Straddling the equator on South America’s west coast, Ecuador is a country with a varied geography that includes the Amazon, the Andean highlands, and the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands. Its capital, Quito, is situated 2,850m high in the Andean foothills. The city is distinguished by its remarkably preserved Spanish colonial district, featuring ornate palaces.
The Galápagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago and Ecuadorian province about 1,000km off the mainland, is a world-class destination for viewing wildlife. Its isolation has fostered a unique biodiversity with many endemic species. Charles Darwin’s visit in 1835 and his observations there were the catalyst for his theory of evolution.
At a Glance – Group Holiday to Ecuador
& The Galapagos, May 2027
| Price | Dates | N°· of nights | N°· of guests | Holiday type | Weather | Price includes |
| From £6,950 per person based on twin share; single supp £1,050 | 11 – 27 May 2027 | 14 nights in country and 2 nights of air travel | 6 – 12 people | Group holiday | Temperature range averages of 9 – 28°C in May | Flights from London, UK, transfers, accommodation, meals and activities where stated. |
Itinerary – Group Holiday to Ecuador & The Galapagos, May 2027
Days 1 - 3
Casa Ilayaku, Quito - City & Landscapes
Welcome to Ecuador! Explore Quito’s breathtaking landscapes and rich history with a visit to Quito’s Teleferiqo, a cable car that ascends to 4,100m on the slopes of Pichincha Volcano, offering spectacular views of Quito’s valley stretching from north to south. We will explore Quito’s old town, it’s colonial heart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy lunch at local restaurants, where you’ll get a taste of Ecuadorian flavours and visit a traditional Otavalan household on the outskirts of town for a hands-on cooking class. An immersive experience offering a rare glimpse into daily life, traditions and culinary heritage.
Accommodation: Casa iLayaku, is a four-star lodge and guest house located in Guangopolo, a mountainside area just 9km outside of central Quito, and about 20-25 minutes from the airport. With comfortable, hacienda-style rooms, some with balconies and mountain views and others with garden views. Rooms are well equipped with a private bathroom, work desk, wardrobe and free toiletries.
Days 4 - 5
Santa Lucia Cloud Forest Reserve Lodge
Journey into northwest Ecuador’s stunning cloud forest region. This scenic overland drive winds through lush green valleys and misty mountains, offering glimpses of the rich biodiversity that thrives in this ecosystem. Relax and take in the breathtaking views. Offering a true escape from modern life, the lodge is perched at 1,900m and provides a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Ecuador’s stunning cloud forest. This community-owned reserve lets guests immerse themselves in nature, surrounded by a remarkable array of wildlife, including over 390 bird species and the iconic spectacled bear!
Accommodation: the lodge features beautifully crafted cabins with amazing forest vistas, each with an en-suite bathroom and space for two to five guests. The hot showers, in particular, provide spectacular, uninterrupted views of the surrounding cloud forest. Solar panels provide limited electricity, contributing to the tranquil, off-grid atmosphere.
Day 6
Casa Ilayaku, Quito - community visit
After a relaxing morning activity of your choice followed by lunch, we begin our hike out of the reserve, a 1.5-hour descent back to the trailhead, where our vehicle will be waiting. Before returning to Quito, we have the optional opportunity to visit the local school in Marianitas (class schedule dependent). If time allows, we might even join a spontaneous game of football with the local community — a fun and heart-warming way to connect with the people who call this region home. With a scenic drive back to Quito we return to Casa Ilayaku for a one night’s stay before the start of our Galápagos adventure.
Accommodation: offering comfortable, hacienda-style rooms, some with balconies and mountain views and others with garden views. Rooms are well equipped with a private bathroom, work desk, wardrobe and free toiletries. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property. Enjoy the contemporary hacienda charm and warm hospitality in this natural and peaceful oasis in the mountainside.
Days 7 - 10
Blu Galapagos, Santa Cruz Island
Your Galápagos adventure begins at the beachfront Blu Galápagos lodge, where wildlife encounters meet pure relaxation in a setting of quiet luxury allowing you to rest, reconnect, and feel the essence of the islands. You’ll journey from the lush Santa Cruz Highlands, home to Giant Tortoises and secret lava tunnels, to the Charles Darwin Research Station and the pristine sands of Tortuga Bay for kayaking and snorkelling. Boat trips to Santa Fe and nearby uninhabited islands offer a chance to witness the archipelago’s raw beauty and snorkel in crystal-clear waters alongside stingrays, white-tip sharks, sea lions, and sea turtles.
Accommodation: the Comfort Standard Rooms offer guests a classic, functional room for those who value peace and privacy. All en-suite, these cosy rooms offer a tranquil escape with views of either the property’s interior or the serene mangroves. Awaken to soft natural light, drift asleep to the sounds of the sea. Enjoy modern comforts, including, air conditioning, a refrigerator, complimentary toiletries and free WiFi, for a truly relaxing stay.
Days 11 - 13
Iguana Crossing, Isabela Island, Galapagos
This morning, you’ll board a speedboat for a two-hour crossing to the rugged shores of Isabela Island, where the modern boutique elegance of Iguana Crossing awaits. Nestled between the beachfront and volcanic landscapes, this ocean front sanctuary invites you to wake up to ocean views and the gentle company of basking iguanas. Your adventure unfolds with a private hike across the lunar craters of Sierra Negra and Volcano Chico, followed by an exploration of the island’s hidden gems, from the crystalline snorkel tunnels of Los Túneles to the wildlife-rich islets of Las Tintoreras and the tranquil waters of Concha de Perla.
Accommodation: with its beachfront location, experience an unforgettable stay in these lovely ocean view rooms. Designed to provide comfort and tranquillity, it’s perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy the beauty of the ocean in a peaceful, natural location. Private bathroom, air conditioning, minibar, and small safe. The hotel other facilities are a restaurant and terrace, pool and sundeck and an ocean view bar.
Day 14
Blu Galapagos, Santa Cruz Island
This morning, we embark on a guided tour to the Wall of Tears, a historical site with a tragic past. The tour can be taken by bike or by vehicle and foot, depending on preference. Starting from Puerto Villamil, we follow a trail along the coastline, passing mangroves and marine vegetation before reaching the Wall of Tears. Lunch will be in a local restaurant before transferring to the dock for our local speedboat crossing back to Santa Cruz Island (2-hour journey). We travel independently and are met on arrival by our Santa Cruz Guide for our transfer to our hotel in Puerto Ayora.
Accommodation: as your Galápagos journey comes full circle, you’ll return to the familiar beachfront luxury of Blu Galápagos for one final, reflective evening. Having traversed volcanic craters and swam with ancient sea life, this last night is an invitation to slow down and soak in the essence of the islands one last time. Whether you choose to enjoy a final sunset cocktail overlooking the water or simply rest in the quiet elegance of the lodge, it is the perfect space to toast to your adventures before your departure tomorrow!