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Guided Tours of Ecuador & Private Ecuador Tour Packages 2024 & 2025

Ecuador only tours, authentic, immersive & inspiring guided ecuador tour package itineraries for 2024 & 2025, multi-country tours, from the majestic amazon rainforest to the highest peaks of the andes, our guided ecuadorian tour packages pack a punch, start your journey here.

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How can we help, which region(s) are you interested in, how did you hear about us, explore beautiful landscapes and experience diverse wildlife with our private ecuador escorted tours., visit stunning volcanos with our tailor-made ecuador adventure tours and ecuador travel packages.

Ecuador is home to the highest active volcano in the world – Cotopaxi. If that’s not intriguing enough, our feature-rich Ecuador Adventure Tours give you the opportunity to hike up this historical landmark. Our Ecuador private tours are tailor-made to ensure you get the most out of your trip and truly experience the unique historical attractions of exquisite Ecuador. Our luxury guided tours of Ecuador create a tailor-made plan that guarantees you are relaxed, safe and relishing all the wonders the country offers.

If you crave adventure on your tour to Ecuador, you must check out our Ecuador Adventure Tours, which delivers unique experiences, exploring this beautiful country with our expertly curated tours in Ecuador, allowing you to truly embrace the culture. It’s time to park the car and experience the life of many local tribes with the backdrop of breathtaking waterfalls and mesmerising scenes. We guarantee our Ecuador Adventure Tours will offer a jammed-packed itinerary that brings you on an unforgettable journey making your Ecuador Tour an unforgettable lifetime experience. Looking for adventure elsewhere on another escorted tour in South America ? Check our guided tours to Peru , Colombia private tour packages , guided tours in Costa Rica and Galapagos islands small boat tours .

Once-in-a-Lifetime Ecuador Guided Tour Packages From the Leading Ecuador Tour Operator

Trustworthy ecuador tour operator offering safe and secure guided ecuador tours, private tours to ecuador incorporating enchanting itineraries you will always remember, want to explore our different guided ecuador tours speak to the team today.

Widely renowned as the leading Ecuador tour operator in the region. When you book a tour to Ecuador with us, you are guaranteed to feel safe, secure and comfortable throughout. We take your guided tour of Ecuador as seriously as you do, and we aim to allow you to experience the unique wonders of the country in the safest, most secure and carefully curated way possible, giving you a luxurious experience with our Ecuador escorted tours.

 We are the best tour operator Ecuador offers for good reason; our attention to detail is unsurpassed in the industry. We thrive on the satisfaction of our customers, ensuring you experience the wonders of your Ecuador vacation. Book a guided Ecuador tour today and relish in the culture-soaked marvels of your private Ecuador tour. Experience majestic art museums or soak up the vibrancy of the capital city of Quito. Our unique escorted tours to Ecuador will provide memories of Latin America's most beguiling aspects. For the more adventurous and intrepid travellers please check out our guided tours to Antarctica , Amazon rainforest tour packages and South America adventure tour packages .

Book a 2024 Ecuador Escorted Tour Today!

Guided ecuador tour packages faqs, how many days should i spend on an ecuador-guided tour, what destinations should i not miss on my ecuadorian escorted tour, how much do your ecuador vacation packages cost on average, when is the best part of the year to take a private tour of ecuador, why is the latin america travel company one of the best ecuador tour companies in the uk, start your journey.

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DESTINATIONS

RealWorld Holidays in South America

  • Ecuador Holidays

Tailor-made tours to Ecuador

Tailormade Ecuador Holidays

Lovely colonial towns, studded among the giant snow-capped volcanoes of the Andes. Wide, slow jungle rivers winding their way through the rainforest on their way to the Amazon. And glorious beaches lying underneath the equatorial sun. Welcome to our tailor-made holidays to Ecuador!

And if you'd like to add some relaxation time to your 2020/21 Ecuador holidays then you might enjoy spending a few days in one of the country's superb spa hotels with natural thermal springs and pure mountain air? Or you could just head down to the sunshine and beaches of Ecuador's Pacific coast, where you can stay in anything from five-star luxury resorts to eco-treehouses and everything in-between.

Top 2023/24 Holidays to Ecuador

Andean explorer.

  • Length: 12 days
  • From: £ 2095 pp
  • Highlights: Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Devil's Nose, Cuenca

Journey south from Quito through the spectacular scenery of the Cotopaxi National Park, including the infamous Devil's Nose railway ...

Amazon Adventure

  • Length: 10 days
  • From: £ 1895 pp
  • Highlights: Amazon Rainforest, Quito

This holiday in Ecuador gives you the chance to enjoy an extended period of time in the incredible bio-diversity of the Amazon rainforest ...

Galapagos Explorer

  • From: £ 3450 pp
  • Highlights: Galapagos Islands, Quito, Cotopaxi

Visit Quito and the Cotopaxi National Park before heading out across the Pacific for a superb island-hopping tour of the Galapagos Islands ...

Andes to Amazon

  • From: £ 2395 pp
  • Highlights: Cloud Forest, Cotopaxi, Amazon Jungle

This fantastic Ecuador holiday first concentrates on exploring the beauty of Ecuador's majestic Andes mountains, before taking you down from the peaks to explore the heart of the amazing Amazon rainforest ...

Beauty & the Beach

  • From: £ 1595 pp
  • Highlights: Pacific Coast, Cotopaxi, Quito

Ecuador's beautiful Pacific beaches are the perfect place to relax after a trip deep into the Cotopaxi National Park, and these holidays to Ecuador let you do just that ...

  • Length: 20 days
  • From: £ 3395 pp
  • Highlights: Otovalo, Cotopaxi, Cuenca, Amazon, Beaches

This full-length Ecuador holiday gives you the chance to see the whole of Ecuador, from the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the steamy Amazon jungle, before ending up with some time on Ecuador's superb beaches ...

Incas & Iguanas

  • Length: 14 days
  • From: £ 3895 pp
  • Highlights: Cusco, Machu Picchu, Santa Cruz, Isabela

Two weeks combining Peru and Machu Picchu with an island-hopping holiday to the Galapagos Islands ...

"The itinerary you put together was superb and packed in a huge number of highlights."

Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands

Although we're always keen for people to spend some of their time on holiday in Ecuador visiting the many delights of the mainland, obviously we understand that the Galapagos Islands are the major draw for many visitors.

Luckily, whether you want to take a cruise in the Galapagos, or take an island-hopping trip, it's easy to extend any of our Ecuador holidays to include a holiday to the Galapagos Islands as well - you can see our Galapagos Explorer itinerary above for an example.

Adventure Sports and Trekking in Ecuador

As you head south from Quito along the "Valley of the Volcanoes" you enter one of the best environments for high-altitude trekking in the world. Not only are the snow-capped mountains and alpine meadows stunningly beautiful, but they're also incredibly accessible with nearly all of the best trekking in Ecuador all reached within a day's drive of Quito, along with world-beating white-water rafting, horse-riding and mountain-biking.

When is the Best Time to Visit Ecuador?

Ecuador has a fairly mild climate throughout the year, but particularly in the highlands (think Quito, Otavalo and Cotopaxi) there is a pronounced rainy season from November through to March, so if you can travel outside that period, you should.

There are also several important festivals throughout the year which are worth catching if you can. Quito celebrates its foundation on the 6th of December every year with a week long party, including free concerts by big international names, and New Year's Eve is also a great time to visit the city. Meanwhile, for something more traditional, the Andean New Year, known as Inti Raymi falls on the summer solstice every year and is marked by big celebrations in Otavalo.

Top things to do in Ecuador

  • Cloud Forest

Extend Your 2023 Ecuador Holidays

Ecuador does have some decent Inca ruins of its own, at Ingapirca and elsewhere but if we're being completely honest they don't really compare to the awesome sight of Machu Picchu in Ecuador's southern neighbour, Peru. Luckily it's very easy to combine a visit to Machu Picchu with any of our 2020 holidays in Ecuador, or even add to add on a visit to somewhere further afield. With good air connections to countries like Chile, Colombia and Bolivia, Ecuador could be just your starting point...

RealWorld Holidays 2019 Copa Cup Rundown ...

The 2019 Copa America will get underway on 14 June, with action that is sure to be as hot as the scorching Brazilian sun. This summer is ...

Why Costa Rica is perfect for honeymoons ...

While your wedding will likely be one of the happiest days of your life, it’s the honeymoon that really gives you the chance to relax, reconnect and ...

Travel interview: The AdventureFaktory Team ...

Take a look at our latest interview with the brilliant team of AdventureFaktory, which consists of a group of passionate and dedicated adventurers. Take a look at ...

Useful Ecuador Links

  • Weather in Ecuador
  • Language in Ecuador
  • Ecuador's Amazon Rainforest
  • Food & Drink in Ecuador
  • Currency in Ecuador
  • Railway Journeys
  • The Galapagos Islands
  • Our Holidays in Ecuador

Upcoming Events in Ecuador

  • Carnaval in Ecuador
  • Semana Santa
  • Yamor Festival
  • New Year in Ecuador
  • Fiestas de Quito

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See the very best of Ecuador on a guided tour with Wendy Wu Tours. Choose from escorted group tours, private tours or short breaks, and everything from classic introductory Ecuador tours to luxury adventures guided by our experts.

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Flamingos in the Galapagos

Luxury Ecuador & Galapagos tour

16 days from £14,995pp

  • Day-to-day Itinerary
  • Ecuador trip ideas

Tour highlights

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Quito with its growing reputation for good restaurants, bars and cafés.

Enjoy a stay in the cloudforest at Mashpi Lodge surrounded by birdlife and home to great canopy tram.

Stay at Hacienda Zuleta which is considered to be one of the finest haciendas in Ecuador.

Discover the incredible, fearless wildlife of the Galapagos on a luxury Silversea cruise.

Price includes:

  • Scheduled international and domestic flights
  • In-destination transfers
  • All-inclusive board basis during your cruise
  • Activities and excursions as detailed
  • All accommodation
  • 24-hour support while you travel

Itinerary idea in detail

Includes international flights from a choice of UK airports, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Quito. On arrival in Quito, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

El Palacio de Gobierno, Plaza Grande, Quito

Enjoy a guided tour of Quito's highlights today.

Quito, Ecuador

Today, you will head northwest into the cool cloudforest region. Your destination will be Mashpi Lodge, a fantastic luxury property in the heart of this unique ecosystem.

Flora, Mashpi Lodge

Enjoy excursions from Mashpi Lodge or take a journey on their two kilometre sky tram through the cloudforest canopy.

Toucan barbet, Mashpi Lodge

Travel across the Andes today to your beautiful hacienda.

Hacienda Zuleta

Free time to walk along 60 km (37 miles) of self-guided trails, or perhaps horse ride or fish. There is also a condor restoration project and pre-Inca site within the grounds of this wonderful hacienda.

Hacienda Zuleta, Hacienda Zuleta

Enjoy a final day at leisure at Hacienda Zuleta. In the afternoon you will be taken back to Quito.

Quito at night, Ecuador

Today you will fly to the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival, be greeted by a representative from your luxury cruise and board the ship ready for your seven-night Galapagos expedition.

Sea lion, Galapagos Islands

Today you will visit 'Bird Island', Genovesa with its many land and seabird species. There is ample time to fit in both hiking and snorkelling excursions — look out for red-footed boobies, frigatebirds and the notoriously hard to spot short-eared owl.

Fernandina, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

North Seymour Island is your morning landing with its flat plateau where sea lions nurse pups and frigatebirds nest. In the afternoon, you’ll head on to the impressive lava fields of Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island. Look out for bright red Sally Lightfoot crabs on your island hike whilst also learning about the geology of this otherworldly landscape.

Galapagos Flamingo

Heading westwards, you’ll stop at Punta Mangle on Fernandina Island, where three species of mangrove serve as a nursery for many species of fish and other marine life, including juvenile sharks and green sea turtles. Finish the day on the south coast of Isabela Island, where you can see the largest marine iguanas of the archipelago, as well as flightless cormorants and Galapagos penguins.

Marine iguana, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Santa Cruz is your destination this morning, the most populated island of the Galapagos but still home to plenty of flora and fauna, as well as varying microclimates as a result of the higher altitudes found inland. Later you’ll sail on to Santa Fé, home to the endemic Santa Fe Land Iguana that can only be found on this one island.

Marine Iguana Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

You’ll spend the full day today around Española, the oldest island in the archipelago. Here you can see waved albatrosses at certain times of year, as well as many other seabirds enjoying the thermals around the sheer cliff edges. You’ll also have time to enjoy the picture-perfect white sand and turquoise waters at Gardner Bay.

Galapagos Sealions Resting in the Sun

Today is spent on San Cristóbal, one of the most easterly islands of the Galapagos and home to 8,000 people making their living mainly from tourism and fishing. You’ll have some time to see the sea lions in the harbour followed by a swim or snorkel from a more remote beach.

Lava flows and cacti, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

A final morning to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere in the harbour area of San Cristóbal, before you disembark your cruise and transfer to the airport for your flight back to the mainland, where you’ll connect to your return flight home.

Sally Lightfoot crab, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Arrive home today to complete your journey.

Accommodation options

While the itinerary price reflects the suggested accommodation, Audley trips are 100% tailor-made, and a specialist can help you select the option best suited to your tastes and budget.

Casa Gangotena, Quito

Casa Gangotena

La Casona de la Ronda, Quito

La Casona de la Ronda

Hotel Hilton Colon, Quito

Hotel Hilton Colon

Patio Andaluz, Quito

Patio Andaluz

View more accommodation in quito.

Mashpi Lodge

  • Mashpi Lodge

Junior Suite, Hacienda Zuleta

  • Hacienda Zuleta

Silversea Silver Origin - Galapagos Cruise

Silversea Silver Origin - Galapagos Cruise

Floreana Lava Lodge, Galapagos Islands

Floreana Lava Lodge

Casa Opuntia, Galapagos Islands

Casa Opuntia

  • The Galapagos Islands

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The specialist who designs your trip to Ecuador will have explored the country many times and, in some cases, lived there. Their first-hand knowledge gives us the belief that no other travel company can match our expertise in helping you plan your trip.

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Galapagos Islands Tours & Holidays

Male Marine Iguanas and Sally lightfoot crab on the rocks of the Galapagos islands, Ecuador.

Step into an isolated world. See giant tortoises roaming and unforgettable landscapes unfurl before your very eyes. 

Inquisitive sea lions and spiky marine iguanas breach and bask between island and shore. Friendly hammerhead sharks patrol the depths and blue-footed boobies cut through the sky. Come with us on our Galapagos Islands tours & holidays and observe the local wildlife in the same, untouched way Charles Darwin did hundreds of years ago. Nowadays, these Ecuadorian islands host a steady stream of modern-day explorers from animal-seekers who long for face-to-face encounters to sun-chasers itching to relax on a pristine beach or two. Embark on your own adventure as you wander from isla to isla, soak in crystal-clear waters, traverse volcanic landscapes, and spot animals you've only ever seen pictures of . To be honest, there's simply no place on Earth quite like the Galapagos.  

Our Galapagos Islands trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Galapagos Islands highlights

Transport in the galapagos islands.

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.Depending on which trip you're on while in the Galapagos Islands, you may find yourself on:

Galapagos Islands tour reviews

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Galapagos Discovery

Galapagos at a Glance: Southern Islands (Grand Daphne)

Classic Galapagos: Central Eastern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Ultimate Galapagos: Central Islands (Grand Daphne)

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How the animal anomalies of the Galapagos helped validate my life choices

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The top 7 destinations for travel in September 2024

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Quito and beyond: 3 things to do in Ecuador after a Galapagos trip

Galapagos Islands at a glance

Capital city.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

US dollar (USD)

(GMT-06:00) Galapagos

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Galapagos Islands

Best time to visit.

Simply put, there’s no bad time to visit the Galapagos Islands. Good weather is mostly found year round, as are the animals. This being said, November through to June is the preferred time to visit, with clearer skies, calmer seas and decreased winds. Of these, March and April have less rain, while November and December are the warmest. July to November is the best time for divers as whale sharks can often be spotted at Wolf and Darwin islands.

Learn more about the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands

Culture and customs

Ever since Charles Darwin brought attention to the giant tortoises, sea lions, hammerhead sharks and other spectacular wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, people have been fascinated by this archipelago of volcanic islands. Originally a pirate hideout, people started migrating to the islands from Ecuador after it became part of the country in 1832. Of the 13 major islands and scores of smaller islands and islets that make up the Galapagos, only five of them are inhabited – about 26,000 residents spread over the islands of Isabela, Santa Cruz, Floreana, Baltra and San Cristobal. The wildlife rules the rest of the islands, which are carefully managed to help protect the precious environment.

Geography and environment

Located in the Pacific Ocean about 965 kilometres (600 miles) off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago of 13 major islands, six smaller islands and more than 100 islets. Some are sparsely vegetated with largely mountainous interiors, whereas others are comparatively lush with white-sand beaches. Many of the islands are in a state of flux, as continual volcanic eruptions cause them to erode and expand.

The largest island, Isabela, makes up half the land area of the Galapagos and is characterised by three active volcanos, a blue lagoon, clear lakes filled with flamingos and beaches where iguanas and sea lions roam. Santa Cruz is the second largest island with giant tortoises, marine iguanas and Galapagos crabs residing in Tortuga Bay. The oldest and most remote island, Espanola (also called Hood), boasts boobies, albatrosses and many species of birds and lizards not found anywhere else in the world. 

Top wildlife to spot

1. Sea Lions

Whether you're loafing about on the beach or snorkelling offshore, you’ll be hard-pressed not to come face-to-face with these frolicsome critters at some stage. Playful, plentiful, and pretty much fearless, you’re supposed to keep a 2-metre distance from these guys at all times - though their insatiable curiosity can make this hard.

2. Marine Iguanas

The only lizards in the world that can live and forage in the ocean, the marine iguana is found solely in the Galapagos. Fierce and ferocious though these Godzilla-like reptiles may appear (Darwin called them ‘Imps of Darkness’), it’s all bluff – they only feed on algae. And with lung capacities permitting up to half an hour of underwater foraging, you’re just as likely find them gorging on the islands’ surrounding seabeds as scampering about the craggy rocks they inhabit.

3. Hammerhead Sharks

Boasting one of the animal kingdom’s most puzzling physiologies, hammerhead sharks are found in abundance off Wolf, Bartolome, Santa Cruz and Darwin islands. Unlike most sharks, they will often merge into schools of over 100 during the day - making for some incredible and surreal photo opportunities. And with no known human fatalities and a wealth of choice natural prey on offer, diving amongst them isn’t as scary or dangerous as one might think.

Darwin finches gave rise to one of the most game-changing theories of all time. By studying the differences between finches from different islands, Darwin hypothesised that the birds’ adaptations to their habitats resulted in their mutation into different species: his Theory of Evolution.

5. Giant Tortoises

No trip to the islands is complete without a visit to its most famous residents. Weighing up to 400 kg, regularly living for more than 100 years, and able to go for up to 1 year without food, these gentle and slow-moving monsters are an intriguing and humbling spectacle to observe.

6. Sea Turtles

Snorkelling alongside these majestic creatures of the deep (or more accurately, the shallows) is one of those rare, life-affirming moments that makes a trip to the Galapagos immediately worthwhile. Keep your eyes peeled on the beaches for turtle nests too - the Galapagos is a hotbed of activity for these critters. 

7. Blue-Footed Boobies

Despite essentially looking like handsome seagulls with painted toenails, blue-footed boobies, when caught hunting, serve up one of the Galapagos' most thrilling spectacles. Diving from heights of up to 100ft, groups of boobies hit the water at speeds up around 60km per hour. They usually let out a shrill whistle before letting rip, which means you'll usually have warning enough to get your camera out too. How considerate.

8. Flightless Cormorants

Granted, a flightless cormorant spotted on land isn't one of the most invigorating sights you'll see during your time here. But wait until you don your snorkel gear and spot one weaving elegantly through the water - the flightless cormorant will likely become one of your favourite discoveries in the Galapagos Islands for this reason alone.

9. Frigatebird

With its striking wingspan and deeply-forked tail, the magnificent frigate bird is easily one of the most impressive birds in the skies of the Galapagos archipelago. But they don't have such a swell reputation amongst other birds. Whilst they hunt fish on the oceans surface, they also force their winged brethren to regurgitate their food, which then they eat - a process known as kleptoparasitism. Still, they look gorgeous – particularly the males, with their bright-red chin sac.

Healthy and safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to:  http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

From New Zealand?

Go to:  http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

From Canada?

Go to:  https://travel.gc.ca/

Go to:  http://travel.state.gov/

Go to:  http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/

The World Health Organisation

also provides useful health information:  Go to:  http://www.who.int/en/

Further reading

Similar destinations.

Thinking about a trip to the Galapagos Islands but still browsing other destinations? Check out our tours to neighbouring countries:

Colombia tours

Brazil tours

Comparison 

Galapagos or Madagascar? 

Galapagos Islands travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Galapagos Islands?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.

Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality.

Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in the Galapagos Islands?

While tipping isn’t mandatory, tips are very much appreciated by service workers and guides.

Leaving a 10% tip is customary in restaurants.

Some automatically add a 10% service charge to your bill, in which case an extra tip isn’t required.

What is the weather like in the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands enjoy almost perfect weather all year with two distinct seasons offering warmer, rainier months and cooler, drier months.

Temperatures rarely dip below 21°C or reach higher than 32°C. You can travel to the islands anytime throughout the year and experience fantastic weather.

Light rainfall is expected from January to May (along with high humidity levels), but it never lasts for long and doesn't often turn into heavier downpours.

What is the internet access like in the Galapagos Islands?

There are reliable internet cafes in Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island) and Puerto Baquerizo (San Cristobal Island).

Some hotels and restaurants on other islands will have a Wi-Fi connection, but it is best not to rely on it.

Can I use my mobile phone in the Galapagos Islands?

There's good mobile phone reception on the larger islands, but don’t expect it when at sea. The best local telephone companies are Porta and Movistar.

Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you wish to use your mobile phone.

What are the toilets like in the Galapagos Islands?

Most towns have Western-style flushable toilets, though you will likely encounter squat toilets as well. Regardless, it’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser, as they are not always provided.

What will it cost for a...?

  • Juice = USD 1
  • Street food snack = USD 1.50
  • Simple lunch at a local restaurant = USD 3-5 
  • Sit-down dinner at a cafe or restaurant = USD 10–20

Can I drink the water in the Galapagos Islands?

Tap water isn’t considered safe to drink in the Galapagos Islands.

Avoid drinks with ice and make sure to peel fruit before eating it.

Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Your leader or hotel can tell you where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in the Galapagos Islands?

No, credit cards are not widely accepted.

There are a handful of shops on Santa Cruz that may accept major credit cards, but it’s preferable to pay in cash.

How many islands make up the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands are made up of 13 larger islands and more than 60 smaller islands and islets. 5 islands are habitable to just over 30,000 people.

These 5 islands are Isla Baltra, Isla Floreana, Isla Isabela, Isla Santa Cruz, and Isla San Cristobal.

What is ATM access like in Galapagos Island?

The banks in Puerto Ayora and Puerto Baquerizo have ATMs.

The Banco del Pacifico in both towns is open from 8 am to 3:30 pm Monday to Friday and 9 am to 12.30 pm on Saturdays.

It's best to withdraw your money on the mainland in case these are out of order.

Check each bank's website for up-to-date opening hours.

What public holidays are celebrated in the Galapagos Islands?

  • 1 Jan: New Year's Day
  • 6 Jan: Epiphany
  • 1 May: Labour Day
  • 24 May: Battle of Pichincha
  • 10 Aug: Independence Day
  • 9 Oct: Guayaquil Independence Day
  • 2 Nov: All Soul's Day
  • 3 Nov: Cuenca Independence Day
  • 25 Dec: Christmas
  • 31 Dec: New Year's Eve

Please note, Galapagos Islands public holidays may vary.

Are the Galapagos Islands a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

The Galapagos Islands are a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers.

Same-sex marriage was legalised in Ecuador in 2008. The country hosts several fiestas where it’s acceptable for men to cross-dress as women.

However, homophobic attitudes do exist among the older generations. It is best to avoid public displays of affection where possible.

For more detailed advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

What to drink in the Galapagos Islands

Quench your thirst after a glorious day spent exploring the Galapagos  by sipping on a glass of canelazo, horchata tea, or freshly made fruit juice.

During your cruise around the islands, it makes sense to try as many traditional Ecuadorian drinks as you can, especially since there are heaps to choose from.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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Tours to Ecuador

Our Ecuador trips show you the best of this interesting country, with its welcoming people, high-altitude cities, active volcanoes and dense jungle. Top it all off with delicious and mostly organic food and drink. From tasty empanadas to freshly squeezed fruit juice - no concentrate or cartons here!

Ways to explore Ecuador

Boat journeys, short breaks, discover our ecuador tours.

Join your expert  local tour leader  for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure holiday travelling through volcanic mountain ranges, lush rainforest and traditional colonial villages on a  small group tour  to Ecuador.  Discover a wide variety of flora and fauna, birdlife, wild horses and deer living high up in the Ecuador Andes. The snow-covered cone of Cotopaxi soars into the sky on the horizon and a shallow glacial lake ripples in its shadow. Jump in a canoe to go in search of toucan and monkey along the verdant banks of the Amazon rainforest and relax with a refreshing glass of ‘chicha’ prepared by indigenous locals.  For the ultimate wildlife adventure, head to the Galapagos Islands. Spot giant tortoise, large iguana, lizard, and abundant exotic bird species. Dive into the azure-blue sea to see ray gliding through the ocean and swim with sea-lion pups in the calm waters of Isla Lobos.  If you're new to Explore, take a look at our blog post answering some of the most-asked questions about small group travel . 

Our most popular Ecuador tours

Ecuador - andes to amazon.

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Volcanoes and Galapagos

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Machu Picchu and Galapagos

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Ecuador Amazon Extension

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Galapagos - Central & West Islands aboard the Solaris

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Galapagos - Central, West & East Islands aboard the Archipel I

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Galapagos - Central, North, South and East Islands aboard the Archipel I

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Galapagos Express - Central, South & East Islands aboard the Archipel I

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Galapagos - Central & West Islands aboard the Treasure

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Galapagos Express - Central & West Islands aboard the Archipel I

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Trekking

Ecuador Hiking & Trekking Tours

Hiking Cuicocha Ecuador

Walking and trekking holidays in Ecuador

Join one of our Ecuador hiking and trekking tours for a fabulous holiday exploring the best of Ecuador’s Andean mountains and volcanoes. Ecuador is a land of dramatic landscapes and extreme contrasts and is best explored by walkers with our expert hiking guides.  

We put together bespoke tailor-made walking tours to suit you. Add half day walks or full day hikes to your holiday. Alternatively, we can plan an entirely hiking focussed holiday for you. How about walking Ecuador’s highlights over 8 days or add in some multi-day treks and do 4 to 11 days of lodge to lodge trekking.   

Stay in historic haciendas if you love to see the local way of life. We also offer basic or luxury mountain lodges, boutique locally owned hotels or camping as you walk through superb Andean highland scenery.  

The mountains of Ecuador are full of wildlife from buzzard eagles to Andean condors and numerous humming birds. You may see puma, Andean tapir or even spectacled bears.  Ecuador also has a colourful contemporary culture and a rich Inca and pre-Inca past, as well as the best volcanic geography.   

Our expert naturalist guides are chosen for their specialist knowledge. Let us know if you prefer natural history, birding, history, culture and we will choose the best guide for you.  The guides will fill you in on all the details as you explore Ecuador.

Hike past active volcanoes, round volcanic lakes and through bird filled valleys, across mountain plains or up snow covered  volcanoes on the best Ecuador walking holidays.  

We had a wonderful mountain trip! The whole week was very well planned and we really liked our guide Rami. The whole trip was very well organised. Especially through you. You answered my emails and question so fast. I especially have to thank Tom on Andean Trails for that! He is wonderful!! The accommodation were also good, no complaints at all. The food was really nice!

A. Malis, Ecuador

Tailor Made Tours

Quilotoa Ecuador

Let our experts put together the perfect Ecuador trekking holiday to fit your time, budget and tastes.

Group Tours

Quito cable car walk Ecuador

Join a small group of like-minded travellers on a fixed date, guided trekking tour in Ecuador.

Suggested Trips

Ecuador highlights 8-day holiday.

ecuador tours from uk

What's a group trip?

Join a small group of like-minded travellers on a guided trip.

ecuador tours from uk

What's a tailor made trip?

We put together a bespoke tour to fit your requirements.

ecuador tours from uk

What's part of a tailor made trip?

Include this guided group tour within your tailor-made tour.

Family-Cotopaxi-Ecuador

Prices From $1,757 / £1,428 per person

Dates: From January 2024 to December 2024

Duration: 8

Comfort Level:

Capacity: 16 people

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Ecuador Walking Highlights Tour, 7 days

Hiking Cuicocha Ecuador

Prices From $1,969 / £1,601 per person

Duration: 7

Capacity: 8 people

Galapagos Land Tour: Santa Cruz & Isabela

Kat Dougal

Prices From $2,297 / £1,867 per person

Ecuador Family Adventure Holiday

Kat and kids on horses, Ecuador

Prices From $2,192 / £1,782 per person

Duration: 9

Climb Cayambe Volcano, Ecuador

View Cayambe summit, Ecuado

Prices From $1,499 / £1,219 per person

Duration: 6

Chimborazo & Cotopaxi Climb

Summit of Cotopaxi VolcanoEcuador

Prices From $3,505 / £2,850 per person

Duration: 13

Avenue of the Volcanoes Hiking Tour

Prices From $1,826 / £1,485 per person

Ecuador Adventure Holiday

Mindo Canopy Ecuador

Prices From $1,759 / £1,430 per person

Hacienda Zuleta, Ecuador

hacienda-zuleta

Prices From $1,644 / £1,337 per person

Duration: 4

Capacity: 34 people

Maquipucuna Cloud Forest Lodge Tour

Maquipucuna-guide-and-guest-Ecuador

Prices From $464 / £377 per person

Duration: 3

Capacity: 32 people

Santa Lucia Cloud Forest Eco-Lodge

Santa Lucia Cloudforest Lodge Ecuador

Prices From $420 / £341 per person

Ecuador Lodge to Lodge, from 4 days, Cotopaxi Hike

Cotopaxi volcano, Ecuador

Prices From $1,127 / £916 per person

Abraspungo Valley Trek

Abraspungo-trek-Ecuador

Prices From $2,626 / £2,135 per person

Dates: From March 2024 to December 2024

Duration: 5

Podocarpus Hike

El-Altar-trek-and-lake-Ecuador

Prices From $2,520 / £2,049 per person

Cotopaxi Climbing Tour, 3 volcanoes in 6 days.

Happy climbers on Cotopaxi volcano, Ecuador

El Altar Trek

El-Altar-mountain-Ecuador

Prices From $2,840 / £2,309 per person

Ecuador Volcanoes Climbing Expedition

Prices From $3,207 / £2,607 per person

Duration: 15

Capacity: 10 people

Lodge-to-Lodge 13-day Trekking Tour, Ecuador

lodge to lodge ecuador

Prices From $2,360 / £1,919 per person

Climb Cotopaxi Volcano in a guided group.

Climbers summit Cotopaxi Ecuador

Prices From $2,052 / £1,668 per person

Dates: From January 2024 to December 2025

Duration: 10

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Quotation Mark

Safe and sound back in the UK, sadly back at work but it was a great trip. The weather was good to us and we had fantastic views from most of the summits. We made it to the summit of Cotopaxi but unfortunately not Chimborazo due to the conditions at the moment. We were also lucky to catch the end of Carnival with the end of our trip which was an unsuspected bonus! I would like to make a special mention of our guide Wilson, who did a great job of looking after us and keeping us entertained. He really went out of his way to make sure that we had everything we could want and again would recommend his skills, experience and company to anyone interested in walking in Ecuador.

M. Ackroyd , UK, 2010 » Chimborazo & Cotopaxi Climb

Safe and sound back in the UK, sadly back at work but it was a great trip. The weather was good to us and we had fantastic views from most of the summits. A fantastic experience that I would happily recommend to anyone interested and has left me with a taste for more. We were also lucky to catch the end of Carnival with the end of our trip which was an unsuspected bonus! I would like to make a special mention of our guide Wilson, who did a great job of looking after us and keeping us entertained. He really went out of his way to make sure that we had everything we could want and again would recommend his skills, experience and company to anyone interested in walking in Ecuador. Many thanks

M. Ackroyd UK, 2010 » Chimborazo & Cotopaxi Climb

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Ecuador’s best lodge-to-lodge hiking tour

ecuador tours from uk

Our lodge-to-lodge hiking tour offers the best trekking in Ecuador in comfort. Ecuador is one of the best Andean countries for trekking and day walks. On this lodge-to-lodge hiking tour, you experience fabulous expansive mountain vistas and volcanoes wherever you look. Enjoy views over deeply carved valleys, vast plains and a picturesque patchwork of fields. You’ll also enjoy diverse wildlife and flora, rich cultures, and interactions with friendly local people. The tour takes you through three of Ecuador’s most beautiful mountain regions: Cotopaxi, Quilotoa and Chimborazo. Full details of our Lodge-to-Lodge 13-day Trekking Tour, Ecuador.     Lodges and Guesthouses Used …

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Galapagos Islands

Luxury Holidays Galapagos Islands

There is no question too small. Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists

Retrace the steps of intrepid explorers and famous scientists as you embark on a journey to the Galapagos Islands.

Dive into the island’s waters that are teeming with marine life and stroll across its red sand beaches. Get up close with giant tortoises and other animals that call the islands home. A province of Ecuador , Galapagos Islands holidays are sure to appeal to the nature lover, adventurer and knowledge seeker in you. 

Why visit the Galapagos Islands?

One of the main highlights of your Galapagos Islands holidays will be the chance to observe animals, birds and reptiles that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Meet the granddaddies of the animal world — the Galapagos giant tortoises that can live over 100 years! 

Snorkelling in the waters of the Galapagos Islands is an experience like no other as you might be swimming alongside sea lions, sharks, penguins, sea turtles, and of course, shoals of brightly coloured fish. 

Spot the blue-footed, red-footed and Nazca booby birds, one of the most iconic symbols of the region, at San Cristobal Island. The islands are a birder’s delight. About 31 of the 185 species documented here are endemic to the Galapagos.

Sign up for a guided kayaking tour on the Itabaca Channel, watch iguanas sunbathing at Santa Fe Island and hike to the top of Cerro Tijeretas. 

In between land excursions on your Galapagos luxury holiday , hop aboard a cruise ship and witness memorable sunsets.

You could also combine your trip to the islands with one of our Ecuador luxury tours to make the most of your time in the region.

Why should you book a luxury Galapagos Islands holiday with Hayes & Jarvis?

Hayes and Jarvis -curated holidays in the Galapagos Islands are extraordinary. Here’s why  — 

  • Customised itineraries — We build journeys centred around YOU and your family.
  • Destination experts — When to go? What to see? Where to stay? What to do? Our travel experts have all the inside information to make your Galapagos islands holiday special.
  • Round the clock concierge service — Our travel coordinators are just a call away and available 24/7 – for special requests, emergencies, and figuring out last minute logistics throughout your trip. 
  • Award-winning service — We’ve been creating exceptional journeys for over 65 years and have won some of the most prestigious awards, including the British Travel Awards.

How to book luxury Galapagos Islands holidays with Hayes & Jarvis?

Bookin g your holidays to the Galapagos Islands from the UK is simple with Hayes & Jarvis —

Step 1 – Browse through our Ecuador and Galapagos itineraries . 

Step 2 – Write to us or schedule a call with our travel consultants

Step 3 – We’ll contact you to understand your requirements and preferences and put together a trip proposal for you. We’ll perfect it based on your feedback so that it is the holiday that you’ve always dreamed of. 

Step 4 – Book your dream holiday and start shopping for it. We’ll take care of the details.

Galapagos islands holidays have the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s time to don your explorer hats. Contact us for a bespoke journey to these stunning islands.

Destination Highlights

Indirect flights are available from UK airports. Flying time is upwards of 20 hours.

British passport holders do not need a visa to visit the Galapagos Islands.

Spanish is the official language of Ecuador. However, English is widely spoken across tourist centres and on cruise ships.

The official currency of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands is the US Dollar.

Great sample itineraries

Whether you’re looking for a Galápagos cruise or land adventures paired with a boutique hotel, we’ll have something that’s perfect for you. Get in touch today to discover more.

a body of water with a mountain in the background

Luxury Cruise Galapagos Islands

Blue-footed boobies

Expert Tips

Galapagos Islands

“Take a boat ride – with the option of a luxury yacht – to the South Plaza Island. Here, you’ll wander amongst the terrain of prickly pear cactus trees and be able to spot an abundance of land iguanas, nesting red-billed tropicbirds, swallow-tailed gulls, and fascinating island fauna.”

Galapagos Islands

“While the Galápagos does have its sandy beaches, make sure you bring suitable shoes – hiking the volcanic rocks and sometimes steep terrain in flip flops can be uncomfortable and dangerous. And don’t forget to bring an underwater camera to capture some incredible pictures!”

“Snorkelling in the Galapagos is some of the best in the world – where else can you come face to face with sea lions, penguins, and marine iguanas all in one day?”

Galapagos Islands Multi-centre

For an ideal multi centre holiday in the Galapagos Islands, combine your trip with Ecuador. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how many islands make up the galapagos.

The Galapagos Islands are composed of 18 main islands (of at least 1 square kilometre in size), as well as a number of smaller minor islands; each surounded by numerous rocks and islets and hosting its own distinct ecosystem, and unique flora and fauna. 

2. How do I get to the Galapagos Islands?

There are no direct flights to the Galapagos Islands from the UK – and your preceding journey is dependent on your specific itinerary – but the likelihood is that you’ll travel to mainland Ecuador, flying into either the capital city of Quito or Guayaquil.From Quito or Guayaquil you’ll then take an onward flight to Isla San Cristobal or Isla Baltra. 

3. What is the time difference between the UK and the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands are six hours behind the UK.

4. What is the best mode of transportation in the Galapagos Islands?

Flight is the best way to get to the Galapagos Islands from Ecuador.

The best way to travel between the Galapagos Islands is by cruise ship or island-hopping boat services. Our Galapagos Islands holiday packages from the UK are tailor-made for your family and can be customised based on your requirements and preferences. 

On the main islands, such as Santa Cruz, you can get around by walking, taxi or bicycle.

5. What is the food like in the Galapagos Islands?

Ecuadorian cuisine and seafood specialities are found easily on the islands. With travellers from all over the world visiting the Galapagos, many restaurants and cruise liners offer a mix of international cuisines and local favourites.

6. Which Galapagos islands are best for families?

The bigger islands, such as Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal Islands, have a range of accommodation options, plenty of land and water-based activities, and opportunities for day trips to keep children of all ages excited and engaged.

7. What kind of animals will I get to see in the Galapagos?

The Galapagos Islands are teeming with wildlife and are known for their incredible diversity of flora and fauna. 

Here are some of the animals and birds you might encounter on your Galapagos Islands holidays

  • Land-based animals – Galapagos tortoises, Galápagos land iguanas, Lava lizard
  • Water-based animals – Marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, Galapagos sea lions, Galapagos penguins, Green sea turtles
  • Birds – Darwin’s finches, Blue-footed boobies, Frigatebirds, Flightless cormorants, Waved albatross

8. What are the top five activities to do in the Galapagos?

Holidays to the Galapagos Islands are filled with outdoor and nature-based activities. Here are our top picks – 

  • Meet and greet the giant tortoises of Santa Cruz Island
  • Swim and laze with sea lions at La Loberia on San Cristobal Island
  • Snorkel, dive and discover the island’s spectacular underwater life 
  • Spot wildlife as you go island hopping
  • Visit the quaint town of Puerto Villamil on Isabela island, and see the Sierra Negra volcano

You might also like these

We think you might also like to take a look at these destinations. If you’d like some advice, our Destination Specialists will be able to find something that is right for you.

Galapagos Islands

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Galapagos Islands

Three Easy Steps to a Tailor-made Holiday

Look through our website for inspiration, then call our Travel Consultants

Discuss your wish list with us, and we'll use our knowledge to design a unique itinerary for you

3. Customise

We're committed to refining your itinerary until we've created the perfect personalised trip for you

The Hayes & Jarvis Way

Since 1952, our travel experts have been traversing the world to connect you with the very best our 60+ destinations have to offer. Tell us what your dream trip entails and we will craft it for you with precision and passion.

Passionate Experts

Like you, we love to travel and explore. Over the years, we've honed our skills to create the most authentic travel experiences for you.

Personalised Journeys

We tailor each itinerary specifically for you. Tell us your travel dreams, and we'll work together to create a perfect trip for you.

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We ensure a hassle-free and safe experience with reliable partners. We provide you with a travel concierge dedicated to helping you 24/7 during your trip.

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Ecuador Luxury Tours & Trips

Searching for a top-class touring experience? Look no further, as our luxury adventures of Ecuador will allow you to discover exceptional destinations such as Santa Cruz Island and Baltra Island. Explore and discover new cultures while enjoying top tier services and facilities.

80 luxury Ecuador tour packages with 25 reviews

Classic Galapagos: Central Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz) Tour

  • Ocean Cruise

Classic Galapagos: Central Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

We enjoyed the trip very much. Too bad there was a change of guides in the middle of the tour. Roberto and Alexis were both very good but it is natural for a person to make comparisons. They are quit different people in their mannerisms and the way things present the information. We feel the star in the crew was Giovanni, our cabin steward. Always around to help. One day our wet swim suits disappeared only to return all nice and dry.

Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne) Tour

Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)

Amazing trip and amazing destination. I did 10 day Galapagos Boat trip. The boat was comfortable and group size of 16 pax was perfect. We saw pretty much everything we had hoped for and more. Plenty of great snorkelling too. Good paced trip.

Galápagos — North, Central, & South Islands aboard the Eden Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

Galápagos — North, Central, & South Islands aboard the Eden

Guide, boat and crew great. Other passengers great. Breakfast and lunch good, dinner hit and miss. Snacks great! Activities great. Too much food though! Even weather pretty good! Animals the best! Only negative was meeting person was cold/distant-not a good first in person impression considering how rude gadventures were to me in the online and phone booking process.

Koln Tourist Superior Yacht - 8 Days Tour

Koln Tourist Superior Yacht - 8 Days

  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Petrel Luxury Galapagos Catamaran 8 Days Tour

Petrel Luxury Galapagos Catamaran 8 Days

Complete Galápagos - Eden Tour

Complete Galápagos - Eden

Galapagos Encounter - Archipel I (Itinerary D) Tour

Galapagos Encounter - Archipel I (Itinerary D)

Galapagos Encounter - Archipel I (Itinerary C) Tour

Galapagos Encounter - Archipel I (Itinerary C)

Galapagos Encounters - 7 days Tour

Galapagos Encounters - 7 days

Ultimate Galapagos - 10 days Tour

Ultimate Galapagos - 10 days

7-Day Galapagos Luxury Safari Tour

7-Day Galapagos Luxury Safari

4 Days Yasuni Amazon Ecolodge & Spa Tour Tour

4 Days Yasuni Amazon Ecolodge & Spa Tour

  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

7-Day Small Group Galapagos Guided Food Tour with Accommodation Tour

  • Food & Culinary

7-Day Small Group Galapagos Guided Food Tour with Accommodation

ECUADOR ANDINO AND GALAPAGOS ISLAND Tour

ECUADOR ANDINO AND GALAPAGOS ISLAND

Papallacta Hot Springs SPA Resort Tour

Papallacta Hot Springs SPA Resort

Luxury ecuador tours & trips reviews.

Overall, it was great. The guide Johan and the crew were nice and helpful, paying attention to safety. The ship was clean. The hot tub could be a little hotter. The shower handle was marked wrong, pointing cold for hot water, though we figured out on the 2nd day (another passenger told me). Meals were pretty good, but snacks served at the deck when we return from a day trip were the most enjoyable. Coffee/tea cups were not enough - I would have taken a personal mug if told in advance. The last night/morning harbored at Puerto Ayora was very hard for us. The choppy water caused us motion sickness, and we felt swaying for a few days after the trip.
This trip was everything and more than I hoped for. Apart from some problems with Avianca airline which is out of Intrepid’s control, the trip ran smoothly and covered all the things it said it would. The scenery and wildlife were spectacular, the crew were very professional and the food was in abundance. Nothing seemed to be a problem to them. My cabin had one bed light not working that I reported and also the toilet seat was very loose making it interesting in rough seas! and there was a broken handle which had been hidden in the drawer none of which was an issue as I was lucky enough to have the cabin to myself. I would query the location of the hotel accommodation and ask why it is not closer to the historical town? EVERYTHING else was just perfect- really!
The tour was excellent! The amount and variety of activities were perfect.

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  • Ecuador Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

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International Versions

  • Deutsch: Luxusreisen in Ecuador
  • Français: Circuits et voyages haut de gamme en Équateur
  • Español: Circuitos de Lujo por Ecuador
  • Nederlands: Ecuador Luxury Reizen in Ecuador

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ecuador tours from uk

  • Passports, travel and living abroad
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  • Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

ecuador tours from uk

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice . 

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel  

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice.  

Coastal Region

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Coastal Region provinces of:

  • Santa Elena
  • Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas

This does not apply to airside transit within Guayaquil Airport in Guayas province, including onward or return travel to the Galapagos Islands.

Within 20km of the Ecuador-Colombia border 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to areas within 20km of the Ecuador-Colombia border, except for these areas in Carchi province: 

  • El Ángel Ecological Reserve 
  • Rumichaca border crossing 
  • the town of Tulcán 
  • the Pan-American Highway  

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel . 

State of Emergency declared

The nationwide 60-day state of emergency (SOE) declared by the President on 8 January has been extended for another 30 days. It will end on 6 April.

The initial daily curfew has been now replaced by a traffic light system. Different districts (‘cantones’) have different restrictions.

High risk cantons (red): from midnight to 5am  

Medium risk cantons (yellow): from 2am to 5am  

Low risk cantons (green): no restrictions

During curfew hours you must stay inside, unless you are covered by an exemption. You can read the full list of districts affected and local restrictions in the  presidential decree .

You will need to show your passport or ID and boarding pass or flight booking. Only passengers are allowed to enter the airport, family members and friends will not be allowed into the terminals to drop off or pick up passengers. You should leave extra time to travel to the airport, as extra security checks may be carried out on arrival.  Check road conditions  (in Spanish) before you travel.

Airports are operating normally. Check your flight status with your airline or airport website ( Quito Airport ,  Guayaquil Airport ) before travelling to the airport.

There may be increased military and police presence around key public buildings, airports, bus terminals and on the streets. Some public buildings, shopping centres and key tourist destinations may close without warning.  Monitor local media and stay away from areas involving increased security activity.

If an incident occurs near you, follow the instructions of police and other security officials at all times.

Before you travel 

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and see support for British nationals abroad for information about specific travel topics. 

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated. 

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

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IMAGES

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  2. Ecuador Tours 2019

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  3. Quito

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

  1. Best Ecuador Tours & Holidays 2024/2025

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    Ecuador & Galapagos Tours. Combine a guided tour of Ecuador or Peru's mainland with the wildlife-rich Galapagos Islands. We offer a choice of three Handpicked small group tours - Ecuador Highlands & Galapagos Islands and Peru & Galapagos Discovery, which both include a 7-night cruise aboard MC Galapagos Seaman Journey, and Ecuador & Galapagos ...

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    Highlights of Ecuador tours. 1. The Andes: The backbone of Ecuador is the Andean Cordillera, a continuous chain of glaciated peaks and snow-capped volcanoes that stretches some 650km from Colombia in the north to Peru in the south. The country's capital, Quito, is a colonial city of around a million inhabitants nestled 2850m up in the mountains and overlooked by Pichincha volcano; its lively ...

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    Ecuador Tours & Trips. The snow-covered Cotopaxi volcano is the highest active volcano in the world, and an overnight climb is one of the many adventures available in Ecuador. Another is a visit to the eerie Cloud Forest of Mindo, and not to be missed is a trip to Galapagos Islands . 250+ Ecuador tour packages with 1,229 reviews.

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    UK's leading Asia specialistWinner of Best Specialist Tour Operator 14 years. See the best of Ecuador on our award-winning, fully inclusive, escorted Ecuador holidays. Travel in a group or privately with our expert guides. ATOL protected.

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    From: £3395 pp. Highlights: Otovalo, Cotopaxi, Cuenca, Amazon, Beaches. This full-length Ecuador holiday gives you the chance to see the whole of Ecuador, from the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the steamy Amazon jungle, before ending up with some time on Ecuador's superb beaches ... Book this trip now.

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  12. Ecuador Holidays

    Influenced by the altitude, the Andean highlands including Otavalo, Quito, the Avenue of the Volcanoes and Cuenca are pleasantly spring-like year round with lots of sunshine, particularly in the June-September dry season. When it rains it is usually as heavy afternoon downpours. February-April are the wettest months, July and August the driest.

  13. Ecuador holidays in 2024 & 2025

    Ecuador holidays Ecuador tours & holidays in 2024 & 2025. Crammed into an area the size of the UK, Ecuador holidays range from steamy Amazon jungle and high Andean páramo, to bird-filled cloud forest and mangrove-lined coast, while majestic colonial cities shelter in the foothills of snow-capped volcanoes.

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    Ecuador tours. Luxury Ecuador & Galapagos tour. Luxury Ecuador & Galapagos tour. 16 days from £14,995pp. Ecuador Holidays; Tours Travel guides ... Includes international flights from a choice of UK airports, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Day 1.

  15. Best Galapagos Islands Tours & Holidays 2024/2025

    Galapagos Islands Tours & Holidays. Step into an isolated world. See giant tortoises roaming and unforgettable landscapes unfurl before your very eyes. Inquisitive sea lions and spiky marine iguanas breach and bask between island and shore. Friendly hammerhead sharks patrol the depths and blue-footed boobies cut through the sky.

  16. Ecuador Tours

    Discover our Ecuador Tours. Join your expert local tour leader for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure holiday travelling through volcanic mountain ranges, lush rainforest and traditional colonial villages on a small group tour to Ecuador. Discover a wide variety of flora and fauna, birdlife, wild horses and deer living high up in the Ecuador Andes.

  17. Ecuador & Galapagos Tour by Wonderful Holidays UK

    Ecuador & Galapagos Tour, a 8 days tour from Quito to Galapagos Islands and Guayaquil. Best Selection - Best Price - Trusted Payments. January Sale: Latin America Deals Week Up to 55% OFF. ... 2024, a minimum payment of 25% is required to confirm your booking with Wonderful Holidays UK. The final payment will be automatically charged to your ...

  18. Ecuador and the Galapagos

    Stay five nights on the Galapagos islands of San Cristobal and Santa Cruz. See the giant tortoises of Santa Cruz in the stunning El Chato highland reserve. Learn about the wildlife conservation work at the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre. Swim or snorkel with the amazing marine life of the islands, in Isla Lobos lagoon and Academy Bay.

  19. Ecuador Hiking & Trekking Tours

    Walking and trekking holidays in Ecuador. Join one of our Ecuador hiking and trekking tours for a fabulous holiday exploring the best of Ecuador's Andean mountains and volcanoes. Ecuador is a land of dramatic landscapes and extreme contrasts and is best explored by walkers with our expert hiking guides. We put together bespoke tailor-made ...

  20. Galapagos Islands Holidays and Tours 2024

    Luxury Holidays Galapagos Islands. Retrace the steps of intrepid explorers and famous scientists as you embark on a journey to the Galapagos Islands. Dive into the island's waters that are teeming with marine life and stroll across its red sand beaches. Get up close with giant tortoises and other animals that call the islands home.

  21. Ecuador Travel Guide and Information

    Plan your perfect holiday to Ecuador with help from our handy travel guide resources that cover the best time to go, what to see, visas to obtain and more. (UK) tel:020-7371-1113

  22. 10 Best Luxury Ecuador Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    5. This trip was everything and more than I hoped for. Apart from some problems with Avianca airline which is out of Intrepid's control, the trip ran smoothly and covered all the things it said it would. The scenery and wildlife were spectacular, the crew were very professional and the food was in abundance.

  23. Ecuador travel advice

    FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Coastal Region provinces of: Esmeraldas. Manabí. Santa Elena. Guayas. El Oro. Los Ríos. Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas. This does not apply ...