Combine the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands - one of the most intriguing destinations on earth - with Ecuador. From giant tortoises and iguanas sunning themselves on black lava rocks to stately colonial buildings and thriving native communities, you’ll see it all on this magnificent tour.

• Travelling - 1
  

  Fly to Quito.

• Visit the middle of the world - 2
  

  Snow capped mountains, lush forested hills and fertile green valleys ring the city of Quito. A tour takes you to the old town, with its narrow streets, colonial style houses, flowered balconies and shady cloisters. Marvel at the treasures in the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo and prepare to be dazzled by the fabulous oil paintings and gold leaf which adorn the floors and ceilings. Standing just north of Quito is the Equatorial Complex and the monument marking the earth’s latitude of 0’ 0’ 0’’, the exact point of the middle of the world. Stand with one foot on the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern hemisphere, a truly unique experience.

• Experience the local traditions of The Andes - 3
  

  Soak up the atmosphere of centuries of history and Inca culture as you journey through mountainous scenery and colourful villages bustling with activity. Traditions are still preserved in the thriving little town of Peguche. As you wander through the streets take time to meet the locals famed for weaving on handmade looms. Look out for hand-made wooden instruments which capture the sounds of water and air, both such important elements to the Incas.

• Soak up the atmosphere at Otavalo Market - 3
  

  After lunch in a local restaurant visit vibrant Otavalo Market, one of the most famous in Latin America. Take in the sights, sounds and smells as you browse the colourful stalls where cheerful local women in traditional ponchos sell a mesmerising array of handicrafts and local food. Ask your Tour Guide for advice on the very best stalls to buy from and be ready to bargain.

• Travel The Avenue of Volcanoes - 4
  

  The Andean volcanoes provide a brooding, snow-covered contrast to the green equatorial lushness. This is a natural habitat for rarely seen wolves, bears and pumas. As you drive through this magnificent towering terrain catch glimpses of the snow capped cone of the active volcanic Mount Cotopaxi. Look out too for the local vendors who line the highway tempting travellers with an array of herbal cures, empanadas, plantain chips, vivid green limes and cooling ice cream.

  At the foot of the still active Tungurahua Volcano discover the town of Banos. Take time for a stroll and view the stunning waterfalls which are visible from many parts of the town. If time allows visit the local spa and relax in one of the pools. Make sure you sample the hand-made toffee, made by stretching out on posts, and look out for sugar cane stalks being ground into a deliciously refreshing drink.

• Stay in a Hacienda - 4
  

  Verdant landscape greets you as you continue to the town of Patate. Mandarins, peaches, passion fruit and grapes grow in the fertile landscape and this area produces some of the best aguardiente liquor. Try a glass of this local speciality over dinner at the traditional Hacienda where you stay tonight.

• Walk along a nature trail - 5
  

  Relax and enjoy the natural wonders of your beautiful surroundings. Take an optional horseback ride or walk along one of the many nature trails close to the Hacienda. After lunch return by road to Quito.

• Fly to the Galapagos Islands - 6
  

  Fly to Sao Cristobal Island in the Galapagos, the starting point for a truly unique cruise of discovery. Swim with a sea lion, paddle with a penguin, be amused by the foolish booby bird and watch a giant tortoise wallow in the swamps of Santa Cruz Island. The wildlife is truly unparalleled.

• Follow in the footsteps of Darwin - 6
  

  Cerro Brujo is the port of call. This was one of the first sites visited by Charles Darwin in the 1830s while on the voyage of the HMS Beagle. Follow in his footsteps and as you land on the white sandy beach and step into the shallow waters imagine how he must have felt when first setting eyes on this veritable feast of marine birdlife. Immerse yourself in this bird lovers paradise as you stroll along the beach and take time to enjoy a swim and some snorkelling. Stay on board the M/V Galapagos Explorer.

• Watch sea lions and iguanas - 7
  

  The southernmost island of the archipelago, Hood Island is the most isolated, and the only breeding ground of the majestic waved albatross. Explore Punta Suarez, one of the most spectacular spots in the Galapagos. Prehistoric marine iguanas, which look like miniature dragons, eye you languorously from jagged lava rocks. Marvel at the famous blow holes through which the sea spouts up to 65ft into the air. The beach at Gardner Bay is among the most magnificent of the islands. Colonies of sea lions bask in the turquoise water which contrasts perfectly with the shell dust white sand. Look out too for white-tipped reef shark, cactus finch and other colourful sea dwellers on a dinghy ride to spectacular Gardner Rock. Stay on board the M/V Galapagos Explorer.

• Spend time with the giant tortoise - 8
  

  A highlight on this tour of highlights. Visit Santa Cruz Island to see the giant tortoise. Visit the Land Tortoise Breeding Centre and the Charles Darwin Research Station where work includes the protection of threatened endemic species.

• Spot colonies of flamingo - 8
  

  A salt water lagoon on this remarkable red island is home to brown pelicans. Look out for the elusive but stunning colonies of pink flamingo. Take the short walk to the top of the trail where you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the clear waters and volcanic peaks and a perfect perch from where to keep an eye out for sharks and rays. Stay on board the MV Galapagos Explorer.

• Sea turtles and a swim at Bachas Beach - 9
  

  Visit the nesting site for sea turtles on Santa Cruz Island and enjoy a last swim at Bachas Beach. A ride in a zodiac inflatable boat will take you to Baltra Island pier. Return flight to G’uyaquil. Day 9 depart on your overnight flight to the UK.

• Travelling - 10
  

  Arrive UK.

Accommodation

• Hilton Hotel, Quito (4-Star) - 4 Nights
• Hacienda Leito, Patate - 1 Night
• M/V Galapagos Explorer Cruise - 3 Nights

• Flights are scheduled services of
• Flights depart at 12:00 am and return at 1:55 pm

Includes

Not Included