Day 1: Depart USA

Depart from the USA for an exciting journey to Quito, Ecuador! Enjoy meals & refreshments served onboard during your flight to keep you comfortable. Upon arrival at Quito’s airport, no matter the time, your Tour Guide will be there to greet you & escort you to your hotel. Welcome to Quito, founded on December 6, 1534, by Spanish Conquistador Sebastián de Belalcázar. Known as the "Light of America," Quito is a city where colonial charm meets modern vibrance. With its well-preserved historic center, Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site & a cultural treasure, boasting magnificent churches, plazas, & monasteries.

Day 2: Colonial Quito & the Middle of the World Tour

Step back in time as you explore the historic center of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site & the best-preserved colonial city in the Americas. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, lined with vibrant plazas & stunning architectural gems like the breathtaking La Compañía de Jesús Church, known for its ornate Baroque interior, & the towering Basílica del Voto Nacional. As you wander, every corner tells a story of the city's rich colonial past, offering a true immersion into Ecuador's cultural legacy. Next, embark on a short drive north to the iconic Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World), where you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere at 0º0'0" latitude-a must-see photo opportunity! Explore the nearby Intiñan Museum, where interactive exhibits offer fascinating insights into Ecuador's indigenous cultures & the scientific marvels of the Equator. For lunch, savor traditional Ecuadorian cuisine while overlooking the majestic Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve, one of the world's only inhabited volcanic craters, completing your day with a breathtaking view of this natural wonder.

Day 3: Quito - Balto - North Seymour Island

Today you depart Quito on a flight to Baltra Airport. Upon arrival you will be transferred to the Galapagos Coral & settle in as you set sail towards North Seymour Island, a true paradise for wildlife lovers. The afternoon brings a guided excursion to this arid island known for its bustling colonies of blue-footed boobies, playful sea lions, & magnificent frigatebirds. Watch in awe as the frigates inflate their vivid red pouches during mating displays & enjoy the surreal beauty of this unique ecosystem. Your day ends with a return to the ship for a relaxing evening, where you can reflect on the day's encounters as you dine under the stars.

Day 4: Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay (Santiago Island)

Start your day with a visit to Bartolome Island, famed for its iconic Pinnacle Rock. The morning hike offers panoramic views of this volcanic landscape, where you can spot lava formations & perhaps even encounter Galapagos penguins along the shore. In the afternoon, sail to Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island, where a walk across the impressive lava flows feels like stepping onto another planet. The contrast of the stark, black lava fields with the sparkling ocean is unforgettable. Enjoy a refreshing swim or snorkel here, where marine life thrives in these crystal-clear waters.

Day 5: Punta Pitt & Cerro Brujo (San Cristobal Island)

Your morning begins at Punta Pitt, located on the eastern tip of San Cristobal Island, where you'll explore dramatic cliffs & enjoy one of the few spots where all three species of Galapagos Boobies nest. Take a guided hike through the varied terrain or snorkel in the waters teeming with tropical fish. In the afternoon, the scenic beauty of Cerro Brujo awaits, with its powdery white-sand beaches & stunning views of the coast. Take time to relax or walk along the shore, observing sea lions, shorebirds, & the surrounding volcanic formations.

Day 6: Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve & Departure to Quito

On your final cruise morning, visit San Cristobal Island's Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve. This protected area is critical in conserving the endangered Galapagos giant tortoises. Learn about their breeding programs & see these gentle giants up close as they roam in their natural habitat. Afterward, head to San Cristobal Airport for your flight back to Quito, concluding your incredible Galapagos adventure. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred back to your hotel, allowing you time to unwind & reflect on the life-changing experiences of your adventure.

Day 7: Quito

Enjoy a free day in Quito or take an optional tour to Otavalo Market & Peguche Tour: Begin your day with a picturesque drive to the Otavalo region, where Ecuador's vibrant indigenous culture & stunning landscapes come together. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of San Pablo Lagoon at Miralago before indulging in freshly baked bizcochos, crispy Andean biscuits that melt in your mouth. Your next stop is the famous Otavalo Market, one of South America's largest indigenous markets, where vibrant textiles, intricate artwork, & local crafts line the colorful stalls. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, engaging with artisans & exploring their creations. Continue to Peguche, a village renowned for its rich musical heritage, & visit a workshop where traditional Ñanda Mañachi instruments are handcrafted, offering a glimpse into Ecuador's living traditions. No visit is complete without a stop in Cotacachi, famed for its exquisite leather craftsmanship-browse the shops for finely crafted bags & jackets. After savoring a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, wind down your day at the serene Cuicocha Lagoon, a volcanic crater lake surrounded by lush greenery, offering a perfect moment of reflection amidst nature's splendors.

Day 8: Quito to the USA or extend your stay with an optional Amazon extension

Today, you'll be transferred to the airport for your international flight home. Safe travels!

Day 8: Your Amazon Basin Adventure Begins!

This morning, embark on a captivating bus journey from Quito to the Napo River, where stunning Andean highlands give way to the lush, vibrant greenery of the Amazon rainforest. As you wind through picturesque landscapes, watch the scenery transform from mountain peaks to rich tropical forests, offering a glimpse of Ecuador’s incredible biodiversity. This scenic ride is your gateway to adventure, setting the stage for your upcoming Amazon exploration as you approach the mighty Napo River. Once you reach the Napo River, your journey into the Amazon rainforest begins with a thrilling motorized canoe ride, surrounded by lush jungle and the sounds of nature. As you arrive at your welcoming lodge, settle in and savor lunch before some relaxation to explore your surroundings. This evening enjoy dinner as you relax in this incredible natural paradise. Cap the day off as you immerse yourself in the mysteries of the Amazon with a night walk to uncover the secrets of the rainforest’s nocturnal creatures.

Day 9: Jungle Exploration and Cultural Immersion

After breakfast, head out for a walk through the vibrant primary and secondary forests. The sheer biodiversity of this environment will leave you in awe as you encounter exotic plants, wildlife, and the sounds of the jungle. After lunch, deepen your experience by visiting a native Kichwa community, where you’ll learn about their traditions, participate in the making of “chicha,” a fermented yucca drink, and enjoy a traditional dance performance. This unique cultural immersion will enrich your understanding of the Amazon and create a lasting connection with the indigenous people.

Day 10: Farewell to the Amazon

Rise with the sun for an early birdwatching tour, where you may catch sight of colorful parrots and parakeets (weather permitting). Later in the day, it’s time to bid a fond farewell to the Amazon as you embark on your final canoe ride back to the Napo River ferry. Relive the adventure during your scenic return drive to your Quito Hotel, arriving with memories of an incredible Amazon journey that will stay with you forever

Day 11: Quito to the USA

Today, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your international flight home. Check into your flight and relax.