Family Tour Ecuador & Galapagos

Day 1: Arrival in Quito (-)
Arrival at Quito International Airport. After clearing customs, a driver will be waiting for a private transfer to the hotel in the city. Depending on the arrival time, there is an opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude of the Andes. Quito is located at over 2,800 meters, so it is recommended to start the program at a relaxed pace. Overnight in Quito.

Day 2: Quito (B)
This day is free to spend in Quito, one of the best-preserved colonial cities in South America. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features an impressive collection of churches, plazas, and narrow streets. Optional activities include a visit to the TelefériQo cable car for spectacular views over the city and surrounding volcanoes, as well as the Guayasamín Museum and the green Parque La Carolina. Overnight in Quito.

Day 3: Quito – Mitad del Mundo – Mindo (B)
After breakfast, departure towards the cloud forest of Mindo. Along the way, a stop is made at Mitad del Mundo, where the equator is marked. Here, it is possible to visit the equator monument or the Intiñan Museum. The journey then continues descending into the subtropical landscape of Mindo, known for its rich biodiversity. After arrival, the rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Overnight in Mindo.

Day 4: Mindo (B)
A full day in Mindo, a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The area is home to hundreds of bird species, including many hummingbirds. Optional activities include walks through the cloud forest, a visit to a butterfly garden, canopy (zip-lining) through the treetops, or a chocolate tour. Thanks to its pleasant climate and lush surroundings, it is an ideal place to relax and experience nature. Overnight in Mindo.

Day 5: Mindo – Otavalo (B)
After breakfast, a transfer is arranged to Otavalo, located in the northern Andes. Along the way, the landscape changes once again from tropical greenery to a more mountainous setting. Upon arrival in Otavalo, the afternoon is at leisure. Optional visits include the well-known Plaza de Ponchos market, where local handicrafts and colorful textiles are sold, the Peguche waterfall, or the Condor Park, where various birds of prey can be seen up close. Overnight in Otavalo.

Day 6: Otavalo (B, L)
Today features a horseback riding excursion through the Andean landscape surrounding Otavalo. During this experience, a visit is made to an alpaca farm and to Cuicocha crater lake, an impressive volcanic lake with deep blue waters. The area is characterized by rolling hills, traditional villages, and wide open scenery, making this day a unique combination of culture and nature. If preferred, the horseback ride can be replaced by a visit by car, combined with a walk adapted to the age and pace of the children. Overnight in Otavalo.

Day 7: Otavalo – Cotopaxi National Park (B)
The journey continues to Cotopaxi National Park, one of Ecuador’s most iconic natural areas. Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, dominates the landscape and offers impressive views. The highlight is a high-altitude walk, starting at around 4,500 meters with a climb of approximately 45 minutes to the mountain refuge at 4,864 meters, near the snow line, with time to rest before descending. For younger children, for whom a high-altitude hike may be too demanding, a suitable alternative walk is available at or around Limpiopungo Lake (approx. 3,850 meters), which is visited as part of the program. Overnight in Cotopaxi National Park.

Day 8: Cotopaxi – Quilotoa – Riobamba (B)
Today includes a visit to Quilotoa crater lake, one of the most spectacular landscapes in Ecuador. The vividly colored water in the volcanic crater forms a striking contrast with the surrounding mountains. From the rim at 3,900 meters, it is possible to descend 280 meters to the lake, where activities such as kayaking are available, followed by a steep climb back up in about 45 minutes. A less demanding option for younger children is a walk along the crater rim, which also offers stunning views. Overnight in Riobamba.

Day 9: Riobamba (B, L)
The morning is free to spend in Riobamba. This city has a charming historic center and is a good base for exploring the surrounding region. In the afternoon, a special visit to the La Moya community is included. Here, you will gain insight into the daily life, traditions, and culture of the local population. The excursion includes lunch and offers an authentic glimpse into life in the Andes. Overnight in Riobamba.

Day 10: Riobamba – Baños (B)
After breakfast, a short transfer takes place to Baños, a lively town located on the edge of the Andes and the Amazon. The area is known for its waterfalls, lush green mountains, and adventurous activities. Upon arrival, the afternoon is at leisure. Overnight in Baños.

Day 11: Baños (B)
Free day in Baños, where nature and adventure come together. Optional activities include a visit to the famous Pailón del Diablo waterfall, a tour along the Ruta de las Cascadas, or relaxing in the thermal baths. For more adventurous travelers, activities such as rafting, canyoning, or zip-lining are available. Overnight in Baños.

Day 12: Baños – Tena (Amazon) (B, L, D)
The journey continues towards the Amazon region, also known as “El Oriente,” an area with exceptional biodiversity. Upon arrival at the Arajuno bridge, the jungle experience begins with an introduction by the naturalist guide, followed by a canoe ride along the river to the lodge. After arrival and lunch, there is time to relax or take part in a tubing activity. In the evening, an optional night walk can be made, when the rainforest comes to life. Overnight in the jungle.

Day 13: Tena (Amazon) (B, L, D)
The day begins early with a canoe trip to a parrot clay lick, where colorful birds gather. After breakfast, a guided walk through the rainforest follows, with explanations about the region’s remarkable biodiversity, which is home to a large share of Ecuador’s plant and animal species. In the afternoon, a visit is made to a Kichwa community, where traditions, local cuisine, and crafts take center stage. Overnight in the jungle.

Day 14: Tena (Amazon) – Quito (B)
After breakfast, the return by canoe to the Arajuno bridge takes place, followed by the transfer back to Quito. The rest of the day is free to relax at the hotel near the airport. Overnight near Quito airport.

Day 15: Quito – San Cristobal (Galapagos) (B)
In the morning, transfer to the airport for the flight to the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival on San Cristobal, the stay on this unique archipelago begins. The islands are known for their remarkable flora and fauna, including sea lions, giant tortoises, and numerous bird species. In the late afternoon, a visit to Playa Mann is recommended, a small beach located in the town, where it is possible to relax and enjoy a beautiful sunset surrounded by sea lions resting along the shore.

Day 16: San Cristobal (Galapagos) (B, L)
Today features a full-day excursion, with a choice between a snorkeling tour to Kicker Rock or an island tour on San Cristobal. The Kicker Rock excursion takes you to an impressive rock formation off the coast, where you will snorkel among colorful fish, sea turtles, rays, and various species of sharks, followed by a visit to a remote beach. The San Cristobal island tour focuses on both the highlands and the coast, with visits to El Junco crater lake, the La Galapaguera tortoise breeding center, and beaches such as Puerto Chino, where various bird species can be observed. The excursion concludes with a visit to the Interpretation Center and a walk to the viewpoint at Tijeretas. Overnight on San Cristobal.

Day 17: San Cristobal – Santa Cruz (Galapagos) (B)
In the morning, there is free time to explore San Cristobal at your own pace. An optional visit can be made to La Lobería beach, where sea lions and various bird species are often seen. In the afternoon, transfer by speedboat to Santa Cruz. Overnight on Santa Cruz.

Day 18: Santa Cruz (Galapagos) (B)
In the morning, a boat excursion around the bay of Santa Cruz is included, with visits to sites such as Canal de Amor, Playa de los Perros, Punta Estrada, and Las Grietas. Along the way, there is time for snorkeling, swimming, and spotting wildlife such as sea lions, marine iguanas, and tropical fish. In the afternoon, there is free time. Optional visits include Tortuga Bay, the Charles Darwin Research Station, or the highlands, where giant tortoises can be seen in the wild. Overnight on Santa Cruz.

Day 19: Santa Cruz (Galapagos) – Guayaquil (B)
Enjoy the final morning in the Galapagos Islands. An optional visit can be made to the fish market in Puerto Ayora, where pelicans and sea lions are often seen. A transfer is then arranged to the Itabaca Channel, followed by the crossing and shuttle bus to Baltra Airport for the return flight to Guayaquil on the mainland of Ecuador. Upon arrival, a transfer to the hotel is provided. Depending on the time, there may be an opportunity to get a brief impression of the city. Overnight in Guayaquil.

Day 20: Departure from Guayaquil (B)
The final day is at leisure, depending on the departure time of the international flight. Optional visits include the Malecón 2000 waterfront, Iguana Park, or the historic Las Peñas district, or time can be spent relaxing by the hotel pool. A transfer to the airport follows for the return flight.