Guayaquil Tours in September 2026

A stunning first trip for us to South America - Ecuador has it all. This trip took us on a journey through all the ecosystems of this beautiful Country, from the turbid Amazon with it's humid jungle to winding mountain roads overlooking houses clinging impossibly to the slopes from where a living was hewn from fields bathed in cloud. Subtle changes in the costume of indigenous residents highlighted this varied community, whilst equally subtle changes became the norm as one climbs from the rain through the cloud forests to the highlands with vegetation that appears barren until you look closely at the beauty of the tiny alpine flowers and plants.

If you want variety then look no further; this trip had it all and more. Scenery (stunning), history, wildlife and culture. Boat trips, train rides, walking, easy hiking, wildlife spotting. Volcanoes, Rain Forest, Cloud Forest, the Andes, sugar and cocoa plantations. I even learnt how to use a blowpipe. Great weather throughout the two weeks; only rained for one day (in the rain forest, so expected).

This is a most amazing trip for wildlife enthusiasts. I had never been so close to wildlife that was so indifferent to our presence. We were merely another non threatening species and as such were not to be feared or shunned, simply accepted. To see the bird and animal life living and behaving so naturally was a real privilege.

The Galapagos Islands were everything Id hoped they would be - Peaceful and unspoilt teaming with wild life which was totally unafraid of us, our guide was obviously passionate about keeping the Islands this way and had a great deal of knowledge to share with us.

An excellent itinerary, both in Machu Picchu and the Galapagos. Nilton and Fabian were great tour leaders, ensuring that the complicated travel arrangements went smoothly and that we made the most of our time in Cusco, Quito and the Galapagos. One of the best Explore trips that we have been on!

Excellent wildlife, the snorkeling was amazing - turtles, sea lions and occasional (small) sharks. Good guides. Hectic with early starts and busy schedule. Worst experience was having my bag with all my valuables stolen from the hotel lobby - although we were aware of steet crime we did expect to be safe within the hotel.