Skip to main content

Ecuador & Galapagos

The size of Colorado, Ecuador is a volcanically lush and colorful country divided into three regions: the coast; the Andes; and El Oriente (the East), famous for its abundant birdlife, wild orchids, mountain village festivals, indigenous cultures, incredible natural beauty, biodiversity and the Galapagos Islands.

“There was a new adventure every day, and each had its unique flavor. One day we were face-to-face with giant tortoises, the next walking softly beside masses of marine iguanas. We kayaked with sea lions along the shore, crawled through lava tunnels, and snorkeled with sea turtles and hammerhead sharks. The kinds of experiences you could never have at home, but which are everyday occurrences in the Galápagos.”—Jennifer Gillmore, Product Manager, Latin America

Highlights

See and do:

  • Snorkel with sea lions, sea turtles, and colorful fish in the Galapagos Islands
  • Experience the Galapagos Islands aboard a privately charted yacht or expedition ship
  • Explore the Amazon rain forest from the comfort of a luxury riverboat, or an authentic thatched-roof jungle lodge
  • Stay at a traditional hacienda to experience the Andean culture

Pairs well with:

  • Peru for both nature and cultural experiences
  • Colombia due to its close proximity

Due to its location on the equator, Ecuador is a year-round destination with a wide array of experiences for any traveler to enjoy.

Quito, the colorful Spanish colonial capital city, is located at 10,000 foot elevation and is home to fine architecture, colorful markets, museums and botanical gardens.  In contrast, the Andes Mountains in Ecuador feature towering snow capped volcanoes and unique indigenous villages.

Ecuador also boasts 1,200 miles of coastline, where tropic beaches, fishing villages and the large port city of Guayaquil are found.  Here, guests are treated to abundant marine life and hot, humid temperatures.

The Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador are perhaps Ecuador’s most popular attraction.  The “Enchanted Islands” were the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, and today they serve as host to one of the world’s most notable wildlife conservation efforts. With fearless wildlife that have never known humanity as a threat, the islands offer the chance to get up close to nature for unforgettable encounters.  South America specialist Jennifer Gillmore has visited the Galapagos Islands a remarkable ten times, and our entire team of South America experts have also cruised and personally inspected numerous vessels in the Galapagos, including private yacht charters and expedition ships.

Trip Inspirations

An Exploration in Beauty

Ecuador – Hacienda Zuleta – Hacienda Entry Edit

15 Days: The Treasures of Ecuador

Ecuador's true beauty extends far beyond its breathtaking seascapes and vistas. It also refers to the country's magnificent wildlife, lovely people and traditional culture. This trip introduces you to the all of the best pieces of Ecuador, from the Amazon rainforest, to the highlands of Quito, and of course, its crowned jewel, the Galápagos Islands. End your stay in the beautiful Mashpi Reserve where you can explore the beauty of your natural surroundings.

View Full Trip Inspiration

Travel Blog

How to Best Experience the Amazon

The Amazon is a vast ecosystem that covers roughly 2.5 million square miles and spans nine South American countries—including Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil. More than half the size of the United States, the Amazon is the largest tropical rainforest in the world and boasts a biodiversity unlike anywhere else on earth. It is home to Read more…

Galapagos 101: Everything You Need To Plan the Perfect Trip

Planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands can be a daunting task. With so many options to choose from, it is easy to get lost in the details and confusing logistics. The following is an introductory guide containing the most important details to know in order to plan and prepare for the perfect Galapagos getaway. Read more…

IGTOA: Tourism to Support Galapagos Conservation

Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands are a magical destination to explore. The landscapes—from lava flows to lagoons—and the wildlife—be it giant tortoises or blue footed boobies—are unforgettable and unlike anywhere else in the world. The archipelago is home to unique species of both flora and fauna and, as such, has also become a place where critical scientific Read more…