Discover the Galápagos Islands with an Introduction to Ecuador
Begin your holiday with three nights in Quito, Ecuador’s capital, offering the ideal introduction to the country’s culture, history and daily life. Set high in the Andes, the city’s colonial streets, markets and viewpoints provide insight into Ecuador’s traditions before you venture onwards to one of the world’s most remarkable natural environments.
On day four, fly to the Galápagos Islands to begin a five day cruise onboard motor yacht Galaxy through this extraordinary archipelago. Sailing between volcanic islands, you’ll explore remote shores and protected waters, encountering the unique wildlife that has made the Galápagos so renowned. Daily guided excursions reveal landscapes shaped by fire and sea, alongside species found nowhere else on Earth.
This itinerary can be tailored to suit your preferences, with options to extend your cruise, adjust the route or upgrade your vessel. Latin Routes offers access to a wide range of expedition ships, from small catamarans carrying just a handful of guests and able to anchor close to the action, to larger expedition yachts combining expert guiding with a high level of onboard comfort.
Cruise in style around the archipelago
Accommodation detailed in itinerary
3 breakfasts while staying in Quito then Full Board while on Galaxy
All included as per below
What you'll experience
- Visit Quito, Ecuador’s capital and the first city declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Explore historic streets, ornate churches and lively plazas set high in the Andes.
- Visit the Middle of the World and stand on the equator: Learn about Ecuador’s unique geographic position at this iconic landmark just north of Quito.
- Explore Otavalo Market in search of Ecuadorian handicrafts: Browse colourful stalls filled with textiles, jewellery and traditional crafts created by local artisans.
- Observe the endemic wildlife of the Galápagos archipelago and enjoy its scenery: Encounter species found nowhere else on Earth among volcanic landscapes, beaches and clear waters.
- Enjoy a five day, four night cruise around the Galápagos Islands: Sail between islands on guided excursions that reveal the archipelago’s remarkable wildlife and natural history.
What's included in the Galápagos Cruise Discovery Holiday?
- International flights
- 8 nights’ accommodation
- Meals: 3 breakfasts while staying in Quito then Full Board while on Galaxy
- Water, tea and coffee while aboard the Galaxy yacht
- Full-day tour of Quito and the Middle of the World
- Full-day tour to Otavalo and Cuicocha Lake
- 5-day, 4-night cruise on the motor yacht Galaxy
- Snorkelling equipment
- Bath and beach towels while onboard the Galaxy
- Transfers and domestic flights as per itinerary
- Galápagos National Park and Ingala Card fees
Prices from £5,649pp
Excludes:
- Meals not indicated in your itinerary
- Optional wetsuit
- Soft drinks and alcoholic drinks
- Local departure taxes payable locally
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry and drinks etc
- Tips for guides and drivers (discretionary)
- Camera or video fees at any sites
Quick Itinerary
Galápagos Cruise Discovery 10-day Itinerary
Days 1-3 UK - Quito
Arrive in Quito where you will spend three nights discovering Ecuador. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the historical centre on your first full day and learn about Quito’s vibrant history and lasting cultural practices followed by a visit to the Middle of the World monument and Intiñan museum to learn a little about the diverse regions and people of Ecuador.
On your second full day, you will head north to visit Quitsato Sundial located on the true equatorial line where you will learn about the astronomical knowledge of the region’s pre-Hispanic cultures. Continue to Otavalo, exploring its famous indigenous market, and Cuicocha Lake, a stunning 3km wide crater lake at the foot of the Cotacachi volcano.
Days 4 - 7 Galápagos Islands
Early in the morning you will take a two-hour flight to the Galápagos National Park and go on to board the M/Y Galaxy. Over the next four nights, you will sail between islands, deserted beaches and remote islets, coming into close contact with unique species such as giant tortoises, turtles, sharks, mockingbirds, blue-footed boobies and plenty of sea lions. Enjoy a range of activities such as gentle hikes, snorkelling and sea-kayaking during this wildlife experience of a lifetime!
Days 8-10 Quito - UK
After breakfast you will have one last excursion to take in the unique landscape, unusual geology and incredible wildlife of the Galápagos Islands.
In the afternoon you will be transferred to Baltra airport where you will get a flight back to mainland Ecuador.
On day 9, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight and arrive back in the UK from Ecuador on Day 10.
Speak to a dedicated Galápagos Cruise Holiday Specialist
All our Ecuador and Galápagos Islands itineraries can be tailored to your unique requirements. Enquire about our Galápagos Cruise Discovery holiday and let us plan your perfect Latin American adventure.What Makes a Latin Routes Holiday Truly Unforgettable?
Every journey we plan is truly individual – created just for you, by our expert team. Whether you’re dreaming of wildlife, culture, food or landscapes, 5* luxury or off-grid adventure, we’ll design a Latin American holiday that’s truly unforgettable for all the right reasons.
We’re recognised by both the industry and our clients for our outstanding personalised service.
We design every trip around you: your interests, your must-sees, your perfect holiday.
Every recommendation is shaped by real experience, true passion and specialist care.
Consistently rated ‘Excellent’ by our clients for our expert planning and personalised attention.
