Ecuador’s remarkable biodiversity makes it a magnet for wildlife enthusiasts and bird lovers. Join one of our wildlife tours in Ecuador to discover what inspired a young Charles Darwin to think differently about how life evolves after he landed in the Galapagos Islands, home to creatures not found in other parts of the world. El Chato Tortoise Reserve in the Santa Cruz highlands is an excellent place to see the magnificent giant tortoises, as well as birds like Darwin’s finches and short-eared owls. El Oriente, a world-renowned biodiversity zone that accounts for 30 percent of Ecuador’s landmass, teems with wildlife, and you are sure to spot howler monkeys, spider monkeys and pink river dolphins. If you plan your Ecuador wildlife tours between June and September, do not forget to head to the coastal Machalilla National Park to glimpse the 36-tonne humpback whale.
Scroll below to find our favorite Ecuador wildlife trips.
“Well, what can I say Everyone will tell you how you get to the animals and birds in the Galapagos; but you really do! Watch your feet or you could trip over sea lions or iguanas. Not to mention stepping on the gulls or boobies. One of our party had a red footed boobie land on her hand. Another had a sea lion sniff his toes! Everywhere you look there is another creature. Mockingbirds insisting that they have their picture taken. Sea birds swooping low overhead. A truly AMAZING place. And snorkelling; so close to the wonderful aquatic life. Feeling like sea lions yourself due to the wet suits.”
GALAPAGOS WILDLIFE CRUISE + Napo
4 - Very Good
Anonymous
“I'm glad I did the two week cruise to see the different terrain, flora and fauna. A great experience to get so close to wild animals. I can't swim, but with the help of a bouyancy aid and hired snorkel, mask and fins it was fantastic.”
Excellent
5 - Excellent
Thomas P.
“This trip was a life-changing experience that allowed me to experience such a diverse continent with multiple cultures. Moreover, it enabled me to witness some of the most spectacular landscapes and scenery I have ever seen in the world.”
Ecuador Wildlife Tours
See the most unique wildlife in Ecuador.
Highlights of Ecuador Wildlife Tours
Spot the Galapagos fur seals, the Galapagos barn owl and the bullhead shark — all endemic to the island or found in the waters near it.
Head to the Punta Espinoza in the Galapagos to see marine iguanas sunning themselves on black lava soil.
Take a boat tour near Puerto Lopez to see dolphins and sea lions or go swimming with whales with an experienced guide.
See primates like squirrel monkeys and wooly monkeys in the cloud forest region of Ecuador, along with birds like plate-billed toucans and tanagers.
Explore the thrilling wildlife in and around the Amazon River, and look out for piranhas, stingrays, eels, iguanas and anacondas.
Travel Tips for Wildlife Trips in Ecuador
Carry cash while traveling in the Amazonian forests or other remote places, as you are unlikely to find an ATM or bank nearby.
Learning a few Spanish phrases will be useful if you need to speak with locals.
Ecuador’s coastal and forest areas can see more rainfall from October to May, so pack accordingly.
A proper hat, sunscreen and insect repellent are a must while going on Ecuador wildlife tours.
Welcome!
Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.
