12 Day Ecuador & Galapagos Islands
Dates & Prices
Please Note: Land Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.
Start Date | End Date | Offers | Brochure Land Price | Brochure Land & Air Price | Quote |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Friday, Aug 09, 2024 | Tuesday, Aug 20, 2024 | Get Quote | |||
Friday, Aug 23, 2024 | Tuesday, Sep 03, 2024 | Get Quote | |||
Friday, Sep 06, 2024 | Tuesday, Sep 17, 2024 | Get Quote | |||
Friday, Sep 20, 2024 | Tuesday, Oct 01, 2024 | Get Quote | |||
Friday, Oct 04, 2024 | Tuesday, Oct 15, 2024 | Get Quote | |||
Friday, Oct 18, 2024 | Tuesday, Oct 29, 2024 | Get Quote | |||
Friday, Nov 08, 2024 | Tuesday, Nov 19, 2024 | Get Quote | |||
Friday, Nov 15, 2024 | Tuesday, Nov 26, 2024 | Get Quote | |||
Friday, Dec 06, 2024 | Tuesday, Dec 17, 2024 | Get Quote |
Promotions
Call or submit a quote to get our Low Prices!
Exclusive, $800 Off South America Escorted Tours
Exclusive, $800 Off South America Escorted Tours
Promotion Details
Offer applies to new bookings made through May 31, 2024. $400 per person savings is valid on 2024/2025 departures that are 6 days or longer escorted South America tours. Promotion is not combinable with any other offer. Additional restrictions may apply.
Save 5% - Cash Payment Discount
Save 5% - Cash Payment Discount
Promotion Details
Gate 1 offers the flexibility of paying for your vacation by credit card or check. Choose check for your final payment to save 5% off of your remaining balance. Full details will be sent with your invoice.
Tour Itinerary
Galapagos , Guayaquil , Otavalo , Papallacta , Quito
DAY 1, Friday - Depart for Ecuador
Depart for Ecuador. Arrive in Quito, capital of Ecuador, founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city; transfer to your hotel. The Quito airport is approximately an hour drive from the city. Balance of the day is at leisure to get acquainted with this lively city's priceless historical treasures of art and architecture. Tonight, enjoy your first taste of Ecuadorian food at one of the city's world-class restaurants and cafes
Overnight: Quito
DAY 2, Saturday - Quito City Tour & Visit to the Middle of the World
After a morning orientation meeting, continue to the colonial section of Quito. Walk through the narrow cobblestone streets and feel the charm of 16th century Quito. See the Independence Plaza, the Cathedral, Presidential Palace, and the Archbishop's Palace. Then, visit La Compañia de Jesus Church, with its gilded interior, or the Church and Monastery of San Francisco, with its grand atrium. Afterward, visit the Middle of the World Monument, located at a latitude of 0º, and stand with one foot in the Northern and one in the Southern Hemisphere. Continue to Otavalo for dinner and overnight. The town is located in the highlands of the Andes Mountains at an elevation of 8,441 feet
Overnight: Otavalo
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 3, Sunday - Otavalo Market, Transfer to Papallacta
This morning visit Peguche, known for its picturesque waterfall. Then, tour the market in Otavalo, one of the largest in South America, run by the local Otavaleños. Here, enjoy the lively atmosphere and browse the various stalls for traditional goods, such as handwoven cloth, rugs, jewelry and more. This afternoon, transfer to Papallacta located in the Andes Mountains. The remainder of the day is at leisure, or join the optional tour to Papallacta's spas and hot springs, for which it is famous
Optional: Termas de Papallacta Spa Package (PM)
Overnight: Papallacta
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 4, Monday - Transfer to Amazon Resort
After breakfast, transfer by bus to La Punta Ahuano on the Napo River where you will board a canoe that will take you to your Amazon lodge*. Take in the serenity that the lodge has to offer and prepare to be amazed by both the wildlife and the culture inherent to the Amazon. In the afternoon, visit Ahuano and a local Quechua community interpretation center to learn about their way of life firsthand before returning to the hotel*Upon arrival the lodge is approximately a 5-10 minute walk uphill from where passengers will exit the canoe. Passengers are required to transport their own carry on luggage
Overnight: Amazon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5, Tuesday - Hike in a Private Nature Reserve
After a morning canoe ride, hike in the Misicocha Private Nature Reserve for approximately two hours while beholding the flora and fauna up-close. Keep an eye out for the innumerable species of tropical plants and insects of the Amazon rainforest, the world's largest ecosystem. Cross suspended bridges and fly through the jungle on a short zip line basket ride. At the end of the hike, take a rafting trip on a traditional balsa log raft*. Balance of the day is at leisure or, choose to participate in one of the optional tours, including the Butterfly Farm & Balsa Wood Carving Demonstration, Cacao Farm & AmaZOOnico Rescue Center or Canopy Adventure Park*This is an active hike and sections of the path include steps. Also, those who participate in the rafting trip will need to step through the water to reach the raft and will get wet during the ride
Optional: Butterfly Farm & Balsa Wood Demonstration
Optional: Cacao Farm & AmaZOOnico Rescue
Optional: Canopy Adventure Park
Overnight: Amazon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6, Wednesday - El Pailon del Diablo & Baños
This morning, board a canoe for the short trip back to La Punta Ahuano, continuing by coach to Patate. Stop along the way to visit the powerful El Pailon del Diablo or "The Devil's Cauldron"*, one of Ecuador's most beautiful waterfalls. Drive to Baños, an idyllic little town known for its hot thermal baths and the Tungurahua Volcano. Eat lunch at a local restaurant. In the late afternoon, check into your hotel in the Valley of Patate. Balance of the day is at leisure*It is an active hike to and from El Pailon del Diablo waterfall
Overnight: Patate
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7, Thursday - Visit to a Rose Plantation
Today, take a tour of a rose plantation. Although roses are not native to Ecuador, the country has a perfect environment for rose cultivation and is presently one of the world's major producers. On the plantation, you'll learn more about the farming process. After lunch, continue to the hotel in Quito. This evening during dinner, bid farewell to your Tour Manager
Overnight: Quito
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8, Friday - Galapagos Islands, Baltra, Santa Cruz
After breakfast, embark on a journey to the Galapagos Archipelago of volcanic islands, five million years in the making. Your flight from Quito takes you to Baltra Airport; you'll be met by your naturalist guides and transferred by boat to Santa Cruz Island. Here, visit the Giant Tortoise Reserve and see their natural habitat. The area is teeming with wildlife, including multiple species of birds. After lunch, on to the most developed town in the Galapagos Islands, Puerto Ayora. Upon arrival, board the Finch Panga that takes you to Finch Bay, an eco-friendly resort hotel in a private seaside location surrounded by mangroves, your home for the next three nights. The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the hotel's pool, natural spa, white coral beach, or admire the view from the comfort of your hammock. Tonight, savor dinner highlighted by local delicacies
Overnight: Galapagos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9, Saturday - Excursion to Divine Bay, Charles Darwin Research Station
Today, travel by boat to Divine Bay, abundant with wildlife, which lies a short distance away from Academy Bay and Puerto Ayora. Noddy terns, herons, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies and Galapagos brown pelicans are commonly seen here. This morning's visit includes snorkeling on a calm section of the cove and swimming in Playa Punta Estrada. Afterward, a dry landing and a short walk to the south shore of the island, to a small beach called Playa de los Perros (Dog Beach). This is a great place to see intertidal organisms and learn more about the rich sea life of the Galapagos. Return to the hotel for lunch, followed by an afternoon visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Fausto Llerena Giant Tortoise Breeding Center. Gain insight into the huge efforts being made by scientists, guides, rangers and park managers to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dinner tonight is at the hotel
Overnight: Galapagos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10, Sunday - North Seymour Island
You'll be transported on your yacht, The Sea Lion, to North Seymour Island, lifted from the ocean floor by a seismic event. The cliffs are only a few feet high from the shoreline and a tiny forest of Palo Santo trees stand just above the landing. Keep on the lookout for the magnificent wildlife all around you, including frigate birds and sea lions. After your enlightening walking excursion, return to the hotel and spend free time before dinner tonight
Overnight: Galapagos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11, Monday - Port of Baltra, Flight to Guayaquil
Depart the Finch Bay Hotel. On your way to Baltra, stop at the Twin Pit Craters to view the depressions of volcanic material, as well as the Scalesia trees, ferns, mosses, and orchids. Proceed to the airport for the flight to Guayaquil. Arrive late afternoon and transfer to the hotel. Evening is at leisure
Overnight: Guayaquil
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 12, Tuesday - Depart Ecuador
Transfer to the airport for your departure flightSome flights depart shortly after midnight in the very early morning of day 12 and will require a transfer on day 11. Transfers depart the hotel approximately 4 hours prior to flight time
Meals: Breakfast
Please Note: Land Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.
OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620
Please Note: Land Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.
Part-Escorted Package Includes
Some departure dates may be offered from an alternate nearby airport. Check flight itinerary options when booking.
Other departure cities available.
Special Features
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, but does include flights Quito-Baltra & & Baltra-Guayaquil.
Some flights depart shortly after midnight in the very early morning of day 12 and will require a transfer on day 11. Transfers depart the hotel approximately 4 hours prior to flight time.
Passport numbers for all passengers must be submitted before documents can be issued.
The route and program may vary according to weather conditions, seasonal changes, safety issues and wildlife migration patterns. Wildlife and visits listed in the itinerary are based upon optimal conditions and therefore subject to change.
Sturdy shoes are recommended for this program.
Accommodation Details:
Triple Rooms cannot be accommodated on this program.
Health and Safety Protocols for Gate1 Tours
At Gate 1 we take your safety and security very seriously. We have a strong network of tour managers, local offices, ground operators and colleagues which help us stay informed in all the destinations that we operate. We closely monitor local situations which enable us to make the operational decisions necessary to keep our tours running safely. Millions of people travel the world each year and experience enjoyable and safe trips but crimes against people and property are sadly a fact of life. It is very important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid drawing attention to yourself. Please remember that you have the same responsibility for your personal safety and possessions as you do at home. It is essential to prepare for a safe and healthy travel abroad. Therefore before you travel, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the US Department of State at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for up-to-date travel advice on the countries that you are visiting. The website provides useful information on subjects such as safety and security information, health precautions and medications, health insurance and additional tips for traveling abroad. If you do not reside in the United States, we recommend you check your government's travel advisory website for any country you will be visiting. We recommend that you review the safety guidance that may be provided by us, our agents or suppliers, either before you go or when you arrive in your destination. You can also find helpful tips on our website in the "Trip Preparation" tab of each of our tour packages. We do know that in-spite of careful planning, things can sometimes still go wrong, so rest assured, we will be there to help and support you.
OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620
Hilton Colon Quito
This deluxe hotel is located in the heart of Ecuador's capital with easy access to the financial district and the colonial sector of the city.
Hacienda Pinsaqui
This first class hotel is located in the heart of Ecuador's stunning Imbabura province, known as the "province of lakes".
Hacienda Pinsaqui
This first class hotel is located in the heart of Ecuador's stunning Imbabura province, known as the "province of lakes".
Hacienda Pinsaqui
This first class hotel is located in the heart of Ecuador's stunning Imbabura province, known as the "province of lakes".
Hacienda Pinsaqui
This first class hotel is located in the heart of Ecuador's stunning Imbabura province, known as the "province of lakes".
Hacienda Pinsaqui
This first class hotel is located in the heart of Ecuador's stunning Imbabura province, known as the "province of lakes".
Hacienda Pinsaqui
This first class hotel is located in the heart of Ecuador's stunning Imbabura province, known as the "province of lakes".
Puertolago Country Inn
This first class hotel overlooks San Pablo Lake.
Puertolago Country Inn
This first class hotel overlooks San Pablo Lake.
Puertolago Country Inn
This first class hotel overlooks San Pablo Lake.
Puertolago Country Inn
This first class hotel overlooks San Pablo Lake.
Puertolago Country Inn
This first class hotel overlooks San Pablo Lake.
Puertolago Country Inn
This first class hotel overlooks San Pablo Lake.
Puertolago Country Inn
This first class hotel overlooks San Pablo Lake.
Termas de Papallacta
This first class hotel, known for its thermal baths, is located on the banks of the Papallacta river.
Casa del Suizo
This tourist class lodge is located in the Ecuadorian Amazon in a lush tropical and tranquil setting on the banks of the Napo River.
Hacienda Leito
This tourist class hotel is located at the Llanganates National Park in the Patate Valley with picturesque views of the volcano.
Hacienda Leito
This tourist class hotel is located at the Llanganates National Park in the Patate Valley with picturesque views of the volcano.
Hacienda Leito
This tourist class hotel is located at the Llanganates National Park in the Patate Valley with picturesque views of the volcano.
Hacienda Leito
This tourist class hotel is located at the Llanganates National Park in the Patate Valley with picturesque views of the volcano.
Hacienda Leito
This tourist class hotel is located at the Llanganates National Park in the Patate Valley with picturesque views of the volcano.
Samari Spa Resort
This first class resort is a short drive from the city center of Banos.
Samari Spa Resort
This first class resort is a short drive from the city center of Banos.
Samari Spa Resort
This first class resort is a short drive from the city center of Banos.
Samari Spa Resort
This first class resort is a short drive from the city center of Banos.
Samari Spa Resort
This first class resort is a short drive from the city center of Banos.
Samari Spa Resort
This first class resort is a short drive from the city center of Banos.
Hilton Colon Quito
This deluxe hotel is located in the heart of Ecuador's capital with easy access to the financial district and the colonial sector of the city.
Finch Bay Hotel
This first class hotel is just steps from the beach, nestled in a very private location.
Hotel Oro Verde
This superior first class hotel is located in the commercial and banking area of Guayaquil.
OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620
Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?
Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?
This was my fourth trip with Gate 1. Every trip has been above my expectations.
Gate One guides are so efficient and knowledgeable,
The Radisson Hotel was way above expectations and all others were very nice. The bus with wifi and charging ability was very nice and allowed me to share the trip with others while traveling. The food was extremely good and many more choices than expected. All flights, pickups and delivery were accomplished on time and with ease. The bag handlers were always there and made everything run smoothly with little effort on my part.
Gate1 trips match their advertisements Their Tour Managers are always very attentive and helpful.
Gate 1 always provides a wonderful service. It is just as they say it will be. So much to see.
I did not worry at all before and during my trip because I always have good experience both with Affordable tour and Gate 1.
We love Gate 1 tours. Excellent quality and value. Perfect itineraries.
I have found Gate1 to be very reliable and a company that offers a variety of itineraries.
This is our 7th or 8th trip with Gate 1. We have never been disappointed. Our guide, itinerary and travel experiences are outstanding!
Gate1 was exceptional in every way. From the itinerary to the tour Director, everything was exactly as advertised, or better. Would definitely go with Gate1 again and highly recommend.
Best trip ever Gate 1 exceeded my expectations
We have traveled with Gate One 8 times and always had a good experience.
Always a well organized Operator.
Terrific guide, wonderful itinerary, another reason we continue to book with Gate1.
Call Us Now 1-800-935-2620
How It Works
Vacationing has never been easier or cheaper with the help of a dedicated travel consultant from AffordableTours.com
1. Free Quote
Find your perfect trip on our website and simply request a free quote. Need to speak to a live person? Call us 7 days a week at 1-800-935-2620. No robots here!
2. Dedicated Travel Consultant
Your personal travel consultant will reach out and be your point of contact for your entire travel experience from start to finish. Did we mention you'll be working with an award winning team? Sweet!
3. Lowest Price Guaranteed
Because we're one of the largest sellers of travel, we're able to give you a discount on your vacation package. No one beats our prices!
4. Stress Free Travel
Knowing you got the best deal, all that's left is for you to pack your bags and enjoy your vacation!
I cannot say enough about Gate 1! Gate 1 is the only travel operator I travel with.