Discover the Best of Ecuador: Mainland and Galapagos Islands

A Perfect 12-Day Itinerary for Your Ecuador Adventure

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines natural beauty and cultural richness, a trip to mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands is the perfect choice. Ecuador is a country located in South America that has a diverse landscape ranging from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes Mountains, and even the Pacific coast. The Galapagos Islands, located about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, are home to some of the most unique and fascinating wildlife in the world, both above and below the water.

Together, these two destinations offer an unforgettable travel experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

There is a plethora of itinerary options to put together for this incredible country, but we’ve landed on this 12 day sample itinerary to share with you to give you a taste of Ecuador

Day 1

Arrive in Quito – optional tour of the city (depending what time you arrive) + dinner in Miraflores

Day 2

Head north to the Andean Mountains – 2 nights at Hacienda Zuleta, a stunning 17th century hotel and working-farm of former Ecuador President Galo Plaza Lasso and his family.

Day 3

Enjoy Hacienda Zuleta and its many activities they offer – hiking, horseback riding, cultural activities, bird watching, cycling, cheese eating, wine drinking by the fire, and make sure to spend some time in a rocking chair outside with some binoculars in search of the Andean Condor!

Day 4

Back to Quito to board your domestic flight to Galapagos Islands – board your liveaboard from Baltra Island

Day 5

Dive Wolf Island

Day 6

Dive Darwin Island

Day 7

Dive Wolf Island

Day 8

Dive Fernandina & Isabela Islands

Day 9

Dive Isabela Island

Day 10

Dive Santiago

Day 11

Hike Bartolome – Disembark boat – Fly back to Quito

Day 12

Fly home from Quito

Land based options are also available in Galapagos if you are looking for more of an above-the-water vibe for the week!

One of the biggest advantages overall of traveling to both mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands in one trip is the opportunity to experience the incredible diversity of Ecuador’s landscape and culture.