Ecuador Galapagos Tour

We arrive in Quito, with its bustling markets and colonial architecture, and begin our adventure with a trip to the Equator Line. Next, we head to Cotopaxi National Park and downhill mountain bike amidst the high Andean peaks and volcanic craters. In a remote mountain village, we learn about native Quechuan culture and work with local families on community projects.


Our adventure continues with a visit to the lush mountain town of Ba–os and two days whitewater rafting class II and III rapids. After the thrills of the river we are ready to relax at a beautiful eco-lodge nestled deep in the jungle. We spend time exploring the Amazon by foot and boat and kick back each night in our hammocks.

Leaving the mainland, we fly to the Galapagos Islands to explore the turquoise waters and abundant wildlife of Isabella Island. We sea kayak, hike and snorkel around Isabella before heading to Floreana, San Cristobal and Santa Cruz Islands. We see giant tortoises as well as sea lions, marine iguanas, penguins, pink flamingos and blue-footed boobies. We also have the opportunity to hike or horseback ride to volcanoes and lava tunnels, and snorkel with Manta Rays and the harmless Galapagos shark.

» Day 1:
You will be met upon arrival at the airport gate by your experienced AAVE expedition leaders. After a complete gear check, to assure that you are prepared for the diverse, demanding and remote regions we explore, we load up and head off! During orientation we get to know each other and learn what to expect in the days ahead. Our daily routine, jobs and safety rules are explained and the process of growing together as a group begins.

» Days 2-3:
Together we fly to the Galapagos Islands (flight included). We stay in a hotel on land and go horseback riding and canoeing. The Galapagos Islands are located about 1000 km (620 miles) off the Pacific coast (3 hours by air). The archipelago comprises 14 major islands and scores of islets that served as a living laboratory for Charles Darwin, the renowned evolution theorist. Long before Darwin arrived in the Galapagos Islands, seafarers knew these isolated islands as home to some of the strangest and most wonderful wildlife imaginable including birds that swim but no longer fly, iguanas, dragon-like lizards and giant tortoises. Covering nearly 5000 sq km (3,100 sq miles), the Galapagos Islands are now a National Park.

» Day 4:
Devil's Crown-Post Office Bay-Cormorant Point (Floreana): This is one of the islands that has the most interesting human history. In 1793 a post office barrel was erected to facilitate delivery from sailers to their families. Today, this area is called Post Office Bay, and you can still leave or look for mail from your hometown. The Devil's Crown is a volcanic crater near Floreana that has been eroded by the waves. Here snorkelers are immersed in a world of color and movement filled with schools of fish that move as one: king angelfish, yellowtail surgeon fish, needle fish, parrot fish, Moorish idols, damselfish, sea cucumbers, sea stars, sea urchins, sleeping sharks, turtles, rays and many more, making this one of the best snorkeling sites in the Galapagos.

» Day 5:
Isla Rabidaa (Jervis) begins with a landing on a dark red beach where sea lions rest and swim and the best place to see pelicans nest. Behind the beach is a salt-water lagoon where flamingos and white-cheeked pintails are sometimes seen. There is a short hike with great views to a spectacular snorkeling spot. In the afternoon we will go to Ilsa San Salvador (James) where long flat, black lava shoreline has pools, caves and inlets that house a great variety of wildlife including marine iguanas, red sally Lightfoot crabs and herons.

» Day 6:
Bartolome-North Seymour: This island is home of the famous Pinnacle Rock, which is the most representative landmark of the Galapagos. Climbing to the top of this popular landmark rewards visitors with panoramic views of varied lava formations, volcanic peaks and a moon-like landscape. Walking on the rocks at the base of Pinnacle Rock are Galapagos Penguins. This is the smallest species of penguins and the only species found north of the Equator. North Seymour is a tiny island packed with countless sea lions and it's one of the most popular breeding grounds for sea birds. A very large colony of frigate birds nest here, and it's almost guaranteed to see a few males proudly displaying their red pouches to impress a mate.

» Day 7:
Suarex Point-Gardner Bay (Espanola): This is southernmost island and because of its remote location, it has a high proportion of endemic fauna. For example it is the breeding site of nearly all of the world's 12,000 pairs of waved albatrosses. These large birds perform one of the most spectacular rituals of the animal world. Watching them take off is an unforgettable moment. Espanola teems with mockingbirds, blue-footed and masked boobies, Darwin finches, Galapagos doves, hawks, red and green marine iguanas, and sea lions.

» Day 8:
Charles Darwin Station-Highlands (Santa Cruz): Santa Cruz is the second largest island in the Galapagos. The small town of Puerto Ayora is the economic center of the archipelago, with the largest population of the 4 inhabited islands, approximately 8,000. Tourism, fishing, boat building and commerce are the major productive activities. Santa Cruz is also the only island where six different vegetation zones can be seen, and a trip to the lush greenery of the Santa Cruz highlands offers a welcome contrast from the arid scenery of the smaller, lower islands. Santa Cruz is home to the Charles Darwin Station, where visitors can observe tortoise research and breeding programs. Scientists and park managers conduct the conservation of the islands and make huge efforts to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't forget to say hello to the tortoise Lonesome George - the last of his species.

» Days 9-10:
We fly to Quito, a charming metropolis surrounded by mountains with a population of 2 million people. Quito is in the middle of the earth because the equator passes through the northern part of the city. It is 9,184 ft above sea level, resulting in spring like weather. Quito is known for its treasures of Colonial churches, paintings, sculptures and carvings. Along with seeing the city sights, we volunteer on a social work project with street children.

» Days 11-12:
The Quilotoa Loop is a spectacular high-Andean road through ancient Ecuador that takes us to rural indigenous villages, the Cotopoaxi Volcano, great hiking and a magnificent crater lake. This route gives us insight into rugged mountain living. Our two days will include a few hikes and two optional but highly recommended downhill mountain bike rides.

» Days 13-14:
San Pablo is a village nestled at the base of the highest mountain in Ecuador, Volcano Chimborazo at 6310m. By staying in the village, we contribute to an ecotourism project that enhances the locals' harsh existence. We'll eat traditional foods and see artisan's work. When school is in session, we assist with English instruction for the children. We also will visit the llamas and help with maintaining pasture health.

» Days 15-16:
Banos is a peaceful town surrounded by waterfalls and volcanos. This popular tourist stop is famous for the hot springs where Ecuadorians make pilgrimages. We enjoy the waterfalls, cable car, shops and night life in this town, and we stay at a charming inn, LA PETITE AUBERGE.

» Days 17-18:
Tena is the Whitewater capitol of Ecuador. The Upper Rio Napo - Class III is one of the most popular river trips in Ecuador. Also known in the local Quichua language as "Rio Jatunyucu" which means "Big Water" + big waves = fun! This is a great trip for beginners and experts. We spend two days on the river with our guides from Rios Ecuador. We'll eat lunch on the beach and have plenty of time to play in the water..

» Days 18-19:
We travel deeper into the jungle to stay at the Shangrila lodge. We'll have time to hang out in the hammocks and enjoy the panoramic views between excursions. Guides will take us on a hike to learn about plants and traditional Quichua culture and we'll ride a river boat to visit a wildlife preserve and see jungle animals like monkeys, coatimundis, capybaras and jaguarmundis.

» Days 20-21:
We return to Quito to celebrate our last night together in Ecuador. We pack up our gear and celebrate our successes. All great things must come to an end. Early on the last day we go to the airport, confident, tan and strong after the most incredible summer of adventure, fun and friends.