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Luxury Ecuador and Galapagos

Duration
11 nights
Price
£9,260 pp.
Location
Ecuador Holidays, South America Holidays
GPS iguana

Explore the diversity of Ecuador & Galapagos in luxury

Indulge in the ultimate luxury adventure through Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands, a journey that seamlessly blends natural wonders with opulent accommodations.

Begin in Quito, where the historic charm of the city meets modern sophistication at Casa Gangotena. Explore cultural treasures, savour gourmet cuisine, and unwind in a luxurious hotel.

Next, venture into the enchanting Cloud Forest, a haven of biodiversity. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery, stay in an enchanting Mashpi Lodge, and discover unique wildlife on guided excursions with local naturalists.

Continue to the iconic Galapagos Islands, where the luxury mega-catamaran Ocean Spray cruise takes you to a diverse range of remote islands and secluded coves. Encounter endemic wildlife, from giant tortoises to marine iguanas, and explore pristine landscapes. The Galapagos Islands is the perfect opportunity to have up-close encounters with wildlife, snorkel alongside playful sea lions, swim with marine turtles, and observe unique bird species, including blue-footed boobies and waved albatrosses.

Conclude your journey in Guayaquil, where the luxury continues at Hotel del Parque, a charming boutique hotel. Unwind in elegant surroundings, enjoy fine dining, and reflect on the extraordinary experiences of your luxury Ecuadorian odyssey.


Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to Quito!

Day 2 Quito Hands on Experience

Day 3 Travel to the Cloud Forest

Day 4 Choco Reserve, Mashpi

Day 5 Return to Quito

Day 6 Fly to the Galapagos Islands

Day 7 Galapagos Excursions

Day 8 Galapagos Excursions

Day 9 Galapagos Excursions

Day 10 Galapagos Excursions

Day 11 Depart the Galapagos Islands for Guayaquil

Day 12 Guayaquil

Day 13 Arrive home!

Speak to an Ecuador expert today

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Amanda

Amanda

Latin America Specialist

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01768 603 715

When to go

Find out the best time to visit Ecuador with our month by month guide.

  • Best
  • Good
  • Mixed
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

January

Best time for the coast and Galapagos due to warmer sea temperatures. Coastal regions enjoy warm temperatures, perfect for beach activities and water sports. Whilst it may occasionally rain, the weather is preferable for these activities compared to the dry season, which is cold and overcast. In the Andes, it is more likely to be humid and wet, meaning it is ideal for exploring cities and visiting indigenous markets, but less ideal for hiking and exploring. The Amazon rainforest is humid and wet and whilst the scenery is pleasant, the animals might be harder to find.

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February

Great time for the coast and Galapagos despite potential rain. It is still pleasantly warm along the coast and perfect for beach relaxation and water activities. The mountains see temperatures hovering at about 17°C (63°F) with the humidity and rainfall continuing. Visit Cuenca or Ambato for the Carnaval festivities during February. The Amazon rainforest remains humid, and increased rainfall means a higher chance of flooding.

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March

A pleasant climate across the country and cheaper than December- February. Coastal areas are temperate still, and the beaches get quieter as school holidays end. The Andes see temperatures from 12-21°C (54-70°F), hiking opportunities become more appealing as the rainfall starts to slow down. If Easter falls in March, don’t miss the Santa Semana celebrations in Quito. Humidity still reigns in the Amazon rainforest.

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April

Beaches and Galapagos are quieter, but the weather remains pleasant. Everywhere else is wet. Coastal areas bask in warm temperatures, perfect for beach adventures and water sports. However, it's worth noting that some regions may experience occasional showers. The mountain ranges can experience intermittent rainfall. The Amazon rainforest is still wet meaning the swollen rivers open up tributaries that are otherwise too shallow to access by boat.

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May

Things are getting cooler in Galapagos and on the coast. Whilst the rain clears up along the coast, it becomes colder and less pleasant, so avoid the beaches at this time of year if sunbathing or water sports are on your activity checklist. The Amazon is wet, and there can be frequent road closures. The humidity combined with the wet weather means peak mosquito season too. It is less likely to rain in the Andes in May, and hiking the volcanoes becomes more accessible.

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June

The high season for the mountains begins. Around the summer solstice is the celebration of the Incan festival of Inti Raymi, best celebrated in Otavalo or the Ingapirca archaeological site. Along the coast, temperatures range from mild to warm, with occasional rain showers. In the highlands, temperatures are slightly warmer and the climate is drier, making for better birdwatching possibilities. The Amazon region is hot and humid, with heavy rainfall.

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July

Best time to visit Quito as it rarely rains but also the most expensive time of year due to high visitor numbers. There is a greater number of travellers exploring the highlands for good reason – it is an excellent time to embark on the Quilotoa loop trail or to visit Parque Nacional Cotopaxi. Head to Guayaquil for its foundation celebrations to experience some Ecuadorean culture.

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August

August presents favourable conditions for visiting Ecuador, particularly in Quito, where a brief dry spell occurs. It is an opportune period to engage in hiking activities around the picturesque Andes, where the weather remains consistently manageable. Additionally, witnessing the remarkable 70km procession of La Virgen del Cisne (Virgin of the Swan) is a noteworthy cultural experience. Furthermore, the rainfall in the Amazon region begins to diminish, resulting in reduced hazards during hikes characterized by slippery terrain.

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September

September in Ecuador brings slightly humid conditions, but overall, the weather is reasonable for both the coast and the highlands. It is definitely better weather for hiking than surfing, however. September is best for its cultural offerings in the form of the Fiesta de la Mamá Negra in Latacunga where you can witness traditional dances, music, and culinary delights or the and the Fiesta del Yamor harvest festival in Otavalo.

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October

October is perhaps around the best time to visit the Amazon basin due to drier conditions (it will still be raining, just less). It is cheaper to visit the Galapagos and the coast at this time because it is too cold for beach activities. A great time to hike the mountains if you prefer lower traveller numbers.

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November

November sees a continuation of reduced rainfall in the Amazon, making it a great time to spot animals, and avoid mosquitoes! Spend time in any city at the beginning of the month to participate in Día de los Difuntos (All Souls Day) where you can partake in colada morada, a purple corn-based drink, and sweet bread shaped like babies called guagas de pan.

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December

In December, Ecuador offers a wide range of experiences that cater to various interests. Along the coast, the calm seas and excellent water clarity create ideal conditions for boat-based wildlife-watching, as well as diving and snorkelling adventures. For beach lovers, the coastal region provides an array of options, with beachside fishing villages and vibrant coastal party towns where one can set up camp and enjoy the festive atmosphere.


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