Discover Ecuador's Diversity: Quito, Galápagos Islands, and Chocó Cloud Forest in 10 Days

Ecuador’s capital city, Quito, sits in the northern highlands beneath the soaring Andean peaks. Colonial charm mixes with ancient Incan influence, Moorish design juxtaposes modern South American style, and lush wilderness blankets the surrounding landscape. You will arrive at the airport, meet your private transfer, and head for your accommodation nestled amongst these sensational Ecuadorian hallmarks. You may enjoy the rest of your afternoon freely, embracing the cultural atmosphere at gastronomic neighborhoods and historic plazas or wandering the manicured parks that pepper the bubbly cityscape.

Ancient history unravels from the landmarks lying in and around Quito’s diverse districts. Today, your tour of Ecuadorian culture will begin at the La Mitad del Mundo. The trapezoidal monument sits in the center of a small park alongside a museum that pays tribute to indigenous Ecuadorian cultures, and it marks the equatorial division of the hemispheres at 0o0’0” latitude. You may take a picture with your feet on both sides of the world before you continue to the Intiñan Museum. Afterward, you will stroll the cobblestone streets of the UNESCO-recognized Historic Center to elaborate churches and Ecuadorian cacao factories.

Ecuador’s volcanic archipelago, the Galápagos Islands, is one of the world’s leading wildlife-viewing destinations, and a five-day cruise across the cobalt waters from this morning will let you soak up the dreamy seascapes and island experiences. Before you board the yacht, you will explore the Santa Cruz highlands and learn about the region’s unique ecosystems. You may spot giant tortoises and enter magnificent lava tunnels during your discovery of the island’s wildlife and geographical diversity. Afterward, you will transfer to the charming town of Puerto Ayora and board the yacht for your five-day adventure.

After you wake up on the yacht, you will step out onto the deck and feel the sun against your face while you sip Ecuadorian coffee and chat about the day ahead. After breakfast, a panga ride will take you to the tropical shores of Eden Islet. Volcanic debris, cinder cones, and semi-eroded lava flows scatter the landscape that thrives with wildlife and lays just beyond the water where blue-footed boobies and reef sharks play. You will then continue to Sombrero Chino Island, a tiny landmass shaped like a traditional Chinese hat to snorkel with the marine life.

The yacht will glide between the Galápagos Islands and arrive at the picturesque volcanic islet of Bartolomé this morning. Dinghy shuttle boats will take you to shore, where you will begin a steep climb up a wooden staircase to a lofty viewpoint overlooking the island and sea. You may snorkel the crystal blue waters surrounding Pinnacle Rock or see the marine life from a glass-bottom boat. After lunch, you will continue to Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island and walk the white coral-sand beach around the corner from an ancient lava field teeming with Galápagos wildlife.

Genovesa Island is a crown jewel among the Galápagos Islands and the primary destination for your final full-day voyaging across the volcanic seas. You will arrive at Darwin Bay, stroll the sharp lava landscape, and arrive at a viewpoint sharing dramatic scenes. A trip down to the beach to swim and snorkel will reveal the endless beauty of the natural harbor and the curious creatures swimming in the sea. In the afternoon, you will arrive at the first step of Prince Philip’s Steps and begin to climb the steep staircase to a panoramic deck overlooking the mesmerizing seascape.

Your cruise around the Galápagos Islands will come to an end on the shores of Baltra Island, where you will spend the morning spotting marine life, including Nazca boobies, frigatebirds, and storm petrels. An airport stands on the island’s flat terrain, and you will catch a flight here back to the bustling Quito cityscape. You will touch down, transfer to your accommodation, and spend the remainder of your day relishing the lavish amenities of your charming abode. You may also explore nearby markets where traditional Ecuadorian cuisine is as authentic as it gets.

Chocó Cloud Forest is an adventure-lovers playground just a short transfer from Quito. Here, you will spend two days seduced by the wonders of Ecuador’s wilderness at a forest lodge surrounded by the dense jungle canopy. Panoramic glass windows plaster the walls, allowing you to watch the wildlife unaware of your presence. You may also sit on the terrace under the shady trees and sip cocktails as the wildlife sings. There are many activities in the forest and at your accommodation, so take your time to plan the adventure ahead as you relish a sensational spa therapy.

If you skipped tours of the immense jungle-clad region yesterday, then wake up early and slip into something comfortable for thrilling experiences in the greenery. After breakfast, you may board the open-air cable car system, Dragonfly, and soar through the forest canopy spotting indigenous animals, birds, and colorful flora. The Sky Bike is another unique opportunity to see the forest as you zipline over rivers, gorges, and forest denizens. You may choose to walk the Capuchin Monkey Trail to see the flora and fauna up close and end your day with a dip in the refreshing stream of Magnolia Waterfall.

Enjoy every moment on your final morning in Ecuador as you embrace the sunlight that filters through your room’s blinds and encourages the wildlife to rise another day. You will slurp Ecuadorian coffee, devour a delightful traditional breakfast, and chat with one another about the breathtaking journey of city, sea, and forest. Be sure to capture a few more photos to celebrate your adventures in Chocó Cloud Forest, and then pack your bags to transfer to the airport in time for your flight back home.