Family Holiday in Ecuador & Galapagos
Ecuador may not be the first destination that springs to mind for a family holiday, but it offers so much for all ages including unique wildlife in the Galapagos and the cloud forest, as well as outdoor adventure in the mountainous Otavalo region.
Day 1
Full Day Tour of Quito
Head on a tour of the city with your guide. Take in the views and the local markets before visiting Independence Square.
After lunch see La Compañia church, San Francisco Church, and the museum Casa del Alabado.
Children will especially love the museum, cable car, La Ronda Street, and joining a chocolate-making workshop.
Day 2
Mashpi Lodge
This morning you’ll be driven over the Andes mountains towards the cloud forest and your accommodation. On the way you’ll stop at the Equator Line – Latitude 0 0 0.
After settling into your lodge you’ll embark on the Napa Trail which is great for bird watching.
In the evening, sit back and relax as one of the resident naturalists or biologists gives a talk.
Day 3
Mashpi Lodge
Rise early for some bird watching.
After breakfast, head to the Sky Bike and Observation tower for some thrilling canopy cycling suspended above the forest. If heights aren’t your thing, hike the limones trail to the San Vicente´s waterfall.
In the afternoon you’ll explore the forest with your guide, looking for Howler Monkeys and colourful birds before stopping at the Life Centre to see all manner of wildlife, from rodents to butterflies.
After dark, embark on a night safari searching for insects, owls, bats and night birds before returning to the lodge via cable car.
Day 4
Mashpi to Zuleta
Rise early for some bird watching, then enjoy the drive to Hacienda Zuleta.
Day 5
Hacienda Zuleta
Take time to explore this historic retreat in the Andean cloud forest.
Go horse riding through pine and eucalyptus forests, or hike or cycle to nearby villages. Learn about the condor rehabilitation project, join a hand-embroidery workshop, or visit the trout farm and cheese factory.
Day 6
Northern Galapagos Itinerary Monday to Friday
Today you’ll be transferred to the airport to take the plane to Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival you’ll be escorted to your vessel, La Pinta (other options include Galapagos Sea Star Journey / Origin / Oceanspray).
For the next four days you’ll follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin visiting untouched beaches, looking for sea lions, giant tortoises and rare penguins, and learning about this fascinating natural habitat.
Kids can snorkel with sea lions and sea turtles, go kayaking, nature walking, or explore with a dedicated guide.
Day 7
Arrival in Quito
Upon arrival in Quito you’ll be transferred to your hotel and the rest of your day will be spent at leisure.
Day 8
Departure
Today you’ll be escorted to the airport for your onward journey.
- Go exploring and try chocolate-making in Quito
- Enjoy canopy cycling above the Cloud Forest at Mashpi
- Head on a night safari searching for insects, owls, bats and night birds
- Go horse riding through the Andes, and visit local communities, waterfalls and the Condor project
- Sail around the Galapagos looking for sea lions, rare penguins and giant tortoises
Lightfoot Travel is a fully licensed global tour operator with a 24/7 support line for our guests, giving you peace of mind on your holiday . We have three core values that underpin our commitment to creating meaningful holidays for our guests.
AUTHENTICTravel your way with Lightfoot. We’ll take you into the heart of each destination and introduce you to the people and places that reveal the true essence of a country. With our trusted local connections, we create holidays that immerse you in culture, history, and everyday life. Far from the crowds, always deeply authentic.
EXPERT Travel with confidence, guided by experts. Our team boasts decades of first-hand knowledge and we are passionate about creating meaningful experiences for our guests. We specialise in unveiling the world’s most extraordinary and lesser-known destinations.
PERSONAL Your journey is as unique as you are. We take the time to understand what inspires and excites you, creating 100% tailormade itineraries that reflect your personality, interests, and holiday aspirations. Our bespoke holidays are designed to elevate every moment of your travel experience.
