Ecuador tour: Amazon rainforest and Galapagos Islands

Welcome to Quito, Ecuador’s captivating high-altitude capital. On arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, your private driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take time to settle in before heading out to explore this UNESCO-listed city at your own pace.

Stroll through historic plazas set against dramatic Andean peaks, browse vibrant market stalls, and discover local traditions from shamanic healing practices to generations-old hat-making workshops. As evening falls, experience Quito’s dynamic food scene and lively atmosphere, an inspiring introduction to your Ecuador travel.

Your Ecuador journey continues with a scenic flight from Quito to Coca, passing over the dramatic Eastern Andes and revealing sweeping views of cloud-wrapped peaks. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to the river port, where your transition into the Amazon begins.

Board a motorized canoe and travel along the Napo River, surrounded by dense rainforest and ever-changing jungle scenery. Arrive to a warm welcome aboard the Manatee Amazon Explorer, where you can settle into your comfortable cabin and meet expert naturalist guides who bring the region to life with their deep knowledge of the Ecuadorian Amazon.

As the cruise moves through pristine waterways, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner on board. Later, step into the forest on a guided night walk, where the sounds of the jungle intensify, and nocturnal wildlife begins to emerge.

Journey downstream to the Pañayacu River delta, then continue by canoe through narrow blackwater channels to Pañacocha Lake, known as the “Piranha Lagoon.” This rich and undisturbed ecosystem is home to piranhas, giant paíche, white caimans, and a remarkable variety of aquatic life.

Set out on a guided walk through protected rainforest, where your naturalist guides help you spot monkeys moving through the canopy and vibrant birdlife hidden among the trees. Later, gather at a local community camp for a relaxed Amazon-style barbecue.

After some time to unwind, return to the water to explore the lagoon by kayak or take a refreshing swim. Back on board the Manatee, round off the day with an engaging talk that brings deeper insight into this extraordinary region.

Begin your day with an early motorized canoe ride to the famed parrot clay licks, a highlight of any Ecuador itinerary. Watch hundreds of vividly colored parrots, parakeets, and other Amazon birds gather to feed on mineral-rich clay that supports their digestion and overall health.

In the afternoon, visit a Kichwa women’s community along the Napo River. Gain insight into ancestral traditions, daily life, and local cuisine while connecting with the people who call this region home. You may also choose to support the community by purchasing handmade crafts and local products.

Later, take part in the meaningful Charapas Turtle Conservation project, contributing directly to efforts that protect and preserve this fragile Amazon ecosystem.

Enjoy your final morning aboard the Manatee Amazon Explorer as you take in the last sights and sounds of the rainforest. From Puerto Providencia, travel by motorized canoe along the Napo River back to Coca, a peaceful journey that offers a final glimpse of life along the water’s edge.

On arrival, board your flight to Quito. At Mariscal Sucre International Airport, your private driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on your Amazon experience.

Your private driver will meet you at your hotel in Quito and transfer you to the airport in good time for your Galapagos flight. You will have time to purchase your transit control card, check in your luggage, and relax before boarding.

On arrival at Baltra Airport, meet your guide and begin a scenic journey to Santa Cruz Island, one of the best places to visit in Ecuador. Enjoy a fresh lunch at a traditional highlands farm, then explore the surrounding landscapes where giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat.

Continue to Puerto Ayora and settle into your hotel before visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, learn about vital conservation efforts, see the famous tortoise breeding program up close, and observe land iguanas while gaining insight into the islands’ unique ecosystems.

Begin your day with a scenic flight from Santa Cruz to Isabela Island, offering sweeping views across the Galapagos archipelago. On arrival, visit either the Flamingo Lagoon, where these elegant birds gather in shallow waters, or the Giant Tortoise Breeding Station to learn more about ongoing conservation efforts and see these remarkable creatures up close.

In the afternoon, join a small group excursion to Tintoreras Islet. Walk across striking lava formations while observing Humboldt penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, and reef sharks resting in calm channels.

Continue with a guided snorkel in clear turquoise waters, where you may encounter sea turtles, rays, vibrant fish, and even playful penguins. Return for a relaxed evening on Isabela Island.

Fly from Isabela Island to Santa Cruz and settle into Puerto Ayora. From here, follow a scenic trail to Tortuga Bay, a rewarding walk that leads to one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos.

Arrive to powdery white sand and turquoise waters, where you can kayak along the coastline and spot marine life up close. Take time to relax on the beach or snorkel in the calm, clear water.

Return to Puerto Ayora for the evening and enjoy the island’s relaxed atmosphere.

Set out by yacht from Santa Cruz to one of the Galapagos’ uninhabited islands, with the exact destination determined by conditions and National Park permissions. Possible visits include Santa Fé, South Plazas, Bartolomé or North Seymour, each revealing a different facet of Ecuador’s extraordinary natural diversity.

Santa Fé and South Plazas are known for their endemic land iguanas and dramatic coastal cliffs, while Bartolomé captivates with its sculpted lava landscapes and iconic panoramic views. North Seymour offers remarkable wildlife encounters, including frigate birds, blue-footed boobies, and land iguanas.

After a day of exploration, return to Puerto Ayora for a relaxed evening at your own pace.

Savor your final morning in Santa Cruz with a relaxed stroll through Puerto Ayora or a last visit to your favorite café and local craft shops to pick up meaningful souvenirs.

At the scheduled time, your driver will transfer you to the Itabaca Channel. Cross by ferry, then continue by shuttle bus to the airport for your flight to Quito.

From here, connect with your international departure, bringing your Ecuador tour to a close with lasting memories and inspiring encounters.