Overview
Ecuador: Natural Wonders & Ancient Cultures with Galápagos Cruise
Small groups lead to big experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour. And this Small Group Discovery tour is an adventure of epic proportions—while enjoying inspiring boutique hotels, insightful private tours, incredible culinary delights, indigenous cultures, and ancient ruins. While Ecuador is a small country geographically speaking, it delivers a vast variety of dramatic landscapes spanning a variety of climate zones supporting an abundance of flora, fauna, and fantastic experiences that far outmeasure its borders. Without ever leaving the country, travelers can move in just a matter of hours from jungle-rainforest to the high slopes of the Andes, and down to the Pacific coast for a breathtaking and diverse array of panoramas and pristine natural wonders. From the highlands to sea level, Ecuador's fascinating diversity is echoed by its people whose cultural origins and traditions continue to be formed by their immediate geographical environment. Go further to explore Ecuador’s extraordinary natural world as you follow the courses of rivers wide and narrow. Rest along the shores of pristine lakes and explore mysterious caves. Sail in the wake of Charles Darwin to discover marvelous plant and animal life adapted over the millennia to the undisturbed and isolated Pacific archipelago known as the Galápagos Islands. Here, such exotic residents as the blue-footed booby, marine iguana, and ancient tortoises for which the islands are named, evoke the adventurous spirit of wonder in every visitor. An epic adventure of a lifetime!
Highlights of Ecuador: Natural Wonders & Ancient Cultures with Galápagos Cruise
City Highlights
Price Details US
Galápagos cruise extension price includes the Galápagos National Park entrance fee and transit card.
Transportation
Notes
Please note that this tour is designed for all levels of fitness, however one should be in suitable physical condition to fully enjoy the experiences. Further, maximum enjoyment of this vacation requires small watercraft, walking on cobblestone streets, uneven trails and pathways, and climbing stairs at elevation. Elevations exceeding 10,000 feet can make even modest exertion a challenge. While much of this tour remains above 8,000 ft above sea level, maximum elevation is 16,610 ft. In the Galápagos, there will be “wet landings” meaning guests will need to be able to jump in the water, out of the boats/zodiacs, and walk a couple of meters to the beaches. Terrain is rocky and uneven. Itinerary in the Galápagos is subject to change.Tour Director does not accompany guests on extensions. Local Guide services will be provided as outlined in the itinerary. Galápagos cruise extension price includes the Galápagos National Park entrance fee and transit card.
Travelers Notes
Special features included in this tour:
- Guided sightseeing in Quito, including Independence Square, San Francisco Square, and a visit to La Compañía Church.
- Guided behind-the-scenes tour with private visit to El Alabado Museum
- Visit to the Quitsato Sundial Monument and Otavalo handicraft market
- Visit a [LF] Kichwa community to meet a family and enjoy a cultural lunch
- Demonstration of traditional [LF] wool spinning and weaving at a local workshop
- Guided tour of a rose plantation with insights on eco-certified farming
- Two-night stay in the Amazon with guided nature hikes and canoe rides led by Quichua naturalists
- Guided hike at the base of Ecuador’s highest volcano
- Visit to Devil’s Cauldron waterfall and hanging bridge
- Take a ride on the [LF] Devil’s Nose Train
- Guided visit to [LF] Ingapirca, Ecuador’s most important Inca archaeological site
- Guided sightseeing in Cuenca, including Santa Ana de los Ríos de Cuenca square, Plaza Mayor, the flower market, and Todos los Santos historic church.
- Excursion to the art villages of Gualaceo and Bullcay
- Hands-on [LF]Panama hat-making demonstration with Toquilleras
- Visit a [LF]cacao plantation with tasting and lunch
- Hand-selected boutique hotel stays
- Guided city sightseeing of Quito
- 4-night cruise onboard the Galápagos Legend
- All internal flights as noted in the itinerary
Product Group
Ecuador: Natural Wonders & Ancient Cultures
UNESCO Sites
City of Quito|Galapagos Islands|Historic of Santa Ana de los Rios de Cuenca
Meals
13 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners
Itineraries
Day 1
ARRIVE IN QUITO, ECUADOR Your Small Group Discovery tour begins! Welcome to Ecuador, where your Quito hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Day 2
QUITO Quintessential Quito On an included city tour with a Local Guide, see Independence Square with its Government and the Archbishop’s Palace as well as the Cathedral. On the way to San Francisco Square, visit the church of La Compañía, which has the most ornate and richly sculptured façade and interior. Afterwards, step inside the church of San Francisco. Then enjoy a behind-the-scenes immersion on a specific topic of pre-Colombian art at the El Alabado Museum, one of the best archaeological collections of Ecuador. Its non-conventional design is housed inside a restored patrimonial house. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring Ecuadorian dishes. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTART & ARCHITECTURE Ecuador’s capital city of San Francisco de Quito stands on the ruins of an Inca city as one of the largest and best-preserved historic landmarks in the Americas. Here, a monument marks "Mitad del Mundo" (the middle of the world) - very fitting as Ecuador is Spanish for equator. You’ll be in the middle of it all in Independence Square, called Plaza Grande by the locals, in the historic city reaching an altitude of 9,350 ft. (2,850m) in the foothills of the Andes.TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the pre-Colombian art at the El Alabado Museum, one of the best archaeological collections in Ecuador.TOUR HIGHLIGHTSMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION Hotel Patio Andaluz is an elegant boutique hotel with only 32 rooms, located in a colonial style house built at the end of the 16th century. This national monument, whose walls contain centuries of history and art, has large arches, balconies, inner courtyards filled with light, and colorful gardens. These unique spaces create a charm and cozy atmosphere for guests and visitors.
Day 3
QUITO. EXCURSION TO OTAVALO Wild & Woolly Wonders Travel to Otavalo and appreciate the stunning landscapes: the arid and fertile Guayllabamba gorge, the snow-capped Cayambe volcano that represents the highest point on the equator line in the world, and the San Pablo Lake with its stunning backgrounds that offer picture-worthy panoramas. En route, visit the Quitsato Sundial Monument, situated exactly on the equator. The circular platform, with a 178ft (54m) diameter, aims to share the astronomical knowledge of pre-Hispanic cultures. Visit a Kichwa community, where you’ll gain insight into local traditions and daily life, then enjoy a traditional lunch prepared according to time‑honored customs. Continue to Otavalo for a visit to a [LF] fascinating wool weaving workshop. Later, visit the Otavalo Market, hosting a variety of handcrafted items. This ancient market boasts colorful stalls filled with an excellent selection of handwoven crafts: belts, tapestries, ponchos, carpets, sweaters, and other textiles. This is the perfect place to get yourself or your loved ones a souvenir! Return to Quito for a free evening. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITEWEAVING A STORY Explore the artistry of centuries of weaving nurtured in Otavalo where extraordinary beauty, craftsmanship, and detail are continued through the threads of a waning tradition. With a visit to a local workshop, you’ll journey back in time as weavers demonstrate the traditional techniques that transform raw wool with spinning and weaving into beautiful works of art—all while using a backstrap loom while sitting on the workshop floor. A fascinating experience for students of cultural tradition or curators of fine tapestries!
Day 4
QUITO–ECUADOR’S AMAZON Ecuador’s Coming up Roses! After breakfast, travel to the Amazon region. En route, visit a rose plantation for a guided tour. Continue into the Amazon—a stone’s throw from the eastern slopes of the Andes. At the edge of the Napo River, you’ll find Ahuano Point, a small but growing village, where many Quichua people do their daily shopping. It was here, in this reverie hamlet, where Swiss expatriate Beni Ammeter opened a general store in 1985. In those days, when foreign travelers made their way to Ahuano and needed a place to stay, they were inevitably directed to La Casa del Suizo. Happy to have visitors from afar, Beni warmly welcomed them into his home. Eventually, his residence became so popular that he constructed a few cabins to better accommodate the steady flow of travelers. Enjoy a 2-night stay here in a rustic, yet tastefully constructed cabaña, nestled comfortably above the banks of the Napo River. Take in the exquisite views, which can be peacefully enjoyed from the privacy of one’s own hammock. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Stop and smell the roses with a visit to a flower plantation near Quito where this coveted import is in high demand around the world. Learn how Ecuadorian roses produce larger flower buds, fuller blooms, and longer vase life—with every color imaginable, from traditional shades of red, pink, and white, to lavender, purple, orange, and even rainbow-colored. Learn about sustainable farming and the importance of globally recognized eco-certification.Please note:The itinerary in the Amazon is subject to favorable weather conditions and water levels. When conditions are unfavorable, alternative accommodations and excursions will be provided. Further, due to the remote nature of the Amazon, while we have selected the best available, hotel facilities may not be up to the first-class standard you expect from Globus.
Day 5
ECUADOR’S AMAZON The Best Medicine Each morning, join a Quichuan Local Guide for a motorized canoe ride to different trails for excellent opportunities to observe the wondrous diversity of life in the forest. Known as the Ecuadorian Orient, this area is particularly rich in biodiversity, as it was a refuge for plants, animals, and insects during the last great Ice Age. The Indigenous guides share an impressive insight and knowledge of local flora and fauna, in addition to the medicinal uses of many plants. Return to the lodge for lunch followed by your choice of activity. Later, enjoy dinner at the resort featuring fresh dishes with Ecuadorian influences. ENHANCED FREE TIMELODGE LIFE Upon return to the lodge, enjoy your choice of leisure activities. Simply relax at the resort, join a balsa raft experience with afternoon tea, or pay a visit to a friendly Quichua village to watch blowpipe demonstrations and the preparation of “chicha,” a local alcoholic drink. (B,L,D)
Day 6
ECUADOR’S AMAZON–BAÑOS Sacred Sites & Mountain Heights Leave the Amazon behind and travel through stunning landscapes with some of the highest and most beautiful mountains and volcanoes of the Andes. En route, take a leisurely 1.5 mi. (2km) hike to the stunning Devil’s Cauldron waterfall. Enjoy the verdant forest landscape, walk along the hanging bridge, and get splashed by the waterfall’s plunging water. Continue onward for Baños, known as the “Gate to the Orient” due to its tropical jungle-like vegetation and climate. Located in the shadows of the Tungurahua Volcano, it’s also home to a Cathedral where the Virgin of the Holy Water, one of the nation’s miraculous virgins, is venerated. Small street cafés, restaurants, and gift shops of Baños invite you to enjoy a stroll with a free evening in town. (B)
Day 7
BAÑOS–CHIMBORAZO NATIONAL PARK–RIOBAMBA Historic Retreats After breakfast, follow the River Cutuchi and admire the views over the Amazon basin as you wind your way to Riobamba. Stop at Chimborazo National Park and explore the base of Ecuador’s Chimborazo volcano. Continue south to Riobamba, the capital of the province of Chimborazo, where a great number of indigenous communities live. Tonight is free to enjoy your stay at the Hosteria (ranch). (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Often described as the highest point to the sun above sea level, Chimborazo volcano stands above the National Park and Wildlife Reserve—a paradise for outdoor activity lovers. Join a moderate 1.28 mi. (1km) guided hike from the Carrel Refugio for stunning views and unique landscapes.TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION Riobamba’s Hosteria La Andalua is a historic ranch declared part of the Cultural Heritage of Ecuador. Poised beneath beautiful views of the Chimborazo Volcano, important historical moments took place here—once inhabited by brave Puruháes, through the expansion of the Inca empire and the Spanish conquest to the formation of the new republic. The soul of Ecuadorian history has been restored for maximum comfort while preserving its historic charm, guests enjoy just 55 rooms, beautiful gardens, a restaurant, games room, and a common area to relax with bar, fireplace, and living room.
Day 8
RIOBAMBA–INGAPIRCA RUINS–CUENCA Explorers & Emperors Wake early for a memorable journey aboard the historic [LF]Devil’s Nose Train, one of Ecuador’s most celebrated rail experiences. This scenic ride features a remarkable zigzagging descent of more than 500 meters along the dramatic slopes of the Andes, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. Recently refurbished and reopened, the railway follows a route originally completed in 1901 to connect Ecuador’s coast with its highlands. Today, the Devil’s Nose Train is admired as a testament to early engineering ingenuity and provides a fascinating, comfortable way to experience one of the country’s most iconic settings. Continue onwards towards Cuenca visiting the ancient [LF]Inca ruin site of Ingapirca, the most important monument of pre-Spanish culture in Ecuador. Arrive in Cuenca for a free evening. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT INCAN INGENUITY The ruins of Ingapirca remain on a grass-covered hill at an altitude of about 10,170 ft. (3,100 m). On a guided walk through the former palace where the Incas lived and held their ceremonies, learn about the civilization’s beliefs and rituals and how this ordination place was constructed in the shape of a puma. While walking through the ruins, reflect on the drawings by a renowned early explorer of Ecuador—Prussian naturalist Alexander von Humboldt—often considered the "Father of Physical Geography." Hear stories of this historic figure’s treks and research as a pioneer of physical geography, environmentalism, and ecology.TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION Nestled in the historic district of Cuenca, the Hotel San Juan is a large private historic residence restored to a 21st century luxury boutique hotel with only 25 rooms. Decorated in a Republican colonial style, this cozy hotel features well-appointed rooms, a lounge, and courtyard garden. The hotel’s central location allows guests to easily explore Cuenca's historic district, including the famous Cathedral, Calderón Park, and the picturesque Tomebamba River. The city's vibrant markets, restaurants, and cultural sites are all within walking distance of the hotel.
Day 9
CUENCA A Tip of the Hat This morning, tour Cuenca, where Humboldt recovered from his exhausting journey. See the historic Santa Ana de los Rios de Cuenca square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Plaza Mayor, surrounded by its two distinct cathedrals, and city hall. Admire this historical center’s colorful buildings that have maintained their colonial magnificence. Pass by the vibrant flower market and appreciate the smell of different perfumes floating in the air. Then, visit the eclectic style church Todos los Santos by the Tomebamba River. Peek inside to appreciate the beautifully painted ceilings. Visit a factory to watch the people known as [LF]"Toquilleras" make the famous Panama hats and other straw objects. Then, try to make something with straw and bring your craft home. Later, venture to a few key villages around Cuenca where skilled artisans work wonders. Among those is Gualaceo, with its markets where you can find hand-woven shawls, ponchos, and local fruits and vegetables. You’ll also visit Bullcay for Ikat weaving and Chordeleg’s “Chorro de Oro” (waterfall of gold)—a village specialized in jewelry, mainly gold and silver with fine filigree work, and handmade ceramic pottery. Return to Cuenca for a special farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURAL TREASURE In Cuenca, today the third largest city of Ecuador, founded in 1557 in place of the Inca settlement Tomebamba, you can still breathe the colonial air of Ecuadorian history. For most of the visitors as well as for the inhabitants, the city situated in a height of 2,350 m and center of arts and crafts, ceramic, Panama hats, and goods of gold and silver, is the most beautiful in the country. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cuenca is a treasure trove of architectural and cultural gems not to be missed.TOUR HIGHLIGHTLOCAL FAVORITE Did you know that the original “Panama Hats” were made in Ecuador? The famous light-colored straw hats reminiscent of suave, well-dressed men and actors in Panama, actually originated and were historically made in Ecuador. The hat’s production began as a cottage industry in the coast of Ecuador in the 1600s and was woven from the local Toquilla plant by artisans called Toquilleras. The quality of the hat was judged by the number of weaves per square inch and the best-made hats (called “superfino”) were said to be able to hold water and fit through a wedding ring when rolled!
Day 10
CUENCA–GUAYAQUIL Gifts from the Earth Today, on the drive to Guayaquil, you will notice the dramatic changes of vegetation. Observe the typical Páramo grassland, small colorful flowers, mosses, lichens and fungi abruptly change once you reach the lowlands where rice, cacao, and banana plantations abound. En route, visit the [LF]Cacao Project, a woman-owned small business and plantation producing the fruit to make traditional sweets and chocolates. Continue to Guayaquil for a free evening. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTSMALL GROUP DISCOVERY Enjoy a guided tour through the cacao plantations of the Cacao Project and learn about the cultivation of the precious cacao fruit and the processes from cacao bean to edible treat. Ecuadorian cacao is famous around the world for its very high quality and is used to mix a variety of sweet treats. Enjoy lunch at the onsite hacienda, taste some high-quality chocolate, and enjoy authentic Ecuadorian local charm.
Day 11
GUAYAQUIL–BALTRA (EMBARKATION)–GALÁPAGOS CRUISING Expedition Extraordinaire Take a morning flight to Baltra and visit the highlands of Santa Cruz, marked by extinct volcanoes, lava tubes, and astonishing plant life. Here, witness giant tortoises in a natural reserve and learn about efforts to conserve these ancient creatures. Continue to the port where you will board the Galápagos Legend. (B,L,D)NOTE: Itineraries in the Galápagos are subject to change.TOUR HIGHLIGHT SHIP SPOTLIGHT The M/V Galápagos Legend, with a capacity for 100 guests, has the charm of The Enchanted Islands. With her three different decks, the Galápagos Legend offers a great variety of comfortable and spacious social areas without losing its sense of intimacy. The boat features a restaurant serving fresh international and local cuisine, outdoor BBQ area, a lounge with full bar, 24-hour snack and coffee station, a pool bar, Jacuzzi, pool, boutique, science corner, fitness facility, auditorium, library, glass bottom boat, kayaks, and doctor’s office. On top of the numerous amenities, the Galápagos Legend has the top naturalists in the archipelago who will lead you on every excursion and bring the islands to life!
Day 12
CRUISING: GENOVESA ISLAND For the Birds Your naturalist-guided tour take you up Prince Philip’s Steps, where you will see large nesting colonies of Nazca and red-footed boobies, as well as many other fascinating feathered locals. After lunch on board, visit Darwin Bay to observe frigatebirds, red-footed boobies, herons, lava gulls, and many other bird species. At the tidal lagoon you may also see the rarest gull in the world, the endemic lava gull. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTNATURAL WONDERS In addition to the Nazca and red-footed boobies found nesting on Genovesa Island, you’ll have the happy chance to view the antics of wedge-rumped storm-petrels above the lava fields. Keep your head on a swivel to catch a glimpse of the short-eared owl who wisely calls the island home.
Day 13
CRUISING: SOUTH PLAZA & SANTA FÉ Natural Selections On South Plaza Island, take a walk through an impressive cactus forest populated with land and marine iguanas. Due to the proximity of land iguanas and marine iguanas here, this is the only place on Earth where you will find the Galápagos hybrid iguana. From the summit, watch for tropicbirds, Nazca and blue-footed boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls. On Santa Fé, a large sea lion colony greets you on its white-sand beach. Walk through a cactus forest in search of the endemic Santa Fé land iguana, the largest in the islands. This island is home to a number of endemic species, including the Galápagos hawk, Galápagos snake, a variety of finches, and one of the four species of Galápagos mockingbirds. You also have time to snorkel in the turquoise waters with sea lions, turtles, reef sharks, and spotted eagle rays. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTNATURAL WONDERS A true rock star of South Plaza Island is undoubtedly the hybrid iguana which is found nowhere else on Earth. The island is the breeding ground for both marine iguanas and land iguanas. The breeding season happens to be simultaneous for both species thereby creating this unique hybrid population.
Day 14
CRUISING: BACHAS BEACH–BALTRA (DISEMBARKATION)–GUAYAQUIL Beach Beauties Your final visit takes you to Bachas Beach named for some wrecked World War II barges whose ribs are still visible in the sand. This site offers great swimming, a lovely walk along the shore, and a visit to a lagoon with wading birds, marine iguanas, and sometimes flamingos. The area is also a frequent nesting site for green turtles. Later, disembark and fly to Guayaquil. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTPICTURE PERFECT Warm, gentle waves lap against the glistening sand of Bachas Beach, where life truly is a walk on the beach. The name Bachas originated as locals attempted to pronounce ‘barges,’ and the island was once the site of US ships during WWII. Nearby ponds provide a paradise for pink flamingos and coastal birds, including Darwin finches, mockingbirds, and gulls – along with marine iguanas amid the mangrove trees.
Day 15
GUAYAQUIL Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Departures
Hotels
| # | Name | Description | City | Address | Rating |
| 1 | Hotel Patio Andaluz | The sophisticated boutique hotel Hotel Patio Andaluz is housed in a colonial-style home from the end of the 17th century, a national monument with interior courtyards full of light and vibrant gardens, and walls that preserve centuries' worth of art and history. These distinctive areas give visitors and guests a charming and comfortable ambiance. | Quito | Calle Garcia Moreno N6-52 | Moderate First-Class |
| 2 | Casa del Suizo | Perched comfortably above the riverbank and the small Quechua Indian village of Ahuano, the Casa del Suizo overlooks the vast and beautiful expanse of surrounding tropical rainforest. It is here that travelers from all parts of the world arrive to experience. | Misahualli | Amazon Rainforest | Moderate First-Class |
| 3 | Samari Spa & Resort | Hotel Samari Spa & Resort is set in a charming colonial-style house with an inner patio, surrounded by lush gardens. The hotel's charm is further accented by exposed brick walls, a gabled roof, and rich wood furnishings. Rooms are furnished with comfortable bedding, private bathrooms, and windows that open to the outside world. Relax after a day of traveling at the hotel spa, offering several beauty treatments, massages, and a heated pool. Guests will also love the local cuisine at the hotel's restaurant, with specials inspired by the diverse culinary diversity of Ecuador. Be sure to relax and have a cocktail at the hotel's authentic tavern (located in a former monastery) that will transport you in time, or visit one of the many bars throughout the gardens. | Banos | Vía a Puyo Km. 1 | |
| 4 | Hosteria La Andaluza | Hosteria La Andaluza, Hacienda Chuquipogio and its century mansion that has been declared Cultural Heritage of Ecuador is a unique site which houses centuries of history; remembering the roots of Ecuadorian culture, Spanish colonial experiences with people. | Riobamba | Panamericana Norte KM 16 | Superior First-Class |
| 5 | Hotel San Juan | Hotel San Juan is located in one of the most picturesque cities in Ecuador, Cuenca. Its rivers, colonial parks, historic cathedrals, and cobblestone streets. Rooms are roomy and cozy. similar to the home you've always desired. | Cuenca | General Torres 9-59 y Simon Bolivar | First-Class |
| 6 | Wyndham Guayaquil Puerto Santa Ana | Located in the Puerto Santa Ana neighborhood, just a short distance from the bustling Malecón 2000, the Wyndham Guayaquil Puerto Santa Ana provides a prime location near numerous Guayaquil tourist attractions. In addition to free WiFi, their roomy and cozy guest rooms provide stunning views. During your visit, take advantage of our rooftop pool and savor foreign food. | Guayaquil | Calle Numa Pompilio Llona S | Superior First-Class |
