cotopaxinick-cruz-esavzavc8x4-unsplash

Ecuador

From the stunning Galapagos Islands to the majestic peaks of the Andes and the vibrant markets of Otavalo, Ecuador is a country of natural wonders and cultural treasures. Embark on an unforgettable journey and create lifelong memories on your holiday in Ecuador!

Ecuador is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and the world-famous Galapagos Islands. Explore this unique archipelago, where you can encounter fascinating wildlife found nowhere else on Earth, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and playful sea lions. Snorkel alongside colorful fish and sea turtles, and witness the mesmerizing courtship dances of the blue-footed boobies. Discover the volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and breathtaking sunsets that make the Galapagos Islands a true paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Immerse yourself in Ecuador’s rich cultural heritage by exploring its historic cities and indigenous communities. Wander through the charming streets of Quito’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the well-preserved colonial architecture. Visit the indigenous market of Otavalo, where vibrant textiles, handicrafts, and traditional artwork showcase the country’s diverse cultural traditions. Engage with local communities in the Andean highlands, where you can learn about ancient farming techniques and participate in traditional ceremonies. Ecuador’s cultural experiences offer a deep connection to its history and traditions.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Ecuador’s Andean landscapes provide a playground for adventure. Embark on a trek through the stunning Cotopaxi National Park, home to the iconic Cotopaxi volcano, or hike to the breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake. Go rafting in the mighty rivers of the Amazon rainforest, or zip-line through the cloud forests of Mindo. Ecuador’s natural wonders offer endless opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and adrenaline-pumping activities. Whether you seek thrilling adventures or serene natural beauty, Ecuador has it all.

Essential Information

BEST TIME TO VISIT

For many a trip to the Galapagos will be a highlight, and that’s best to visit between December and May. Trips to the highlands are best in our summer.

FLIGHT TIME

Up to 15 hours, although indirect.

TIME ZONE

GMT/BST -5

CURRENCY

US Dollar

IDEAL FOR

Nothing less than a nature lovers’ paradise.

HOW TO GET THERE

There are many options to fly to Quito or Guayaquil, more commonly though the United States or a European hub such as Madrid.

LANGUAGE

Spanish

IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH

You can combine a stay in Ecuador with many nearby Central and South American countries such as Colombia or Costa Rica, both of which have regular flights.

Our Favourite Places in Ecuador

Suggested Itineraries

Isla Isabela

Galapagos Island Hopping Family Adventure

12 day holiday

Quito, Galapagos Islands, Santa Cruz Island, Floreana Island, Isabela Island

This island-hopping adventure through the Galapagos offers a remarkable balance of comfort and discovery. After arriving in Quito and exploring its UNESCO-listed old town and the equator line, you journey to the Galapagos for a land-based experience across three of its most captivating islands. The trip begins on Santa Cruz, where you’ll explore clear waters by kayak, snorkel among reef sharks, and see giant tortoises roaming the highlands. From here, travel to the quiet island of Floreana, home to intriguing pirate legends and a rich variety of marine life, including sea lions and rays at La Loberia. Guided walks through the highlands bring stories of early settlers and encounters with more tortoises.

Next, continue to Isabela Island, where flamingos and a giant tortoise breeding centre give way to snorkelling at Tintoreras among penguins, turtles, and sharks. A challenging hike up Sierra Negra volcano offers panoramic views from one of the largest craters in the world, with time later to unwind on the beaches of Puerto Villamil. Throughout, you’ll stay in comfortable, locally run accommodation, enjoy naturalist-led excursions, and have opportunities for both adventure and relaxation. The journey ends with a return to the mainland via Guayaquil, before your flight home.

Galapagos, Ecuador

Simply Galapagos

10 day holiday

Quito, San Cristobal Island, La Galapaguera, Cerro Brujo, Suarez Point, Post Office Bay

Begin your journey in Quito, Ecuador’s high-altitude capital, with two nights in the historic old town. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Pichincha volcano, Quito offers a mix of colonial architecture, lively markets and spectacular viewpoints such as El Panecillo. A private city tour includes the grand plazas and churches of the UNESCO-listed centre, plus a visit to the Equator line. After soaking in the culture and scenery, fly to the Galapagos Islands via Guayaquil, and step aboard the Seaman Journey catamaran, your base for an unforgettable wildlife adventure.

Sail across several of the archipelago’s islands, visiting highlights like San Cristobal, Española, Floreana and Santa Cruz. Spot giant tortoises at La Galapaguera, snorkel in clear waters with playful sea lions, and walk amongst blue-footed boobies and waved albatrosses. Discover unique birdlife at Cormorant Point’s flamingo lagoon and see the conservation work at the Charles Darwin Centre. Wrap up with a night in the port city of Guayaquil, where you can explore colourful historic neighbourhoods or simply unwind along the waterfront before returning to the UK.

Quito, Ecuador

Ecuador and Galapagos In Style

14 day holiday

Quito, Masphi Cloud Forest, Santa Cruz Island, Otavalo

This luxurious Ecuador and Galapagos journey combines some of the country’s most refined stays with unforgettable natural experiences. Begin with two nights at the elegant Illa Experience Hotel in Quito’s historic centre, where you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed old town and visit the Equator line. From there, venture into the lush cloud forest for a stay at the acclaimed Mashpi Lodge, set within a private reserve. Here, enjoy early morning birdwatching, rainforest walks, sky bike rides and panoramic views from the observation tower – all guided by expert naturalists.

Next, head to the Galapagos Islands and board the stylish Alya catamaran to sail between islands such as Santa Cruz, Santiago and Genovesa. Discover an extraordinary world of marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, sea lions and penguins, with snorkelling, nature hikes and scenic dinghy rides. Wrap up your adventure at Hacienda Zuleta, a working estate nestled in the Andean highlands. With optional activities like horse riding, hiking and visiting the condor rehabilitation project, it’s the perfect spot to unwind before flying home.

Galapagos, Ecuador

Best of Ecuador and Galapagos Wildlife

17 day holiday

Guayaquil, North Seymour, South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Bartolome, Espanola Island, Floreana Island, San Cristobal, Quito, Ecuadorian Amazon

This 16-night journey takes you deep into two of Ecuador’s most remarkable natural environments – the lush Amazon Rainforest and the extraordinary Galapagos Islands. Begin your adventure with a stay in Quito, a UNESCO-listed colonial city set high in the Andes, before heading into the Ecuadorian Amazon. From a remote eco-lodge, you’ll explore the waterways by canoe, take guided rainforest walks by day and night, and observe wildlife from canopy towers at sunrise. Expect sightings of monkeys, parrots, tapirs, freshwater dolphins, and caimans, as well as a chance to learn about local communities and their traditions.

Next, fly to the Galapagos for an unforgettable week on a small expedition vessel. Each day brings new islands, landscapes and wildlife encounters: snorkel with sea lions, visit giant tortoises in the highlands of Santa Cruz, and watch fearless blue-footed boobies and waved albatrosses on remote beaches. Explore volcanic formations, walk through lava tunnels, and enjoy close-up encounters with creatures found nowhere else on earth. This itinerary combines adventure, comfort and unique biodiversity, all supported by expert guides.

Ecuador

Ecuador Explorer

11 day holiday

Quito, Otavalo, Cotopaxi, Riobamba, Ingapirca, Cuenca, Cajas, Guayaquil

This itinerary reveals Ecuador’s rich blend of natural landscapes and vibrant indigenous culture, beginning in Quito with its colonial architecture and scenic Andean setting. Travel north to Otavalo to experience one of South America’s most celebrated markets, where traditionally dressed locals sell handcrafted wares beneath dramatic mountain backdrops. Along the way, you’ll meet artisans in their workshops, visit crater lakes like Cuicocha, and gain insight into highland life in traditional villages. The journey continues south through Cotopaxi National Park, past volcanoes and patchwork fields, stopping at authentic local markets and art communities before reaching the elegant city of Cuenca, famed for its cobbled streets, church domes and fine craftsmanship.

From Cuenca, the route passes through the rugged beauty of Cajas National Park, home to hundreds of glacial lakes and diverse birdlife, before arriving at the coastal city of Guayaquil. Highlights include walking among ancient ruins at Ingapirca and exploring varied landscapes from cloud forest to lunar-like valleys. Throughout, the itinerary combines immersive cultural encounters with striking scenery, making it ideal for those looking to explore Ecuador beyond the Galapagos – though those enchanted by island life can still opt to extend their trip.

Ecuador

Luxury Ecuador and Galapagos

16 day holiday

Quito, Galápagos Islands, Guayaquil

This itinerary begins in Ecuador’s capital, Quito, where you’ll explore colonial architecture and historic highlights while staying in the elegant Casa Gangotena. From there, venture into the cloudforest to Mashpi Lodge, an eco-luxury retreat offering nature walks, wildlife encounters, and a canopy sky tram. Next, head into the Andean highlands to the beautiful Hacienda Zuleta, where you can walk, horse ride, or visit a condor conservation project and ancient archaeological sites. The journey then circles back to Quito for a final evening before flying to the Galapagos Islands.

Your seven-night Galapagos cruise aboard the Silversea Silver Origin takes you through a spectacular series of islands. Highlights include seabird colonies on Genovesa, sea lion nurseries on North Seymour, the striking lava fields of Santiago, and the mangroves and marine life of Fernandina. On Santa Cruz and Santa Fé, explore varied microclimates and endemic species, while Española offers white-sand beaches and dramatic cliffs where albatross soar. The trip ends on San Cristóbal with a relaxed coastal visit before your return home.

CALL US

We would be delighted to talk about your holiday arrangements over the phone. You can contact us between 8am and 10pm every day (outside of office hours may not be immediate).

01442 879787

SEND A MESSAGE

If you wish to send us your requirements by email using the link below, we’ll get back to you. Outside of office hours, we’ll reply to you as soon as we can.

VISIT US

Our office is open 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (excluding Bank Holidays). If you wish to make an appointment, please either call or send a message, although it’s not compulsory.

254 HIGH STREET, BERKHAMSTED

Contact Us

We're not around right now. But you can send us an email and we'll get back to you, asap.

Not readable? Change text. captcha txt
This website uses cookies and asks your personal data to enhance your browsing experience. We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring your data is handled in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).