11 days from $3199*

Includes airfare, fuel surcharges, great hotels, transfers, many meals, touring and more!

Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands

Discover the wonders of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, a remarkable collection of landscapes, people, cultures, animals, plants, and more. Our 11-day tour covers the highlights of this incredibly diverse country. You'll visit the capital city and UNESCO World Heritage Center of Quito, the colorful and bustling Otavalo market, the natural springs in Baños, the volcanic peaks of Cotopaxi National Park, and one of the world's most biologically diverse rainforests -the Amazon. Round out your tour with a cruise through the Galapagos Islands, a magical, unique, living laboratory, where Darwin, and those who followed, studied evolutionary changes that led to a new understanding of life on earth.

This is truly a once in a lifetime adventure you'll never forget, full of discovery, beauty, history, culture and more fun than you can imagine. And while there are no compromises in the quality of the hotels and the scope of touring included in our program, it's yours for a price that's as amazing as the trip itself!

Our Touring Program

Day 1: Depart USA/Arrive Quito, Ecuador. Your exciting tour to Ecuador begins today as you depart for Quito, Ecuador's capital city. Your guide will greet you upon arrival and escort you to your centrally located hotel. Enjoy some down time to relax after your flight before joining your travel companions for dinner in town. Grand Mercure Alameda (D).

Day 2: Quito/Otavalo Excursion. Start your first full day in Ecuador with a panoramic tour of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site whose elevation gives it a wonderful springlike climate despite being very close to the Equator. Arguably among the loveliest of South American cities, Quito enjoys a spectacular setting surrounded by mountains and several snow-capped volcanoes, including the still-active Mt. Pichincha.

The real beauty of Quito is in its wonderful Old Town, where you'll find blocks of colonial architecture, some of it dating from the mid-1500s when the Spanish founded the city. Before the Spanish arrived, Quito was an important Inca settlement, and before the Inca, other tribes lived at the site. Vintage facades line the streets and large open plazas are surrounded by cathedrals and stately public buildings, including the Government Palace, the first stop on your tour.

Even more breathtaking than the exteriors are the interiors of some of the buildings, particularly the churches, many of which gleam with real gold leaf. La Compania, the next stop on your tour, has the most ornate and richly sculptured facade and interior, complete with colored columns, 10-sided altars, and gilded balconies. Several of its most precious treasures, including a painting of the Virgen Dolorosa framed in emeralds and gold, are kept in the vault of the Banco Central del Ecuador and appear only at special festivals. Continue to the Monastery of San Francisco, Quito's oldest church. Built in the 16th century, the monastery is an exact replica of the Escorial Palace of Madrid.

After lunch at a local restaurant, drive to Otavalo, whose beauty lies in its people, the Otavaleño Indians, and their market, undoubtedly one of the best in all of Latin America. Unlike other indigenous people who have given up their traditional dress for jeans and t-shirts, Otavaleños are still easily identified by their distinctive dress: women wear intricately embroidered blouses and a wealth of beaded necklaces, while men have long, braided hair and wear calf-length white trousers, ponchos and sandals.

The market takes place in the main Plaza, but don't hesitate to wander into the side streets, where the goods on display start to diversify and the prices get lower. Enjoy the cacophony of sounds as Spanish, and Quichua, the native language of the area, mix together with Andean pipe music and the explosion of color from the many fabric, fruit and craft stalls that line the plaza and side streets. Puerto Lago or similar. (B, L, D)

Day 3: Papallacta/Amazon. The Amazonian segment of your tour begins today as you travel along the Andes Mountain range and then slowly descend to the basin of one of the biggest rivers of the world - the Amazon River. The first stop en route is Papallacta, a small town tucked away in a high Andean valley at the entrance to the Amazon jungle. Visit the Termas Papallacta Spa, where you'll have the option to relax in thermal baths, indulge in pampering spa treatments, or embark on adventure walks in the nearby Canyon Ranch and Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve.

Enjoy lunch at the Termas Papallacta Restaurant, and then continue your journey along a scenic stretch of road that overlooks lush green valleys and sparkling waterfalls as you descend into the Amazon region. Arrive at Punta Ahuano, a tiny port town on the north bank of the Napo River, where canoes await you for a short ride downstream to your lodge. After check-in, sip a refreshing welcome cocktail as you watch the sunset. Casa del Suizo (B, L, D).

Day 4: Amazon. Enjoy a full day exploring the wonders of the Amazon. Your tour guide will offer a variety of optional excursions, according to your interest and ability, to help you maximize your time. Wildlife aficionados will delight in the optional tour to Amazoonico, a rescue center for wounded and displaced tropical rainforest animals. You'll be able to observe coatis, tapirs, and several species of monkey, snakes, and a variety of birds, many of which wander around freely! Adventure lovers can enjoy the ultimate rafting experience on the Napo River. Not only will you have the chance to enjoy a refreshing ride down this Amazonian tributary, you'll actually learn how to make your own raft by tying balsa logs together.

Another option offers a unique opportunity to visit a local Quichua family who will explain various aspects of their traditional culture, including a special lesson on making chicha, a beverage typical of the region. Or, if you are in the mood for a more laid-back afternoon, we recommend a stroll through the artisan village of Ahuano, where you can watch traditional Quichua ceramics being created. (B,L,D).

Day 5: Puyo, Baños & Patate. After breakfast this morning, set out in piraguas (canoes) to return to La Punta. Continue by coach to Puyo, the most important city in Ecuador's Oriente region. En route, view the spectacular Rio Verde falls, better known as El Pailón del Diablo (The Devil's Cauldron).

After lunch at a local restaurant, head to nearby Baños, a small town famous for the hot springs that give it its name (baths). Its mild climate, verdant landscape, and mineral-rich natural springs make Baños an oasis of tranquility and relaxation. Sparkling waterfalls, rolling hills, and scenic bridges complete this picturesque setting. Before leaving, be sure to sample some of the town's trademark taffy, called melcocha. Hacienda Leito Los Llanganates (B,L,D)

Day 6: Cotopaxi/Quito. Today's excursion takes you to another one of Ecuador's treasures-Cotopaxi National Park, home to the highest active volcano in the world (19,500 feet above sea level). Spanning an impressive 84,000 acres, this natural reserve protects a diverse array of flora and fauna, including llamas, deer, wild horses, as well as many rare species endemic to the region. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled and your cameras ready for a lucky sighting of the mythical Andean condor. After lunch at a local restaurant and a visit to a native paint store, begin the return journey to Quito. Grand Mercure Alameda Quito. (B,L,D)

Day 7: Quito, Galapagos Cruise: Baltra & North Seymour Island. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Baltra, gateway to the Galapagos Islands. Board your first class cruiser, the M/V Galapagos Legend, your home for the next three nights. Settle into your cabin and set sail for North Seymour Island, home to one of the largest colonies of magnificent frigate birds. Other island residents include playful sea lions and, from May to November, blue-footed boobies. MV Galapagos Legend. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Galapagos Cruise: Santa Cruz & Punta Cormoran (Charles Island). Today, explore beautiful Santa Cruz Island. This is sure to be the highlight of your visit to the Galapagos Islands, as this is the place to see giant tortoises, both in the wild and in captivity. Follow the trail to Dragon Hill, which offers a breathtaking view of the bay. Thanks to the island's Charles Darwin Research Center, this area is also an important nesting site for a large population of land iguanas.

Later, land at Punta Cormoran (Charles Island), home to one of largest flamingo lagoons in the Galapagos. Be on the lookout for various other species of shorebirds, including common stilts and white-checked pintail ducks. This island is also unique for its high percentage of endemic plants and for its two distinct beaches: the "Green Beach," named after the olivine crystals in the sand; and the "Flour Sand Beach," a dazzling white coral sand beach. (B,L,D)

Day 9: Galapagos Cruise: Española & San Cristóbal Island. Land at Suarez Point on Espanola Island, where you'll walk over rugged volcanic rocks to see colonies of sea lions and throngs of marine iguanas sunning themselves. At an overlook, you'll see many sea birds, including fork-tail frigate birds, hawks and mockingbirds, but you'll have to look carefully to spot the saddleback tortoises, native to this island, which despite their large size manage to hide in the bushes. The most spectacular of the sea birds are the waved albatrosses, the largest birds in the Galapagos. From March through November, you can usually watch the birds' elaborate courtship ritual, as they bow, click their bright yellow bills, circle and honk at one another before mating for life. It's quite a show. After raising their young, the birds head out to sea, where they often spend three or four months without touching land. End this morning's excursion viewing the famous blowhole, where the water spurts about 75 feet into the air.

This afternoon, continue to San Cristobal, the easternmost Galapagos Island. Stop for an informative visit at the island's Interpretation Center, located in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of the Galapagos Province. Built with the cooperation of the Spanish Science Center, this center provides an excellent overview of the history and biodiversity of the Galapagos. (B, L, D)

Day 10: Quito. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Quito. Enjoy some final leisure time in Quito before joining your travel companions for dinner in town. Grand Mercure Alameda (B, D)

Day 11: Depart Quito/Arrive USA. Bid adios to Ecuador as you board your return flight to the USA Your exciting South American adventure ends as you touch down in Miami today. (B)

About your ship, MV Galapagos Legend

The recently refurbished M/V Galapagos Legend is one of the most talked about additions to the expanding Galapagos cruising fleet. The 5-star, expedition-style Legend offers all of the comfort and amenities of a larger cruise vessel, but is small and specially designed to navigate the waters of the Galapagos.  With a passenger capacity of only 100, the Legend provides an intimate cruising adventure that allows you to experience up-close the unrivalled beauty of the Galapagos Islands.

The Legend’s bright and spacious cabins are comfortable and well-appointed.  All cabins feature adjustable climate controls, closet, safety deposit box, and a private bathroom with shower and hairdryer. Click here for information about your ship.

Destination FAQs

For quick answers to Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Ecuador, click here.

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Region:	-- all regions -- Africa Asia Europe Middle East South America
Country:	-- all countries --
Duration:	-- any length -- Up to 8 days 9 - 12 days 13 - 16 days 17 days or more
Budget:	-- any budget -- Up to $1000 Up to $2000 Up to $3000 Up to $4000
Month:	-- anytime -- January February March April May June July August September October November December

Ecuador & Galapagos Islands Included Features

• Round trip flights from Miami via LAN Ecuador including fuel surcharges (flight schedule)
• All ground transportation and transfers
• Accommodations in Superior and Deluxe hotels with private bath
• Three-night Galapagos Cruise aboard the first class MV Galapagos Legend in Superior outside cabins with portholes
• 28 lavish meals, including 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 10 dinners
• Comprehensive guided sightseeing tours including entrance fees
• Professional English-speaking tour directors and guides

  TourCode: d-000

Ecuador & Galapagos Islands Departures & Prices* Depart Return Book by Dec 3 After Dec 3 2008 DEPARTURES Dec 30 Jan 9 $3299 $3699 2009 DEPARTURES Jan 6 Jan 16 $3099 $3499 Feb 17 Feb 27 $3199 $3599 Mar 3 Mar 13 $3199 $3599 Mar 24 Apr 3 $3199 $3599 Mar 31 Apr 10 $3199 $3599 May 19 May 29 $3199 $3599

Tour prices are per person, double occupancy, including airfare. Prices in red reflect an early booking discount if you reserve by Dec. 3, 2008. * Prices do not include Additional Taxes, Fees & September 11th Security Fee for this tour of $85.

Taxes & Fees Service Price Additional Taxes, Fees & September 11 Security Fee +$85 Galapagos Park Fee +$100 Galapagos Transit Control Card* (paid separately) +$10 Departure Taxes, Ecuador (paid locally)** (paid separately) +$40

* As part of increasing conservation efforts in the Galapagos Islands, the Ecuadorian government has implemented a new measure to oversee the number of visitors to the Islands. All tourists must now obtain a transit control card, which we will arrange for you prior to departure. ** All departure taxes are paid locally at the time of departure. Amount is approximate and reflects current exchange rates.

Optionals & Upgrades Service Price Single Supplement +$1,299 Cabin Upgrades Junior Suite +$300 Junior Suite Single Supplement +$230

Departure Airport: This tour departs from Miami International (MIA). Ask about availability and prices for connecting flights from other cities.

Travel Insurance: Our comprehensive policy is available for only $129 per person and is strongly recommended to protect your investment.

Flight Schedule: Click here for a full flight schedule.

Shop and Compare

Our tours may look similar to others you've seen, but we invite you to shop & compare. There are important differences that make Friendly Planet tours the best you can find.

No Compromise on Quality: Despite our extraordinary prices, there are no compromises on our South America tours. You'll stay in Deluxe and Superior First Class, centrally located hotels that are noted for their amenities and service, and you'll cruise aboard the newly refurbished, 5-star M/V Galapagos Legend.

Included Features: Your transfers as well as important visits to all the "must see" places in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are all included, not expensive extras as in other tours.

Free Destination Guide: You will receive a free, comprehensive Friendly Planet Ecuador & Galapagos destination guide with lots of destination information, helpful hints, plenty of night-life and restaurant suggestions, organized by cuisine and cost, so you have up-to-date spots to try on the evenings when dinners are not included. Your free guide will even include recommendations for tipping, local customs, dress, great shopping spots and much more.

Credit Cards or Cash: Whether you pay by check, money order or your favorite major credit card, your tour price on this tour is the same. No extra cost to charge your dream vacation when you book with Friendly Planet. Credit Card Authorization Form.

Personal Service: Most important of all, the extra ingredient that makes our tours stand apart from others—the wonderful, personal attention you'll receive from our friendly staff in the USA and our representatives in South America —is completely free of charge. Compare our programs to others, feature for feature. You'll see for yourself that ours are the very best value for money you'll find anywhere.

AVAILABILITY: Our cruise tours are heavily in demand, and even if a departure shows as available, availability may be limited to certain decks or cabin categories. Please check with us by telephone (800-555-5765) for up-to-the-minute status on our cruise programs. If you are reserving this tour less than 60 days prior to departure, confirmation is subject to space availability. We will advise you within 48 hours if we can confirm your reservation. In the meantime, no credit cards will be debited for deposits or payments until we are able to confirm your reservations.

IMPORTANT TRAVELERS NOTES: *The high altitudes reached on this trip (Quito is at 9,200 feet above sea level) and the amount of walking involved, often on uneven terrain, requires that you be in good physical condition to fully enjoy the trip. We strongly suggest that you consult your physician if you have any concers regarding your ability to handle these conditions.

*If you are reserving this tour less than 60 days prior to departure, confirmation is subject to space availability. We will advise you within 48 hours if we can confirm your reservation. In the meantime, no credit cards will be debited for deposits or payments until we are able to confirm your reservations.

Wait-listing on Friendly Planet Sold-Out Departures: If your preferred departure is sold out, you can place yourself on a waitlist by completing the online reservation form and submitting it to us. Just click on the "waitlist" button, complete the form and click "submit". In the comments box at the very bottom of the form, please write any notes regarding your request, especially any flexibility you might have in your dates of travel. This way, if your first choice doesn't clear, we can try for a second or third choice. We will make every effort to clear your space in a timely way so that you can join us on tour. You do not need to send any deposits for waitlists. When we clear your space, we'll contact you immediately by phone or email, and if you still wish to travel, we will arrange for deposits or payments at that time. We regret that we cannot accept waitlists beyond 35 days prior to departure. If you see "sold out" next to the dates you wish to reserve or waitlist, please note that this departure is now closed, including waitlist possibilities.

Already Booked? Print and complete your Tour Registration Form (PDF).

800.555.5765 / Fax 215.572.9803

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* Some tour prices reflect an early booking discount on select dates. Prices do not include Additional Taxes, Fees & September 11th Security Fee.

Though we do our best to provide accurate and up-to-date information on our site about our tours, sometimes oversights and typographical errors can occur. Please confirm all tour prices and details with us via email or phone prior to booking. We will not be held responsible for misunderstandings arising from such errors.

TourCode: d-000