Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper

Company : Contiki
Countries: Ecuador / Galapagos Islands
Duration: 1 week to 2 weeks
Approx Costs: 2000 to 2000 £ Pound (UK)

From the heights of the volcanoes to the unexplored waters of Galapagos, this tour is a must for the lovers of the great outdoors. Whether you are snorkelling with Sea Lions & Rays, or chillling with the Giant Galapagos Tortoise, this adventure is epic!

Tour Length

12 days

Itinerary

1 QUITO
Welcome to Ecuador’s capital, Quito! Meet up with your Contiki Team & group before exploring – we’ll start the trip out right with a tour around the city so you can get your bearings. Our expert guide will teach you all about this city & the history of the Inca & Spanish invasion which happened in the 15th Century and you’ll get the opportunity to check out the colonial-era buildings that still stand in Old Town.

2 QUITO TO TENA
It’s out of the city & into the lush jungle with spectacular views and a thermal pool swim en route. A perfect way to spend the day.

3 TENA
This morning is all about ME Time. This morning, have a lie in or opt to visit an indigenous community. Get your adrenalin pumping this afternoon on a class 3-4 rapids.

4 TENA TO BAÑOS
We head to Baños today, the adventure capital of Ecuador, nestled under the still active Tungurahua volcano. Tonight get local as you learn to salsa at our included lesson.

5 BAÑOS
With a free day, explore your way & Baños goes off! Situated in a valley of waterfalls & hot springs, Baños is a hub for travellers who love great weather, small town vibes & the great outdoors. Go horseback riding, canyoneering or abseiling.

6 BAÑOS TO GUAYAQUIL
Today we’re off to discover Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city & its economic hub. This cosmopolitan city is one of Ecuador’s new hotspots, a walk down to the Malecón (Cities riverfront) is a must. For a bit of a historic enlightenment why not venture to Las Peñas, one of the most emblematic neighborhoods of Guayaquil, its narrow streets and interesting past makes it a great visit. Tonight we set sail on an evening cruise down the Guayas River in a Captain Morgan replica pirate boat, relax as see spectacular views of the city, Las Peñas, colourful Cerro Santa Ana, and the Malecón 2000. You’ll have the opportunity to buy drinks and nibbles while you enjoy the skyline by night

8 ISABELA ISLAND
This morning we’ll grab some kayaks & get out on the water around Las Tintoreras where we’ll set out in search for the Galapagos Penguin – the only penguin found north of the Equator! On return, spot colourful fish as you snorkel the underground lava tubes. This area is often frequented by green sea turtles that like to rest on the calm, sandy bottom, so make sure you are on the lookout for these incredible creatures as you snorkel through the clear blue water. Then this afternoon we’ll walk to the Wall of Tears. From 1945 to 1959 this place held prisoners who were forced to build this wall stone by stone. At 25m tall, it took thousands of lives during its construction. Legend has it that cries of those lost can be heard at the site.

9 ISABELA ISLAND TO SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
This morning we’ll head to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center to learn about the island’s natural history on a guided tour, before we take off Santa Cruz Island. Before heading to Santa Cruz Island, you can choose to chill or get active, it's up to you!

10 SANTA CRUZ ISLAND TO SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND
This morning we’ll pay a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, once home to one of the island’s most famous residents, the world-famous Lonesome George – who was 100 years old when he died.

11 SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND
Today we take to the water to get our last glimpse of the famous and equally incredible underwater world of Galapagos. First we’ll cruise along the coast in our boat where our Local Guide will point out the species of shore birds like the Great Frigatebird and other native species. Later we’ll head to Puerto Grande, a beautiful beach which is our final stop for the day. After lunch on board, spend your time swimming in the turquoise water or snapping photos of Kicker Rock in the distance. We’ll head back to town late afternoon where we'll be treated to one of the best BBQ’s in the Galapagos at one of the local’s favorite spots to celebrate a great Galapagos trip.

12 SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND TO GUAYAQUIL
The trip is about to come to an end, but its not over yet. Make the most of the time you have left & soak up those last rays and have a few photos with the crew. Next up is Guayaquil, where it’s time to say ‘adios’ to your team & travel buddies.

What's Included

11 nights twin-share hotel accommodation
2 internal flights & transfers
Transport in a private air-conditioned coach, mini-coach or van
Sightseeing tours of all major areas
Local taxes & services charges (excluding compulsory US$100 entrance fee to Galapagos National Park, a US$10 INGALA fee (US$20 from March 1st) & a US$5 Isabela Island tax which is only payable in cash)
An experienced & professional Trip Manager
English speaking local guides
18 meals: 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches & 5 dinners