Day 3
Embrace the once-in-a-lifetime experience of standing on both the north and southern hemisphere. Here you’ll learn about the interesting history of the Equator line and physics of the location. We then continue to the little town of Mindo, set amidst lush forested hills. We stay for two nights in a lodge, surrounded by the exotic cloud forest and incredible birds.Â
Day 4
Today we explore the pristine cloud forests and hike along waterfalls of the area. At an altitude of 1,300m, Mindo lies between Ecuador’s lowlands and highlands and has a year-round mild climate. This, and the plentiful rainfall, mostly between January and April, has created lush forests, perfect for a wide variety of birdlife – with an incredible 140 species of hummingbirds recorded. Our hotel is surrounded by the forest and has several marked trails around the property, ideal for birdwatching. You may also try out the optional zip-line tour or learn about how the famous Ecuadorian chocolate is made.Â
Signature Expereince:
Ascend into the pristine heavens of the cloud forests as you ride through the lush tree canopies on a spectacular open-air cable-car, specially designed to ensure the most wonderful views. A feast for the senses, you’ll feel completely immersed in this extraordinarily beautiful landscape as you glide over the treetops soaking up the sights and sounds of the forests’ fascinating wildlife.
Day 5
Heading south on the Pan-American highway we drive along the Avenue of the volcanoes, towards the Cotopaxi National Park. En route we stop at Pululahua, the third largest inhabited volcano crater in the world. From the rim of the extinct volcano enjoy the panoramic views over the green farmland in the base of the crater. Lunch is included today.Â
Day 6
This morning we reach Cotopaxi National Park for some stunning views, and at 5,900m the highest active volcano in the world. Snowcapped year-round, the perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone is one of the greatest sights in South America. Lunch is included today. Ecuador is the world’s largest exporter of roses and this afternoon we’ll visit one of the many rose farms in the area.Â
Day 7
This morning is free for you to relax in the surroundings of your historic Hacienda hotel. Alternatively, you’re welcome to join a visit of the local area to appreciate the fascinating life and culture of this agricultural community.
This afternoon, we continue along the Pan American highway, arriving in the amazing colonial city of Cuenca. Dinner is included tonight.
Day 8
Today we'll visit El Cajas National Park. Less than an hour northwest of Cuenca, this rugged landscape features pristine parkland reminiscent of the Scottish highlands with rocky green mountains interspersed with over 780 crystalline lagoons and a network of trickling streams. For almost as far as the eye can see, the ground is covered in wildflower-strewn shrubs and grasses - the only sounds are running water, wind and the call of birds overhead.
Included experience:
Visit El Cajas National Park
Day 9
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cuenca is a treasure-trove of charming colonial churches, mansions and squares, which are all easily walkable. The main square is overlooked by the town’s vast cathedral, said to be modelled on St Peter’s in Rome. The city is also known for its Panama hats, which are in fact hand-made in Ecuador, not Panama!
Our included city tour takes in all these sights as well as a visit to a Panama hat factory, and finishes at one of the fascinating local markets, where you can admire the colours of the fresh produce as well as the traditional arts and crafts of the Andes. This afternoon you will fly from Cuenca to Quito.
Included experience:
Guided tour of Cuenca and visit a Panama hat factory.
Day 10
This morning we catch the 1hr.50 flight to San Cristobal island in the Galapagos. As the most easterly island in the archipelago, this was the first to be visited by Charles Darwin in 1835.
After we are settled into our hotel, we explore the wildlife along nearby La Loberia’s white sand beach, with a chance to swim or snorkel. You are bound to spot marine iguanas, sea lions and plentiful birdlife.
We stay two nights close to the centre of the island’s small main town of Puerto Moreno. Dinner at a local restaurant is included tonight.Â
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Day 11
Today we board a small boat for the short trip to Isla Lobos, where we explore families of frigate birds and blue footed boobies. Although the path on the island is uneven and rocky in parts, the effort is worth it to see these iconic birds up close. We have lunch on board, and then we have an opportunity to swim or snorkel off the boat in the lagoon, where inquisitive seals may come and swim with us!
In the afternoon we learn about conservation work on the islands during our visit to the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre.Â
Day 12
This morning we catch the speedboat ferry service to nearby Santa Cruz island, which should take between 1hr30 to 2hrs. On arrival, we’ll visit the famous giant tortoises in the beautiful El Chato highland reserve – an unforgettable experience! Within the grounds, you may also explore one of several underground lava tubes, left over from when the island’s volcano was active.
Signature Experience:
Experience more of the natural wonder of El Chato Reserve, home to the legendary giant Galapagos tortoises as you wander some of its picturesque trails on a scenic walk. Having worked up an appetite, sit back and relax as you are served a hearty traditional lunch at a local farm then enjoy a visit to a distillery, culminating in a traditional digestif of course!
Day 13
This morning we have a boat tour of nearby Academy Bay, with an opportunity to snorkel with the Galapagos’ exotic marine life. You may see the likes of sea lions, rays and even sharks. After an included lunch, we continue for a tour of the famous Charles Darwin Research Station, where you will be able to see the remains of ‘Lonesome George’, stuffed and on display. There are also pens where baby giant tortoises are looked after before being released into the wild.Â
Day 14
Today you’re free to enjoy Santa Cruz at your own pace, where you can meander around Puerto Ayora or relax at the unspoilt Tortuga Bay. You can also personalise your trip with a pre-bookable boat trip (£235pp) to nearby Santa Fe Island or Bartolomé island, subject to weather and availability.
Day 15
We say our goodbyes to the wonderful Galapagos Islands and fly home via Guayaquil and Bogota, arriving the next day.Â
Day 16
Arrive in the UK with wonderful memories of a fascinating trip.