DAY 1
Quito
Arrive Quito. Check in at Swissotel Quito. We will organize a pick up transfer for we, so one of our staff members will be waiting for we at the arrivals area. Check in to the comfortable 4.5 star Swisshotel where we’ll spend the next 6 nights. The Swisshotel boasts a full gym, spa, 7 restaurants, 2 bars, indoor and outdoor pool.
DAY 2
Quito City
Spend the morning getting to know and learn about the different facets of Colonial Quito by walking through its historic cobbled streets, museums, churches, and plazas. Then visit the Equator complex where we can stand literally in the middle of 2 hemispheres. If we get clear skies, we can ride the Teleferico for a view of the whole city. To celebrate our first day together, we’ll dine at one of the best restaurants in Quito.
DAY 3
Papallacta
Starting at 6:00am, we head to the jungle where we will meet the class IV Jondachi River. After 3 hours rafting, a box lunch is provided at the edge of the river. The river is not too high during this season and we will enjoy stunning scenery along the river. After rafting, an hour drive takes us to the luxurious Papallacta hot springs to rest and enjoy.
DAY 4
Otavalo
The Otavalo Market is undoubtedly one of the most important and spectacular markets in all of Latin America. We will have ample time to stroll among Otavalo Indians to explore their handicraft market, with its wonderful textiles, native paintings, ceramics, jewelry, tapestries and more at bargain prices. Back to Quito for free time in the afternoon.
DAY 5
Mindo Cloud Forest
Mindo Cloud forest is filled with amazing plant, animal life, and a birdwatcher's paradise! Here we can see the butterfly farm, walk through the 7 waterfalls and go tubing in the river. We will end the day in a chocolate factory to taste the local chocolate. Optional zip lining.
DAY 6
Cotopaxi - Quilotoa
Cotopaxi is the highest active volcano in the world and number one viewpoint of the Andes. We will walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon and Quilotoa Crater Lake. Option to kayak at the bottom of the crater or hike all the way up to the top.
DAY 7
Galapagos - Santa Cruz
Check out at Swissotel Quito. Transfer to the airport to catch a morning flight to the Galapagos. At our arrival to Baltra airport, we need to pay $100 cash per person for the Galapagos Entrance fee.
First stop is el Chato, where we will see the giant tortoises and have lunch. In the afternoon we will see the Charles Darwin station. Free time for the rest of the day to enjoy our waterfront hotel.
Check in at Angermeyer Waterfront Inn.
DAY 8
Bartolome
Day tour to Bartolome by speed boat. Bartolome Island is home to some of the most breathtaking panoramas in the Galapagos. The most photographed spot in the Galapagos is located here, the Pinnacle rock. We will have the opportunity to swim with colorful fish, sea lions and Galapagos Penguins, as well as swim and snorkel around Pinnacle Rock. This is very interesting for geology.
DAY 9
North Seymour
Day tour to North Seymour where we can see the Frigate birds, land iguanas, and the most sought after residents in the Galapagos Islands, the Blue-Footed Boobie. Snorkeling and diving are possible.
DAY 10
Tortuga Bay - Isabela
Check out at Angermeyer Waterfront Inn.
Spend a morning in the beach of Tortuga bay to enjoy the nicest beach in Santa Cruz and a 2 hour speed boat to Isabela. In the afternoon, walk the cute town, have a drink while watching the sunset at the hotel's beach. Check in at Iguana Crossing Hotel.
DAY 11
Tintoreras
Over here, we will have the best snorkeling opportunity with all these beautiful animals, including the curious Galapagos penguin playing around. Before or after the trip, we can enjoy some optional activities such as snorkeling at "Concha de Perla", kayaking in Tintoreras, taking surfing lessons, biking or just relax on the exotic white-sand beaches of Isabela Island.
DAY 12
San Cristobal
Check out at Iguana Crossing Hotel. We will take a flight to San Cristobal in the early morning. Today, we will have a volunteering day helping the children with projects in the community!
5:00 pm Check in at Casa Opuntia Galapagos Hotel
DAY 13
Kicker Rock
Day tour to Kicker Rock by speedboat. Kicker Rock is the remains of a
volcanic cone that has been eroded by the sea. Above the water, the monolithic rock formation towers over 500 feet above the Pacific Ocean and is home to a number of Tropicbirds, Blue-footed Boobies and Frigate birds. But, the true appeal of this location occurs below the surface of the sea. The natural erosion of this ancient cone has created a channel between the rocks that provides the ideal habitat to view a variety of sharks and rays including Spotted Eagle Rays, White-tip Reef sharks, the elusive Galapagos Shark and Hammerheads! A lunch stop and swim at Manglesito Beach on Islas Lobos is included, where we can snorkel with friendly Sea Lions or take a stroll on the beach. This tour can be centered around snorkeling or SCUBA diving. Our farewell dinner will be at our hotel’s restaurant, known for the best seafood in town.
DAY 14
Depart San Cristobal
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