Travel Guide

Dive into our best Ecuador and Galapagos travel guide to ensure your trip is smooth sailing!

Places to Visit

Begin your adventure in Quito, a hidden cultural gem not to be missed in your Ecuador and Galapagos tour package. The next best place would be Cotopaxi, the snow-capped giant that presents aerial views. Ecuador has much for the nature lover, as there are lush cloud forests with a touch of biodiversity and cascading waterfalls. The adventure continues at Galápagos, where on Española Island, you can walk across Punta Suárez, filled with blue-footed boobies and albatross colonies. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters at Devil's Crown, close to Floreana Island, and visit the quirkily named "Post Office Bay," which has much maritime history up its sleeve. On Santa Cruz Island, you can also see the Charles Darwin Research Station, home to the most famous Galápagos tortoises.

Travel Tips

Travel light but layered up! From the Andes to the coasts to the Galápagos, climates are as different, so keep your sunscreen and reusable bottle handy in comfortable hiking shoes. For the Galápagos destination, a waterproof bag and reef-safe sunscreen are the must-haves. Have yourself booked the preferred hotels and yacht tours in advance.

Climate and the Best Months to Visit

Ecuador is a year-round destination, but December through May is best for the Galápagos. These months have warm weather and calm seas, which serve visitors well for snorkeling and wildlife watching. Tourists coming to and going about the Andes and highlands park at hotels from June through September, which is the season best for clear skies and temperate weather conditions that are favorable for outdoor excursions.

Itineraries

Enjoy Ecuador's cultural whirlwind and the beautiful nature of the Galapagos in this 5-day itinerary, which begins with the infamous Quito. Quito is the city where this beautiful journey begins. Like a king, the town wears a sweet history on its head. Its historical section, the world's first UNESCO World Heritage site, is straddled by the Middle of the World Monument. From here, head into the fairy cloud forests, where climbing and exotic animals promise bewitchment at every angle. Visit the colorful haven of the Otavalo Market, filled with handmade treasures, and enjoy the tranquil, brilliant waters of Cuicocha Lake. Finish in Cotopaxi on volcanic hiking trails that will leave your dreamers astonished at the grandness of creation. Or you could take an 8-day luxury itinerary and enjoy initiation in Quito, soaking in the embossed heritage of the city before advancing to the Otavalo Valley for a close-up view of the intimate Ecuadorian traditions.

Let the adventure spread wings as you sail to the Galápagos Islands. Stroll in the company of giant tortoises in Santa Cruz, snorkel in the explosive reefs of Devil's Crown, and be awed by the lively seabird colonies along Española Island. Finish that enchanting journey on Floreana Island, from discovering volcanic landscapes to lying under silky sands. The best part is that Ecuador and  Galapagos itineraries are easily customizable based on your travel preferences. You can craft the best Ecuador Galapagos itinerary with us, no matter where you start.

Why Choose Leisure?

Why Leisure is your best choice for luxury travel?. Because life is far too short for small-batch holidays and bland itineraries! We are the enchantingly spellbinding travel matchmakers to bring alive every one of your travel fantasies about Ecuador and the Galapagos—no pulled rabbit out of a hat but entail yacht charters, jaw-dropping boutique stays, and unforgettable encounters with local wildlife.

We are in your adventure buddy circle, adding a touch of luxury to each snorkel, market, and gourmet experience with a big dollop of laughter. Want to sip champagne with a view of a volcano? We can make it happen. Fancy swimming with sea lions? Absolutely, yes, that's possible! Need help with booking flights, leisure jets, or even a luxury cruise? We are here for you. So, what is your job? Pack sunscreen. And ours? Everything else. Contact us to start turning your wanderlust into wow moments!