- Days 1–3Quito
- Days 3–8Galapagos cruise
- Days 8–11The Otavalo Area
- Days 1–3Quito
- Days 3–8Galapagos cruise
- Days 8–11The Otavalo Area
Signature Ecuador and Galapagos
Ecuador and the Galapagos have so much to offer in terms of nature and ancient culture. Begin with two nights in the historic city of Quito, Ecuador’s capital, before flying out along the equator to the incredible Galapagos Islands. On your luxury six–day cruise, discover the archipelago’s fascinating landscapes, beautiful waters and, of course, its rich wildlife. Your final stop gives you a well-deserved chance to relax in Ecuador’s highlands at a centuries-old rural hacienda.
Trip highlights
- Discover the mystical city of Quito on a privately guided tour
- Enjoy a luxury Galapagos six-day cruise
- Snorkel in the beautiful waters surrounding the Galapagos Islands
- Set out on wildlife-focussed excursions lead by naturalist experts
- Visit the famous Otavalo Indian market and community projects
- Go horseback riding from your hacienda
Our bespoke trips include
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Days 1–3
Two nights in UNESCO World Heritage Quito
Enjoy Ecuador’s capital of Quito, the first ever UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by towering volcanoes, this charming city is one of the highest in the world. You’ll have our list of recommendations to enjoy the best of this historic city and contemporary hub, and a local will show you around the Old Town on a private tour and introduce you to friendly artisans. Talk to your travel designer about how you would like to spend your time here.
Where you could stay
Full day Quito tour
This tour brings alive the capital’s historic quarter, so guests get a true feel for quiteños and their history, livelihoods, traditions, stories, beliefs and cuisine.
You’ll enjoy a neighbourhood stroll in the company of a local guide, visit the lively market of San Francisco and wander the revitalised street of La Ronda. A lunch of Ecuadorian specialities is served at the elegant Casa Gangotena hotel, and the afternoon is divided between a visit to the Casa del Alabado archaeological museum and a city viewpoint to appreciate its Andean setting from on high.
Days 3–8
Luxury Galapagos cruise
Spend your time cruising and exploring the Galapagos Islands on your choice of Jacada’s selected luxury expedition cruises. Your five-night Galapagos cruise will include expertly guided nature walks, snorkelling excursions and boat trips – our travel designer will help you choose which itinerary suits you best.
Galapagos yachts and cruise ships
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Make it mine
Nature trails
Panga rides
Nature walks on the Islands
Each of the islands on your itinerary has a number of varied nature trails which you can do accompanied by your knowledgeable guide. These will give you the chance to explore the wildlife up close, and also learn about the astonishing geology of the islands.
Panga rides and snorkelling
Experience small group excursions by inflatable ‘panga’ zodiac boats to snorkel in the turquoise waters. These thrilling trips allow you to immerse yourself in the world of the Galapagos’ gloablly–renowned marine wildlife, including giant sea turtles and sealions.
Days 8–11
Three days in the Otavalo countryside
Return to the Ecuadorian mainland and head north into the Otavalo region, a place where traditional culture runs deep. Staying at a centuries old rural hacienda, discover the mountains around you, visit a community project and head out on an unforgettable horse ride. Simply enjoy the relaxed, bucolic pace of life here and your personal travel designer will take care of arranging your privately guided tours and excursions.
Where you could stay
Make it mine
Otavalo tour
Horse ride
Full Day Otavalo tour
This full day tour takes you through the highlights of the region. Head to the Cuicocha crater lake to enjoy a short hike near the lake, then continue to Otavalo to visit the famous Indian market, where people from the surrounding mountains come to buy and sell crafts, food and other goods. After lunch at a local hacienda, visit one of the community projects held in the area.
Horse ride from your hacienda
Prepare for the most scenic ride of your life. Explore the Andean countryside on horseback along high altitude trails (between 9,000–11,000 feet) that wind through valleys surrounded by mountains, bathed in green lakes on mountain tops, snow-capped Cayambe, ancient pre-Incan earth mounds, waterfalls, and dramatic views in or above the clouds.
This is the second trip we have taken to South America with Jacada and every detail has been perfect both times. The trip works seamlessly, there is always someone to meet you at the airport (and help you get your pcr test!) One of my favorite things about these trips is the local agencies they partner with have the best…
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
