Private transfer from Quito Mariscal Sucre airport to your hotel with English speaking guide

Puembo is a tranquil, pretty farming town located east of Quito, in the district of the same name, set ten minutes from the international airport. It functions as one of the best bases for hiking the magnificent inactive volcanoes in the area, such as Ilalo and Coturco. Ilalo, a striking triangular-shaped peak, is decorated with numerous wonderful hot springs, and there are several excellent spas to enjoy. Coturco is a large landmark volcano that can be seen from miles away, swathed in the beautiful dense pine forest, and offers both challenging hikes and a road to the summit for spectacular views. History and architecture enthusiasts visiting Puembo should make sure to see the Old Chapel, and head to Quito for fascinating heritage buildings and museums. Puembo is also known for its rich traditions and holds a wonderful celebration over Holy Week.

Overnight: Hacienda Jimenita Naturhotel & Wildlife Reserve

Hacienda Jimenita Naturhotel & Wildlife Reserve is a hidden treasure located in Quito, Ecuador. The property features rooms, suites and a private house. Each unit has Wi-Fi, a private bathroom and a fireplace. Select suites have outdoor Jacuzzis. Guests can delight their palates with Andean cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Activities include birdwatching, feeding llamas, sowing and harvesting, and cooking classes.

Private transfer from your Hotel to Quito Mariscal Sucre airport with English-speaking assistant. in order to take the flight to San Cristobal Island.

Flight Quito - San Cristobal (Airline TBC - included)

Galapagos Bird Life, Land, and Marine Exploration

This day we will visit the Interpretation Center and then hike to Cerro las Tijeretas or Frigate Hill, which gets its name from the large number of Frigate Birds (Tijeretas) that live and nest here.

On our walk along the lava rock trails we will be able to see interesting endemic plants and the spectacular birdlife of the Galapagos. There are great views of the coastline and our first encounter with the underwater marine life at Darwin bay.

We continue on to the striking Carola Beach where we can take another dip if we want. Here you will find sea turtles, sea lions, and marine iguanas.

Back in town for lunch.

Later we will visit La Lobería which is a piece of coast which owes its name to the large amount of sea lions (lobos marinos) resting on its rocks and beach. In spite of the fact that La Lobería is beyond the boundaries of the National Park, due to its importance the Park staff took over its maintenance and care.Along the trail one will find button mangrove, white mangrove, chala, palo santo, Galapagos cotton, Tiquilia, mañana gloriosa and other species of the coastal area, such as cacho de chivo.

We will take our snorkeling equipment and swim with the marine fauna.

Back to the hotel.

San Cristobal Island

San Cristóbal is the easternmost island in the Galapagos archipelago as well as the most populated. Famous for its natural attractions, the island also boasts some wonderful shopping and dining opportunities as well as a local airport. Take a break from snorkeling and hiking to enjoy the best Ecuadorian cuisine, or admire some of the exquisite artwork and designs at local galleries and markets. Must-see attractions include the Galapaguera Tortoise Reserve; the Interpretation Center (which provides important background information on the Galapagos); and Puerto Grande, a protected cove on the north-western side of the island boasting a magnificent white sandy beach - ideal for a peaceful walk, swim or photography sesssion.

Overnight: Hotel Indigo Galapagos

Full day Kicker Rock (semi-private)

Today we leave early from Baquerizo Moreno Port and head to the impressive Leon Dormido or Kicker Rock, but before getting there, we will try out our snorkeling gear in a small protected bay with calm water and playful sea lions.

Leon Dormido, made of two rocks in the form of an obelisk jutting dramatically out of the sea, is considered one of the top snorkel and dive sites in the Galapagos, and here we use our snorkeling equipment to explore a channel between the rocks.

Stingrays, white-tipped reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, turtles, tropical fish and eagle rays all live in the waters around Leon Dormido and if you are lucky you may even get to spot dolphins and whales!

Lunch on board

Same hotel as day 2 - dinner included

Day Itinerary

Transfer from hotel to Isabela Airport to take an inter-island flight to Isabela.

Flight San Cristobal – Isabela (included)

Tintoreras & bike to Wall of tears

Today we’ll take a tour of the small islands of Tintoreras, a Galapagos in miniature. Here we can see white tipped sharks at rest, plus sea lions, turtles, rays and penguins. We’ll also have the chance to snorkel in the bay.

Lunch included

We'll bike the Wetlands Trail where we can see marine iguana colonies and a number of different types of mangroves trees (all four can be seen here) as well as enjoying the network of trails, beaches and historic sites. At the end of the trail is the Wall of Tears, built in the late 1940’s by Second World War prisoners held at the US base on the islands. Our guide will explain the importance of the Wall of Tears, giving us a glimpse into the lives of the island’s previous inhabitants. On this network of trails you will catch some beautiful views of the village below and we will have the chance to see birds and, with luck, some wild giant tortoises.We stop at the local swimming hole where you can take a refreshing dip. When we get back to town, there will be time to relax and enjoy some swimming or snorkeling in our Galapagos paradise or of you prefer to just sit on the beach and relax.

Puerto Villamil

The small port town of Puerto Villamil is located on the edge of Ecuador's Isabela Island. This quiet town features sandy roads and strong agricultural and fishing businesses. Surrounded by beautiful natural areas, Puerto Villamil is home to a number of birdlife species such as flamingos, Bahama pintails, gallinules, and whimbrels which can be found around the saltwater lagoon. Tourists can explore nearby attractions such as the Wall of Tears, the Tortoise Breeding Center, gorgeous white sand beaches, and a boardwalk that leads to a mangrove environment. There are also several fine restaurants offering authentic traditional cuisine as well as some wonderful local markets.

Overnight: Iguana Crossing Galapagos Hotel

Iguana Crossing Galapagos Hotel welcomes guests to oceanfront accommodation in the Galápagos Islands. Each of the hotel's rooms features conveniences such as a TV, a telephone, a minibar, a small safe and air conditioning. Guests can delight their palate with regional dishes at the on-site restaurant. The hotel also features an outdoor swimming pool.

Hiking day!

Volcanic eruptions created all the Galapagos Islands, and you will have a chance to see this geologic process first-hand as we explore Isabela, one of the archipelago’s youngest and most volcanically active islands.We have the whole day to explore the Isabela highlands, and we start by hiking up to the crater of the massive Sierra Negra volcano, and then onward to the rim of the Volcan Chico.

This fascinating walk usually begins with some morning fog and drizzle, which sometimes persists in the shadow of the volcano, adding to its mysterious character. Despite the drizzle, we may see Galapagos Hawks, finches, flycatchers and Short Eared Owls en route.When we reach the rim of the Sierra Negra crater, the second largest in the world after the Ngorongoro in Tanzania, we will see the reward for our efforts. The crater is so large, and the views so expansive, photos can’t do it justice, but bring your binoculars and camera anyway!Later, as we head towards Volcan Chico, we may get the feeling we are walking on Mars due to the alien landscape.

And while the land appears to be utterly desolate, a closer look will reveal small lizards scurrying about among the rocks. From the crater’s rim, we will enjoy more amazing views along with lava tubes and fumaroles .After Volcan Chico and its extreme landscape, we will be able to relax in the shade of a lovely “jaboncillo” tree, and enjoy our box lunch while taking in the spectacular and expansive views over the central and northern parts of the Island. In the distance, we will be able to see Fernandina, Pinzon and Santa Cruz Islands.

We then head back down to complete our day of hiking (16 kilometers / 9,94 miles in total) and relax on the beaches of Puerto Villamil.

Lunch Isabela highlands

Day Itinerary

Transfer from hotel to dock to take the public speedboat to Santa Cruz (A.M. departure)

Excursion Highlands Pto Ayora

The guide will pick you at the dock in order to start the visit to the highlands. You will visit shelters for the giant tortoises, lava tunnels and the twins that are geological formations formed by collapse over time.Visit one of the private Farms that provides the opportunity to marvel at the celebrated Giant Galapagos Tortoise roaming in its natural habitat.

You will have the option to visit geological formations like a natural lava tunnels.

Lunch in highlands

The Twin Craters, known locally as Los Gemelos, are two massive sinkholes located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos. Contrary to their name, these formations are not volcanic craters but rather collapsed lava chambers that formed when the island’s surface could no longer support the empty underground space beneath. Surrounded by a lush Scalesia forest, Los Gemelos offer a unique environment quite different from the drier coastal areas of the island. This area is home to diverse bird species, including the famous Darwin's finches and the vibrant vermilion flycatcher. The site is a popular stop for visitors interested in geology, birdwatching, and the contrasting ecosystems within the Galápagos Islands.

Puerto Ayora

Situated on Santa Cruz Island of the Ecuadorian Galapagos Islands, the tourist town of Puerto Ayora is famous for its striking natural scenery, breathtaking beaches, and unique history. As the biggest town in the archipelago, it is from here that many excellent cruises, diving expeditions and land based tours depart. Tortuga Bay, which rivals any South American beach, is perfect for swimming and sunbathing and also offers the chance to spot sharks, marine iguanas, pelicans, and the occasional flamingo, while the Charles Darwin Research Station is home to giant tortoises. Other-worldly lava tunnels and two idyllic lagoons provide further opportunities to explore. The incredible Maprae Museum uses smartphone technology and augmented reality to tell the stories of ancient pre-Columbian artifacts.

Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands off the coast of Ecuador, renowned for their amazing endemic species, especially the giant tortoises which give the islands their name. Only discovered in the 1800s, the islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the surrounding waters are a national park and biological marine reserve. Of the 18 islands Baltra, Floreana, Isabela, San Cristobal, and Santa Cruz are now populated by more than 25 000 people. The original names were given by an English pirate, but the Ecuadorians have given the islands Spanish names. The Islands were made famous by Charles Darwin after he visited them on his scientific voyage on the HMS Beagle, and the endemic species here contributed significantly to Darwinian Theory.

Overnight: Ikala Galapagos Hotel

With a privileged location in the heart of Puerto Ayora, Ecuador, Ikala Galapagos Hotel offers accommodation in proximity to restaurants, bars and points of interest such as Laguna de las Ninfas, Tortuga Bay Beach and the Fisherman’s Dock. The hotel features rooms and suites, each with air conditioning, a hairdryer, a fan, free Wi-Fi and a safety box. Guests can delight their palate with breakfast and dinner at the on-site bar and restaurant. Ikala Galapagos Hotel also features an outdoor pool and lush gardens.

Day Itinerary

Artisan workshop & Kayak Tortuga Bay & Charles Darwin station

Inspired by the unique beauty of the islands and using cedrella's wood, one of the introduced species in Galapagos several years ago, galapagueño artists have dedicated their lives to capture in this wood images of fauna and flora of the archipelago. Their pieces are full of creativity and details that reflect the naturalness of the enchanted islands. During this visit we will learn more about the people whose skilled hands have created these wonderful sculptures

Tortuga Bay

After walking through a deciduous forest for 2.5 Km (~1.5 miles) we will reach one of the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago. We will continue walking along this white sand beach for another 1 Km (~0.6 mile) until we reach the Playa Mansa where we can enjoy a special kayaking ride around the Bay.

At the end of the activity, we will return to Puerto Ayora in a water cab.

Lunch included

Charles Darwin Research Station

The Charles Darwin Research Center is the matrix of all the scientific researches in the Galapagos Islands. It is from these headquarters from where all the most sensitive conservation projects are being directed. The conservation and preservation of giant tortoises, marine iguanas among others are some of the examples of the Center labor. We can walk along the core of the Research Center where we can find the corrals where the giant tortoises are being breed as well as the corrals where the land iguanas are being studied. The Research Center offers a brand new Interpretation Center with some of the most important samples of the Center Collection.

Basis

Bed and Breakfast

Dinner

Day Itinerary

Private transfer to Baltra´s airport to take the flight back to mainland, with English guide assistance.

Flight Baltra - Quito (Airline TBC - included)

Private transfer from Quito Mariscal Sucre airport to your hotel with English-speaking guide

Overnight: Hacienda Jimenita Naturhotel & Wildlife Reserve

Hacienda Jimenita Naturhotel & Wildlife Reserve is a hidden treasure located in Quito, Ecuador. The property features rooms, suites and a private house. Each unit has Wi-Fi, a private bathroom and a fireplace. Select suites have outdoor Jacuzzis. Guests can delight their palates with Andean cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Activities include birdwatching, feeding llamas, sowing and harvesting, and cooking classes.

Day Itinerary

Private transfer from your Hotel to Quito Mariscal Sucre airport in order to take the flight to El Coca with English-speaking assistant.

Flight Quito - Coca (Airline TBC - included)

Napo Wildlife Center 5 days 4 nights - Standard room

After a rewarding 30-minute flight over the eastern Andean mountain range to reach the city of Puerto Francisco Orellana "El Coca," followed by a 10-minute transfer in private transportation, we will welcome you at our private dock. Here, you will have the opportunity to take a break, use the restrooms, enjoy a refreshing drink, and receive a boxed lunch for the journey.

From this point, an exciting two-hour journey begins along the imposing Napo River on our covered motorized boats to the welcome area of the Napo Wildlife Center.  ** Since the operation starts on Sunday, motorized canoe transportation will be private, as it is an irregular operation.

At this location, we will switch to one of our rowing canoes, with our staff taking care of paddling while you enjoy a magical and tranquil ride through a narrow creek that leads us to the lodge located at the foot of a beautiful lagoon.

During this approximately two-hour journey, there is the possibility of observing some monkey and bird species such as toucans, parrots, and even macaws. Upon arriving in the afternoon at the Napo Wildlife Center, we will be greeted with an impressive view of the

Añangucocha lagoon. Upon our arrival, you will be welcomed with a refreshing drink and

snacks, followed by a brief informative session about your stay with us by the administrator.

Then, he will guide you to your comfortable room overlooking the jungle.

In the evening, one of our guides will provide a comprehensive explanation of the activities to be carried out over the following days while you enjoy exclusive access to Yasuní National Park offered by community-managed projects.

Orellana Province

The Ecuadorian province of Orellana lies along the northeastern border and is located very close to the Amazon rainforests, near the confluence of the Coca and Napo Rivers. It serves as an ideal base for jungle adventures and discovering the cultures of the indigenous people - the Taguareis, Kichwa, and Sachas tribes live here, some in their native forests. Start by visiting the Museo Arqueologico Centro Cultural Orellana to gain insight into thousands of years of forest culture. There are also wonderful traditional villages to explore. Primary attractions include the Yasuni National Park, the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, and the Sumaco Napo-Galeras National Park. The province’s name and capital city, Puerto Francisco de Orellana, was inspired by the El Dorado explorer Francisco de Orellana. From Orellano, visitors can take boats to Peru, Colombia, and Brazil.

Coca

Located at the confluence of the Coca and Napo Rivers in the Amazon Rainforest, Coca is perfectly situated – and has ample accommodation and tour organisers – for an Amazon exploration holiday of a lifetime. The Yasuni National Park is arguably one of the most species-rich and diverse areas in the Western Hemisphere, boasting, for example, nearly 600 bird species (making up one third of the total bird species of the Amazon). Down river from Coca is the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, which is home to pumas, jaguars, otter, tapirs, deer, a variety of monkey, manatees and even dolphin. The Huaorani Ecolodge is also well worth a visit.

Overnight: Napo Wildlife Center Ecolodge

The Napo Wildlife Center Ecolodge has been carefully built and designed by the Añangu indigenous community to offer tourist maximum privacy and comfort in Amazon Wildlife Tours. Luxury rooms and commodities, first class attention, beautiful views of the jungle and the lake, nature within your reach. It is a real paradise for nature lovers, eco-travelers, and adventure seekers.

Day Itinerary

The day begins early as we head towards the most accessible parrot salt licks in Ecuador, located approximately an hour and a half from the lodge. Guests arrive just before the start of the morning parrot activity. Here, up to five species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws can be spotted, including the blue-headed parrot, orange-cheeked parrot, yellow-crowned parrot, dusky-headed parakeet, and white-eyed parakeet.

Subsequently, we venture along a forest trail to visit the Kichwa Interpretation Center "Kuri Muyu," managed by the women of the local community. Here, visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Kichwa culture, learning about their music, traditions, and traditional use of natural resources.

Additionally, you can explore the craft shop, where local residents display and sell their unique creations, thereby supporting their creativity and work.

We continue our excursion through a lush terra firme forest for about 30 minutes until we reach the second parrot, parakeet, and macaw salt lick. If weather conditions are favorable, we will also have the opportunity to observe different species of birds and mammals.

After enjoying a revitalizing lunch, we begin our return to the lodge via the main creek, where there is the possibility of observing various species of birds and mammals.

A delicious dinner awaits you in the evening.

Napo Wildlife Center Canopy Observation Tower

Napo Wildlife Center Canopy Observation Tower enables guests to get a close-up and personal view of the jungle and its diverse flora and fauna. One of the 36-metre observation towers was strategically built next to a huge tree to offer guests the best view of the Amazon Rainforest. From high up in the canopy, guests have a broad scope to observe the magnificent scale of the trees, flocks of colourful birds flying, troops of monkeys tussling, and an unobstructed view of miraculous Amazonia.

Basis

Full board

Day Itinerary

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the lodge, we will embark on an exciting dawn walk to the observation tower in the forest canopy, located in the influence area of the Napo River. The observation tower, standing at 36 meters tall, is just 30 minutes away from the lodge and was built to the highest standards of quality and safety.

During the ascent of the tower's 12 floors, visitors will have the wonderful opportunity to contemplate the tropical forest canopy and its diverse levels teeming with fantastic biodiversity. Upon reaching the top, they will reach a platform in the crown of an imposing Ceibo tree, from where they can enjoy an exceptional landscape.

From this elevated position, visitors can observe flocks of colorful tanagers, macaws, toucans, monkeys, and other species active in the early hours of the morning. This unique experience allows one to delight in wildlife from the treetops, providing a privileged view of the Amazon rainforest.

Our tower offers the best experience in the Ecuadorian Amazon: flocks of colorful tanagers crisscross the canopy, blue and yellow macaws fly close by, while spider monkeys forage for fruits. Two species of large toucans call in the early mornings and evenings, and life in the forest canopy unfolds before your eyes. Birds, practically invisible from the forest floor, suddenly are within your reach.

After enjoying lunch at the lodge, we will explore a terra firme forest in the afternoon. We will walk through lush primary vegetation in search of varied fauna, with the thrilling possibility of encountering the unique and endemic Golden-mantled Tamarin monkeys.

After the hike, we will explore the nearby lake and streams in a canoe, with high hopes of spotting a family of giant otters on our journey.

At the lodge, you will also find a second observation tower above the restaurant, from where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the lagoon and its surroundings.

After dinner, prepare with your flashlight for a night hike. During this walk, you will have the opportunity to observe a wide variety of insects, reptiles, and amphibians, and even a species of nocturnal monkey.

Comunidad Kichwa Añangu

Añangu, located in the Yasuní National Park in Ecuador, is a Kichwa indigenous community known for its rich cultural heritage and commitment to sustainable tourism. The community offers visitors the opportunity to experience traditional customs and participate in guided jungle walks, bird watching, and canoe excursions. Añangu is situated within one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, providing a unique chance to explore the Amazon rainforest while contributing to conservation efforts.

This morning, we will venture onto one of the designated trails to explore the terra firme forests and swamp forests in search of more wildlife. You'll have the opportunity to spot golden-mantled tamarins, white-fronted capuchin monkeys, two-toed and three-toed sloths, squirrel monkeys, and much more. After this exciting hike, we will return to the eco-lodge to enjoy a delicious lunch and take a well-deserved rest.

In the afternoon, the rowing canoes will take us to explore deeper areas in the surrounding streams, where you will have even more opportunities to spot unique wildlife. Rowing canoe rides will allow you to immerse yourself in the authenticity of the Amazon, exploring fascinating ecosystems and observing the rich biodiversity of the region. Enjoy our lodge, which offers you a unique experience in the midst of the Ecuadorian Amazon jungle. From the comfort of our facilities, you can immerse yourself in the lush biodiversity of the region while enjoying the serenity of the surroundings.

Basis

Full board

Day Itinerary

Return to Quito City

We will depart early to return to the welcome area and change transportation to the motorboat. During our journey along the Añangu stream, we will enjoy the morning sounds of nature as the sunrise illuminates the landscape.

NOTE: This itinerary serves as a sample and is subject to changes due to weather conditions, logistical reasons, the safety of our guests and staff, regulations of the Yasuní National Park, as well as the particular interests of the guests. Changes and additions may be made to optimize wildlife observation, cultural interactions with the local population, and overall enjoyment of the Yasuní National Park

Flight El Coca - Quito  ( if your flight leaves earlier we suggest adding a day and we can add a night in Quito)