This 12-day expedition combines the Galapagos’ evolutionary wonders with the Amazon’s biodiversity, perfect for nature lovers seeking adventure and rare wildlife encounters.
Days 1-3: Quito & Andean Culture
Day 1:
- Arrive in Quito, one of the world’s highest capitals.
- Check into a colonial boutique hotel in the historic center.
- Acclimate with a leisurely stroll through Plaza Grande.
Day 2:
- Private city tour: Explore UNESCO-listed churches, San Francisco Plaza, and the gold-lined La Compañía
- Ride the cable car up TelefériQo for panoramic Andean views.
Day 3:
- Otavalo Market day trip: Bargain for textiles at South America’s largest artisan market
- Visit Cuicocha Crater Lake for a scenic hike (easy-moderate).
Pro Tip: Sip canelazo (cinnamon tea) to combat altitude sickness.
Days 4-8: Galapagos Island-Hopping
Day 4:
- Fly to Baltra Island, transfer to a luxury expedition vessel.
- Snorkel with sea lions at Mosquera Islet.
Day 5:
- Santiago Island: Walk black lava shores spotting marine iguanas and fur seals
- Rábida Island: Kayak alongside penguins in ruby-red waters
Day 6:
- Isabela Island: Trek past uplifted coral reefs at Urbina Bay
- Zodiac ride through Tagus Cove, a historic pirate hideout.
Day 7:
- Fernandina Island: Witness flightless cormorants and lava fields
- Snorkel with turtles at Punta Vicente Roca.
Day 8:
- Santa Cruz Highlands: Meet wild giant tortoises in misty forests
- Fly back to Quito.
Wildlife Highlight: Blue-footed boobies’ comical mating dances.
Days 9-11: Amazon Rainforest Immersion
Day 9:
- Fly to Coca, canoe deep into the Ecuadorian Amazon.
- Night walk to spot tarantulas and bioluminescent fungi.
Day 10:
- Canopy walkway at dawn to spot toucans and howler monkeys.
- Piranha fishing and pink river dolphin sightings.
Day 11:
- Visit a Kichwa community to learn ancestral hunting techniques.
- Sunset canoe ride.
Packing Tip: Quick-dry clothing and waterproof binoculars are essential.
Day 12: Departure
- Morning birdwatching, then return to Quito for international flights
Why This Itinerary Works
✔ Diverse ecosystems: From volcanic islands to flooded forests
✔ Expert guides: Naturalists enhance wildlife spotting
✔ Seamless logistics: Pre-booked ferries, flights, and eco-lodges
Key Experiences:
- Snorkeling with penguins in the Galapagos
- Sleeping to jungle sounds in an Amazon treehouse
- Cultural exchanges with indigenous communities
