12 Day Tour Ecuador - Galápagos Islands

Tour Plan / Itinerary

Day 1: Quito – Historic Center

Tour along the Route of the 7 Crosses (walking)

Walking tour through the heart of Quito’s Historic Center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Route of the 7 Crosses runs along García Moreno Street and features monumental churches such as the Basilica of the National Vow, the Church of the Society of Jesus, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and San Francisco, among other baroque and neo-Gothic architectural gems. Along the way, visitors enjoy plazas, museums, and colonial buildings that tell the story of the oldest capital in South America.

Visit to El Panecillo

Climb to Quito’s most famous viewpoint: El Panecillo. Here stands the 45-meter Winged Virgin, considered the tallest aluminum statue in the world. From this point, you can enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the city, the valleys, and nearby volcanoes such as Cotopaxi, Cayambe, and Antisana.

 

Day 2: Quito – Middle of the World

Ciudad Mitad del Mundo

A unique experience at the tourist complex that commemorates the 18th-century French Geodesic Mission. Visitors can take the classic photo with one foot in each hemisphere, explore cultural pavilions, and learn about physical phenomena that occur at latitude 0°0’0”.

Agave Museum – Pomasqui

A sensory and cultural experience that unveils the ancestral value of this sacred plant. The tour includes:

 

Day 3: Quito – Baños de Agua Santa

Quito Cable Car

A ride from 2,950 to over 4,100 meters above sea level in just 20 minutes, making it one of the highest cable cars in the world. At the top, known as Cruz Loma, visitors can enjoy short hikes, take spectacular photos of Pichincha volcano, and on clear days, spot up to 14 volcanoes of the Andes range.

La Mariscal Handicraft Market

Time to explore one of the most complete handicraft markets in the country, where you can find:

Transfer to Baños de Agua Santa

Journey to the picturesque city of Baños (approx. 3h30–4h from Quito). Known as the “Gateway to the Amazon,” Baños is famous for its waterfalls, hot springs, adventure sports, and vibrant tourist life. Upon arrival, admire the contrast of the city surrounded by green mountains and the Tungurahua volcano.

 

Day 4: Baños de Agua Santa

Waterfall Route

Scenic route along the famous Baños–Puyo road, known as the Waterfall Route.

Pailón del Diablo: one of South America’s most impressive waterfalls, with an 80-meter drop surrounded by lush forest. A trail leads down to viewpoints where you can feel the power of the water up close.

Manto de la Novia Tarabita: a cable-car ride over the Pastaza River with views of the spectacular Manto de la Novia waterfall, named for its delicate white curtain-like shape.

Tree House Swing – End of the World Swing

An iconic spot in Baños with breathtaking views of Tungurahua volcano and surrounding valleys. The famous swing gives the sensation of flying over the abyss, making it a unique experience and a must-have photo.

Visit to the Hands of Pachamama

A monumental viewpoint in the shape of two giant hands emerging from the mountain, symbolizing the connection with Mother Earth. It offers spectacular panoramas of the Baños valley, ideal for memorable photos.

Optional Evening Activity (not included): Termas de la Virgen

At the foot of the Virgin waterfall are the city’s traditional thermal pools. The volcanic waters, rich in minerals, provide relaxation after a day full of adventure.

 

Day 5: Baños – Cuyabeno

Rafting on the Pastaza River

An extreme adventure on one of Ecuador’s most iconic rafting rivers. The Pastaza offers class III and IV rapids combined with scenic stretches surrounded by jungle and mountains. Includes full safety gear and a specialized guide, ensuring both fun and adrenaline in nature.

Transfer to Lago Agrio

Begin the journey to Ecuador’s Amazon, specifically to Lago Agrio, gateway to the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. From here, you will connect with Green Forest EcoLodge for the upcoming Amazon experience.

 

Day 6: Entering Cuyabeno – Green Forest EcoLodge

Arrival at the Cuyabeno Bridge and Motorized Canoe Ride

Start of the Amazon adventure with a 2-hour canoe ride along the Cuyabeno River. Along the way, spot monkeys, exotic birds, and the lush vegetation of the rainforest.

Lunch and Rest at the Lodge

Welcome at Green Forest EcoLodge, an eco-friendly accommodation in the heart of the reserve. Time to rest in cabins and enjoy a traditional lunch.

Introductory Jungle Walk

First immersion into the rainforest with a naturalist guide, who explains the diversity of flora, fauna, and traditional medicinal uses of plants.

Visit to Laguna Grande

Evening canoe ride through the mystical Laguna Grande, one of Cuyabeno’s most iconic landscapes. Depending on the season, there may be the chance to swim surrounded by pristine nature.

Dinner and Talk about the Reserve

Enjoy Amazonian cuisine at the lodge followed by an introductory talk about the reserve’s importance and biodiversity.

 

Day 7: Amazon Adventure

Exploration Hike in Primary Forest

Several-hour trek deep into the primary forest with a certified naturalist guide. Discover medicinal plants, insects, birds, and possibly mammals. The walk also includes insights into indigenous cosmovision and the communities’ relationship with the forest.

Lunch at the Lodge

Return to the lodge for a traditional meal and rest.

Canoe Ride on Laguna Grande

Afternoon canoe trip to observe aquatic wildlife such as pink dolphins (depending on the season) and birds in the area. Possibility of swimming in calm waters and enjoying an unforgettable Amazonian sunset.

Dinner at the Lodge
Another culinary experience in a natural setting.

Night Excursion

Night walk or canoe ride to listen to the jungle’s nocturnal sounds and spot species such as caimans, frogs, and insects. A unique experience that reveals the hidden life of the Amazon.

 

Day 8: Cuyabeno – Quito

Birdwatching at Sunrise

Early activity to experience the awakening of the jungle. Spot parrots, toucans, herons, and other Amazonian birds at their most active.

Breakfast at the Lodge

Enjoy a traditional Amazonian breakfast before departure.

Return Canoe Ride to the Cuyabeno Bridge

Final canoe journey along the river with opportunities to spot more species along the way.

Transfer to Quito

Return journey to the capital, arriving in the evening. Hotel accommodation included.

 

Day 9: Santa Cruz Island & Isabela Island

Flamingo Watching

Explore coastal wetlands or lagoons such as Flamingo Lagoon, where these elegant pink birds gather in stunning natural surroundings.

Visit to White Sand Beaches

Relax on tropical beaches with fine white sand, such as Puerto Villamil on Isabela or some of Santa Cruz’s tranquil shores, perfect for walking, resting, and enjoying the scenery.

 

Day 10: Isabela Island – Snorkeling in Los Túneles

Snorkeling in Los Túneles

Dive among submerged volcanic lava formations, a unique ecosystem. Swim alongside sea turtles, Galapagos penguins, rays, and an incredible variety of fish—an emblematic Isabela experience.

 

Day 11: Santa Cruz Island – Charles Darwin Research Station & Rancho Primicias

Charles Darwin Research Station

Visit the archipelago’s most important conservation center, where crucial work is done to preserve endemic species. Learn about giant tortoises, conservation efforts, and evolution.

Rancho Primicias (Giant Tortoises)

Observe majestic Galapagos tortoises up close in a breeding and recovery environment, with plenty of opportunities to learn about their biology and management.

 

Day 12: Galápagos – Return to Quito

Transfer to Baltra Airport

Boat transfer from Santa Cruz or Isabela to Baltra Island and transfer to the airport for the return flight to Quito.