Ecuador’s Galápagos, Andes & Amazon River Luxury Cruise & Walk 11D10N, Fully Guided

On the first day of the trip, meet your Trip Leader at 11 a.m. at the departure area of the Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport near the Tame airline counters. Please note that should the airline change the time of our flight today that would affect our meeting time, you will be contacted prior to the trip start with details of any change.

After meeting in Quito International Airport, we board a plane bound for the Amazon rain forest, home to indigenous tribes that make up about 200 distinct nations as well as a mind-boggling array of unique animal and plant species. Our flight to the jungle gateway city of Puerto Francisco de Orellana, more commonly known as Coca City, marks the beginning of our journey through one of the world's most captivating regions. Ecuador's patch of the Amazon rain forest is home to Yasuní National Park, which possibly has the most diverse set of species on the planet, including around 1,300 tree species.

Upon arrival, whisky away on a motorized canoe to board your floating home for the next two nights, The Anakonda Amazon ship. The afternoon is all yours to settle into your stateroom and explore the appealing sections of your huge vessel as we embark on a cruise into the depths of the rainforests via Napo River, one of the most significant streams in the area. With every hook and cranny teeming with plant, bird, and animal life alike you have ample opportunities to take in the views of Napo river’s banks.

Later, pull on your rubber boots for an evening walk to discover the nocturnal life scurrying through the jungle. Be especially on the lookout for Caiman, Piranhas, and Giant otters in one of the most gifted regions of the Mapo river when it comes to biodiversity. Tonight, gather for a satisfying dinner in the ship’s well-furnished dining room and recall the wilderness you spectated in one of the remotest areas of the Earth.

Spend your first full day on the river exploring the unique ecosystem that surrounds us on the Pañayacu River Delta, considered a vital "biological corridor." Feel the privilege to spot the whooping variety of primates and birds on a 2.5 hours motorized canoes adventure. An efficient way in introducing us to the secluded corners of the Amazon reserve which unfolds a stunning range of tropical life before our eyes.

Pañacocha (Piranha Lake, in Quichua) is a network of inundated rivers and lakes which is a home ground for the impish Pirhanas, and the water monkey fish, earning its moniker because it can leap out of the water to capture food. Apart from Pirhanas, the water homes various fish species like catfish, manatees (sea cows), and Amazonian River Dolphins - both pink and grey.

To give yourself an adrenaline rush, take a dip! To please the adventurous wayfarer in you, step out of the canoe and onto the trials of the far-flung forests to capture the unprecedented richness of surrounding flora and fauna. Ferret out squirrel monkeys, sloths, toucans, and macaws in the canopy over your head. You may get to spot jaguars and ocelots along the lush biological corridor. To have a palatable meal served in the rustic lodge nestled in ideal torrid environs is a summit of a naturalist’s happiness. This afternoon we sail back on the rivers in robust kayaks to paddle through the serene waters to gently absorb the mind-blowing biosphere that boasts abundant vertebrates. Our day concludes with the sight of the setting sun over the woods as we board our ship and dine later in the middle of tranquil Amazonian waters.

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 3.21km (2 miles), 1 to 3 hours Walking & Hiking, Elevation gain: 31m (100ft)
Level 1, Approx. 6.4km (4 miles), 1 to 3 hours Walking & Hiking, Elevation gain: 61m (200ft)

Today, the Amazon awaits the early-rising bird-watchers to explore its avifauna and admire each winged creature to the fullest. A simple muddy cliff later turns out to be a salt lick, one of the most spectacular marvels in the western Amazon. A prime source of salt and minerals for the birdlife, the salt lick features a large congregation of parrots, parakeets, and many other birds closing in on the lick.

Next, journey to the trailhead for a trek that guides you to Mandi Cocha Lake and enhances your knowledge about the plant and animal species as you walk through the primary forest. 500 different types of rare birds may be seen in the captivating Mandi Cocha Lagoon, along with giant otters. We traverse the lush Mandi Cocha in canoes, gently cruising through narrow inlets. Keep your eyes on the satisfying views of river turtles, black caiman, monkeys, and even the hoatzin, a unique bird locally referred to as the stinking turkey. This peculiar bird has two claws on either of its wings and a crown on its head. Arrive at the Napo River on foot.

Later, visit a Kichwa women's interpretation center, a native community’s project. Gain insight into their culture and marvel at their delicate handicrafts. Together with the Kichwa women, learn firsthand about their customs, cuisine and everyday life. Enjoy lunch back on the boat, then later this afternoon we gain a bird's-eye view of our surroundings as we climb up to a 100-foot-high observation tower, built alongside a giant ceiba tree. From here, the forest canopy opens to reveal an incredible view of the vast Amazon Basin. Tonight, as dusk settles over the jungle, indulge in a dining affair together and toast goodbye to the Amazon.

After breakfast, we bid the Amazon farewell and board our motorboats for the trip to Coca, where we will take a flight back to the capital. We take a shuttle up into the Andean highlands, to Hacienda Zuleta, from the Quito airport. Hacienda Zuleta is a stunning estate possessed by the successors of Ecuadorian presidents. A property dating back to the 17th century resides in Ecuador's fascinating Andean Mountain range where pre-Columbian, Spanish, and Ecuadorian history confluences.

Explore its premises consisting of 4000 acres working farm and a living museum, and today known for its delicious artisanal cheeses. Embark on a walk to a small waterfall, a significant place of the pre-Incan Caranqui people. Feel free to walk all the way to our home for the next three nights through quiet cobblestone roads lined with tall eucalyptus trees.

Before dinner, take it easy and discover the lovely sitting rooms and fireplaces scattered throughout the historic main house. Tonight, traditional family recipes are on the menu in Zuleta's intimate dining room.

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 8km (5 miles), 1 to 3 hours Walking & Hiking, Elevation gain: 92m (300ft)
Level 2, Approx. 8km (5 miles), 1 to 3 hours Walking & Hiking, Elevation gain: 336m (1100ft)

Relish on a homemade and grown onsite breakfast affair from organic tropical fruits, pristine dairy items, fresh bread and sugary pastries. Drop by the Cheese factory that uses the farm's fresh milk to create delicious batches.

Today, the sprawling Zuleta estate is your private backyard. Our hiking options cover some challenging terrain but they afford incredible vistas of the Zuleta Valley, subtropical forest and ridge-top paramo (tropical montane tundra). Venture out from the hacienda on a scenic hike to the ridgeline and take in spectacular views of the verdant valley below, lined by precipitous mountainsides and hanging mist. Descending along a series of switchbacks, we set our sights on the head of the valley, where steep slopes covered in primary subalpine rain forest converge.

We eventually reach Condor Huasi, a rehabilitation project managed by Hacienda Zuleta. This pioneer program reintroduces captive Andean condors into the wild and educates local children about the importance of protecting this endangered species. Backroads has a very special partnership in helping to construct the Condor Project and expand its educational center for the local community. You have the chance to learn about this extraordinary bird, whose wingspan reaches up to 10 feet, and what the center is doing to help this near-threatened species. If you're lucky, you'll see a wild condor or two soaring above, or even landing nearby.

After a picnic lunch we head back to the hacienda via cobblestone roads through the property's expansive pastureland. En route, we pass by pre-Incan earth mounds called tolas, which are the subject of extensive archaeological studies.

Spend the rest of the afternoon doing as little or as much as you please. Set out to explore the far-reaching corners of the property atop one of the hacienda's horses (at own expense). For those in pursue of a slower pace, relax with a book by the fire. Or take a stroll to visit the embroidery workshops in Zuleta Village—the local women are renowned for their fine needlework. delve into an unforgettable homemade meal exclusively made with garden-fresh ingredients

Level 2, Approx. 9.65km (6 miles), 1 to 3 hours Walking & Hiking, Elevation gain: 213.36m (700ft)

Today you get a full day to discover the untrodden areas of Hacienda Zuleta. Savour a delicious breakfast before delving deeper into the Zuleta Valley by foot. Take in the daily chores of the inhabitants such as harvesting crops like barley, potatoes, wheat, beans, and several other crops that are native to the central Andean diet. Spend some time in the company of preserved animals like cows, llamas, and sheep. The estate’s dairy farm invites you to milk a how, if that’s on your mind or you can simply feed a lovely-looking baby calf.

Call into Rumi Huasi, which is Quichua meaning "stone house," and learn about Zuleta customs and music while hiking. Join the locals at the bakery to make some bread in a traditional way, freshly baked in a brick oven. Delight your tastebuds with some of their caffeine-free lima bean coffee with our bread.

A delicious lunch brings you back to the Zuleta after which you are free to re-discover some of the missed wonders or delve into avant-garde activities like hearing the intriguing tales of the past by the fire. Enjoy the valley by horseback (at own expense), visit the embroidery workshops, relax at the hacienda or visit the estate's prolific organic garden. Tonight, savour another memorable farm-to-table dinner.

Embark on a journey to yet another dreamy adventure in the wilderness of Ecuador: The Galápagos Islands. This morning, shuttle to the Quito airport for a flight to the spectacular Galapagos. (Note: although we try to book direct flights whenever possible between Quito and Baltra, often the most reliable flights have a layover in Guayaquil.)

At the onset of our journey our flight lands at Batra Islands and we begin to witness the scenery of one of the world’s most enchanting lays of the land. The isolated network of Galápagos includes 13 key islands and countless small islands and islets, all being the outcome of volcanic activity. The islands are situated where the three ocean currents converge and are an entrenched dwelling for land iguana, the giant tortoise, and the variety of finch, indeed a secluded bounty of unique life forms. With the helpful guidance of Ecuadorian adroits and local Galápagos support staff, we can be sure about making the most of our precious time in the islands.

From the airport, we travel to the Itabaca Channel, which divides Baltra Island from the north side of Santa Cruz Island. Here, a shuttle takes us up and over the verdant slopes of Santa Cruz where we lunch at a local restaurant. Along the way, set eyes on the giant tortoises sauntering along the route, and be thrilled by the startling shift in nature from parched to green. Drop round to see the amazing lava tunnel, a result of dried-up lava on the outer shell and hot lava inside of it. The electric lights inside will make the tube appear less spooky and will guide you to its other end.

Enjoy lunch before wandering along the pasturelands, once marked by grazing cattle and now a private home to giant tortoises. The region has all it takes to thrive for the giant tortoises like surplus food (also including the favorite food of giants - the guavas) and cooling mud baths making it an ideal hangout for them. The tortoises pass through this location on their seasonal migratory route between the humid highlands and the warmer lowlands, but they may be observed here year-round happily munching on the vegetation and wading in ponds while vivacious finches, mockingbirds, and flycatchers dart around.

Embark on a lovely walk through the property to visit its massive and photogenic inhabitants. Afterward, call into a coffee and sugarcane farm to see how sugar is extracted from the plants and how coffee beans are roasted—a great opportunity to learn how the first settlers lived on the islands.

Then we direct our steps towards our beachfront oasis for the next four nights. Unwind with a dip in the pool, sip a cocktail by the beach bar or simply laze on the white sandy beach. This evening enjoy dinner at your own leisure at the hotel's exquisite restaurant featuring private balconies with sweeping views of the island.

Embark on scenic cruise towards the North Seymour Island, a low flat isle that was formerly submerged in the water but was raised some millennia ago by a seismic event. The island might deceive you into thinking that it’s uninhabited. But as you take a closer look, you will be engrossed by its abounding creatures. Homing a range of marine, terrestrial, and bird life, the island is a paradise for the naturalists. Blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, pelicans, marine iguanas and numerous species reside in the low cliffs at the coast, among the silver-gray palo santo trees, or embed themselves in the uneven ledges and rocks. Join the naturalist to gain closer views of nesting frigate birds with their 6-foot wingspan or mated boobies performing their courting rituals.

North Seymour is the one of the paramount nesting sites in the Galapagos. The island’s shoreline also fascinates plenty of sharks like Tiger Shark, Galapagos Shark, Reef Shark and more, which can be spotted swimming nearby. Witness some outgoing island residents as you walk through the property like sea lions and sea turtles who don’t mind you getting closer to them.

Enjoy lunch onboard before returning to the Itabaca channel later in the afternoon where you'll shuttle back to the hotel. This evening, delight yourself into another dining island affair.

Level 1, Approx. 5km (3 miles), 1 to 3 hours Walking & Hiking, Elevation gain: 30.48m (100ft)

Today is a delightsome treat for walking, snorkeling, and kayaking adventurers alike. Our journey by foot leads us to the fluorescent waters at Divine Bay where we ride on a boat which takes us to the starting point of a Dog Beach exploration. Marine iguanas love to bask in the sun at Playa de los Perros (Dog Beach). We then head back to Divine Bay, a hidden cove and ideal habitat for animals, which is shielded by a mangrove forest on one side and volcanic cliffs on the other. Divine Bay, which is the name of one of the islands' original founders, provides the opportunity to watch several bird species, including noddy terns, bluefooted boobies, and herons.

Explore an underwater paradise by snorkeling around Divine Bay which boasts plentious marine life such as sea turtles, reef sharks, colorful fish and rays among the crevices and waving seaweed. Gear up for further wildlife exploration after lunching at the hotel and take a boat to the splendid Tortuga Bay. Home to picturesque sand beaches populated with marine iguanas, shorebirds and green sea turtles are bound to stun you. Get amused by the canvas of the bay painted with fresh blue waters beyond the horizon, white sands trodded by marine iguanas, mangroves, historical lava flows, and palo santo forest.

Spend time to swimming in the protected bay surrounded by mangroves and embark on a kayak adventure to scout the shoreline for additional marine life if national park restrictions permit us. After enjoying your time at the beach to the fullest, you can opt for a walk back to the hotel or ride a boat. To go from Tortuga Bay to the town of Puerto Ayora, you may take a relaxing walk through an old lava flow. As you go through enormous opuntia cactus, keep an eye out for the finches that Charles Darwin popularized in his books.

Spend the rest of the day at your leisure. Unwind at the hotel’s premises or walk around the vibrant town of Puerto Ayora in pursuit of souvenirs. Dine at your will in the largest town of Galápagos and raise a toast to today’s exciting venture at the beach.

Embark on a journey to an unpopulated island of Bartolome featuring the most remarkable spectacle of Galápagos, the Pinnacle Rock, protruding from the waters. We transfer to the Itabaca channel after a quick boat ride from Finch Bay, where we join our sailboat to explore this unique island.

The island with no human colonies will surprise you with its abundant vertebrates, the Galápagos penguin being the most anticipated bird by the visitors and the only species of penguin spotted in the north of the equator. Spectate the unique walk cycle of hordes of penguins and also please your sight as the bloating sea lions bask in the sun and sea turtles prepare to dive into the enormity of the blue sea.

Gear up to snorkel inside the aquatic kingdom which presents you the wide variety of fish, marine iguanas, starfish, parrotfish and also re-encounter the sea lions and turtles seeming ten times agile in water compared to that on land. Take the opportunity to go across a planked path dotted with lava tubes and other volcanic phenomena that appear to have frozen in place.

The mesmerizing view of Santiago Island and James Bay from the island’s summit will tempt you to snap a photo of Pinnacle Rock. The carnival of penguins at the foot of Pinnacle Rock will simply captivate you. Binoculars and cameras are the two significant tools to have to get a closer view of turtle, penguin, and sea lion rituals, thus amplifying your sightseeing experience of this natural enterprise. Assemble for a farewell dinner and raise a toast to our great trip over three amazing Ecuadorian fascinations.

Shuttle & Ferry to Baltra Island Airport (1.5 hours)
Flight from Baltra to Quito (with layover in Guayaquil) (3.5 hours)

Enjoy in a delightful breakfast before your return to Quito. It begins with a shuttle and short ferry ride to Baltra Island's airport. Our journey across Ecuador comes to an end when we board a plane and arrive at Quito's international airport. Please note that the most reliable flights to Quito have a layover in Guayaquil.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.