Imagine an early stroll along the quay in Puerto Ayora, the pelicans and sea lions gathering in hope of some fisherman’s scraps. The sea lions have been known to relax on the sun loungers whilst waiting. Or picture the sun rising across snow covered Chimborazo on the barren altiplano. Unique experiences to be enjoyed with many others on our holiday to Ecuador
Perhaps the most diverse of all our Latin American holidays, this is as good a microcosm of Latin America as you will find. Starting in the Andes at Quito, the most charismatic of capitals; its colonial centre makes it the most attractive of South America’s capital cities. After some time to explore the area and the famous market at Otavalo, you head south along the corridor of volcanoes, walking under Chimborazo (6,263m). You will learn how the summit of Chimborazo is the furthest point on earth from its centre, and observe and learn more of local life visiting homes, markets and communities along the way. Look out for the classic village scene of women in bowler hats and brightly coloured skirts. These clothes are not for show, they are everyday wear for the Andean ladies.
Cuenca is a beautifully preserved colonial city well worth exploring. Continuing from here you walk in the Cajas National Park where at up to 4000m, this lakeland landscape offers impressive views. From Cajas you descend to Guayaquil with time to walk the Malecon, the redeveloped river front.
You fly to Baltra Island, a small island of the Galapagos where after lunch we continue to Puerto Ayora with time to relax and explore. Next day you travel by boat to Floreana Island to enjoy the wildlife an the relaxed lifestyle. You continue to Isabella Island to enjoy some great walking through volcanic terrain, visit a turtle interpretation centre and hopefully encounter a myriad of diverse Galapagos wildlife.
Returning to Puerto Ayora you can enjoy our last night on the islands. On each island, you’ll walk with an expert naturalist guide to make sure you get plenty of exercise whilst enjoying the huge natural diversity of each island for which the Galapagos are world famous, including sightings of Sea Iguanas and Blue Footed Boobies.
You fly back to Quito for a final night and some sightseeing before flight back to the UK.