Highlights of Ecuador & the Galapagos

This journey through Ecuador showcases its dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and warm local culture. What makes it especially compelling is the opportunity to experience the country as locals do, staying in locally run accommodations rather than traditional cruises, particularly in the Galapagos, offers a more authentic and often overlooked perspective. The Galapagos feels incredibly safe and close‑knit, with a strong sense of community that stands out alongside the extraordinary wildlife.

Hotels were as expected and in good locations. Tour guides were great and the overall tour well balanced. Always a great experience with knowledgeable tour guides.

This is a very varied trip from the beautiful buildings in Quito to the unique Galápagos Islands. Heights of Cotopaxi to Amazon jungle. It is challenging at times especially on the Amazon jungle walk, this was not an easy stroll through a path in the jungle it was at times very steep and very slippery. Well worth it though to then enjoy the visit to AmaZoonico. Boat journeys between the Galapagos islands are long especially between San Cristóbal and Floriana. I personally saw no enhancement to the trip in stopping at this island and would have preferred more time on Isabella. Due to boat times there was no real free time to explore this lovely village. Trip notes are pretty inaccurate and need an overhaul especially the first week.

Amazing trip, excellent guides and very interesting itinerary with so many experiences and amazing wildlife.

Ecuador was truly a holiday of two halves. Mainland Ecuador was beautiful to explore, but the Galápagos was an absolutely unforgettable experience. I could have easily spent two weeks there. The wildlife was incredible, with so much to see and experience. Swimming with large sea turtles was a real highlight, and I still can’t quite believe it happened. Watching the birds, playful sea lions, sharks, and iguanas up close felt completely surreal. It would have been nice to see Kicker Rock, but I understand that sightings of hammerhead sharks can be hit or miss. I did feel, however, that the physical rating for this trip wasn’t entirely accurate. It was listed as Easy to Moderate, but I think it should be highlighted more clearly as closer to a level 2 to 3. Our group included a mix of ages, four under 50 and the rest over 60, and many found the hiking, snorkelling, and walking over uneven volcanic rock quite challenging. Despite that, everyone was an absolute joy to travel with, such a great group. The guides were fantastic, but Richard, our Galápagos guide, truly stood out. From the moment we arrived, he made us feel welcome in his home country. His knowledge, enthusiasm, and great sense of humour made every day special, and by the end of the trip, we felt like one big family. Richard’s organisation was exceptional. His daily updates and schedules on WhatsApp kept everyone informed, and he shared wonderful group photos, wildlife pictures, and videos throughout the trip. We always felt safe with him, especially during snorkelling excursions. He was constantly smiling, approachable, and full of positive energy. He even ended the trip with a thoughtful gesture, gifting each of us a Galápagos Islands fridge magnet, which was such a lovely touch. Overall, an absolutely outstanding trip and experience truly unforgettable.