformation of the landscape as you ascend through the seven vegetation zones of the Galápagos, all present in this single location. Explore Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena, a facility dedicated to breeding different types of gigantic tortoises. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to discover current conservation initiatives through exhibits along the trails. After lunch, return to the ship and proceed to explore "the tunnels," which are the largest lava tubes in the Galápagos. These tunnels were formed when the outside layer of lava solidified and molten lava flowed through the center. Next, visit the tortoise reserve at Rancho Primicias, a privately owned farm in the highlands, to see the gigantic tortoise in its native habitat. Later, return to your ship via Zodiac for a delectable farewell meal.
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Galapagos - Quito
Following breakfast, disembark from your yacht for a last visit to the Interpretation Center on San Cristobal Island to learn more about the human history of the Galápagos Islands. Afterwards, take some free time to walk along a paved trail or capture some final shots. Next, proceed to the airport to board your trip to mainland Ecuador. Upon arrival in Quito, you will have the remainder of the day free to relax or visit major attractions such as the Central Bank Museum to view pre-Inca artifacts or any of the stunning Baroque cathedrals.
Accommodation Options:
Quito
Following breakfast, proceed to the airport and embark on your outbound flight.