Ecuador – the mysteries of the Amazon and the Galapagos

SUMMARY

Ecuador and the Galapagos with WalkingWomen

Dates: Friday October 2nd to Tuesday October 13th 11 nights/12 days 2026

IMPORTANT TO NOTE:

Arrival: Friday – arrive in Quito (we recommend arriving a few days early to acclimatise if you can – we can arrange extra night accommodation and we add extras to your invoice)

Departure: We will travel back to Quito .You must book your return flights from 20.00 Tuesday October 13th as flights from the Galapagos to Quito arrive earliest 12 noonish and this will allow time for any delays/transfer time. We recommend a night in Quito on return to be sure.

Let us know if you would like to extend your trip – we can assist!

Guide: local guide Ale

Walking Grade: we grade this 2 Goats due to the Lake Crater Hike. We class this as easy to moderate with basic hiking experience recommended and if you wanted to miss the more challenging hikes you can. Due to the altitude we call this a 2 Goat rather than because of the strenuousness of the walks.

Max. altitude: 2850 m

Temperatures: 

Water temperature in October: we are travelling in the cool and dry season in the Galapagos. You can expect the sea to be between 19 and 23 degrees celsius (66 to 73 F) ideal for swimming. 

Base: We will stay in different 3-4 star hotels on our adventure to explore the variety of the area. See which hotels in the details page below. In some cases the hotels may have to change but we will always inform you and provide a comparable one.

We pick hotels because they are women run/gay friendly and they offer a local experience.

Getting there: The nearest airport is Quito and there will be an airport transfer to the hotel taking 45 minutes.

Price: £5,500 per person for this unique trip with solo occupancy room 

If you bring a friend /partner and share a room the price is £4,900 per person and we will adjust your invoice with the discount once you have paid your deposit.

Included:

• English speaking female local guide throughout
• Hotels and all breakfasts
• Airport Transfer on arrival and departure day ( if travel outside these days it is extra. We will arrange.
• Private local transport needed for the trip – includes return flights to the Amazon and return flights to the Galapagos + all your local transport required. Boats are the mode of transport in the Galapagos.
• All activities/excursions and meals as the itinerary.
• Snorkelling equipment
• Galapagos Fees, internal flights,boats and specialist  local naturalist guide
• Gratuities for drivers and canoe/boat crews

Not included:

• Flights to and from Ecuador
• Evening Meals on 5 evenings ( 2 meals are included every day so evenings left free for those who want it)
•  Any alcoholic drinks
• Wet Suit if needed
• Passport/visa fees required
• Travel insurance – you must have it.
• Tips for your daily guide and specialist naturalist guides
• Personal expenses

DETAILS

One of the most diverse countries in the world, Ecuador is located in South America. Ecuador owes its name to the equator, the imaginary line that crosses the country. Although Ecuador is one of the smaller countries in South America, the country fascinates with its four geographically different regions. The Pacific Coast with miles of sandy beaches and warm weather; the Andean highlands (“la sierra”), a region with majestic Andean mountains and rich culture in every corner; the Amazon region full of mysticism and breathtaking biodiversity; and the evolutionary wonder of the Galapagos Islands, which inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution. Like nowhere else you will find these four worlds in one country, very close together. This trip will give you an experience of each of these four worlds.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• First class and customised service throughout 
• Warm, welcoming hotels providing an authentic local experience.
• Hike around the picturesque Cuicocha crater lake and stroll through the indigenous market in Otavalo
• Colonial city Quito
• Amazon rainforest lodge run by a woman of the Anangu community
• Discovering the enchanted Galapagos Islands and being based on the island
• Nature, white sand beach, snorkelling and up close encounters with endemic wildlife

ITINERARY

Itineraries are subject to change without notice due to weather conditions, national park regulations, or unforeseen situations.

Day 1 Quito arrival

Upon your arrival, your friendly host will greet you at the airport (Look out for a welcome sign displaying WALKINGWOMEN and your name as you exit the arrivals area), assist with your luggage, and ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel. Once the entire group has arrived, we will gather for a brief orientation, followed by a delicious welcome dinner.

Accommodation: Casa Ilayaku

Included meals: Welcome Dinner

Day 2 Flight from Quito to Coca – to the Amazon

Our journey to the Amazon lodge begins after breakfast with a scenic 30 minute flight from Quito over the Andean Eastern Cordillera to the Amazonian town of Coca. From there we take a 10 minute bus ride to a private dock . A chance for a refreshment before we set off down the majestic Napo river. We travel on a comfortable motor-operated canoe that glides down the river for about two hours. Along the way, we’ll have our lunch box  as we spot birds such as herons, kingfishers, terns, and other Amazonian shorebirds, while taking in the breathtaking riverbank landscapes.

In the afternoon: we arrive at the Napo Cultural Center, we are warmly greeted with a refreshing traditional drink. We will then be guided to our cabins, nestled in the heart of one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth. All with jungle views.

We will head out on a hike to the observation tower, rising 40 meters above the forest floor, where you will have excellent chances of spotting a wide variety of birds, howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, toucans, parrots, sloths, and other species. From the top, you will also enjoy a spectacular view of one of the Amazon’s most breathtaking sunsets.

As an alternative for the afternoon, you may choose an exciting kayak ride, allowing you to admire the colorful jungle sunset from the waters of the majestic Napo River.

After enjoying your first activity, you will return to the lodge, where you will have time to freshen up, relax in your cabin, and prepare for a well-deserved dinner.

Accommodation: Napo Cultural Center

Included meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 : Parrot Clay Licks, Kichwa Cultural Experience & Wildlife Exploration by Creek and Catamaran

After an early breakfast, we will head out on a motorized canoe to one of the highlights of the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve: the Parrot Clay Lick on the shores of the Napo River. Be sure to bring your binoculars and camera to fully enjoy the spectacular flocks of blue-headed parrots, yellow-crowned parrots, and dark-headed parakeets gathering along the riverbank.

Next, we will walk for approximately 30 minutes along the Parakeet Trail to reach a forest viewpoint offering a direct, unobstructed look at another impressive clay lick. From here, visitors can observe up to five species of parrots and parakeets: blue-headed parrot, yellow-crowned parrot, blue-fronted parrot, dark-headed parakeet, and white-eyed parakeet. Occasionally, mammals such as howler monkeys, tapirs, deer, jaguars, and peccaries also visit this area to drink water and obtain essential minerals.

We will end the morning with a visit to the Kury Muyu Intercultural Interpretation Center—Kury Muyu meaning “golden seed” in the Kichwa language. Managed by the women of the community, known as mamakunas, this center offers an authentic introduction to Kichwa culture. You will learn about their music, dances, customs, and traditional uses of natural resources directly from the inhabitants of the Añangu Community. You’ll also have time to visit the handicraft store, where local women create unique handmade pieces available for purchase to support their work and creativity.

We will return to the community center for lunch at the restaurant and enjoy some time to rest at the lodge. In the afternoon, after a delicious local meal, we will take an exciting boat trip along the Añangu Creek, a dark-water ecosystem where you may spot monkeys leaping through the treetops, caimans, and occasionally even giant otters.

After dinner, we’ll enjoy a unique evening activity on the Napo River aboard the ancestral catamaran. During this special experience, you will learn about Kichwa legends and traditional songs while the women of the community prepare delicious snacks over the fire to share with their guests.

Accommodation: Napo Cultural Center

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Community Projects, Terra Firme Forest Hike, Observation Tower & Night Walk

Enjoy the sunrise during breakfast before visiting our sustainable community projects, where you will learn about the Kichwa worldview and their harmonious relationship with the Amazon. Afterward, we will walk along one of our trails in the terra firme forest, an excellent opportunity to observe wildlife, towering ceiba trees, strangler figs, bamboo canes, vines, and endemic shrubs of Yasuní.

We will return to the lodge for a delicious lunch and a well-deserved rest before heading out on a hike to the second observation tower, rising 36 meters above the forest floor. From the top, you will have great chances of spotting a variety of birds, howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, and other fascinating species.

Back at the hotel in the late afternoon, you will have time to relax and prepare for a traditional Amazonian-style dinner featuring local flavors such as maito, a grilled fish wrapped in a bijao leaf. And for those with an adventurous palate, you can even try roasted chontacuros—the famous chonta worms.

After dinner, grab your flashlight for an exciting night walk, where you may encounter different types of insects, reptiles, and even nocturnal mammals, including certain species of monkeys.

Accommodation: Napo Cultural Center

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Guayusada Ancestral Ritual & Return Journey to Coca – Flight from Coca to Quito – Guayllabamba – Cayambe – Otavalo

To ensure you enjoy a meaningful final day, you will have the option to participate in the guayusada ritual. This ceremony begins early, around 4:30 a.m., as the Kichwa family shares the sacred ancestral drink guayusa. Through this ritual, elders pass down ancient knowledge to younger generations. You’ll have the chance to listen to traditional songs and, if you wish, have your dreams interpreted by a wise mamakuna from the community—a truly mystical and unforgettable experience.

Afterward, we will return for breakfast and our return to El Coca. You will then board our comfortable motorized canoes, enjoying a final opportunity to admire the stunning landscapes of the Ecuadorian tropical rainforest as we travel back to our port. From there, we will catch our flight back to Quito. Upon arrival, we will drive north on the Panamerican Highway for approximately two hours, passing through breathtaking landscapes of rolling hills and snow-capped volcanoes. Our first stop will be Guayllabamba, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch.

Next, we continue to Cayambe, a charming town famous for its traditional bizcochos. Here, you can savor these delicious local pastries while experiencing the town’s vibrant atmosphere.

Finally, we will arrive in Otavalo at our hacienda for check-in, where you can relax, settle into your room, and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Accommodation: Palmeras Inn

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6 Cuicocha Crater Lake – Calera community (Sumak Warmi Kuna Project)

Cuicocha Hike: Distance: 14 km  Duration: 4.5 hours – we walk the loop

Max Elevation: 3512 m. Elevation gain: 575 m. Elevation loss: 620 m

This morning, we’ll drive to Cuicocha, a stunning crater lake nestled within a secondary caldera of the extinct Cotacachi Volcano. Cuicocha, which translates to “Lake of the Guinea Pigs,” is named for the shape of its two central islets. The lake and its surrounding slopes are protected as a nature reserve, and at around 3,000 meters, Cuicocha offers a unique blend of paramo and Andean forest ecosystems. This rare combination creates a habitat for a variety of unique plant species. Our path will circle the crater rim, providing breathtaking views of the lake and the towering volcanoes of Cotacachi, Mojanda, and Imbabura. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for native wildlife, and with a bit of luck, we may even spot the elusive Andean Condor soaring overhead.

After exploring Cuicocha, we’ll head to the Calera community, where we’ll visit the Sabores y Tradiciones community dining room. Here, we’ll be treated to a delicious traditional lunch featuring fresh, organic produce sourced directly from the community’s gardens—an authentic taste of local cuisine.

Next, we’ll explore the Sumak Warmi Kuna Project, which works to ensure that tourism development positively impacts the lives of women in indigenous communities in the region. During our visit, we’ll participate in two enriching workshops:

• SUMAK MUYU Workshop: Led by Marisol Muenala, one of five mothers involved in the project, this workshop will teach us the art of crafting beautiful tagua necklaces. We’ll learn about the intricate process behind these unique jewelry pieces, which hold significant cultural value for the community.
• ALLÍ MAKI Workshop: This workshop introduces us to the traditional art of manual embroidery. The women use regional and traditional motifs to create a variety of items and clothing, offering a fascinating look into the textile traditions of the area.

After a day filled with cultural immersion and hands-on experiences, we’ll head to our charming hotel, where we can relax and reflect on the day’s enriching activities.

Accommodation: Palmeras Inn

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7  Otavalo Market – Quito City Tour – Cooking Class

Today, we’ll visit the world-famous indigenous market in Otavalo, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional craftsmanship. The heart of the market is the Plaza de los Ponchos, where colorful stalls are filled with a rich variety of handmade goods. We’ll have the opportunity to browse exquisite woven textiles, including intricately patterned ponchos, scarves, and blankets, all crafted by skilled artisans using age-old techniques passed down through generations. Along with textiles, the market offers a stunning selection of jewelry, pottery, wood carvings, and leather goods—each piece reflecting the unique culture and traditions of the local Otavalo people.

Then, we’ll drive back to Quito for a special city tour that will take us through its fascinating history. We’ll explore everything from the pre-Columbian era, through the colonial period, to the city’s transformation into the capital of a republic. Quito’s modern beauty and historical significance earned it the title of the first “Cultural Heritage Site” by UNESCO in 1978, and we will see firsthand why it holds such importance.

After the tour, we’ll return to our hotel to relax and prepare for a fun and engaging interactive cooking class. We’ll learn to prepare traditional Ecuadorian dishes with the guidance of a talented chef, who will share their expertise and passion for Ecuadorian cuisine. Once the class is over, we’ll enjoy the delicious dishes we’ve made together during a delightful dinner.

Afterward, we’ll unwind and rest, ready for the exciting adventure to the Galapagos Islands that awaits us the next morning.

Extra luggage that will not be used in the Galapagos Islands can be left in storage at the hotel.

Accommodation: Casa Ilayaku

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8  Flight from Quito to San Cristobal Island – Transfer in – Interpretation Center – Frigatebird Hill and Carola Beach

In the morning we fly from Quito to San Cristobal Island. This island, the fifth largest and easternmost of the Galapagos, is formed by a series of extinct, fused volcanoes. Upon arrival, we will meet our local island guide and head to the hotel to check in. After a brief orientation, we’ll head out to visit the Interpretation Center, an excellent place to dive into the natural history of the Galapagos and the history of San Cristobal itself.

The centre’s Museum of Natural History offers fascinating displays about the volcanic origins of the islands, their isolation from the continent, ocean currents, climate, and the arrival and colonisation of various species. The exhibit also chronicles human history, highlighting significant events related to the discovery and colonization of the islands.

Next, we will visit Frigatebird Hill, also known as Tijeretas, named after the frigatebirds that nest here. This high-intensity walk takes us through beautiful landscapes and offers a breathtaking view from the foot of a frigatebird nesting colony.

Hike details: Approx. 2 hours / Length: 3.5 km

Accommodation: Casa Opuntia

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9 Española Island

Located in the outer southeastern corner of the Galapagos archipelago, Española Island is the oldest island, approximately 4.5 million years old. It is believed to be the origin of many species that now inhabit other islands. Covering 60 sq km (37 sq mi) with a highest point of 206 m (675 ft), Española is home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife, including the Española mockingbird, waved albatross, blue-footed boobies, and Nazca boobies. Sea lion colonies, land iguanas, and hybrid iguanas further enhance its unique appeal. Thanks to the cold waters of the Humboldt Current and the nutrient-rich upwelling, albatrosses nest on the flat grounds of the island. Española giant tortoises, rescued from the brink of extinction, have also been reintroduced—nearly 2,000 young tortoises have been released by scientists from the Charles Darwin Foundation and Galapagos National Park.

Among the island’s highlights is Punta Suarez, where visitors are greeted by a stunning variety of wildlife: lazy sea lions lounging on the rocky landing site, Galapagos hawks soaring overhead, Española mockingbirds, Darwin’s finches, and Galapagos doves flying freely. The cliffs are alive with swallow-tailed gulls and red-billed tropicbirds darting in and out of the rocks. Between April and December, travelers may witness the island’s waved albatross population—the only place in the world where this rare species nests. Visitors can also enjoy dramatic landscapes, including the iconic blowhole. Punta Suarez features rocky terrain, so closed-toe shoes are required for safety.

Another gem is Gardner Bay, renowned for its pristine beach and exceptional snorkeling opportunities. Here, Española mockingbirds are fearless, often landing on visitors in search of food. Snorkelers can swim among playful sea lions, colorful reef fish, rays, and white-tipped reef sharks. The small semi-submerged tuff cone in front of the beach provides a unique snorkeling experience.

The day begins early at Baquerizo Moreno Dock. After approximately 2.5 hours of scenic navigation, the boat arrives at Española Island. Our adventurers explore Punta Suarez, followed by Gardner Bay, enjoying snacks, a delicious lunch, and plenty of time for wildlife observation and photography.

For comfort, it is recommended to wear a wetsuit, as water temperatures range from 20°C (September–December) to 27°C (January–August). Closed-toe shoes are essential for rocky terrain excursions. After a day of exploration and adventure, the boat returns to San Cristobal, concluding this unforgettable Galapagos experience.

Accommodation: Casa Opuntia

Included meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch

Day 10  Speed boat to Santa Cruz Island – Visit Giant Tortoises and Lava Tunnels – Tortuga Bay Beach

After a two-hour boat ride to Santa Cruz Island, we will arrive at Puerto Ayora, the largest settlement in the archipelago. From there, we will take a 30-minute transfer to the highlands of Santa Cruz. In this lush area, private farms work to conserve pristine, native, and endemic vegetation that serves as a habitat for the famous Galapagos Tortoise. As we follow the trail winding through this picturesque landscape, we will have plenty of opportunities to marvel at these majestic creatures in all their splendor—so don’t forget your camera! These giant tortoises are often found partly submerged in mud ponds, where they combat skin parasites or regulate their body temperature on warm and sunny days.

In the late afternoon, we will head to Tortuga Bay Beach. After a 40-minute walk through stunning scenery, we will arrive at this breathtaking beach, one of the most beautiful in the Galapagos, with its soft white sand and lush green mangroves. Once we reach Mansa Beach, we will have the chance to swim and snorkel in the calm waters, making for a relaxing and unforgettable experience.

Optional Activity: If you are interested in learning about the vital efforts to protect and preserve the unique ecosystems of the Galapagos, you may choose to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, you can discover ongoing conservation programs, see giant tortoise breeding initiatives, and learn about scientific projects that safeguard the archipelago’s biodiversity. This activity is optional and available at an additional cost.

Accommodation: La Isla

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11  Navigable Tour to Bartolome, North Seymour, or South Plazas (subject to availability)

Bartolomé Island

Named in honor of Sir Bartholomew Sulivan of the British Navy, Bartolome Island covers an area of 1.3 square kilometers and reaches a maximum altitude of 115 meters. This island offers some of the most unique and breathtaking landscapes in the Galapagos Archipelago. On our day trip to Bartolome, we will hike to the top of an extinct volcano along a wooden pathway, climbing almost 395 steps. During the hike, we will pass by fascinating geological formations created by the last volcanic eruption, such as small lava tunnels, spatter cones, and scoria cones. It will feel like walking on the moon! Along the way, we may spot endemic vegetation like Lava Cactus and Tiquilia plants, as well as some of the island’s famous Darwin Finches. Once we reach the summit, we’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of Pinnacle Rock, a striking volcanic tuff cone that rises from the water.

North Seymour Island

North Seymour is a small island in the Galapagos Archipelago, home to a rich diversity of wildlife. It is one of the best places to observe the frigatebirds with their dramatic red balloon-like throats, as well as the blue-footed boobies performing their charming dance. We will also encounter land and marine iguanas, Galapagos sea lions, fur seals, and various seabirds, including swallow-tailed gulls, shearwaters, and tropic birds. Our walk on this magical island will take about 2 hours, immersing us in its vibrant ecosystems. After our hike, we will return to the boat for lunch and then sail to Bachas Beach, a key nesting area for sea turtles. Here, we may also spot flamingos in the small lagoon. This day will also include a snorkeling activity, where we may have the chance to swim with sea turtles, rays, white-tip reef sharks, and colorful fish.

South Plaza Island

South Plaza is located off the east coast of Santa Cruz Island. It was formed by uplifted marine lava and is one of the smallest islands in the archipelago, yet it boasts some of the densest wildlife concentrations in the Galapagos. We will disembark at a small dock often occupied by sea lions, then continue our walk through a forest of prickly pear cacti adorned with yellow flowers. Along the way, we may see land iguanas waiting for fruits and flowers to fall from the cacti. As we reach the cliff, we will often spot a shoal of the endemic yellow-tailed mullet. The cliff is an excellent vantage point to view seabirds, including swallow-tailed gulls, tropic birds, frigatebirds, and pelicans. At the eastern end of the island, bull sea lions gather to rest after losing their territory and regain their strength in hopes of becoming the beach master once again. After this fascinating walk, we’ll return to the boat for lunch and sail to Punta Carrion for another snorkeling adventure. Here, we may encounter sea turtles, white-tip reef sharks, sea lions, and a variety of fish. We will return to Puerto Ayora around 16:30, having experienced a day full of unforgettable wildlife encounters.

After some free time to relax and reflect on your journey, we’ll gather for a memorable farewell dinner to celebrate the incredible experiences and memories made during your trip.

Accommodation: La Isla

Included meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Farewell Dinner

Day 12  Flight from Baltra Island to Ecuador Mainland

You will be transferred to the Baltra airport in time for your flight back to the mainland. Depending on the time of your international flight you will wait at the airport or you can book an additional night.

Meals included: Breakfast