Ecuador Highlands & Galapagos

From the heights of the Andes to the depths of the Amazon Jungle to the amazing wildlife, both on land and underwater. Tour the Galapagos' outstanding natural beauty and interesting history by foot and boat on this active adventure. You’ll also walk through the Amazon Jungle with an indigenous guide leading the way, hike in Cotopaxi National Park – home to one of the world’s largest active volcanos – and canoe to your river-side eco-lodge accommodation on the edge of the rainforest (to name just a few of the epic nature-loving adventures). But it’s not all just about the landscapes here, you’ll also get a glimpse into everyday life during a homestay with a local family where you’ll connect with them, lending a hand with chores, doing seasonal activities and perhaps, brushing up on your Espanol. There’s so much to see, do and learn in this South American paradise.

Activities

• Amazon - Guided rainforest hike and visit to animal rescue centre
• Walking tour of Banos
• Quito - Cotopaxi National Park walk
• Quito - Local community experience
• Otavalo - Market Visit
• Isla San Cristobal- Snorkeling in La Loberia (1.5 Hours)
• San Cristobal - Excursion to Leon Dormido or Lobos Islands
• Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center (45 minutes)
• Isla San Cristobal - Cerro Tijeretas View Point (1 Hour)
• Floreana - Snorkeling
• Isla Isabela -Tintoreras or Shark Alley (2.5 Hours)
• Isla Isabela - Flamingo lagoon visit (30 Minutes)
• Isla Isabela - Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre (1 Hour)
• Isla Isabela - Sierra Negra Volcano Hike (5-6 Hours)
• Isla Isabela - Kayaking
• Santa Cruz Highlands Visit (3 Hours)
• Isla Santa Cruz - Tortuga Bay walk

Highlights

• Stay on the edge of the Amazon Rainforest in eco lodge-style accommodation on the banks of the Arajuno River and enjoy a special evening walk through the jungle under the night sky.
• Walk in the rainforest with an indigenous guide by your side to lead the way, point out local birds and teach you about the incredible plant life that thrives here. Then, visit an Amazon animal rescue centre.
• Marvel at the snow-capped Cotopaxi volcano – one of the largest active volcanos in the world – while hiking through Cotopaxi National Park.
• Live like a local as you’re welcomed into a family home in a sustainable community high in the hills of Ecuador, getting your hands dirty and helping with everyday tasks like reforestation projects, organic gardening or jam making, to name a few.
• The Galapagos Islands played a profound role in forming Charles Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection. Explore the islands on this in-depth adventure, coming face-to-face with some of the most extraordinary wildlife on earth
• Get your blood pumping as you scale a volcano on Isabela Island, get up close and personal with giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island. These nearly extinct creatures are one of the greatest drawcards to the Galapagos
• This is a land based Galapagos trip, we use locally owned hotels on the islands. On this trip you will have more opportunities to interact with the locals as opposed to staying on a boat.