Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper
Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper
$3905
Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper
12 Days Starting and ending in Quito, Ecuador
Visiting: Quito, Tena, Baños, Isabela Island, Santa Cruz Island, San Cristobal Island
Tour operator:
Tour code:
EGIH26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper" tour, starting in the vibrant city of Quito, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Experience the lush jungles of Tena, where you can indulge in white-water rafting or visit a hummingbird sanctuary. In Baños, thrill-seekers can enjoy zip-lining and canyoneering amidst breathtaking landscapes. The adventure continues as you fly to the Galapagos Islands, exploring the unique wildlife and natural wonders of Isabela, Santa Cruz, and San Cristobal Islands. From kayaking with sea turtles to snorkeling with marine life, each day offers new opportunities to connect with nature. Conclude your journey back in Quito, enriched by the diverse experiences and memories of Ecuador's vibrant culture and the Galapagos' unparalleled beauty. This tour promises an in-depth exploration of Ecuador's most captivating destinations.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Quito
Location: Quito
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: 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 Guayuza, 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 Baños
Location: Baños
Accommodation Name: Hotel Napolitano Apart Baños (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Good morning, Amazonian roamers! Today we're off to the adrenaline capital of Baños, 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, Baños is a big deal on the natural beauty front. If "Thrill Seeker" is your middle name, you'll love to opt for today's Zip Line and Canyoneering experiences. Afterwards, we'll feast on DELISH spread of perfectly seasoned barbecue meats, before we burn away all those calories with salsa - with our friendly local teacher, Edith. Now, that's night well spent!
Day 5: Baños
Location: Baños
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: Baños To Quito
Location: Quito
Accommodation Name: Ibis Quito (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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: Isabela Island
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 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: Santa Cruz Island
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: San Cristobal 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 Cristobal 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 Cristobal Island
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
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Dining Summary
The tour includes 6 dinners and 11 breakfasts.
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Included Experience
The tour includes experiences such as strolling around Quito's old town, visiting the Equator museum, hiking in Baños, and exploring the Galapagos Islands.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various locations including Ibis Quito, Selina Tena, Hotel Napolitano Apart Baños, Isamar Hotel, Hotel Silberstein, and Galapagos Planet.
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Transportation
Transportation includes flights to the Galapagos Islands and boat transfers between islands.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as white water rafting, zip lining, and canyoneering are not included in the tour price.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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International Flights
International flights to and from Ecuador are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands with a combination of city tours, scenic drives, and boat transfers, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey from Quito to the lush jungles, vibrant cities, and stunning islands.
Accommodation
Stay in comfortable accommodations such as Ibis Quito, Selina Tena, Hotel Napolitano Apart Baños, Isamar Hotel, Hotel Silberstein, and Galapagos Planet, offering a mix of modern amenities and local charm throughout your journey in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.
Dining Summary
- 6 Dinner (D)
- 11 Breakfast (B)
Included Experience
- Quito: Stroll around the colourful streets of the old town. See Independence Square, La Basilica de Volo Nacional and all the other highlights.
- Quito: Your inner science nerd will love this museum all about the Equator.
- Quito: Here’s your chance to snap up some brightly coloured ponchos for everyone back home.
- Baños: Live out all your rainforest hiking dreams as you climb past this monumental waterfall.
- Baños: Hungry after all that travelling? Fill up on some mouth-watering BBQ seasoned with the freshest Ecuadorian spices.
- Baños: If you’ve always wanted to learn this Latin dance, this is your moment. We’ve booked you in for a lesson!
- Quito: Swoop into the phenomenal Galápagos Islands and start your expedition of these natural wonders. #explore
- Isabela Island: Look out for sea turtles, penguins, sea lions and more as you glide over to the largest island in the Galapagos.
- Santa Cruz Island: You can’t visit the Galapagos without popping by to say hello to its most famous residents.
- Santa Cruz Island: Take a walk inside these incredible tunnels, made from solidified lava.
- Isabela Island: Your chance to get up close with turtles, angelfish, parrotfish and more at one of the world’s best snorkeling spots.
- Isabela Island: Get set for the adventure of a lifetime. Float around the turquoise waters surrounded by penguins, turtles and sea lions.
- Isabela Island: A once-in-a-lifetime chance to get up close with endangered Galápagos Giant Tortoises – and see the work that’s being done to save them.
- Santa Cruz Island: Marvel at the beauty. Then hike to a secluded beach with only the iguanas for company (and your Contiki crew, obvs).
- Santa Cruz Island: Support the crucial conservation, restoration and sustainable development work of the Galapagos scientists.
- San Cristobal Island: Grab your camera and get some pics with these charming locals.
- San Cristobal Island: On the surface, this may look like a giant red rock shaped like a shoe. But under the water, it’s a rainbow utopia of marine life.
- San Cristobal Island: Stretch out on the pristine sands with your Contiki crew and take in the peace and tranquility.
- Quito:
FAQs
- Lima: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
- Iguassu Falls: Is it customary to tip? You’ll usually receive a 10% service charge on your restaurant bill. But tipping isn’t a requirement. Either way, if you’re pleased with your service, a tip will always be appreciated! We recommend tipping 12% of the total bill.
- Iguassu Falls: Is tap water safe to drink? Drinking tap water isn’t recommend. So, please stick to bottled water (even when brushing your teeth). There will be plenty of opportunities to purchase bottled water during the trip.
- Iguassu Falls: How much luggage can I bring? You can bring 1 hand luggage + 1 suitcase or backpack per person. Internal flights are included in this trip (your Trip Manager will have your tickets ready for you). Each traveller is allowed 1 checked bag & 1 carry-on bag/personal item (eg: small backpack/handbag or laptop bag). Our suitcase restriction above means that the checked bag will be within the limitation for this flight. The carry-on bag must not exceed 114 cm (45”). Extra or overweight bags will incur a fee by the airline which is the traveller’s responsibility. Fees range from US$25.00-US$100.00.
- Can I get access to an ATM when in Ecuador? It really depends on where you’re travelling to. Ecuador has lots of ATMs (just be wary of those sneaky fees). While in more rural places and the Galapagos islands you’re better off carrying cash. Don’t worry - we’ll plan what’s needed money-wise for each leg of your trip, so you won’t ever be left high and dry.
- South Plaza Island: What should I pack for my trip? The weather can be quite unpredictable, so it's important to pack appropriately. Please bring these items with you: - Comfortable walking shoes with good traction - Teva-style sandals (thongs or flip-flop sandals are not suitable for hikes) - Swimming (bathing) suit & towel - Light to medium fleece jacket - Gore-Tex (or similar) rain jacket - Shorts, T-shirts, Long pants, Long-sleeve shirt, Hat or cap - Sunglasses (preferably polarised) - Socks (athletic style socks for walking & hiking) - First aid & medication - aloe vera gel, sunblock or sunscreen of the highest SPF possible, insect repellent, hand sanitiser or gel, moisturising cream, pain relief (e.g. aspirin etc for headaches or muscle pain) motion sickness medication - Reusable water bottle - Plastic Ziplock bags (to protect valuables from drizzle, rain etc)
- What is the weather like in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands? Ecuador’s climate is tropical but varies by altitude and region. Quito has a subtropical highland climate with daytime temps around 70°F (21°C) and nights dropping to 50°F (10°C). It has a dry season (June -September) and a wet season (October -May). The rainforest stays warm at 84°F (29°C), while the coast, influenced by ocean currents, is hot and rainy from January to April. The Galápagos Islands? Always warm! Temps hover around 85°F (30°C) year-round, with August–September averaging 77°F (25°C) and March to April peaking at 89°F (31°C). Whether hiking or exploring, it’s always a great time to visit!
- Which currency should I bring?? You’ll need to bring USD cash with you, as it’s the only way to pay for the Free Time Add-Ons on this trip. You’ll receive the cost of each option in your Welcome Email. Plus, we recommend you bring Visa and/or Master Card (American Express or Discover cards aren’t widely accepted).
- Is there any trip specific information I need to know? The Galápagos Islands have a compulsory US$200 entrance fee to the Galápagos National Park, a US$20 INGALA fee & a US$10 Isabela Island tax that are only payable in cash on arrival (subject to increase). So, please have US$230 cash ready to secure your entry to these locations. Contiki sometimes uses ground handlers or third parties to assist with the full or partial operation of our products. The ground handler for this trip is Adventure Journeys.
- Iguassu Falls: What is the role of the Trip Manager? Your Trip Manager brings the group together with all the info, fun facts and food recommendations you'll ever need. Plus, they’ll ensure everything runs smoothly and address any issues. They’ll be there with you throughout the trip and will be your go-to person if you need anything. They’ll also fill you in on the cultural and historical context of the places you visit with some informal talks when relevant.
Check out our Q&As
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What activities are available in Baños?
In Baños, you can enjoy a variety of adventure activities such as horseback riding, canyoneering, and ziplining. The zipline experience includes aerial bridges, rock climbing, and a Superman-style flight through the skies.
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What can I expect to see on Isabela Island?
On Isabela Island, you can expect to see unique wildlife such as giant tortoises and explore incredible old lava tunnels. The island is part of the Galapagos National Park and offers stunning natural beauty with sandy streets, palm trees, and crystal-clear waters.
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What wildlife can be observed on Santa Cruz Island?
Santa Cruz Island is known for its diverse wildlife, including sharks, rays, turtles, great blue herons, and blue-footed boobies. You can also sunbathe next to marine iguanas and explore the island's natural beauty.
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What is the significance of Kicker Rock on San Cristobal Island?
Kicker Rock is a natural phenomenon that protrudes from the ocean and is one of the greatest icons of the Galapagos area. It is a popular spot for bird-watching and exploring marine life, including chocolate chip starfish and Galapagos sharks.
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What cultural experiences are available in Tena?
In Tena, you have the opportunity to visit a local indigenous community, meet a shaman, and play soccer with local kids. This experience allows you to learn about tribe life and contribute positively by bringing school supplies or treats for the children.
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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.
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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.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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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.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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