Wake up in the captivating city of Quito, where today you will embark on a guided walking tour through its UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center. With cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and sun-soaked plazas, Quito is a treasure trove of colonial architecture.

Your tour will take you to significant landmarks including the impressive monastery of San Francisco, the main plaza with its towering cathedral, and the governmental palace. You will also explore the Basilica del Voto Nacional, where native Ecuadorian wildlife—such as iguanas and anteaters—are represented as stone gargoyles adorning this grand neo-Gothic structure.

Today, we leave the bustling city behind and head south towards the magnificent Cotopaxi National Park. You will arrive at Chilcabamba, a cozy mountain lodge nestled on a plateau at 3,600 meters, offering jaw-dropping views of the surrounding volcanoes. Here, you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty, with walking trails, cycling opportunities, and stunning outdoor fire pits perfect for stargazing.

This morning, your journey continues along the famed Avenue of the Volcanoes, where you will witness the majestic Cotopaxi towering above the landscape. The drive takes you through lush highlands, stopping for a leisurely walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon, a serene setting beneath the Cotopaxi volcano.

Arriving in Riobamba, known as the "Sultan of the Andes," you will spend the night in a traditional hacienda on the town’s outskirts, where you can experience authentic Ecuadorian hospitality.

Today’s drive takes you through Ecuador’s scenic heartland, stopping at the ancient Inca ruins of Ingapirca. Perched high on a ridge, the site offers a glimpse into the ingenuity of Inca architecture, with its perfectly fitted stone walls and trapezoidal doorways.

After exploring these historic ruins, you will arrive in Cuenca, a beautifully preserved 16th-century town and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its charming streets and plazas are filled with colonial architecture and the warm glow of terracotta rooftops.

Today, you will immerse yourself in the charm of Cuenca, a picturesque colonial town that invites exploration. As you stroll along its narrow cobblestone streets, you'll be captivated by the beautifully restored colonial architecture. Flowers spill from the balconies of whitewashed houses, and the grand wooden doors add a sense of old-world charm to the town's atmosphere.

For those who wish to explore beyond Cuenca, today offers an opportunity to visit the nearby artisan villages of Gualaceo, Chordeleg, and Sigsig. These market towns, nestled in the foothills of the western cordillera, are famous for their traditional crafts, including silver and gold filigree jewelry.

Today, you’ll embark on a breathtaking drive as you descend from the Andes to the tropical lowlands. En route, stop at Las Cajas National Park, a stunning wilderness of jagged hills, glacial lagoons, and tranquil llama-filled valleys. Continuing on, you will arrive in Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city.

Today, you bid farewell to your tour leader and take an early morning flight to Baltra Island, your gateway to the Galápagos Islands. After a brief transfer, you will board your motor yacht for the next leg of your Galápagos adventure.

Galápagos Itinerary Overview:

All departures in 2024, as well as the first departure of 2025, will follow a comprehensive 7-night program, designed to offer an immersive and in-depth exploration of the Galápagos Islands. From the second departure in 2025 onward, the tours will transition to a slightly shorter 6-night itinerary. Both itineraries will allow you to experience the unique biodiversity and landscapes of the Galápagos.

The daily itinerary is subject to change for operational reasons and according to the conservation regulations enforced by the Galápagos National Park authorities. Typically, your days will include two landings where you’ll explore different islands and ecosystems. You will have the opportunity to snorkel during many of these landings, guided by your naturalist who will highlight the islands' fascinating wildlife and geology.

Santa Cruz Island – Charles Darwin Research Station

Your Galápagos adventure begins with a visit to Santa Cruz Island, home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, you’ll learn about vital conservation efforts and see the breeding programs for the giant tortoises that the islands are famous for.

Today, you visit Fernandina Island, one of the most volcanically active in the world. This island is home to large colonies of marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and Galápagos penguins.

On Isabela Island, the largest in the archipelago, you will explore Vicente Roca Point and Urbina Bay, known for their stunning cliffs, abundant marine life, and pristine landscapes.

On Santiago Island, black lava formations and tide pools are teeming with life. As you explore, you’ll encounter Galápagos fur seals, marine iguanas, herons, and Sally Lightfoot crabs.

Rabida Island is renowned for its striking red sand beaches. Here, you’ll hike to a coastal lagoon where flamingos often wade in the shallow waters.

Your final day in the Galápagos takes you to Bartolomé Island, famous for its breathtaking views of Pinnacle Rock.

After an unforgettable journey through the Galápagos, you will return to Guayaquil for your connecting flight home or continue with any post-tour extensions.