Essential Quito and Galapagos

Essential Quito and Galapagos

319 Views
6 Days From

$1259

$1219

Essential Quito and Galapagos

6 Days Starting in Quito, Ecuador and ending in Galapagos, Ecuador

Visiting: Quito, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos Islands

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Tour code:

IndTur703

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 22

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1259 $1219 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

NB: Prices correct on 05-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Essential Quito and Galapagos" tour, a captivating journey through Ecuador's most iconic destinations. Begin in Quito, nestled in the Andes Mountains, where you'll explore the historic downtown, visit La Ronda, and enjoy panoramic views from Penecillo Hill. Then, fly to the Galapagos Islands and discover the natural wonders of Santa Cruz. Walk the scenic trail to Tortuga Bay, relax on the beaches of Brava and Mansa, and marvel at the Giant Tortoises in their natural habitat. Visit the Charles Darwin Station and Tortoise Breeding Center for an unforgettable wildlife experience. Enjoy superior accommodations, guided tours, and seamless transportation throughout your adventure.

Highlights

  • Travel to Quito, surrounded by the beautiful Andes Mountains

  • Enjoy the magnificent viewpoint from Penecillo Hill in Quito

  • Unwind on the beaches of Tortuga Bay, Brava, and Mansa

  • See the Giant Tortoises in their natural habitat on Santa Cruz

  • Visit the Charles Darwin Station and Tortoise Breeding Center

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: - Quito (Arrival)

Location: Quito

Accommodation Name: hotel

Make your own way to the airport for your international flight to Quito, the capital city of Ecuador. Enjoy inflight meals and services. Upon arrival in Quito, you will be met by your guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel. 




Overnight in Quito

Day 2: Quito (B/-/-)

Location: Quito

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you may head on a guided city tour of Quito. The tour will begin with a visit to the downtown core, one of the biggest in South America. Your first point will be La Ronda, the oldest street in the city, which used to be home to musicians, poets, and politics back in time. Here, you will learn about the traditions of the city by first stopping in the gastronomic capsule for an explanation of the different local spices which are used for the typical Ecuadorian gastronomy (no tasting is included). Discover the house of handicrafts, made of metal and wood — most of them designed for the traditional churches and created by hand for furniture decoration. Then, visit Independence Square, surrounded by significant historical buildings. Visit the Cathedral (XVI Century), the Presidential Palace, El Sagrario Church (XVII Century), and La Compañia de Jesus (XVII Century) —one of the most beautiful baroque churches in South America. Finally, drive to the viewpoint at the Penecillo Hill, where the Virgin of Quito lies, the most unique winged virgin of the world. Enjoy the wonderful view of the city and the surrounding mountains and volcanos.




Overnight in Quito

Day 3: Quito - Galapagos Islands (Santa Cruz) (By Flight) (B/-/-)

Location: Santa Cruz Island

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Baltra Island, one of the most famous Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival, you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel on the island of Santa Cruz. In the afternoon you will head on a tour of the highlands where you will get the opportunity to see the famous Giant Tortoises in their natural environment. After lunch in the Highlands, you will be transferred to Puerto Ayora to check in to your hotel.




Overnight on Santa Cruz Island

Day 4: Galapagos Islands (Santa Cruz) (B/-/-)

Location: Santa Cruz Island

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

The trail to Tortuga Bay will start from the main street in Puerto Ayora and take about an hour of walking. The trail extends through the arid zone and many land birds can be seen along the way. Arriving at Tortuga Bay Beach, you will find the first beach “Playa Brava”. This beach boats open waters and strong undercurrents which make it not recommendable for swimming. If you continue walking to the right side (15 minutes) you will arrive at “Playa Mansa”, the perfect place for sunbathing, swimming, and taking photos. You will also find marine iguanas along the shore. From there, make your way to the Charles Darwin Station. The centre is a reservoir of information on habitats and local conservation, as well as other fascinating relevant statistics. The most striking attraction of this station is certainly the Tortoise Breeding Center, where it is possible to see tortoises of different shapes and sizes. Travellers may freely walk and get their photos taken with the tortoises. Among other inhabitants at the centre, you can see the land and marine iguanas and different species of birds.




Overnight on Santa Cruz Island

Day 5: Galapagos Islands (Santa Cruz) (B/-/-)

Location: Santa Cruz Island

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will enjoy a full day at leisure to explore the island at your own pace, relax, or book an optional tour.




Overnight on Santa Cruz Island

Day 6: Galapagos Islands - (B/-/-)

Location: Galapagos Islands

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today your guide will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to the airport for your flight home.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    05 nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed superior hotels or similar.

  • Meals

    Daily buffet breakfast.

  • Airport Transfers

    All arrival and departure airport transfers.

  • Transportation

    All transportation in AC modern vehicles.

  • Guided Tours

    Services of English-speaking guide during the tours.

  • Natural Bilingual Guide

    Natural bilingual guide in Galapagos.

  • Sightseeing

    All sightseeing as per the detailed itinerary.

  • Entrance Fees

    All entrance fees as per the detailed itinerary.

  • Domestic Airfare

    Domestic round-trip airfare to Galapagos Islands.

  • Taxes

    All local applicable taxes.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Items of personal nature, tips and gratuities.

  • Galapagos National Park Fee

    Galapagos National Park entrance fee (USD 200 per person - to be paid locally in cash only).

  • Transit Control Card

    Transit Control Card (USD 20 per person).

    Pre-tour purchase is mandatory.

    $20 fee must be paid with the final payment 75 days prior to departure.

  • Unlisted Items

    Any items not mentioned as included.

Mode of Transport

All transportation is provided in modern, air-conditioned vehicles, including airport transfers and domestic round-trip airfare to the Galapagos Islands.

Accommodation

Enjoy 5 nights of superior accommodation on a twin-sharing basis in listed hotels or similar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your stay.

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    All transportation is provided in modern, air-conditioned vehicles, including airport transfers and domestic round-trip airfare to the Galapagos Islands.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will enjoy 5 nights of superior accommodation on a twin-sharing basis in listed hotels or similar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your stay.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Daily buffet breakfast is included in the tour package.

  • Will there be a guide during the tours?

    Yes, the services of an English-speaking guide are provided during the tours, and a natural bilingual guide will be available in the Galapagos.

  • Are entrance fees included in the tour package?

    Yes, all entrance fees as per the detailed itinerary are included in the tour package.

  • What additional costs should I be aware of?

    Additional costs include personal expenses, tips and gratuities, the Galapagos National Park entrance fee (USD 200 per person, to be paid locally in cash), and the Transit Control Card (USD 20 per person, which must be purchased pre-tour and paid with the final payment 75 days prior to departure).

  • What activities are planned for the first day in Quito?

    On the first day, you will arrive in Quito, where you will be met by your guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

  • What can I expect during the city tour of Quito?

    The city tour of Quito includes visits to La Ronda, Independence Square, the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, El Sagrario Church, and La Compañía de Jesus. You will also drive to the viewpoint at Penecillo Hill to enjoy a wonderful view of the city and surrounding mountains and volcanos.

  • What will I see on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos?

    On Santa Cruz Island, you will visit the highlands to see the famous Giant Tortoises in their natural environment, explore Tortuga Bay Beach, and visit the Charles Darwin Station and Tortoise Breeding Center.

  • Is there any free time during the tour?

    Yes, on Day 5, you will have a full day at leisure to explore Santa Cruz Island at your own pace, relax, or book an optional tour.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

Save on this tour

Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!

Send me one now.

1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Sunday

Jan 21, 2025 - Jan 26, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Feb 04, 2025 - Feb 09, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Feb 11, 2025 - Feb 16, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Feb 18, 2025 - Feb 23, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Feb 25, 2025 - Mar 02, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Mar 04, 2025 - Mar 09, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Mar 11, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Mar 18, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Mar 25, 2025 - Mar 30, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Apr 01, 2025 - Apr 06, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Apr 08, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Apr 15, 2025 - Apr 20, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

May 13, 2025 - May 18, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

May 20, 2025 - May 25, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Jun 03, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Jun 10, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Jun 17, 2025 - Jun 22, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Jun 24, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Jul 01, 2025 - Jul 06, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Jul 08, 2025 - Jul 13, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Jul 15, 2025 - Jul 20, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Jul 22, 2025 - Jul 27, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Jul 29, 2025 - Aug 03, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 12, 2025 - Aug 17, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 19, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 26, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 02, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 09, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 16, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 23, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 30, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Oct 14, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Oct 21, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Oct 28, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Nov 04, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Nov 11, 2025 - Nov 16, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Nov 18, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Tuesday - Sunday

Nov 25, 2025 - Nov 30, 2025
$1259 $1219

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$40

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Why book with tourhub?

Safe & Secure

Your money is held in a dedicated client account until you travel.

Visa logo Mastercard logo
apple pay icon google pay icon

100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.


The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.

Guaranteed Best Value

Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.


No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.

(Operator terms may apply)

Expert Knowledge

Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.


Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.


Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.

Trusted Service

Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.


Don't just take our word for it...

"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."

Similar Tours

Travel Guru Features

Our Reviews