Experience the diverse beauty of Ecuador on a remarkable journey. Start your adventure with a smooth airport transfer to your hotel. Explore Otavalo's bustling market, marvel at the serene Cuicocha Lagoon, and immerse yourself in the craftsmanship of Cotacachi.
Discover the heart of Quito on a city tour and venture to the breathtaking Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa Lagoon. Relax in the "Baños de Agua Santa" and encounter unique wildlife in the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve.
Dive into the local culture at the Puruha Community, explore the vibrant Guamote Market, and witness the mystical Ozogoche—a journey through history at the Cañari Culture and Ruins of Ingapirca. Uncover Cuenca's charm on a city tour, visit Gualaceo and Chordeleg, and explore El Cajas National Park and a Cacao Farm. In Guayaquil, take in the city's highlights, then conclude your adventure with a transfer out from the airport to round off your Ecuadorian exploration.
See the itinerary section for more details.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-60 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
Quito, Cuenca, Guayaquil, Banos
Quito, Cuenca, Guayaquil, Banos, Cajas National Park, Cotacachi, Quilotoa, Chimborazo, Guamote
Embark on a captivating 15-day journey through Ecuador that promises a perfect blend of nature, culture and adventure.
From Quito to Otavalo to Cotopaxi and Banos, this trip will take you through all popular destinations and hidden gems of Ecuador. Explore the historic sites, culture and natural wonders.
Take an immersive tour of the remarkably preserved Quito historical sites, a testament to Latin America's vibrant past. Immerse yourself in the enchanting province of lagoons, savoring its gastronomic delights. Venture into the awe-inspiring landscapes surrounding an active volcano, culminating in the exploration of a magical turquoise lagoon. Ascend to the closest elevation to the sun at Chimborazo, revealing panoramic vistas.
We have curated just the right itinerary that promises fun, adventure and discovery in equal measures.
Trekking and HikingBeach
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Embark on an extraordinary eight-day adventure that will immerse you in the diverse landscapes and rich culture of Ecuador. Begin your journey in the captivating streets of Quito, a city steeped in history and charm. Explore the vibrant markets of Otavalo, where you can haggle for unique treasures and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
Discover the serene beauty of Cuicocha, a volcanic crater lake surrounded by stunning landscapes. Feel the power of Cotopaxi, one of the world's most active volcanoes, and marvel at the emerald waters of Quilotoa, a breathtaking crater lake. Witness the awe-inspiring Pailon del Diablo, a majestic waterfall that captivates the senses.
Stand in the shadow of Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest peak, and experience the tranquility of the Papallacta hot springs, where relaxation meets natural beauty. Throughout the week, immerse yourself in the perfect blend of culture, nature, and pure relaxation, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Join us on this unforgettable journey through the heart of Ecuador.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-70 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
Quito, Banos, Andean Desert, Cot
Quito, Banos, Andean Desert, Cotopaxi National Park, Chimborazo, Papallacta
Embark on an unforgettable four-day adventure to the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the jungle, where each moment promises unique encounter with wildlife and nature.
Venture out on canoe rides along the pristine waterways, marveling at the reflections of the towering trees on the calm surface. Keep your eyes peeled for vibrant bird species, playful monkeys swinging through the branches, and elusive creatures like jaguars and pink river dolphins.
At dusk, prepare for a mesmerizing experience as you witness the rainforest transform under the golden hues of the setting sun. Explore the jungle after dark, allowing the symphony of nocturnal creatures to captivate your senses. Listen to the sounds of hidden insects and frogs, and if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of the elusive creatures of the night.
Engage in cultural exchanges with the indigenous communities living in the reserve, gaining insights into their traditional way of life and ancient knowledge of the rainforest. Learn about their sustainable practices and the deep spiritual connection they share with the natural world.
A trip to Cuyabeno promises a journey into the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where you'll create memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature, connect with vibrant wildlife, and discover the true magic of the Amazon.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
With lumbering giant tortoises, playful sea lions and an aviary of swooping, squawking, soaring bird life, the Galapagos Islands is wildlife-watching heaven. For this five-day trip, it’s all aboard the Solaris, a first-class motor yacht, to cruise around the archipelago in the company of an expert naturalist. Along the way, we stop at a string of biologically diverse islands, including Genovesa, Santa Fe and San Cristóbal, with the chance to get out and explore on foot and by snorkelling. Expect moments worthy of a nature documentary and plenty of photo opportunities.
WildlifeBird watching
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Quito, Guayaquil, Baltra Island
Quito, Guayaquil, Baltra Island, Mosquera Island, Genovesa Island, Santa Fe
Experience the highlights of the famed Galapagos Islands with this 6-day program!
Swim alongside colorful fishes, sea urchins, and starfish while snorkeling; you might even spot some sharks! See the fantastic giant tortoises, which are endemic to the volcanic islands, as well as other creatures, including blue-footed boobies, Galapagos sea lions, penguins, marine iguanas, and frigate birds in their natural habitat. The highlight of this program is a trip to Isabela, Santa Cruz, and an uninhabited island.
The trip includes full assistance from our naturalist guide, full transportation, accommodation, and even some meals.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
5-80 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
Galapagos Islands, Isla Santa Cr
Galapagos Islands, Isla Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, Tintoreras, Isabela Island, Baltra Island
Get ready to enjoy a memorable trip with your family. Start your journey with a sightseeing tour of Buenos Aires and learn more about the history of this city. Located in Argentina's Río Negro province, Bariloche, another highlight of this trip, is a city surrounded by thousand-year-old forests, mountains covered in snow and crystal clear lakes.
Mendoza, on the other hand, is a famous wine region in Argentina. A particularly famous specialty of the region is the tasty red Malbec. Also included in the itinerary are a variety of activities ranging from glacier walk to kayaking and hiking through forests.
Please scroll down to the itinerary section for more details.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
1-79 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Patagonia
Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Patagonia, San Carlos de Bariloche
The Cordillera Huayhuash trek is considered one of the most beautiful trekking routes in the Peruvian mountains. The Huayhuash range includes seven peaks that are over 6,000 m. So, you can expect to see many mountain peaks and lakes in this epic nine-day adventure.
One of the highlights of the trek is the Siula Grande mountain peak (6,344 m), made famous by the film "Touching the Void" based on the true story of mountaineers Joe Simpson and Simon Yates. You will also see the peaks like Yerupaja (6,635 m), Yerupaja Chico (6,121 m), Jirishanca (6,125 m), and Sarapo (6,127m).
If you are interested, we can also arrange for you an easy climbing expedition to Diablo Mudo (5,427 m) and Pumarinri (5,465 m).
Throughout the trip, you will be staying in camps set-up in stunning locations to elevate your experience of trekking the Peruvian mountains.
Please see the itinerary section for more details.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Camping, Hotel, Tent
Age Range
9-79 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera
Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash, Cordillera Huayhuash, Laguna Carhuacocha, San Antonio, Santa Rosa, Santa Rosa, Laguna Jahuacocha, Huaraz
Discover this short trek and visit to the famed, epic Macchu Picchu. This tour is different from what other conventional Salkantay Trek tour operators offer; our style includes staying in proper tents in the wilderness—away from crowds—to ensure that you get a chance to savor experience the natural environment and have a genuine adventure to Machu Picchu.
Witness the great Salkantay Mountain, whose name means “untamed.” Embrace the majestic scenery as you make your way to the sacred city of Machu Picchu. Trek the picturesque routes that go from the highlands to the Amazon jungle, in the shadows of this impressive mountain.
A five-day breathtaking trek in the Cordillera Vilcanota, on a route we call the “The trail of the Apu” located in close proximity to the highest sacred mountain in the Cusco region, Mt. Ausangate. The Apu Ausangate is the bearer of life and the guardian of one of the most pristine mountain ecosystems in the world.
The trek is accompanied by llamas and horses that will carry our gear. These are owned by shepherds of the native community of Chillca who are proud to share their land with us, as well as the Spirit of their inspiring world. On our hikes and in our unique Andean lodges, daily meals will be prepared by experienced chefs who will introduce you to a great variety of delicious Peruvian dishes and produce, and for your entertainment: authentic vernacular music, played by local inhabitants, will liven up some of our evenings at the "tambos."
This was my 5th Contiki and it was another unforgettable experience. The trip manager () was excellent, a true expert in all things South American. My only constructive comment is linked to the number of days spent in Buenos Aires. The add ons and city were disappointing compared to the rest of the trip. I can't believe we spent so long there. I would have much rather spend more time in the Amazon or in Rio.
Beach
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Home-stay
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Cusco, Jun
Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Cusco, Jungle Lodge, Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes
See the Andes and then some on this incredible Inca extravaganza. Conquer the Lares Valley Trek and the Inca Trail (plus Machu Picchu) in 6 jaw-droppingly splendid days. Visit some of the most isolated communities in Latin America. Absorb yourself in a world of ancient cities, glacial lakes, waterfalls and mountain views. Plus ancient hot springs. And LOTS of llamas.
Initially before booking the trip I thought it was extremely overpriced.
However(our tour guide) was fantastic. He made the trip worth every penny and was extremely organised and knowledgeable. The locations were great, and the activities were really cool.
was a fantastic character, and became a friend by ensuring we all had fun. He looked after and catered for everyone’s needs and requirements, promoting safety above all else, and more than once went the extra mile to ensure we all had a great time (joining myself at CrossFit and his traditional dance moves were personal highlights).
I hope he gets the recognition he deserves, as I would love to book a similar trip with Contiki in future because of this great experience.
I would also recommend that you include huacachina in future - I went there on my own and it was one of the coolest experiences - maybe this could be added as an extra at the beginning of the trip.
In 2004, Quark Expeditions made Polar history when they conducted the first-ever ground visit to the remote Emperor penguin colony near Snow Hill Island, Antarctica. Driven by a true expeditionary spirit—and guided by years of Polar expertise—the team sailed past masses of dense ice and thick, tabular icebergs in the Weddell Sea to experience the legendary rookery, which now numbers 8,000 breeding pairs of Emperor penguins. Today, it is one of the most exclusive wildlife viewing experiences on the planet. We invite you—almost two decades after our milestone visit of 2004—to embrace the thrill of the search as we once again set out to visit to the emperor penguins at Snow Hill Island.
Experience a true Polar quest as we journey on our new ship, Ultramarine, which is equipped with two twin-engine helicopters that will fly guests to the vicinity of this rarely-visited rookery, whereupon they will walk across the thick sea ice to stand within metres of the most coveted penguin species on the planet. Anticipate scenes reminiscent of “March of the Penguins” and BBC’s “Frozen Planet.” Just imagine the penguins tobogganing across the ice towards the sea. Such wildlife moments are too precious for words!
Polar expeditions and cruise
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut, Ship Cabin
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ushuaia, Buenos Aires, Drake Pas
Ushuaia, Buenos Aires, Drake Passage, Weddell Island