fbpx

Peregrine Travel Centre

Ecuador Highlands & Galapagos

Ecuador Highlands & Galapagos

From $ 7,689 AUD

Book Now Request a callback
Email Us Print
,

Description

From the heights of the Andes to the depths of the Amazon – and all the amazing wildlife in between – this action-packed trip uncovers the natural beauty of Ecuador. Over 18 days, canoe to a riverside eco-lodge on the edge of the Amazon and explore the rainforest with an Indigenous guide, catch a glimpse of one of the world’s largest active volcanoes in Cotopaxi National Park and get to know an Indigenous family at a homestay. Then, spend a couple of days exploring markets and lagoons in Ecuador’s lively capital before heading to the Galapagos, where you’ll discover the archipelago’s incredible biodiversity on land and underwater.

Trip Name
Ecuador Highlands & Galapagos
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
18
Capacity
16
Highlights
  • Stay on the edge of the Amazon in an eco-lodge on the banks of the Arajuno River – only accessible by canoe – and enjoy a special night-time walk to search for nocturnal animals.
  • Walk through the Amazon Rainforest with an Indigenous guide to learn about the wildlife and plants that thrive here, then visit an Amazon animal rescue centre.
  • See the snow-capped Cotopaxi volcano – one of the world’s largest active volcanoes at 5897 m – while hiking through Cotopaxi National Park in the central Andes of Ecuador.
  • Learn from an Indigenous community at a homestay in the La Calera Community – lend a hand with shores, brush up on your Spanish and take part in a traditional Pachamanca food ceremony.
  • Get your blood pumping as you scale a volcano on Isabela Island, then get up close with giant tortoises on Santa Cruz – these nearly extinct reptiles are one of the Galapagos’ many amazing creatures.

Itinerary

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk., ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

Day 1 - Quito
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Ecuador. Your adventure begins in the country’s capital of Quito, high in the Andes. You’ll notice a mix of modern and traditional houses dotted halfway up the surrounding mountain peaks that frame the city and an Old Town with a mix of architectural styles. Your trip officially kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening, where you’ll meet your group leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, maybe wander through the cobblestoned streets, checking out the market stalls or joining an Urban Adventure tour through the city’s historic centre – check out the Quito Legends and Culture Tour at urbanadventures.com.
Day 2 - Tena to Amazon Jungle
After breakfast this morning, wave goodbye to the country’s capital and switch up the pace as you make your way to the Amazon on a local bus bound for Tena. Your lodge-style accommodation in Tena, on the banks of the Arajuno River, is only accessible by motorised canoe so you can expect a little bit of adventure for the last leg of today’s trip! You'll have a free afternoon to explore the eco-lodge – built with all-natural materials, this lodge belongs to the Selvaviva Foundation that works with the Indigenous community in the area. Tonight, have dinner at the eco-lodge, listening to the singing sounds of jungle insects and the flicker of the fireplace. Then, wander the area under the twinkling night sky on a night walk with your leader guiding the way.
Day 3 - Tena to Amazon Jungle
Fuel up on breakfast this morning as you have a big day of adventures ahead. First, you’ll hike into the rainforest with a local Indigenous guide leading the way. Listen carefully as they point out local bird species and teach you about the incredible plant life that thrives here. You’ll be surrounded by one of the most magnificent landscapes on Earth, teeming with wildlife, so make sure you take a moment to breathe it all in. After lunch, visit an animal rescue centre to learn more about the local wildlife (and how we can help to protect them).
Day 4 - Banos
Take the opportunity to mingle with the locals and maybe brush up on your Spanish on a public bus headed for Banos. Surrounded by mountains, hot springs and waterways that lead to waterfalls, this is a perfect next step after the rainforest! When you arrive, stretch your legs on a leader-led walking tour of the city and get the inside scoop on the best places to grab a bite to eat. This afternoon, visit Pailon del Diablo – one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the area. The 80-m-high falls have a mighty strength that showers anyone in its path (so make sure you bring a waterproof jacket). There are a lot of stairs, but they will be worth it when you reach the view of Pailon del Diablo.
Day 5 - Banos
Today, you have a free day to explore Banos and take on all the optional activities you like! Your leader will always be on hand to help arrange anything you’d like to do – maybe head for the ‘Swing at the End of the World’ and get your heart racing or hike to the Bellavista Viewpoint. You could also opt to soak away your worries in the hot springs or visit the local waterfalls.
Day 6 - Cotopaxi National Park
Rise bright and early this morning and drive along the ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes’ to the Cotopaxi National Park, which sits at 3800 m above sea level. When you arrive, head out on a hike to Limpiopungo Lagoon for a gorgeous view of the Cotopaxi volcano – Ecuador’s second-highest peak and the highest active volcano in the world! Keep an eye out for the park’s wildlife, including condors, deer and spectacled bears. Have lunch at La Cienega – sitting at the bottom of the volcano, this is one of the oldest haciendas in Ecuador and famously housed Charles-Marie de la Condamine, a French scientist who led the Geodesic Mission. After lunch, explore the on-site architecture, gardens and chapel. On the way back to Quito, you’ll also visit a flower farm for a guided tour where you’ll learn about all stages of production here. Connect with the plants by cutting and touching the flowers around you, becoming a part of the final phase of production, and learn about their green initiatives and environment mission.
Day 7 - Quito
Make your way north to Cotacachi to visit the La Calera Community today, where Indigenous families will be waiting for you for tonight’s homestay. When you arrive, you’ll participate in the ‘Pachamanca’ food ceremony, where the pot is heated with volcanic stones to cook the local, Andean vegetables. Pachamanca has been a part of South American culture for centuries, dating back to pre-historic times. The name comes from the Quechua language ‘Pacha’ (meaning earth) and ‘Manca’ (meaning cooking pot or earth oven). Widely used in times of the Incas, this ritual is a celebration of fertility and life. While lunch is cooking, visit some of the women's entrepreneurship programs and learn more about the community here. After, spend some more time getting to know the local families and depending on the season, maybe feed the animals, take milk from the cows or harvest some vegetables.
Day 8 - Otavalo to Quito
This morning after a home-cooked breakfast, say goodbye to your hosts and board the bus to the Cuicocha Lagoon. This lagoon sits in a collapsed volcanic crater and features two mounded islands that look like the backs of two guinea pigs (Cuicocha means ‘guinea pig lake!’). When you arrive, take one of the paths to the several viewpoints and appreciate the vast scenery. Then, head to the local Indigenous market of Otavalo – one of the best places to haggle for souvenirs. Browse the many stalls that sell hats, tapestries, ceramics, textiles and more. Later, head back to Quito and maybe rally your travel companions for one final dinner before your trip comes to an end – your leader will be ready with all the best bars and street eats!
Day 9 - Quito
The next part of your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 2 pm, where you'll meet your new group travelling to the Galapagos Islands. With no activities planned beforehand, why not take a day tour to the Papallacta Hot Springs to relax in the thermal pools or check out the turquoise water of Quilotoa Lagoon? After the welcome meeting, join your local leader on a tour of Quito's historic centre. Catch the metro to the Parque de la Alameda and visit sites such as the Basilica Voto Nacional – a famous neo-Gothic church known for its atypical gargoyles and grotesques depicting Galapagos tortoises, Andean condors and Amazon alligators. You'll also visit La Compania de Jesus, a baroque church with an interior that's covered in gold leaf and etched with intricate carvings. Your tour of Quito finishes at San Francisco Square, then you'll have free time to relax or head out for dinner in Quito's Old Town – your leader will have plenty of recommendations!
Day 10 - Isla San Cristobal
Catch an early morning transfer to Quito airport for your flight to San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos. The flight includes a stop in Guayaquil to pick up additional passengers (you won’t disembark the plane here). When you arrive on San Cristobal, you’ll meet your local naturalist guide at the airport, then transfer to your hotel to drop off your luggage. Maybe head out for an optional lunch to get to know your fellow travellers. Then, stop by a local shop to pick up snorkelling equipment, with the option to rent a wetsuit. Later, you’ll travel by private minibus to La Loberia for the first Galapagos snorkelling experience of your trip. Swim alongside playful sea lions and maybe even sea turtles! Return to town for a free evening and maybe head out with the group for some fresh seafood.
Day 11 - Isla San Cristobal
Take a 45-minute boat ride to Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock) this morning. On the way, you might be able to spot nesting frigates and blue-footed boobies. You might even get the chance to swim among the sea lions again. At Leon Dormido, you can snorkel and look for sea turtles, manta rays and the harmless Galapagos shark. Eat lunch on the boat, then head to the Interpretation Center. Learn about the history of the 'enchanted islands' and the conservation projects that seek to preserve them. Next, walk to Frigatebird Hill (Cerro Tijeretas) for stunning views of the bay. You’ll return to town in the late afternoon for a free evening.
Day 12 - Isla Floreana
Rise bright and early today for a private speedboat trip to Isla Isabela – keep an eye out for dolphins and whales on the journey! On the way, you’ll stop at Isla Floreana where you’ll take a short walk to a black sand beach owned by the Witter family – descendants of some of the Galapagos’ earliest settlers. Here, you’ll learn about the island’s small community and unusual history. Then, put on your snorkelling gear and head into the water to spot colourful fish and sea turtles. For today’s lunch, you’ll sit down for a traditional meal at Leila – a small, family-run restaurant with a genuine community feel. Leila is part of the Floreana Community Tourism Association, meaning your visit directly supports local families and sustainable tourism on this little island. Later today, continue to Isla Isabela, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 13 - Isla Isabela
This morning, you’ll hop on a small motorboat and cruise to Las Tintoreras (Shark Alley), looking out for blue-footed boobies and the famous Galapagos penguin. Take a short walk through a marine iguana nesting site (watch your step as they camouflage into the surrounding rock!), then stop at ‘Shark Alley’ – a narrow channel where white-tipped reef sharks rest in the clear, shallow waters. Head back to the boat, then put on your snorkelling gear and jump in to look for sea turtles, playful sea lions, colourful fish, eagle rays and sea stars. Return to Isla Isabela for lunch and then visit the Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center, where you'll observe giant tortoises in all stages of development, then visit a brackish lagoon to observe flamingos. Later today, kayak around the Bay of Puerto Villamil, maybe spotting pelicans, frigatebirds and the brightly coloured Sally Lightfoot crabs along the way. Spend your evening resting in the sand and soaking in an Isla Isabela sunset – arguably the most beautiful of all the islands!
Day 14 - Isla Floreana
After breakfast, travel by private minibus to the trailhead of Sierra Negra Volcano – one of the Galapagos’ most active volcanoes and home to the world's second largest crater! Weather permitting, you’ll take a challenging 17 km round trip hike up the rocky mountain. Starting amid lush highland vegetation, watch the landscape surrounding you transform into stark volcanic terrain as you walk. After your hike, make your way back to town for some free time to relax – maybe curl up with a book, soak your tired muscles or venture down to the water for a relaxing swim before dinner.
Day 15 - Isla Santa Cruz
Jump aboard a private speedboat this morning and head to Isla Santa Cruz. When you arrive, leave your bags at the hotel and head to the Santa Cruz Highlands. Your first stop is a family-run organic sugar cane farm for a tour of their trapiche (a sugar cane mill used in artisanal sugar production). Here, you'll learn how sugar cane, coffee and cacao are harvested and processed. Next, you’ll watch a cooking demonstration featuring the famed encebollado – a local tuna soup that’s widely considered one of the best in the world! Watch as slow-cooked albacore tuna is prepared in a savoury broth of onions, cilantro and spices. The dish is traditionally served with yuca (a starchy root vegetable) and garnished with lime and green onions. Settle in for a bowl of the soup for lunch, then take a leisurely walk around the grounds, where giant tortoises roam freely.
Day 16 - Isla Santa Cruz
Take a scenic morning walk in Tortuga Bay after breakfast. When you arrive, you’ll have some free time to relax on the beach, go for a swim and watch marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies and other coastal wildlife. Later in the afternoon, you’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station – an international non-profit organisation that’s dedicated to the scientific research and conservation of the archipelago’s environment and biodiversity. After, head to the Galapagos Conservancy to learn how the Intrepid Foundation supports the Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship (WISE) program. The program provides grants and training to women-owned, sustainability-focused businesses, creating lasting benefits for local communities and the Galapagos’ fragile ecosystems.
Day 17 - Quito
Say goodbye to these enchanting islands and your Galapagos leader, then take a flight back to Quito, making a stop in Guayaquil on the way. You'll arrive in Quito in the afternoon, where a representative from Intrepid will take you from the airport to your hotel. Enjoy a free evening in Quito and perhaps head out for a final dinner with your group.
Day 18 - Quito
There are no activities planned for today and your adventure comes to an end. We recommend staying a few extra days to see more of Ecuador. Not far from the capital there are volcanoes, hot springs, indigenous markets and much more to explore. If you'd like to extend your stay in Quito, just contact your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
13-03-202630-03-2026AUD $ 7,779-
27-03-202613-04-2026AUD $ 8,269-
10-04-202627-04-2026AUD $ 8,789-
08-05-202625-05-2026AUD $ 8,554-
22-05-202608-06-2026AUD $ 8,679-
12-06-202629-06-2026AUD $ 8,249-
03-07-202620-07-2026AUD $ 8,319-
24-07-202610-08-2026AUD $ 7,849-
12-08-202629-08-2026AUD $ 7,689-
14-08-202631-08-2026AUD $ 7,939-
11-09-202628-09-2026AUD $ 9,149-
25-09-202612-10-2026AUD $ 9,119-
09-10-202626-10-2026AUD $ 8,489-
23-10-202609-11-2026AUD $ 7,919-
06-11-202623-11-2026AUD $ 8,449-
20-11-202607-12-2026AUD $ 8,049-
04-12-202621-12-2026AUD $ 8,049-
18-12-202604-01-2027AUD $ 8,049-
08-01-202725-01-2027AUD $ 7,754-
22-01-202708-02-2027AUD $ 7,754-
05-02-202722-02-2027AUD $ 7,754-
26-02-202715-03-2027AUD $ 7,754-
12-03-202729-03-2027AUD $ 8,349-
26-03-202712-04-2027AUD $ 8,349-
09-04-202726-04-2027AUD $ 7,974-
23-04-202710-05-2027AUD $ 7,974-
07-05-202724-05-2027AUD $ 7,974-
21-05-202707-06-2027AUD $ 7,974-
18-06-202705-07-2027AUD $ 8,199-
02-07-202719-07-2027AUD $ 8,199-
23-07-202709-08-2027AUD $ 8,199-
13-08-202730-08-2027AUD $ 8,199-
27-08-202713-09-2027AUD $ 8,199-
24-09-202711-10-2027AUD $ 8,199-
08-10-202725-10-2027AUD $ 7,754-
22-10-202708-11-2027AUD $ 7,754-
05-11-202722-11-2027AUD $ 8,349-
19-11-202706-12-2027AUD $ 8,349-
03-12-202720-12-2027AUD $ 8,349-
17-12-202703-01-2028AUD $ 8,349-

Accommodation

Hotel (14 nights), Jungle Eco Lodge (2 nights), Homestay (1 night)

Transport

Plane, Speed Boat, Private Vehicle, Taxi, Public bus

Map

Related products

Recent Blog Posts

Browse Trips in

Ecuador Intrepid
More of activity:
Walking & Trekking