Day 1 : Quito Arrival
Welcome to Ecuador! Quito is an eclectic mix of colonial and modern sitting at almost 3,000 meters above sea level under the gaze of Pichincha Volcano. Upon arrival at Quito’s airport, you will be taken from the airport to your hotel where a member of our team will be waiting to brief you about your upcoming adventure. The rest of the day is free to do as you wish.
Included :
- Transfer: Airport pick-up
- Activities: Free time
- Meals: None
- Accommodation: Hotel
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Day 2 : Quito
This morning let’s explore Quito on a guided tour during which we’ll explore the Old Town. Admire the Basilica of the National Vote and if you’re up for it, climb up its towers for panoramic views of the city. Continue on to the historic Independence Square and the majestic Archbishop’s Palace followed by a visit to the glittering, golden Church of La Compañia de Jesus before reaching La Ronda, one of Quito’s most active and popular hang out spots.
Next, onward to the “Middle of the World” monument followed by a traditional lunch with some time to explore the monument. Just a few steps away is the “Inti Ñan” museum where you’ll learn about the indigenous culture and native tribes and participate in various experiments to prove that you are indeed in the exact spot where the Equator crosses. Don’t believe us? Feel free to check your GPS! Don’t forget to bring your passport so you can get a stamp to show that you were in the middle of the world.
Reconvene in the evening for a welcome dinner downtown overlooking the whole city.
Included :
- Activities: Quito Old Town guided tour; Middle of the World monument; Inti Ñan museum; Free time
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel
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Day 3 : Santa Cruz Island
There’ll be an early departure this morning to make our way to the unique beauty of the Galapagos Islands! After landing on Baltra Island, our naturalist guide will take us to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to observe the giant tortoises roaming in the wild followed by lunch at a local tortoise ranch. Thereafter, we will visit El Trapiche, a local, organic farming collective that processes wild coffee, chocolate and sugarcane in the traditional ways. Here, you’ll have a hands on demonstration on how to roast coffee beans and extract sugar cane juice!
The rest of the afternoon you will have time to relax and if you’re feeling up for it check out the local town. You can try many of the breweries or coffee shops that are unique to Galapagos with beer names such as Reptilia or coffee names like Tortoise. It is a great spot to pick up souvenirs!
Included :
- Transfers: Quito – Baltra flight (approx. 3.5 hours)
- Activities: Santa Cruz Highlands; Sugar cane farm; El Trapiche experience
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
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Day 4 : North Seymour Island & Bachas Beach
Let’s board The Windrose bright and early for a day trip to North Seymour Island and Bachas Beach. The Windrose is a first-class motor yacht that is the only day excursion boat in the Galapagos with permission to sail to two islands in a day. Its top-notch amenities provide comfort with some of the best itineraries available.
North Seymour Island is regarded by most as a true highlight of any trip to the Galapagos Islands with a wealth of wildlife encounters in store. While exploring, you may encounter great frigate birds that spend hours passing nesting materials to each other during courtship. Blue-footed boobies are often found cleaning the ground and transporting some twigs here and there while never actually constructing a nest. Upon the shoreline, we’ll cross a wide expanse of sand which is home to nests and black marine iguanas. Some of the islands’ finest waves pound a boulder beach where young sea lions often bodysurf.
After a delicious lunch on the yacht, we’ll head to Bachas Beach, a beautiful white stretch of coralline. This is the perfect place for snorkeling, swimming or to simply enjoy the white soft sand between your toes. Several brackish lagoons provide feeding grounds for various wading birds, from stilts to flamingos.
To cap off the day, return to Puerto Ayora in the late afternoon in time to enjoy a meal out on the town or get some rest at the hotel after the day’s activities.
Included :
- Activities: North Seymour Island; Bachas Beach; Guided hike; Swimming/Snorkeling; Free time
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
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Day 5 : Bartolome Island & Chinese Hat Islet
Early this morning, we’ll have two more excursions starting with Bartolome Island. Stepping foot here is to enter an other-worldly landscape thanks to the island’s volcanic origins. Bartolome is also considered one of the best snorkeling sites in the central islands of the archipelago. You can swim at the foot of the famous Pinnacle Rock to try to catch a glimpse of parrot fish, marine turtles, sea lions and, if you’re lucky…Galapagos penguins!
After lunch, motor on to Chinese Hat Islet, a very small volcano close to Santiago Island surrounded by small spatter cones making it a captivating landscape. Galapagos penguins and hawks are often active here. You’ll have time to enjoy the sandy beach where sea lions rest and a variety of wading birds feed on the shore line.
Arrival back to the hotel will be later in the afternoon and you’ll have the rest of the day at your leisure.
Included :
- Activities: Bartolome Island; Chinese Hat Islet; Guided hikes; Swimming/Snorkeling; Free time
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
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Day 6 : Isabela Island
Depart to Isabela Island by speedboat this morning. We’ll begin with a tour of the island in a Panga boat and cruise around the bay with hopes of seeing blue-footed boobies, Galapagos penguins, sea lions and Pacific green sea turtles. Next up is a guided trail hike to see a huge marine iguana colony as well as Galapagos sea lions, Sally lightfoot crabs, white-tipped reef sharks and more! Our tour will finish with snorkeling around the bay and hopefully, we’ll be accompanied by Pacific green sea turtles, Galapagos sea sions, white-tipped reef sharks and a variety of rays. The afternoon is yours to enjoy the fabulous sights and Isabela’s beach. Our hotel is in the main town of Puerto Villamil and is right on the beach; perfect for a spectacular sunset to end the day!
Included :
- Transfers: Santa Cruz – Isabela by speedboat (approx. 2.5 hours)
- Activities: Panga boat ride; Guided trail hike; Snorkeling; Free time
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
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Day 7 : Isabela Island
Today is all about landscapes and volcanoes! A guided, round-trip trek to the summit of the Sierra Negra volcano will offer wonderful views into one of the largest craters in the world. Descending further, visit Chico Volcano to witness the incredible landscape of smoldering cones and craters formed by past eruptions; it literally feels like you’re walking on the moon! A delicious boxed lunch will be provided and we’ll arrive back to the hotel in the mid-afternoon during which you’ll have free time to enjoy the beach.
Included :
- Activities: Sierra Negra Volcano; Volcan Chico; Guided hike; Free time
- Meals: Breakfast, Boxed lunch
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
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Day 8 : Santa Cruz Island
Before leaving Isabela Island, we’ll visit Los Tuneles by boat, a fascinating network of huge lava tunnels. Begin on land where blue-footed boobies often nest and afterward, you can snorkel at one of the best sites in the Galapagos where white-tipped reef sharks, marine turtles, sting rays, sea lions, eagle rays and even sea horses are regularly seen! Snorkeling equipment, wetsuits and a boxed lunch are included in the tour. We’ll then bid farewell to Isabela Island and take a speedboat back to Santa Cruz with the rest of the evening to do as you wish.
Included :
- Transfers: Santa Cruz – Isabela by speedboat (approx. 2.5 hours)
- Activities: Los Tuneles; Snorkeling; Free time
- Meals: Breakfast, Boxed lunch
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
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Day 9 : Quito
Say goodbye to the Galapagos Islands and its flora and fauna as we take an early morning flight back to Quito. When we return, you will have the rest of the day at leisure. We recommend a quick trip to Panecillo for amazing views of all of Quito or some last minute souvenir shopping before your departure tomorrow.
Included :
- Transfers: Baltra – Quito flight (approx. 3.5 hours)
- Activities: Free time (optional activities at your own expense)
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
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Day 10 : Quito Departure
Say goodbye to Ecuador before you catch your flight back home. Remember all of the amazing memories and friendships you have made during this vacation of a lifetime. We hope to see you again on our next adventure!
Included :
- Activities: Free time
- Meals: Breakfast
*Itinerary subject to change.
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Regular Season 10-Day Tours
$4,500 – Trip Cost (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)
I’m a single traveler. Will I be charged a single supplement?
If you would like a single room throughout the tour, you can purchase the “single supplement.” The single supplement fee for this trip is $850. If you would like your own room, you can purchase the additional supplement at check-out.
If you are comfortable sharing a room with another traveler of the same gender and would like to be paired with someone on the trip to avoid paying the single supplement, we can arrange this for you. If there is no other traveler with whom to pair you, you WILL have to pay for the single supplement. Pairing with another person of the same gender comes on a first-come, first-served basis. At the time of booking, there will be a questionnaire pertaining to this. Please complete it accurately so that we can try our best to accommodate your preferences.
What is included :
- 9 nights accommodation
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
- Round-trip flight: Quito – Baltra / Baltra – Quito – $650 value
- Ground & sea transportation
- Day excursions on The Windrose yacht
- Bilingual national park guides & local Ecuador guide
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 1 dinner
- $100 Galapagos National Park fee
- $20 Galapagos Transit Control Card
- $10 Isabela Island Fee
- Airport pick-up
What is not included :
- Optional excursions and activities
- Some lunches and dinners
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities
- International flights
- Airport drop-off
- Souvenirs
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Each group consists of 4 – 12 travelers plus Galapagos field guides as we explore various islands as well as a local Ecuador mainland guide. We prefer small group travel because based on our experience, large groups are less easily able to integrate into a society and generally have less authentic contact with the locals.
A small group number also means that tour group members will receive more personal treatment by the tour guide who can more thoroughly attend to the needs of each person. Small tour groups are also more mobile and flexible as travel plans can be more easily altered en route. If the group discovers a special event or festival that they would like to attend, and it is not covered in the original tour itinerary, it is possible to change the itinerary.
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The minimum age on our tours is 18. Most of our travelers are in their late 30s to late 60s/early 70s and most are solo travelers. Generally, we get a good mix of diverse people and every trip is unique thanks to the group dynamic.
We like to think of our trips as get-togethers at amazing destinations. Past travelers have told us that the group dynamic and the friends they made were one of the highlights of the trip.
Check out the pictures from our last trips to get an idea of the group dynamic by clicking HERE.
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- You may find some hikes on rougher terrain more difficult depending on your level of fitness. However, if you’re not feeling up for a particular activity, you don’t have to do it!
- You will be entering and exiting a Zodiac boat (panga) on various day excursions. The waters we sail are usually calm, but there are times when the sea can get choppy. Steady sea legs (and a sturdy stomach) are necessary when traveling by boat in rough sea conditions. Rain or shine, your trusty crew will always be on hand to assist you.
- While at sea and when exploring the islands, you may be exposed to the sun for large parts of the day. It’s important to use sun protection and drink plenty of water.
- Galapagos weather can be extreme. Summer temperatures can be very hot, especially for those who aren’t accustomed to the heat so please carefully consider what time of year you travel.
- While there is an itinerary in place, changes may occur due to weather or direction from the local authorities. This can happen with little to no notice so please be prepared for potential modifications to the route or activities. A sense of humor and flexibility will ensure that you have a fun, relaxing trip through this beautiful part of the world no matter what happens.
- Quito is located approximately 2,850 meters above sea level and you may experience some altitude sickness.
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All daily activities and excursions noted on the itinerary are already included in the trip price. You will have some free time, especially in Quito, for which the guide can recommend and/or help arrange any activity that might interest you. Most of the activities can be arranged with little to no notice. Optional activities are not included in the trip cost and will be paid at your own expense.
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The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar. Ecuadorian coins are sometimes given as change. The Ecuadorian currency’s value is equivalent to its U.S. counterparts.
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We strongly recommend that you bring $500 in cash with you and if possible, bring at least $50 USD worth of one and five dollar bills to use for tips, cabs, and small purchases in markets. Making change is often a hardship for small vendors and cab drivers.
If you run out of cash there are ATMs in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. The easiest way is to pull money out from the ATM at the airport upon arrival and throughout your trip. It is always a good idea to carry some cash on you in case your bank puts a hold on your ATM card. It’s important to tell your bank and/or credit card company that you’ll be using your card in Ireland. Some banks block transactions in foreign countries or currencies if they haven’t been forewarned of your travel plans.
You can find ATMs at almost all bank branches, as well as at most large supermarkets, some petrol stations, in shopping malls, airports and some post offices. There are ATM’s in the Galapagos Islands.
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As most components of your tour have been prepaid, you will only need money for lunches and dinners and any optional activity you may want to participate in. If you are an avid shopper or enjoy a cocktail in the evening, these costs are incurred at your own expense.
We suggest having access to $500 – $700 USD either in cash or by credit/debit card.
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Americans, Australians, and Canadians traveling to Ecuador for less than 90 days DO NOT need a visa.
As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
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When using your phone overseas, be sure to check with your provider to get informed about data and call roaming prices. When you land in Ecuador, you will usually get a message from your provider that will give you the price of data, calls and texts in that country. See the example below :
Welcome to ‘Ecuador!’ Your plan gives you unlimited data at up to 2G speeds and texts at no extra cost. Calls at 20 cents/min. Want our fastest data and unlimited calls? Get an International Pass for just $5/day.
When traveling around the Galapagos Islands, please be aware that coverage can be spotty.
You may consider contacting your service provider to learn about what kind of international plans they offer for calls, texts and data. Otherwise, all hotels we will be staying at will offer free wifi and most restaurants and other public places will offer it as well.
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Voltage for outlets is 110 volt, 60 cycle electricity, just like North American voltage.
Plug facilities are American style as seen in the picture below:
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Ecuador has diverse weather, but most regions generally have daily temperatures in the mid- to high 60s°F and the possibility of temperatures in the mid- to low 40s°F at night.
Weather in the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador can be expected to be warm during the day and cool/cold at night. The Galapagos offer high averages in the low- to mid 80s°F and lows in the mid- to high 60s°F. Despite being in a tropical region of the world, it doesn’t have the same tropical heat as you would expect. In fact, the Galapagos doesn’t have a tropical climate which means you can visit all year round and enjoy the weather and the unrivaled wildlife. The wet season usually takes place from December to May and surprisingly, during this season you will see a lot of sun with average temperatures of around 80ºF. Despite it being the wet season, the rain leaves as quickly as it arrives, with brief moments of heavy rain gracing the arid islands and disappearing again.
We recommend packing lightweight clothing in general although evenings can still be cooler so a lightweight jacket or sweater will be essential.
To help you plan, below are average low and high temperatures in Galapagos and Ecuador. Keep in mind that the rain is usually brief and disappears as fast as it came.
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Regardless if you travel in dry or wet season, always bring warmer clothes for the evenings as temperatures are cooler at night, rainwear for the rain showers and lightweight clothing.
Below are a few things that we suggest bringing to make your trip more comfortable :
- Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots
- Deck shoes (i.e. Crocs or flip flops)
- Snorkeling mask, snorkel and fins (optional – will be offered free of charge)
- Wetsuit (optional – will be offered free of charge)
- Waterproof day pack
- Rain jacket
- Light and warm jacket or fleece
- Quick-drying clothes
- Water shoes
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen (biodegradable, if possible)
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Camera
- Warm pajamas
- Seasickness medicine (if needed)
- Altitude sickness medicine
- Waterproof case for phone and/or camera
Please be aware that if there is rain, wind or any other weather conditions that nature decides to throw at us, all activities and excursions will continue as planned unless the weather is deemed unsafe by the crew and Galapagos government.
PRO TIP : A comfortable and securely closable bag is also a good idea if you have a camera or other travel items while out and about on excursions. Finally, it is advisable to avoid flashy, expensive accessories and/or jewelry that are valuable or precious to you.
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Ecuador does not have a strong tipping culture. In restaurants, taxis, and for personal services, all tips are at your discretion, and if you do decide to tip, around 10% of the total bill is appreciated.
Tipping your tour guide: If you feel he/she did an exceptional job, then you can tip anywhere from $5 – $15 a day.
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The hotels on this trip offer laundry services at a fee, if needed.
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The restaurants in Ecuador and the Galapagos offer a wide variety of foods. When making your reservation, please notify us of your specific requests such as being gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, etc. Alternative options will always be possible throughout the tour although options might be limited.
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As with most travel destinations, it is important to exercise caution and to be aware of your surroundings while traveling in Ecuador. We suggest not wearing expensive jewelry when walking around and keeping an eye on your bag while out and about. Wearing your bag on the front of your body is also advisable. Traveling with one other person or more at all times is also a good idea, especially at night. It is always a good idea to store portions of your cash in different places. (i.e. $100 in your purse, $100 in your suitcase, $100 in your carry-on, etc.) Finally, it’s also a good idea to carry a color copy of your passport and keep the original in a safe place.
Most travelers to Ecuador do not have any problems. As long as you remember to keep a watchful eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings, you will have a safe and memorable trip!
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Please review the CDC Health Information for Travelers Website before traveling to Ecuador to see any recommended vaccinations.
If you suffer from pre-existing medical conditions or are concerned about what vaccinations may be right for you, we strongly advise that you visit a medical professional or your personal physician before your trip.
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Most will agree that the drinking water in Ecuador is not safe for consumption. Thus, drinking tap water anywhere in Ecuador is not advisable and drinking only bottled water is highly recommended. Bottled water is easily found and can be purchased for a minimal fee.
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Yes! We offer private tours to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands for groups of 4 or more people. The itinerary can be completely tailored to your needs and you will enjoy a personalized experience with our guides and your friends and family.
Please contact us at info@globe-drifters.com for more information or call us at any time at : +1 (561) 313 4860.
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Our friendly team is here to answer all of your questions! Feel free to reach us at any time by email at : info@globe-drifters.com or call us at any time at : +1 (561) 313 4860.
Visa
Nationals of Australia, Canada, and the United States do not need a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after the final day of travel.
If you are not a citizen of one of the above-mentioned countries, please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on visas and travel to Ecuador.
Flights
Your arrival and departure city is Quito (UIO).
*Please do not book any flights until you receive a confirmation from us.
June to November
At this time, the Humboldt Current flows to the Galapagos from the south. It carries cold water and cooler weather as well as water rich in nutrients and plankton, which attracts fish and birds. It tends to be overcast and cloudy, but does not often rain. This period is also rather windy, which lends to rougher seas.
December to May
There’s never a bad time to visit the Galapagos Islands; but if you prefer a tropical climate with warmer waters, then this is the perfect time to visit. The waters are warmer and calmer in these months, so swimming and snorkeling are more bearable. The clarity of the water allows you to observe how this volcanic chain of islands were formed and watch as brightly colored reef fish, sharks, and rays swim by. Since it is breeding season for land birds, it’s a good time to watch some unusual mating rituals. This is also the period in which sea turtles nest on the beach and Sea lions mate so you’ll be able to see males fight for the females.
The hotels and accommodations in which you will be staying in Ecuador & the Galapagos are handpicked. We try our best to select accommodations with impeccable service, old world charm, and a central location.
Quito, Ecuador
All rooms are suites, each with a large sitting area in each room as well as a private bathroom with a jacuzzi bathtub or shower, toiletries and a hairdryer. Amenities include a chic restaurant and a rooftop bar with panoramic views.
Santa Cruz, Galapagos
We’ll be staying in the main town of Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz in a boutique hotel which features a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, bar and garden. This hotel was built for optimal use of solar energy to contribute to the protection of the environment. The entrance to Tortuga Bay is within walking distance from the hotel with easy access to a beautiful beach.
Isabela, Galapagos
Set in a Mediterranean-style house located right on the pristine, white sand Cuna del Sol Beach, our boutique hotel on Isabela Island features a lush garden with an outdoor pool.
All rooms have either sea or pool views.
Insurance
For this trip, travel insurance is compulsory and should be purchased within 30 days or less of booking your trip with us. At minimum, your travel insurance should include medical coverage, personal accident, death, emergency repatriation and personal liability.
We recommend that you purchase trip/travel insurance for your trip. We work with Travelex, which offers travel protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and more. Otherwise, you are welcome to shop around online for a provider and policy that best suits your needs.
For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, click on the image below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792. Globe Drifters’ reference location number is 09-0984.
You are also welcome to arrange your insurance independently and choose a provider that best fits your needs. Please ensure that it is designed for adventure travel and the 24-hour Emergency Assistance Company is experienced in handling travelers in developing countries (e.g. they have the ability to arrange repatriation from remote areas such as the islands around Galapagos). We also recommend that any policy have a US $200,000 minimum level of medical coverage (including evacuation).
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N
Vaccinations
Below is information from the CDC and its recommendations regarding vaccinations for travel to Ecuador :
CDC Ecuador
