The Dazzling Diversity of Ecuador and the Galapagos for Families
Tour Introduction
A perfect family adventure for older children, this compact itinerary uncovers two of South America’s greatest natural wonders: the species-rich rainforests of Amazonia and the enchanted isles of the Galapagos. Added into the mix are the colonial splendour of historic Quito and the perfect cone of Cotopaxi volcano to produce a tour of unrivalled variety with elements to suit all the family.
With your excellent naturalist guides, comfortable rainforest accommodation and a charming lodge in the Galapagos islands, mental stimulation, natural history education, wildlife fun and wide-eyed wonder (for both parents and children) are assured.
Full Itinerary
Arrive in Quito. Evening arrival and transfer to hotel.
Staying at Patio Andaluz. Includes In-flight Meals.
Guided tour of colonial Quito. The capital city is a UNESCO World Heritage site with fascinating culture to see and the tour will include visits to museums, monasteries and churches and will highlight the artistic design found within the city. The tour will also include a visit to the Equatorial monument that marks the divide between the southern and northern hemispheres. There will be a visit to the Museo del Sitio Inti Nan which exhibits the cultures of the region’s indigenous peoples. Return to hotel and the rest of the day will be at leisure.
Staying at Patio Andaluz. Includes Breakfast and Lunch.
Depart Quito and transfer south into the Cotopaxi province and the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Rest of the day is at leisure and to acclimatize to the altitude.
Staying at Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Explore Cotopaxi National Park with a private guide. This ecological sanctuary of 88,920 acres, around the magnificent Cotopaxi Volcano, rises 5,897 metres above sea level.
Upon arrival to the park there is an introductory briefing about the habitat of the Andean paramo or moorlands, its flora and fauna in the small Interpretation Centre. Continue on to Limpiopungo Lagoon (3,840m) to observe a variety of birds and occasionally wild horses. On clear days, the Cotopaxi Volcano is the backdrop. A short walk around the lagoon allows the observation of the Andean flora.
The wildlife found in the national park includes rabbits, white-tailed deer and foxes. Bird life includes the Andean hillstar, Andean condor, orange-faced falcon, Andean seagull (at altitudes over 4,000m) and carunculated caracaras.
Staying at Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Time for Optional activities in the morning. In the afternoon transfer back to Quito.
Staying at San Jose de Puembo. Includes Breakfast and Lunch.
Transfer to the airport and fly to Coca, transfer by boat to Sacha Lodge. Wildlife such as macaws, toucans, troops of monkeys and caiman may be encountered on the river journey – an adventure in itself.
Staying at Sacha Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Full day of shared guided activities at Sacha. There is a 275-metre long canopy walkway that gives a unique view of the Amazonian rainforest from above. There is also a nearby parrot clay lick, butterfly house, treetop tower, and excursions by canoe and hikes along trails to enjoy. The variety of wildlife at Sacha is immense and many exciting birds, primates, reptiles and amphibians are often seen.
Staying at Sacha Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Another full day of inclusive shared guided activities to enjoy.
Staying at Sacha Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Transfer to Coca and fly to Quito. Met on arrival and transfer to hotel.
Staying at San Jose de Puembo. Includes Breakfast.
Transfer to the airport and fly to Baltra, Galapagos. Met on arrival and transfer to Santa Cruz Island, visiting Los Gemelos and El Chato Tortoise Reserve.
Staying at Enchanted Galapagos Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Explore the Galapagos Islands above and below the water (snorkelling) at a comfortable lodge in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. Above water there are plants and semi-tame animals. The geographical isolation and necessary adaptation to the harsh conditions have led to the evolution of many unique natural histories, including those of marine iguanas, giant tortoises and the famous Darwin finches. Under the water, cool currents have introduced otherwise cold water species to these tropical seas: penguins, orcas and fur seals happily rub along with parrot fish, turtles and manta rays. Explore Santa Cruz Island, and visit two other islands to enjoy unique experiences on each one.
Staying at Enchanted Galapagos Lodge. Includes All Meals.
After breakfast visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre on the edge of the town of Puerto Ayora. Puerto Ayora is the social heart of the islands with the largest population . See all three tortoise corrals and the breeding centre with new hatchlings and miniature tortoises not yet ready to be repatriated. Scientists from all over the globe work at the station and conduct biological research from anatomy to zoology.
In the afternoon hike a 1.5 mile lava trail from Puerto Ayora to Tortuga Bay where sunbathing iguanas can be found on Playa Brava, and turtles might be spotted during a refreshing swim in the cove at tranquil Playa Mansa.
Staying at Enchanted Galapagos Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Today travel by boat to explore one of the nearby islands.
Staying at Enchanted Galapagos Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Return to Baltra and fly to Quito. Met on arrival and transfer to hotel.
Staying at Garden Hotel San Jose. Includes Breakfast.
Transfer to Quito Airport for flight home.
Includes Breakfast.
Tour Accommodation
Patio Andaluz
Overview
The 4-star Patio Andaluz is a beautiful boutique hotel located in the colonial centre of Quito within walking distance of the famous Independence Square. Its architecture dates back to the 16th century with grand archways and courtyards.
The central location is ideal for easy access to many of Quito’s museums and historical sights.
There are 31 stylish rooms and suites, all with private bathrooms, polished wooden floors, antique style furniture, warm Persian rugs, air-conditioning, cable TV, safes and free Wi-Fi. Facilities include laundry service, currency exchange, medical assistance, luggage storage, library, gardens and patio area.
The hotel’s elegant restaurant, set within the main courtyard, serves tasty Ecuadorian, Spanish and international cuisine. There is also a lounge and bar for relaxation.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Rooms
Facilities
Restaurant, lounge, bar, 24-hour desk service, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, luggage storage, medical assistance and laundry service.
Optional Activities
City tours of Quito.
San Jose De Puembo
Overview
The San Jose de Puembo, situated in the Puembo Valley just 20 minutes from downtown Quito, is built around a restored 18th century hacienda and set amongst 10 acres of beautiful gardens.
There are 37 en suite rooms with LCD TVs and Wi-Fi, 2 outdoor heated pools, a gym, restaurant and lounge/bar.
The hotel enjoys close proximity to the international airport and is an ideal base for travellers staying overnight before or after connecting to onward destinations.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Rooms
Facilities
2 outdoor heated swimming pools, a gym, restaurant, lounge and bar.
Optional Activities
Sacha Lodge
Overview
Sacha Lodge has a beautiful position overlooking Pilchicocha (oxbow) Lake with excellent swimming, piranha fishing and gentle wildlife viewing by dugout canoe. The surrounding primary rainforest has large concentrations of monkeys (including squirrel, red howler, brown capuchin, black mantled tamarin and pygmy marmoset), an incredible 587 species of birds (including hummingbirds, toucans, parrots and rainforest raptors), sloths and a huge variety of other rainforest mammals, insects and plants.
There is a butterfly farm and a large network of rainforest trails. Across the Napo River is the Yasuni National Park with two spectacular clay licks where you can see large numbers of parrots, parakeets and occasionally macaws (additional charge to visit the clay licks). A highlight of the lodge is the 940-foot canopy walkway suspended 95 feet above the ground which, combined with the lodge’s 135 foot observation tower, gives unparalleled views over the rainforest and excellent chances of spotting monkeys, sloths and hundreds of canopy birds.
The large thatched wooden cabins blend perfectly with the surrounding forest but retain a high level of comfort including private bathrooms with hot water, well screened rooms and an excellent restaurant. All rooms are linked by raised, covered board walks keeping you a respectable distance from the surrounding forest.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Rooms
Facilities
Restaurant, bar and lounge with raised lookout overlooking the lake, laundry service, 24-hour electricity and private bathrooms.
Local Wildlife
587 species of birds, 8 species of primates including regular sightings of pygmy marmoset, black-mantled tamarin, common squirrel, red howler and white fronted capuchin monkeys. Black agouti, sloths and many fascinating reptiles, amphibians and butterflies frequent the lodge grounds.
Optional Activities
Visits to two parrot clay licks.
Enchanted Galapagos Lodge
Overview
Experience life on land in the Galapagos, within the tranquil highlands of Santa Cruz Island. Enchanted Galapagos Lodge is the perfect place to stay for a couple of days at the end of a cruise. The lodge is an idyllic setting in which to relax and enjoy the property, or add on some extra activities to your Galapagos adventure. The lodge has a cacao plantation, coffee plantation, a cheese factory onsite, hiking trails, a wonderful outdoor pool and large spaces to relax.
The restaurant offers a farm to table experience using many of the products grown or made on the property, and guests can even partake in a cacao or cheese experience. The comfortable bedrooms have recently been renovated to a good standard, drawing inspiration from Ecuadorean culture and artistry, featuring a beautiful cedar wood decor.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Rooms
Facilities
Swimming pool, hot tub, massage services, restaurant, bar, fireside lounge, volleyball court, free WiFi in the lobby area, hammocks, private en suite bathrooms.
Local Wildlife
Woodpecker finch, small tree finch, vegetarian finch, Galapagos rail, giant tortoise.
Optional Activities
Birdwatching, yoga, hiking, cheese factory experience, mountain biking, volleyball.
Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge
Overview
Set at 3,400 metres above sea level on the edge of Cotopaxi National Park, Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge offers a warm and welcoming base from which to explore Ecuador’s high Andean landscapes. Surrounded by páramo grasslands and dramatic volcanic peaks, the lodge provides rustic yet comfortable accommodation with wood-burning stoves, thick duvets, and panoramic views of Cotopaxi’s snow-capped summit. The main lodge features a cosy communal area with a fireplace and locally inspired décor, while the on-site restaurant serves hearty Ecuadorian meals made from fresh, regional ingredients.
Chilcabamba is ideally located for hiking, birdwatching, and photography, with easy access to Cotopaxi National Park’s trails and wildlife-rich habitats. Guided excursions can be arranged to explore the park’s lava fields, glacial lakes, and highland forests, home to species such as Andean fox, hummingbirds, and the elusive spectacled bear. With its tranquil setting and authentic mountain charm, Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge is a perfect retreat for nature lovers seeking immersion in Ecuador’s high-altitude wilderness.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Rooms
Facilities
Free Wi-Fi, communal lounge with fireplace, outdoor bonfire, restaurant, bar/lounge, laundry service, bicycle rental, private bathrooms with biodegradable toiletries, and wood-burning stoves.
There are seven standard rooms with en suite bathrooms; three family suites, each with two bedrooms and a shared living space; and three bungalows, each featuring two bedrooms and panoramic views.
Optional Activities
Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, birdwatching, fishing, cooking classes.
Route Map
Departure Dates
Travel Information
Are International Flights Included?
No. Please contact us for a quote if required.
Flight Info:
Fly from London to Quito on Iberia Airlines via Madrid, KLM via Amsterdam or Avianca via Bogota.
Best Visited:
January to January
Are you ATOL Registered?
Yes. This means we are legally able to book your international flights in conjunction with your ground arrangements so you can book with us with complete confidence. Read more about our ATOL license here.
John Melton
Area Specialist
Although a year round destination, the weather in the Galapagos is cooler and calmer from May to November and the seas are choppier in August.
If you have any questions regarding this Tour, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965
A really good insight into the different habitats and environments in Ecuador. Highly recommended. Really enjoyed our trip and appreciated how well it was organised. Will be looking through your website in the coming weeks to plan our next trip. Would recommend the company to others. Thank you.
