Itinerary Snapshot
Day 1 – July 22
Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito, Ecuador’s capital city perched high in the Andes. We recommend arriving by 12pm local time to join this afternoon’s guided walking tour through Quito’s historic colonial center. Visit La Compañía Church with its stunning gilded altar and the San Francisco Convent, one of Ecuador’s oldest. Then enjoy a welcome dinner with views over Plaza Grande.
Overnight in Quito
Day 2 – July 23
After breakfast, drive north through the Imbabura highlands to discover the famous Otavalo Indigenous Market, where local artisans sell vibrant handwoven textiles and traditional crafts. En route, visit the beautiful Peguche Waterfall and explore the Andean Music House to experience traditional melodies. Continue to Cuicocha Lagoon at the base of Cotacachi Volcano for a short hike with stunning views of this crater lake. Return to Quito in the evening.
Overnight in Quito
Day 3 – July 24
Fly to the Galápagos Islands, landing at Baltra Island before transferring to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Visit the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center at the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about critical conservation programs protecting giant tortoises and other endemic species. Spend the afternoon exploring Puerto Ayora at your leisure, browsing local markets and waterfront cafes.
Overnight in Puerto Ayora
Day 4 – July 25
Board a comfortable catamaran for a scenic journey to Isabela Island, watching for dolphins, whales, and seabirds along the way. Arrive in Puerto Villamil and enjoy a free afternoon relaxing on pristine beaches or exploring this laid-back coastal town.
Overnight in Puerto Villamil
Day 5 – July 26
After breakfast, drive into Isabela’s highlands and hike to the rim of Sierra Negra Volcano, home to one of the world’s largest calderas spanning over six miles across. This afternoon, take a boat excursion to Las Tintoreras, where volcanic rock formations create channels sheltering white-tipped reef sharks, marine iguanas, and sea lion colonies. Snorkel in these protected waters, possibly swimming alongside penguins and sea turtles.
Overnight in Puerto Villamil
Day 6 – July 27
This morning, walk through Los Humedales wetlands, observing flamingos and coastal birds among the mangrove lagoons. Visit the Galápagos Tortoise Breeding Center to learn about conservation efforts protecting Isabela’s tortoise populations. Board your return catamaran to Puerto Ayora, keeping watch for dolphins and whales during the crossing. Upon arrival, transfer to the Santa Cruz highlands where giant tortoises roam freely through private ranchlands. Enjoy lunch at a local farm before observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Visit a traditional woodworking artisan to see handcrafted souvenirs before returning to Puerto Ayora.
Overnight in Puerto Ayora
Day 7 – July 28
Walk along a scenic coastal trail to Tortuga Bay, considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. This white coral sand paradise offers excellent surfing waves at the main beach, while the protected Playa Mansa lagoon invites you to swim and kayak among sea turtles and mangrove forests. Return to Puerto Ayora for a free afternoon to explore the town or simply relax.
Overnight in Puerto Ayora
Day 8 – July 29
Transfer by boat to San Cristobal Island and head directly to La Loberia Beach. Swim and snorkel in clear waters alongside playful sea lions and colorful tropical fish. Spend the evening in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal’s charming main town.
Overnight in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Day 9 – July 30
This morning, hike to El Junco Lagoon in the highlights to spot various endemic bird species and then cool off at Puerto Chino, where pristine white sands meet turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Encounter sea lions basking in the sun and marine iguanas camouflaged among volcanic rocks. Spend your final afternoon enjoying the beach before a farewell dinner back in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Overnight in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Day 10 – July 31
After breakfast, transfer to San Cristobal Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador and your international departure home, carrying memories of one of Earth’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations.
Please book your departing flights from Quito Airport after 8pm local time to allow for adequate connections from our domestic flight.
*Please note that this is a tentative itinerary and it is subject to change.
Highlights
Wildlife Encounters
History & Archeology
Pristine Beaches
Pricing & Inclusions
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
9 nights' accommodations in boutique hotels in single occupancy
Round-trip flights: Quito to Galápagos and inter-island transfers
All entrance fees to national parks and reserves
All ground transportation and boat transfers
English-speaking guides in Quito, Otavalo, and Galapagos
Guided snorkeling in Las Tintoreras
Otavalo Market visit and cultural experiences
Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
All tours and activities as listed
Galápagos National Park entry fee & Galápagos Transit Control Card
Gratuities for guides and drivers
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
International airfare to/from Quito
Travel insurance
Items of a personal nature
Meals not specified in itinerary
Alcoholic beverages
Gratuities for personal services
Optional activities (kayak rentals, snorkel rentals, additional tours)
Pre-trip or post-trip hotel accommodations in Quito
Is This Tour For Me?
Travel Style: Wildlife/Nature
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of a destination with guided nature walks, wildlife spotting tours, and breathtaking landscapes.
Physical Rating: 5
- Distance/Pace: Required to walk 4-5 miles in a day without assistance.
- Terrain: Involves strenuous activities such as hiking on uneven, rugged terrain with steep inclines and continuous stair climbing.
- Duration: Demands prolonged periods of activity with limited rest; physical endurance is essential.
- Additional: Requires getting on and off small boats with minimal assistance.
Age requirement: 18+
Alice West
Travel Insurance
Additional Information
Traveler must make a NONREFUNDABLE deposit payment of $400 at time of registration to secure her spot.
Monthly minimum payment of $400 is required on the first of every month until paid in full to keep your reservations current.
Final payment must be made 90 days before the trip date.
A 50% refund can be requested prior to 6 months before the trip start date found in your invoice.
No refunds for cancellations within 6 months of the trip date found in your invoice.
A $250 penalty will be charged for any outstanding balance after the final payment date found in your invoice.
For inquiries, contact wtaadmin@womentravelabroad.com
What Our Customers Say
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