Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper
Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper
Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper
12 Days Starting and ending in Quito
Visiting: Quito, Tena, Banos, Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island, San Cristóbal Island
Tour operator:
Tour code:
EGIH19
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 25
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Art Galleries & Museums, Canoeing-Kayaking, Hiking, Sightseeing, Snorkeling
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the "Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper" tour. Begin your journey in Quito, exploring its vibrant streets and historic sites, before venturing into the lush jungles of Tena. Experience the thrill of white-water rafting, visit a hummingbird sanctuary, and immerse yourself in local indigenous culture. In Banos, enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities like ziplining and canyoneering. Then, fly to the Galapagos Islands, where you'll encounter giant tortoises, snorkel with sea turtles, and kayak alongside playful sea lions. Discover the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes of Isabela, Santa Cruz, and San Cristobal Islands, making memories that will last a lifetime.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Quito
Location: Quito
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ibis Quito (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Quito! The mood will be sky high as we gather in Ecuador's capital. This modern day city (nicknamed the 'light of America') is built on ancient Incan ruins and boasts one of the best preserved historic centers in America. It was also the first city declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. We'll jump straight in to a team tour of the city, skip between two hemispheres at the Equatorial line. Squeezing in a visit to the IInti-Ñan Museum should round off the first day on trip pretty nicely.
Day 2: Quito To Tena
Location: Quito, Tena
Accommodation Name: Selina Tena (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s out of the city & into the lush jungle with spectacular views en route. Not a bad way to spend the day.
This stunning landscape is composed of vibrant hills and tumbling rivers that make it a white water rafting dream! If that's not your scene, we'll head to a humming bird sanctuary, and try and catch these beautiful birds as they buzz by. Then we'll settle in for the night, ready for big adventures tomorrow.
Day 3: Tena
Location: Tena
Accommodation Name: Selina Tena (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today is yours to roam the city and jungle to your hearts content. Maybe unwind over a few hot sugar cane and cinnamon drinks and a traditional canelazo brew, or opt to visit a local indigenous community - a pretty cool way to truly go local and give back on your trip. You'll get the chance to meet a shaman, play soccer with the local kids and really experience what tribe life is all about in this part of the world. Like the sound of this? Maybe consider packing some extra school supplies or tasty treats in your luggage - absolutely not essential but definitely appreciated by the local children. Tonight, we'll feast on delicious meats, sauces and salads, all traditional and sourced locally from the area. YUM
Day 4: Tena To Banos
Location: Tena, Banos
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Napolitano Apart Baños (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Good morning, Amazonian roamers! Today we're off to the adrenaline capital of Banos, so time to shimmy our way out of the rainforest - our next adventure awaits...
Sitting amidst tumbling valleys, waterfalls, and the still active Volcán Tungurahua, Banos is a big deal on the natural beauty front. No matter how adventurous you’re feeling, there is something for everyone on offer over the next two days. If “Thrill Seeker” is your middle name, then opt for today’s Zip Line and Canyoneering experiences. If you want a gentler experience then fear not, we have the perfect Zip Line (aimed at beginners) up for grabs tomorrow.
Tonight is all about learning the art of sultry salsa with an included lesson to get our snake hips a-shaking. Our friendly local teacher, Edith, knows what's up on the dance floor, and by the time we leave those salsa pro's won't know what's hit them. Dance floor goals complete, we'll hop around some watering holes for a taste of the local nightlife.
Day 5: Banos
Location: Banos
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Napolitano Apart Baños (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The adventure opportunities are endless today, with horseback riding, canyoneering and ziplining all on the menu. And trust us, this isn’t just any regular old zipline – we’re talking aerial bridges, rock climbing and speeding through the skies, Superman style – pretty much the ultimate aerial adventure. Don’t have such a head for heights? Horsey fun and canyoneering expeditions will keep you on your toes. Oh what a tough day this will be in Banos �� deciding how best to embrace your inner adventurer.
Day 6: Banos To Quito
Location: Banos, Quito
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ibis Quito (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we head back to Quito for a quick stopover for the night. You've got another chance to explore this beautiful city - lucky you! At night, we'll dine on a traditional Ecuadorian meal as our time in this wonderful country comes to an end.
Day 7: Quito To Isabela Island
Location: Quito, Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Isamar Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rise and shine! This morning we're taking to the skies, bound for the glorious Galapagos Islands. Excited much? You should be. On arrival we’ll appease our rumbling stomachs with some local food.
Giant tortoises roaming their natural surroundings and incredible old lava tunnels will welcome us onto the island of Santa Cruz. After lunch, we’ll take to the ocean and make tracks to our home for the night – the impossibly glorious Isabela Island, where we’ll sleep amidst the spellbinding beauty of the Galapagos National Park.
The inspiration behind Charles Darwin’s ‘Origin of Species’, Isabela Island is home to wildlife you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Picture the scene – sandy streets, palm trees, crystal waters and seal pups playing – can it really get any more perfect? Soak it all in, as it’s home for the next little while.
Day 8: Isabela Island
Location: Isabela Island
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Isamar Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Well good morning paradise. The ocean is calling, and who are we to resist her? Our wildlife kayaking adventure will see us taking to the seas with beady eyes on the lookout for green sea turtles.
Day 9: Isabela Island To Santa Cruz Island
Location: Isabela Island, Santa Cruz Island
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Silberstein (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We’ll wake up hungry for the day this morning (that’s what island life does to you), and for good reason – Santa Cruz is on the horizon.
After settling in to the Santa Cruz way of life, we’ll stroll down to the beach and the cosy Tortuga Bay. Wildlife fanatics will be in their element – the island is known for sharks, rays, turtles, great blue herons, and even blue footed boobies. Spend your time sunbaking next to a marine iguana, or roam the streets stopping off in cute cafes for fresh juice pit stops.
Day 10: Santa Cruz Island To San Cristobal Island
Location: Santa Cruz Island, San Cristóbal Island
Accommodation Name: Galapagos Planet (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Back on our boat we’ll set sail for San Cristobal, keeping our eyes peeled for cute bathing sea lions (we won’t have to look too hard – they’re literally everywhere). Four extinct volcanoes sit across the island creating scenic highlands that are best experienced by bike – mainly cruising downhill, you'll be happy to know. The tiny town of El Progreso will add a splash of colour to our journey, and we’ll also cross five different vegetation zones before arriving at our seaside destination – La Loberia beach.
Day 11: San Cristobal Island
Location: San Cristóbal Island
Accommodation Name: Galapagos Planet (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It’s our last day soaking up the natural beauty of the Galapagos, and what a day we’ve got planned. Bird-watching will kick us off, followed by a cruise to the 143-metre Kicker Rock – a natural phenomenon that protrudes from the ocean and is one of the greatest icons of the area. Our Local Guide will give us the low-down on the wildlife – both above and below the water – that surrounds the rock, then we’ll jump in and explore for ourselves. Keep a look out for chocolate chip starfish and a Galapagos Shark or two, but remember the golden rule – keep those toes off the coral, as you can do serious damage to the delicate eco-system. Back on board, we’ll make tracks for Puerto Grande beach. Here, we’ll eat lunch on board and enjoy a final afternoon of Galapagos fun, before rounding off the day with a feat to end all feasts. WHAT A DAY.
Day 12: San Cristobal Island To Quito
Location: San Cristóbal Island, Quito
Meals Included: Breakfast
There’s time to relax this morning & take in the beauty of the island before heading back to the mainland where your trip ends on arrival. Not done yet? Why not fly to Peru and join our Peru Uncovered trip?
What's Included
-
Meals
Meals are included as specified in the itinerary, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner on certain days.
-
City Tour of Quito
A team tour of Quito, including a visit to the Equatorial line and the Inti-Ñan Museum.
-
Hummingbird Sanctuary Visit
A visit to a hummingbird sanctuary in Tena.
-
Local Indigenous Community Visit
An opportunity to visit a local indigenous community in Tena, including meeting a shaman and playing soccer with local kids.
-
Salsa Lesson
An included salsa lesson in Banos with a local teacher.
-
Wildlife Kayaking Adventure
A wildlife kayaking adventure on Isabela Island.
-
Bird-Watching and Kicker Rock Cruise
Bird-watching and a cruise to Kicker Rock on San Cristobal Island, including snorkeling and exploring the marine life.
What's Not Included
-
Optional Activities
Optional activities such as white water rafting, zip lining, canyoneering, horseback riding, and biking are not included.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional snacks, and drinks are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
-
International Flights
International flights to and from Ecuador are not included.
-
Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and other service providers are not included.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes flights to the Galapagos Islands, boat transfers between islands, and overland travel through Ecuador's lush jungles and vibrant cities.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various locations including Hostal de La Mancha Quito, Selina Tena, Hotel Napolitano Apart Banos, Hotel La Gran Tortuga, Hotel Red Booby, and Casa de Nelly or similar.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on Isabela Island?
On Isabela Island, you can expect to see green sea turtles, angelfish, parrotfish, and other unique marine life. The island is also home to wildlife that inspired Charles Darwin's 'Origin of Species'.
-
What activities are included on San Cristobal Island?
On San Cristobal Island, you will have the opportunity to go bird-watching, take a cruise to Kicker Rock, snorkel to explore marine life, and visit Puerto Grande beach.
-
Are there any cultural experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a visit to a local indigenous community in Tena, where you can meet a shaman and play soccer with local kids. Additionally, there is an included salsa lesson in Banos with a local teacher.
-
What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at various locations including Hostal de La Mancha Quito, Selina Tena, Hotel Napolitano Apart Banos, Hotel La Gran Tortuga, Hotel Red Booby, and Casa de Nelly or similar.
-
What meals are included in the tour?
Meals are included as specified in the itinerary, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner on certain days.
-
What optional activities are available during the tour?
Optional activities such as white water rafting, zip lining, canyoneering, horseback riding, and biking are available but not included in the tour package.
-
Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
-
What is the starting and ending location of the tour?
The tour starts and ends in Quito, Ecuador.
-
What kind of adventure activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a wildlife kayaking adventure on Isabela Island, snorkeling at Kicker Rock on San Cristobal Island, and various adventure activities in Banos such as zip lining and canyoneering.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Tuesday - Saturday
Jan 14, 2025 - Jan 25, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Mar 11, 2025 - Mar 22, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Apr 15, 2025 - Apr 26, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Jun 03, 2025 - Jun 14, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Aug 05, 2025 - Aug 16, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Sep 16, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Dec 09, 2025 - Dec 20, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.