17-Day Ecuador Adventure and Galapagos Islands Hidden Treasures

Quito , Ecuador

17-Day Ecuador Adventure and Galapagos Islands Hidden Treasures

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(4 reviews)

17d

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About this experience

Enjoy one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, you will visit the Galapagos Islands, the cloud forest, the andes mountains, some volcanoes, beautiful cities, the pacific coast and a local market. The highlights of this tour will be:
• Historical cities: you will visit Quito and Cuenca, beautiful historical cities.
• Cloud forest & Volcanoes: enjoy the amazing nature and different animal species.
• Pacific Coast: visit Guayaquil to enjoy the best weather and seafood dishes.
• Santa Cruz Highlands: your first contact with the Giant Galapagos Tortoises.
• Visit one of the uninhabited islands: Bartolomé, Santa Fe or Seymour.
• Los Tuneles: snorkel in the clear waters and swim with different animal species.
• Kayak in Tintoreras Bay: if you are lucky you will find some sharks!
• Snorkel at Kicker Rock: one of the most spectacular places of the Galapagos.

Available options

17D Hidden Treasure

Pickup included

What's included

Flight from Isabela island to San Cristobal.

Round trip flights between mainland Ecuador and Galapagos Islands.

Lunch

Dinner

Breakfast

24/7 assistance in Dutch, English, and Spanish.

Guided horse tour on healthy strong horses for all levels.

Accommodation in a single, double or triple room x 16 nights (based on number of travelers).

Private Transportation.

What's not included

International flights.

Migratory Control Card

Isabela dock fee

Water taxi $1 p.p.

Wet-suits rent $5 p.p.

Optional tips for the guide.

Entrance fee Galapagos National Park.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.

It is important to have a valid medical and travel insurance. Please inform us of any known medical conditions you have.

Tap water on the Galapagos Islands might contain bacteria and should not be consumed, not even for brushing your teeth. Bottles or purified water is always recommended.

Inform yourself about food safety when traveling to tropical countries. Take the necessary precaution to avoid food poisoning (always wash your hands always before eating, don’t eat ‘street food’, only eat peeled fruit, etc.).

The operator cannot take any responsibility for any illnesses or missed meals & tours due to an illness.

The operator serves the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather conditions, availabilities, National Park regulations or notifications and unforeseeable circumstances.

When the group reaches at least 6 guests, you will have a private guide for the whole tour.

If you would like to have a German guide please contact us for details.

The exact amount for the fees mentioned in the 'What's excluded' section will be detailed in the voucher. If you want to know this information beforehand, please contact us through the platform.

Accommodation is based on number of travelers, if you are traveling with a group, you will be sharing rooms (single rooms require an extra fee).

Important notes

Voucher: Please note you receive from the operator an updated travel voucher based on your travel details, flights and availabilities. You will receive this updated travel voucher in general 2 weeks before departure via the Viator chat. If you haven’t received this please send us a message. Your standard Viator voucher is NOT your personal travel voucher and CAN’T be used during your trip.
Office hours: Monday - Friday 8:30-17:00 and Saturday 9:00-17.30

Voucher: Please note you receive from the operator an updated travel voucher based on your travel details, flights and availabilities. You will receive this updated travel voucher in general 2 weeks before departure via the Viator chat. If you haven’t received this please send us a message. Your standard Viator voucher is NOT your personal travel voucher and CAN’T be used during your trip.

About Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Quito

The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.

Historical Half to full day Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums

TelefériQo

A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.

Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate

Mitad del Mundo

A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.

Historical Half day Moderate

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve

A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.

Nature Half to full day Budget

Basílica del Voto Nacional

One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.

Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Capilla del Hombre

A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Llocro de Papa

A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Cuy Asado

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Dinner Contains meat

Encebollado

A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.

Lunch Contains fish

Empanadas de Viento

Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest Paragliding over Quito Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center Exploring local markets and shopping areas

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) 54°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Getting there

By air

Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center

By bus

Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)

Getting around

Public transport

Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center (Centro Histórico) La Floresta González Suárez El Panecillo

Day trips

Cotopaxi National Park

50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day

A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Mindo Cloud Forest

80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day

A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.

Papallacta Hot Springs

65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day

Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Fiestas de Quito • Early December Inti Raymi • June 21-24 Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.