Our Routes in Ecuador and Galápagos Islands… with Product Executive, Hannah
In the next instalment of Our Routes series dedicated to sharing travel experiences from our experts all over Latin America, Product Executive, Hannah Finch describes her amazing journey to Ecuador. In Our Routes in Ecuador and Galápagos Islands, Hannah journeys From Quito’s historical marvels and Otavalo’s colourful markets to the natural wonder of the Ecuadorian Amazon and rich wildlife of the Galápagos Islands, her adventure was a mosaic of experiences.
What were your main destinations for your trip to Ecuador & The Galapagos Islands?
Ecuadorian Amazon, Quito, Otavalo and the Galápagos Islands.
People trying to balance an egg on a nail head on the equator line at The Intiñan Museum near QuitoHow did you get there from the UK?
We flew from London to Quito, via Miami – with American Airlines/British Airways.
Is this your first time visiting these destinations or a repeat visit?
First time, it’s somewhere I’ve wanted to go for years and was so magical to be able to take my son.
What was your favourite location on the trip?
The Galápagos Islands, they are just so unique and so well protected it’s incredible. It felt like we’d gone back in time, everything – the terrain, wildlife, plant life – feels so prehistoric.
What was the most memorable moment of the trip?
Arriving in the Ecuadorian Amazon. We journeyed down the Napo River by motorboat for two hours, then smaller paddle boats for another two-hour journey down a quiet creek to Napo Wildlife Centre. All I could hear was the sounds of insects, birds in the trees, macaws flying overhead and monkeys calling, then a giant river otter bobbed in front of us as we arrived at the lodge. Just incredible.
What was the best excursion or experience on your holiday to Ecuador?
There are two. In the Galápagos Islands, swimming with sharks, turtles, sting rays, mobula rays, eagle rays, parrot fish and more – all on one excursion, it was fantastic! The other was horse-riding from Hacienda Zuleta in the highlands, near Otavalo. We rode out to an Andean condor breeding centre, and as if on cue, a wild condor flew overhead. We couldn’t have planned it better.
What do you recommend packing or prepping for a trip to Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands?
Pack for all weathers, and be prepared for some early mornings.
Favourite food and drink on the trip?
Your favourite photo from your trip?
Hard to pick, but probably this one of a lonely blue-footed booby.
Sum up your trip to Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands in just three words:
Wildlife + scenery = extraordinary
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