Tour: 13 day Three Worlds of Ecuador: Galapagos, Cloud Forest & Amazon Tour

Upon your arrival in Quito, Ecuador's capital nestled high in the Andes, you'll be greeted and transferred to your accommodation to settle in and prepare for your adventure ahead.

If you arrive early, you can use your free time to get acquainted with one of the highest capitals in the world sitting at just over 9,000 feet above sea level. The city is nestled in a long, narrow valley of the Andes and flanked by the Pichincha Volcano to the west.

Breakfast and Lunch Provided.

After breakfast, we embark on a journey to the enchanting Mindo Cloud Forest. Our day is filled with exploration as we visit the Alambi Reserve, known for its diverse birdlife, followed by a visit to the Mindo Cloud Forest Preserve. We'll also indulge in the fragrant delights of an Orchid Garden, savor the flavors of the Chocolate Road, and experience the symphony of frogs in the evening.

Breakfast and Dinner Provided.

We start the day with an early morning bird and nature hike, immersing ourselves in the vibrant ecosystem of Mindo. Later, we'll enjoy a thrilling tubing adventure on the Mindo River before visiting the Mitad del Mundo monument, marking the equator line. Tonight, we return to Quito.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Provided.

We will kickstart our adventure with a short walk leading to Tortuga Bay, a pristine beach accessible only by foot, offering options for swimming, sunbathing, and exploration along its tranquil shores. As we stroll through a cactus forest, keep an eye out for lava lizards and indemic birds. Arriving at the soft, sandy beach, you'll find ideal conditions for surfing before continuing to the calm Tortuga Bay, where mangroves provide shelter and the chance to spot friendly baby sharks.

Later, you'll explore Puerto Ayora, the capital of the Galapagos, and enjoy some local cuisine. 

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner provided. 

Today's adventure kicks off with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station offering a glimpse into their conservation efforts, including the successful repopulation of endangered species.

We will then head to the highlands to visit a private giant tortoise, where you'll witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat and explore nearby lava tunnels, gaining insight into the island's geological history.

After lunch in the highlands, we set sail for Isabela Island, the largest in the archipelago, where we'll stroll through the charming town of Puerto Villamil and soak in the breathtaking sunset along its pristine white sand beaches, marking the beginning of our Isabela Island experience.

Breakfast and Lunch Provided.

Lace up your hiking boots – we’re hiking up a volcano! Sierra Negra is one of the most active volcanoes in Galapagos; its last eruption was in June 2018. As we hike to the perimeter of the caldera, we’ll be on the lookout for bird species found only in the highlands like the bright red Vermillion Flycatcher and the elusive short-eared owl. Once we reach the rim, we’ll be met with a 9km view that stretches across one of the most active calderas in the world. 

We’ll make our way back to town in the early afternoon and go for a leisurely kayak around the sheltered bay area of Puerto Villamil. Galapagos penguins, sea turtles, and rays frequent these shallow waters, and blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and pelicans may be seen resting along the shore and in some nearby mangrove trees.

Breakfast and Lunch Provided.

After breakfast, we’ll gear up to explore a protected bay and search for the Galapagos Penguin – the only penguin found north of the Equator. We’ll hop out for a short walk at Tintoreras or Shark Alley, an isolated islet and popular Iguana-nesting site that’s home to hundreds of marine iguanas.

This afternoon, you’ll take an early flight to the island of San Cristobal, the oldest and easternmost island of the Galapagos archipelago. On arrival in San Cristobal, we’ll head up into the highlands for a scenic downhill bike ride. Starting at a panoramic viewpoint called La Soledad, we’ll bike through the tiny town of El Progreso and five different vegetation zones until we reach a beach called La Loberia. La “Loberia” is an area frequented by sea lions. In other words, it’s a sea lion hangout! There we’ll be able to watch sea lions sunbathing and vying for our attention. They play, they nap and sometimes, they pose for pictures! If you’re keen for a swim, hop on in.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided.

Today, we set sail to explore the mesmerizing underwater world of the Galapagos. Our adventure begins with a leisurely boat cruise along the coast, offering sightings of shorebirds such as the great frigate and the iconic blue-footed booby.

Following this, we'll anchor for a thrilling snorkeling session, where we'll have the chance to encounter colorful damselfish, playful sea lion pups, and perhaps even a curious puffer fish. Our journey then takes us to Kicker Rock, also known as Leon Dormido, a towering tuff cone rising over 143 meters from the ocean's surface. Here, amidst the dramatic ash formations, we'll search for majestic sea turtles, graceful spotted eagle rays, and the elusive Galapagos Shark. After a delicious onboard lunch, we'll relax at a secluded beach accessible only by boat, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters or capture stunning photos of Kicker Rock in the distance. As the day draws to a close, we return to town, where you'll have free time to explore and savor a spectacular sunset by the waterfront.

Tonight, we gather for a memorable open-air dining experience, celebrating our final night in the Enchanted Islands with a well-deserved farewell feast.

Optional diving opportunities are available upon request.

Breakfast and Lunch Provided.

Today is the last day in the islands and you get to choose how you’d like to spend your morning. Squeeze in some souvenir shopping, head to the beach for one last swim, or visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the history and mystery of the archipelago. This educational center explains how the islands were discovered and what makes them so special. You can learn about Charles Darwin’s visit and the present-day efforts to protect this amazing World Heritage site. There’s a short hike to Tijeretas, a panoramic lookout over the town, and Kicker Rock, for those who are interested.

This early afternoon, you’ll fly back to the mainland. Upon arrival late afternoon we will transfer you to your hotel. 

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided.

Embark on an exhilarating journey from Quito into the heart of the Amazon rainforest. After a brief stop in Coca for refreshments, you'll be escorted by lodge staff to the pier for a scenic motorized canoe ride along the Napo River, where you'll have the opportunity to observe diverse bird species such as herons and spoonbills.

Upon reaching Sacha Lodge, nestled across Pilchicocha Lake, a leisurely 30-minute walk through the lush rainforest may reward you with sightings of playful monkeys.

Arriving at the lodge, settle into your thatched roof hut and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Take a refreshing swim in the lake, observe colorful butterflies at the Butterfly Farm, and enjoy a guided night hike or canoe ride to spot nocturnal wildlife. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Amazon!

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

Wake up to the serenade of the forest as your day begins with an exciting canopy walk along the Liana Chica trail, just a short distance from the lodge. Elevated 36 meters above ground and spanning 275 meters, this canopy walk offers unparalleled opportunities for birdwatching and observing the lush Amazonian canopy.

Following the canopy walk, descend to ground level to explore trails adorned with towering fig and kapok trees, where native guides will impart knowledge on the traditional medicinal uses of Amazonian plants.

In the afternoon, choose your own adventure from a variety of activities, including leisurely walks along the Napo River, challenging hikes in search of the elusive dusky titi monkey, or simply unwinding amidst the breathtaking forest views from the lodge's hammock-laden viewing areas. The choice is yours to make the most of your Amazonian experience.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided

Your adventure begins with the Lagartococha trail, offering insights into native culture and the intricate relationship between the Amazon forest and its people. Traverse through lush landscapes believed to house spirits and legendary tales of the devil-man of the forest, culminating at Lagartococha lake, home to anacondas, capybaras, caimans, and various monkey species.

After a satisfying lunch at the lodge, embark on a piranha fishing lesson before setting out on a thrilling wildlife canoe trail. Glide through monkey habitats, catch glimpses of howler monkeys, river otters, and three-toed sloths, and ascend the towering Kapok tree tower for a breathtaking sunset view over the forest canopy. With luck, spot birds and animals amidst the Andean mountains on clear days. Conclude the day with a mesmerizing night canoe and hike excursion, immersing yourself in the nocturnal wonders of the Amazon forest.

Breakfast Provided. 

After an early morning breakfast, say goodbye to your Amazon home and the creatures that live here. A motorized long boat ride back up the river will take you to Coca. You’ll be assisted to the airport to board your flight to Quito, from where you’re free to continue your own travels in Ecuador.