Marvels of Ecuador

Day 1: Quito
Evening arrival in Quito. Private transfer to a boutique or luxury hotel. Quito is just 22 kilometers from the Equator, but has a spring-like climate that makes it perfect for an extended stay. Overnight Quito.

Day 2: Cloud Forest
Drive through paramó until you reach the could forest, where you'll visit the hummingbird reserve. The reserve is at the private home of a famous ornithologist where it is possible to see up to 40 varieties. Also visit El Phuma Forest, a private protected area located in the cloud forest and a good place to see orchids. Overnight Quito.

Day 3: Highlands
The nearby Highlands around the village of Otávalo reveal beautiful landscapes, in the full majesty of the Andes. Tonight, after your private transfer to the Highlands, you will stay at Hacienda Cusín, This lovely, first-class hacienda, has guestrooms with views of the garden or mountains. Guestrooms have fireplaces, beamed ceilings and antique reproduction furniture and Andean crafts. Activities around the property include horseback rides, biking, and visits to nearby villages and lakes.
Overnight Cusín.

Day 4: Otavalo
Today you’ll spend the day in and around Otávalo’s famous market. Take in the sounds, smells and colorful sights of this traditional craft market. Also visit Peguche, a village famous for its textiles, and Cotacachi, home to Ecuador’s finest leather craftsmen. Overnight Zuleta.

Day 5: Hacienda Zuleta
Have a full day of activities at Zuleta, including visiting the condor project, horseback riding in the Andes, and visiting the cheese factory and embroidery factory. Touring the farm on foot or on horseback is a typical part of every guest's stay. The hacienda is as famous for its horses and riding program as it is for its history and hospitality. Overnight Zuleta.

Day 6: Northern Highlands
Continue to Cayambe's "Middle of the World" Monument, then see how the village's traditional biscuits and cheese are made. Relax before you flight to the Galapagos the next morning. Overnight Quito.

Day 7: Galapagos
Transfer to the airport in Quito for your flight to the Galapagos Islands. Once there, you will be met and transferred to your boat, for example, the M/V Explorer II, which is an elegant motor-vessel with classic modern lines, blending comfort, adventure and environmental preservation in the Galapagos Islands. Of course, the boat selection can be tailored to your preferences, including size, budget, cruise style and length of cruise.

Suites on the Explorer average 250 sq. ft. and have private baths with marble vanities and personal hairdryers. Beds can be configured as two twins or one queen and also offer a small sitting area. Telephones in cabins are available for either national or international calls.

M/V Explorer II (or other smaller yachts in our portfolio) Itinerary for 5 or 8 days

FOUR NIGHTS (Saturday to Wednesday) - Day 7 - Saturday
AM: Arrival by air to Baltra Airport
PM: Cerro Dragon, Santa Cruz Island

Day 8 - Sunday
AM: Bartholomew Island
PM: Puerto Egas,  Santiago Island

Day 9 - Monday
AM: Punta Espinoza, Fernandina Island
PM: Punta Vicente Roca, Isabela Island

Day 10 -Tuesday
AM: Seymour Norte
PM: El Chato (Highlands), lava tunnels and Wild Giant Tortoises Santa Cruz Island

Day 11 Wednesday
AM: Lobería or Islas Lobos or Tijeretas or El Junco and Interpretation Center, San Cristobal Island

Day 11: Quito
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Quito. Guided evening walk of lovely colonial section of Quito with dinner in spectacular restaurant.
Overnight Quito.

Day 12: Quito / Home
Transfer to airport to catch your international flight home.