Evolution of Ecuador

Arrive in Quito, Ecuador’s high-altitude capital nestled among the Andes Mountains. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel, where the remainder of the day is free to relax and acclimatise to the altitude before beginning your exploration of the country.

Today is dedicated to discovering the rich history and culture of Quito’s UNESCO-listed historic centre. Admire the striking Neo-Gothic architecture of the Basilica del Voto Nacional before strolling through Plaza Grande, the city’s political and cultural heart. Surrounded by landmark buildings including the Presidential Palace, Cathedral and Archbishop’s Palace, the square offers a fascinating glimpse into Ecuador’s past and present.

Continue to the Church of La Compañía de Jesús, renowned for its lavish gold-covered interior, before heading to El Panecillo Hill for panoramic views across the city from the iconic Virgin of Quito monument. The day also includes a visit to Pacari, Ecuador’s award-winning chocolate producer, where you can sample some of the country’s finest cacao creations.

Later, travel to the famous Mitad del Mundo, where a monument marks the location associated with the equator. Explore the surrounding complex and continue to the nearby Intiñan Museum, where interactive demonstrations showcase unusual phenomena associated with the Earth’s equatorial position.

This morning, fly east across the Andes to Coca, the gateway to Ecuador’s Amazon region. Upon arrival, continue to the Napo River, where a motorised boat journey carries you deep into the rainforest. As civilisation fades behind you, dense jungle landscapes and winding waterways begin to dominate the scenery.

After reaching the reserve entrance, board a traditional canoe and glide through narrow waterways toward your lodge. Along the route, keep watch for monkeys, colourful birds and other wildlife that thrive within one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth.

Begin the day with a visit to a canopy observation tower that rises above the treetops, providing a unique perspective of the rainforest ecosystem. From this elevated vantage point, look for colourful birdlife and observe monkeys moving through the forest canopy.

In the afternoon, continue exploring the rainforest through guided walks and canoe excursions. Learn about the complex relationships between plants and wildlife while navigating creeks and forest trails. The waterways surrounding the lodge are also home to giant otters and numerous other Amazonian species.

Rise early for a visit to one of Ecuador’s most important parrot clay licks, where colourful parrots, macaws and parakeets gather in remarkable numbers. This natural spectacle offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities in the heart of the rainforest.

Later, visit the Kichwa community of Añangu to gain insight into local traditions and daily life. Continue exploring the surrounding forest, passing through pristine rainforest habitats rich in wildlife and ecological diversity.

Enjoy a final morning exploring the waterways of the Amazon before returning to the Napo River. Keep watch for giant otters, monkeys, hoatzins and other species that inhabit this extraordinary ecosystem.

Later, retrace your route back to Coca and board your flight to Quito, where you will spend the evening back in Ecuador’s capital.

Travel approximately two hours northwest of Quito into the lush cloud forests of the Maquipucuna Reserve. This protected region is known for its remarkable biodiversity and plays an important role in conserving Ecuador’s wildlife.

Join a guided walk to discover medicinal plants traditionally used by local communities and learn about the folklore associated with many of the forest’s species. Later, follow forest trails through primary and secondary rainforest habitats while searching for wildlife, including the elusive Spectacled Bear that inspired the character of Paddington Bear.

Start the morning with a birdwatching excursion through the cloud forest, when wildlife activity is at its peak. Explore forest trails rich in birdlife before following an ancient route once used by the Yumbo people.

The trail eventually leads to a picturesque waterfall and natural pool hidden within the forest. Later, visit the reserve’s coffee-growing areas and learn about the cultivation, harvesting and preparation of locally produced coffee while exploring organic gardens and orchid collections.

Enjoy a final morning in the cloud forest before returning to Quito. Depending on your interests, additional forest walks can be arranged before the journey back to the city. The remainder of the day is free to relax and prepare for the next stage of your Ecuadorian adventure.

Fly to the Galápagos Islands and begin exploring one of the world’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. Following arrival at Baltra Airport, transfer across the island and stop in the highlands to observe giant tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Continue to your lodge and settle into the unique environment that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.

Today’s excursion explores one of the Galápagos’ remarkable islands. Depending on conditions and schedules, visit either South Plaza Island or North Seymour Island.

These islands are home to an extraordinary concentration of wildlife, including land and marine iguanas, sea lions, frigatebirds, boobies and numerous seabird species. The dramatic volcanic scenery and endemic wildlife provide exceptional opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.

Visit the pristine shores of Tortuga Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago. White sand beaches, turquoise waters and coastal lagoons provide habitat for marine iguanas, sea turtles and numerous bird species.

Later, explore the Charles Darwin Research Station, where scientists and conservationists work to protect the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the Galápagos Islands through research, breeding programmes and habitat restoration initiatives.

Spend the day exploring Bartolomé Island, one of the Galápagos’ most photographed destinations. A boardwalk trail climbs through surreal volcanic terrain to a viewpoint overlooking the famous Pinnacle Rock and surrounding islands.

Later, snorkel in crystal-clear waters where colourful reef fish, sea turtles, rays and even Galápagos penguins are frequently encountered. The combination of volcanic scenery and marine biodiversity makes this one of the highlights of the archipelago.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. As you leave the Galápagos behind, reflect on an extraordinary journey through Ecuador’s diverse landscapes—from Andean cities and Amazon rainforests to cloud forests and one of the world’s most remarkable island ecosystems.