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
AUTHENTICITYWe won't take you to the usual tourist traps, instead we'll introduce you to people that show you the true side of a country. With our contacts in each destination, we can arrange for you to meet locals away from the crowds and ensure an authentic experience.
EXPERTISEYou can rely on our extensive first-hand knowledge and years of experience in the country you’re visiting. We use only the best expert guides, and provide insider tips on the local customs, and everything from vibrant festivals to hidden Himalayan monasteries
PERSONAL SERVICEYour holiday will be as unique as you are. By getting to know you and what makes you tick, we fuse our wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of our destinations to create unique day by day itineraries that are built around you.
