Discover the ultimate fusion of luxury and nature on this extraordinary journey through Ecuador’s most captivating landscapes. This delightful itinerary travels through the enchanting cloud forests of the Andes and the unique Galapagos Islands to see some of the best wildlife that Ecuador has to offer.
Ecuador is one of the smallest countries in Latin America, but it packs quite a punch as it is home to some the continent’s most outstanding wildlife locations. The Ecuadorian cloud forest and the Galapagos Islands fit well together as these contrasting landscapes are home to a number of specialised endemic species that are found nowhere else in the world. From frolicking Galapagos sea lions and dolphins, to frantic hummingbirds, there is more than enough wildlife to enjoy on this jam-packed itinerary.
Your itinerary begins with a three-night stay at the renowned Mashpi Lodge, nestled deep in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Here, amidst the dense canopy and vibrant wildlife, you will experience unparalleled encounters with nature. Guided by experts, you explore hidden waterfalls, embark on thrilling night walks, and soar above the canopy on an aerial tram, gaining breathtaking perspectives in this untouched wilderness. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a curious explorer, this lodge offers an intimate and luxurious stay in the heart of the Amazon.
After the vivid greens of the rainforest, your journey continues to the stunning seascape of the Galápagos Islands. You'll take to the ultramarine waters aboard Aqua Mare, a super yacht that redefines expedition cruising. For the next seven nights, this luxurious vessel will be your home as you embark on daily excursions. Snorkel alongside sea turtles, kayak through mangrove-laden waters, and stroll across volcanic islands populated by vibrant marine iguanas. With the guidance of expert naturalists, you'll experience the very best of the Galápagos Islands and its wildlife.
From the dense, biodiverse Amazon rainforest to the isolated beauty of the Galápagos Islands, this itinerary encompasses the extraordinary breadth of Ecuador’s natural wonders, promising enriching wildlife encounters, wonderful marine adventures and luxurious stays.
The itinerary shown below is based on travelling on board Aqua Mare, however we offer a variety of other vessels to suit all budgets. Please contact us for more information.
Suggested Itinerary
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Day 1:
Fly to Quito
Fly from London to Quito, arriving later the same day. On arrival you will be met by one of our representatives and transferred to your hotel.
Accommodation: Casa Gangotena, 2-nights
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Day 2:
Guided tour of Quito
In the morning your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby to start your tour of Quito. The old town of Ecuador’s capital has some of the best preserved colonial architecture in the whole of South America and particular highlights include the gilded interior of the La Compañía de Jesús Church and the Monastery of San Francisco. Continue to the equatorial monument just north of the city where you can stand with a leg in each of the world’s hemispheres.
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Day 3:
Transfer to Mashpi
Following an early start, begin your road transfer to Mashpi Rainforest Biodiversity Reserve. There will be a detour to the Pululahua Crater, which is a scar in the landscape left by a previously active volcano. Another stop will be made at Tulipe to learn more about the local Yumbo people and their way of life. You arrive at Mashpi Lodge in time for lunch before heading into the reserve for an afternoon excursion.
Accommodation: Mashpi Lodge, 3-nights
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Days 4-5
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Explore the cloud forests of Mashpi
You spend the next two full days exploring the rainforest on a variety of excursions. You'll also have time to relax and enjoy the wellness offerings at the lodge. A typical day begins at dawn, which is when the forest comes alive with the birds being particularly active at this time of day. Excursions are organised to see this frenetic bird activity and the views are amazing in the early morning light. Continue to explore the surrounding area for the rest of the morning after breakfast. The afternoon is free to spend as you wish amongst the trees of this pristine cloud forest.
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Day 6:
Return to Quito
An early breakfast is followed by a morning excursion in Mashpi. After an early lunch you start your return journey back to Quito winding your way through the Andes.
Accommodation: Casa Gangotena, 1-night
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Days 7-13
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Fly to the Galapagos Islands
Transfer to Quito airport in the morning to catch your flight over to the Galapagos Islands. After landing at Baltra airport, you head to the dock to board your chosen vessel to start a week-long cruise around the Galapagos Islands that takes in the rugged coves, sandy beaches, and emerald waters in order to see some of the remarkable endemic species.
Travelling aboard Aqua Mare, you can choose whether to join the East Galapagos Luxury Wildlife Cruise or the West Galapagos Luxury Wildlife Cruise. Enjoy daily Zodiac excursions, perfect for spotting wildlife, or embark on guided hiking adventures for panoramic views. Back on board, enjoy the luxurious sanctuary of Aqua Mare.
The cruise will make its way between the islands, stopping at many of the spectacular landing spots which could include Isabela, Santa Cruz, Fernandina and Floreana, depending on which route you take, in addition to other memorable locations. The wildlife in the Galapagos is incredibly nonchalant when humans are around to the point where most of them will walk right by you only a few inches away. You will also have the chance to snorkel during the cruise, which is a fabulous experience in itself. Once you put your head into the water, you will be astounded by the amount of life that lives beneath the waves. Swimming with playful sealions and close encounters with turtles are just a couple of the wildlife highlights.
Accommodation: Aqua Mare, 6-nights
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Day 14:
Return to Quito & depart
After breakfast, you travel back to the airport to fly back to the mainland. Once in Quito, you transfer to the international terminal to catch your connecting international flights back to the UK.
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Day 15:
Arrive UK
LUXURY VESSEL
