Explore two of Ecuador’s beautiful regions: the Andean Highlands and the Galapagos Islands in this wonderful two-week itinerary that showcases Ecuadorian culture and natural wonders.
This family-friendly adventure begins in Quito, the capital city, and winds through the Andes with stops at traditional haciendas, villages, markets and other sites en route. Then, continue on to your Galapagos cruise on a yacht specially chosen to welcome families!
We start in Quito, with a city tour of this historic city and visit to the famed Equator Monument. Then continue on to Antisana Ecological Reserve and Volcano, where you’ll have a chance to hike or horseback ride and enjoy a picnic lunch in this pristine natural reserve. Overnight at Hacienda San Agustin de Callo, a beautiful hacienda with plenty of history. You’ll have the chance to ride around the hacienda, before continuing on to Baños, on the edge of the cloud forest. This small town is known for its handicraft markets and waterfalls – perfect of hikes for energetic travelers of all ages.
Continue on to Riobamba, a lively colonial city with cobbled streets and pastel buildings. After an overnight you’ll have an early day on the exciting Devil’s Nose Train, which takes you in a traditional train carriage on the switchbacks of the Devil’s Nose and down a 45-degree gradient, and through several climate zones.
Explore the Ingapirca Inca ruins after this ride, and on to the charming colonial town of Cuenca. Spend the day exploring Cuenca with your guide – the town is home to lovely architecture, art galleries, a lively produce and flower market, and handicrafts market.
After a night in Cuenca, visit El Cajas National Park to hike and enjoy a picnic before continuing on to Guayaquil, on the coast. From here you’ll take your flight to the Galapagos Islands for your exciting cruise or land-based adventure. Programs range from four to eight days, and we work with plenty of yachts that welcome families for all budgets and travel styles. We also work with land based and villa based programs. So we can help you plan the perfect Andes of Ecuador and Galapagos combo vacation.
Contact us for more information on customizing this exciting trip for your family!
