Ecuador and the Galapagos for solo travellers
16days from
£6,199*per person
Overview
16 days - Escorted Tours
With magnificent wildlife, awe-inspiring architecture and striking scenery, Ecuador is an incredible adventure for lovers of natural beauty, history and culture. A place that often goes unsung, Ecuador is an under-appreciated destination with wonders around every corner. Although the Galapagos islands feature high up on most people’s bucket list, the mainland is a surprising and fascinating place to visit in its own right. On this inspiring tour, you’ll be able to see some of the world’s highest volcanoes, buzzy colonial cities, wonder at the beauty of hummingbirds in tropical cloud forests, travel on spectacular trains and stay in historic haciendas – all this before you’ve even stepped ashore in the Galapagos!
We take a drive along the Pan-American highway, probably the longest road in world, connecting Alaska with South American Patagonia. We trail the impressive seven peaks of the Avenue of the Volcanoes, before arriving at Cotopaxi National Park. Here we'll wonder at the striking, snowy Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano on the planet.
When we reach the Galapagos, you will be truly spoilt by the sheer sights of natural beauty, well-preserved terrain and exotic wildlife. For years, the only way most people could visit the Galapagos was to sail from island to island on small motor-yachts – a great way to travel, but also very expensive. Our tour avoids this by offering an island-hopping itinerary which means you actually get to stay on two of the most interesting islands. To get the most out of your visit to this extraordinary wildlife destination, it’s important to be fully mobile and be able to snorkel so you can discover the amazing marine life, something that even Charles Darwin was never aware of! You will also have the opportunity to explore Santa Cruz at your own leisure, an island famed for sea turtles, giant tortoises and marine iguanas, as well as the calm, white sand beaches of Tortuga Bay.
These incredible volcanic islands are home to a vast variety of flora and fauna, most of which are endemic species. A dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers, we will tour both land and sea to witness the sights of this magical archipelago.
The cuisine of the region takes natural inspiration from the sea and abundant organic produce of the area. Unsurprisingly, much of the dishes are made up of locally caught seafood, such as tilapia and halibut, and put into viche (soup) and arroz marinero (seafood rice). Be sure to try the famous cerviche, a dish made from fresh, raw fish and served with a refreshing salad of onions and tomatoes. The fruits of the land are strikingly unusual too; with speckled banana passionfruit, tropical cherimoya, tomato-like naranjilla and peanut butter fruit, which is said to taste just like the popular spread.
Whether you are looking forward to the wondrous wildlife, breath-taking landscapes, the colonial charm – or all three and more – this unique destination and its welcoming locals are awaiting your adventure.
Itinerary
- Departure
- Arrival in Quito - Welcome to Quito! The largest, best-preserved colonial city of America, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Considered the Cultural Capital of South America, it’s located just south of the equator at the foothills of the Pichincha volcano. Our tour of the city includes the leafy Independence square, overlooked by the Presidential Palace, cathedral and Archbishop’s Palace. Just a short walk away is the baroque Jesuit church of Compania de Jesus, with its incredible gilded interior. Another of Quito’s gems is the church and convent of San Francisco, the largest religious complex on the continent.
- Cross Equator line - Embrace the once-in-a-lifetime experience of standing on both the north and southern hemisphere. Here you’ll learn about the interesting history of the Equator line and physics of the location. We then continue to the little town of Mindo, set amidst lush, forested hills. We stay for two nights, surrounded by the exotic cloud forest and incredible birds.
- Mindo Cloud Forest - Today we explore the pristine cloud forests and hike along waterfalls of the area. At an altitude of 1,300m, Mindo lies between Ecuador’s lowlands and highlands and has a year-round mild climate. This, and the plentiful rainfall, mostly between January and April, has created lush forests, perfect for a wide variety of birdlife – with an incredible 140 species of hummingbirds recorded. Our hotel is surrounded by the forest and has several marked trails around the property, ideal for birdwatching. You may also try out the optional zip-line tour or learn about how the famous Ecuadorian chocolate is made. Signature experience - Ascend into the pristine heavens of the cloud forests as you ride through the lush tree canopies on a spectacular open-air cable-car, specially designed to ensure the most wonderful views. A feast for the senses, you’ll feel completely immersed in this extraordinarily beautiful landscape as you glide over the treetops soaking up the sights and sounds of the forests’ fascinating wildlife.
- Pululahua Crater - Heading south on the Pan-American highway we drive along the Avenue of the volcanoes, towards the Cotopaxi National Park. En route we stop at Pululahua, the third largest inhabited volcano crater in the world. From the rim of the extinct volcano enjoy the panoramic views over the green farmland in the base of the crater. Lunch is included today.
- Cotopaxi and Riobamba - This morning we reach Cotopaxi National Park for some stunning views, and at 5,900m the highest active volcano in the world. Snowcapped year-round, the perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone is one of the greatest sights in South America. Lunch is included today. Ecuador is the world’s largest exporter of roses and this afternoon we’ll visit one of the many rose farms in the area.
- Riobamba and Cuenca - This morning is free for you to relax in the surroundings of your historic Hacienda hotel. Alternatively, you’re welcome to join a visit of the local area to appreciate the fascinating life and culture of this agricultural community. This afternoon, we continue along the Pan American highway, arriving in the amazing colonial city of Cuenca. Dinner is included tonight.
- El Cajas National Park - Today we'll visit El Cajas National Park. Less than an hour northwest of Cuenca, this rugged landscape features pristine parkland reminiscent of the Scottish highlands with rocky green mountains interspersed with over 780 crystalline lagoons and a network of trickling streams. For almost as far as the eye can see, the ground is covered in wildflower-strewn shrubs and grasses - the only sounds are running water, wind and the call of birds overhead.
- Cuenca - A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cuenca is a treasure-trove of charming colonial churches, mansions and squares, which are all easily walkable. The main square is overlooked by the town’s vast cathedral, said to be modelled on St Peter’s in Rome. The city is also known for its Panama hats, which are in fact hand-made in Ecuador, not Panama! Our included city tour takes in all these sights as well as a visit to a Panama hat factory, and finishes at one of the fascinating local markets, where you can admire the colours of the fresh produce as well as the traditional arts and crafts of the Andes. This afternoon you will fly from Cuenca to Quito.
- Fly to San Cristobal Island, Galapagos - This morning we catch the 1hr.50 flight to San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos. As the most easterly island in the archipelago, this was the first to be visited by Charles Darwin in 1835. After we are settled into our hotel, we explore the wildlife along nearby La Loberia’s white sand beach, with a chance to swim or snorkel. You are bound to spot marine iguanas, sea lions and plentiful birdlife. We stay two nights close to the centre of the island’s small main town of Puerto Moreno. Dinner at a local restaurant is included tonight.
- San Cristobal & Isla Lobos - Today we board a small boat for the short trip to Isla Lobos, where we explore families of frigate birds and blue footed boobies. Although the path on the island is uneven and rocky in parts, the effort is worth it to see these iconic birds up close. We have lunch on board, and then we have an opportunity to swim or snorkel off the boat in the lagoon, where inquisitive seals may come and swim with us! In the afternoon we learn about conservation work on the islands during our visit to the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre.
- Santa Cruz Island - This morning we catch the speedboat ferry service to nearby Santa Cruz Island, which should take between 1hr30 to 2hrs. On arrival, we’ll visit the famous giant tortoises in the beautiful El Chato highland reserve – an unforgettable experience! Within the grounds, you may also explore one of several underground lava tubes, left over from when the island’s volcano was active. Signature experience - Experience more of the natural wonder of El Chato Reserve, home to the legendary giant Galapagos tortoises as you wander some of its picturesque trails on a scenic walk. Having worked up an appetite, sit back and relax as you are served a hearty traditional lunch at a local farm then enjoy a visit to a distillery, culminating in a traditional digestif of course!
- Santa Cruz - This morning we have a boat tour of nearby Academy Bay, with an opportunity to snorkel with the Galapagos’ exotic marine life. You may see the likes of sea lions, rays and even sharks. After an included lunch, we continue for a tour of the famous Charles Darwin Research Station, where you will be able to see the remains of ‘Lonesome George’, stuffed and on display. There are also pens where baby giant tortoises are looked after before being released into the wild.
- Free day in Santa Cruz - Today you’re free to enjoy Santa Cruz at your own pace, where you can meander around Puerto Ayora or relax at the unspoilt Tortuga Bay. You can also personalise your trip with a pre-bookable boat trip to nearby Bartolomé or Sante Fe islands, subject to weather and availability. Personalise your holiday - Boat trip to Santa Fe Island Price: £329pp Santa Fe Island's white sandy beaches and dense forest are home to the pale land iguana, a rare subspecies only found here on the island. A short, guided hike offers the opportunity to spot the native iguana along with a variety of other wildlife, including sea lions sunbathing on the beach (2025 only). Note: This trip is subject to weather conditions. Please contact us for more information and to add the above experience to your booking. Personalise your holiday - Boat trip to Bartolomé Island Price: £329pp Bartolomé Island is a volcanic islet in the Galapagos archipelago known for its stunning landscapes, including the famous Pinnacle Rock. Enjoy a full day of beautiful white sand beaches, snorkel to observe diverse marine life such as Galapagos penguins and sea turtles, and explore volcanic craters and lava tubes. A low-difficulty walk up a wooden staircase leads to a viewpoint offering panoramic views of Twin Bay, Pinnacle Rock, and Santiago Island. Bartolomé is just two hours from the Itabaca channel, making it an ideal destination for learning about the evolution of the islands. Note: This trip is subject to weather conditions. Please contact us for more information and to add the above experience to your booking.
- Return home
- Arrive home
What's Included
Holiday Highlights
- Explore the astonishing UNESCO World Heritage sites of Quito and colonial Cuenca. And stay five nights on the Galapagos islands of San Cristobal and Santa Cruz.
- Discover the wonderful birdlife of the Mindo Cloud Forest, see the giant tortoises of Santa Cruz in the stunning El Chato highland reserve and learn about the wildlife conservation work at the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre.
- Enjoy the amazing views of snow-capped Cotopaxi, the world’s highest active volcano, ride the Pan-American highway along the Avenue of the Volcanoes and have the chance to add on an optional zip-line tour in the Mindo Forest.
- Search for bargains in authentic local markets and visit a rose farm in Riobamba and see how authentic Panama hats are made.
- Swim or snorkel with the amazing marine life of the islands, in Isla Lobos lagoon and Academy Bay and see ‘Lonesome George’ at the famous Charles Darwin Research Station.
Our Price Includes
- The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a room. Single rooms are subject to availability, at the relevant supplement. The price includes:
- Return scheduled flights
- Internal flights as mentioned in the itinerary
- Overseas transfers
- 13 nights accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- Eight meals
- Local accommodation taxes
- Hotel porterage of one luggage item per person
- Touring and coach travel as mentioned in the itinerary
- The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout
- Not included: Galapagos National Park entrance fee of $200 USD per person, payable locally.
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Dates and Prices
Accommodation
Fiesta Hotel -
All rooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. There is a swimming pool, games room and restaurant serving dishes prepared by an expert chef.
Septimo Paraiso Lodge -
The hotel boasts exceptional facilities for guests with a natural spring water pool, a jacuzzi, multiple recreation areas and a games room. With over 300 bird species within the reserve, it is a bird watchers haven.
Cotopaxi Pungo Finca Hotel -
This beautiful Spanish hacienda style hotel offers a unique combination of traditional architecture and modern guest amenities set within beautiful natural surroundings. Beautiful fireplaces, reading nooks and charming views create an idyllic atmosphere and a welcoming place to rest your head after an exciting day of touring. Rooms offer a seating area, a safe, complimentary bottled water and complimentary toiletries.
Four Points by Sheraton - Cuenca -
This bright, modern hotel offers an ideal mix of comfort and convenience. The hotel offers a swimming pool, a bar and lounge, a fitness centre and restaurant. Rooms are modern, spacious and comfortable and consist of a safe, a television, air conditioning and room service.
Hacienda La Andaluza -
This spectacular hotel welcomes guests and boasts exceptional service. The hotel boasts an interesting collection of art adorned throughout the property. There are ample guest facilities and activities on offer including a restaurant, BBQ facilities, spa & wellness (local charges services and a gift shop. Rooms consist of a safe, a television, a telephone and complimentary toiletries.
Go Quito -
Go Quito is a new 5* hotel centrally located in Quito. During downtime, you can take a dip in the indoor swimming pool, enjoy a treatment at the on-site spa or simply relax in the lobby bar and café. Over breakfast in the hotel's restaurant, you can enjoy 360 views of Quinto. The restaurant also offers a mouthwatering menu of Mediterranean and Ecuadorian-style meals for lunch and dinner. At the end of the day, you'll drift peacefully off to sleep in your spacious rooms and wake up to offer incredible views. Every room is equipped with a TV, air-conditioning, a seating area, a mini fridge, a coffee machine, a hairdryer, safe and room service is also available.
Other Information
Holiday code
R557Holiday provided by Riviera Travel
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE: This holiday is sold and operated by Riviera Travel (ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430). These ABTA and ATOL bonds mean that, when you book a Riviera Travel holiday, you can be 100% sure that your money is safe.