Galapagos and Mainland Ecuador See Almost It All in 11 Days 1st Class Traveling – Ultimate Guide
Are you planning to experience the best of Ecuador in one single trip? Look no further than the Galapagos and Mainland Ecuador See Almost It All in 11 Days 1st Class Traveling tour, offered by Viator. With your expert guide taking care of all the arrangements, you can sit back and relax as you explore the top attractions of mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. In this ultimate guide, we’ll give you all the details about the tour, from the itinerary to the accommodations and what’s included, so you can plan your trip with ease.Tour Overview
This 11-day tour covers the well-known destinations of Ecuador and Galapagos Islands in 1st Class traveling style. During the course of the tour, you will discover fascinating cities, scenic landscapes, and diverse wildlife reserves. The tour starts in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, with a visit to the UNESCO-listed historic center. Visit the famous Otavalo market, take a hike to the stunning Quilotoa crater lake, and admire the breathtaking scenery of Cotopaxi National Park. The tour then moves to the Galapagos Islands, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the wildlife-rich islands on guided tours, including snorkeling excursions.What’s Included
The tour takes care of all your travel arrangements, including transportation, accommodation, tours, and meals. Here’s a detailed list of what’s included:- Lodging for five nights, based on double occupancy
- Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour
- Almost all entry fees to all the attractions mentioned in the itinerary, except Galapagos Airport Park entry fee (USD 100)
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) as mentioned in the itinerary
- Any airfare, alcohol, travel insurance, or government-imposed visa fees
- The Galapagos ‘migration fee’ and the Galapagos park airport tax
- Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
Accommodations
During the tour, you’ll stay in comfortable hotels and lodges of 1st Class standard. Here are the hotels and lodges where you’ll be staying:- Mercure Quito Hotel: The hotel is located in the heart of the city, close to major attractions and offers modern guest rooms with excellent facilities.
- Hacienda Pinsaqui: The hotel is a historic property that combines traditional and modern elements, surrounded by gardens and mountains.
- CotopaxiPungo Finca Hotel: The lodge offers cozy rooms with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and gardens.
- Isabela Ocean View Hotel: The hotel offers a beachfront location with comfortable guest rooms and balcony overlooking the ocean.
- Pergamino Galapagos Hotel: The hotel is located in the town of Puerto Ayora, close to the beach and the Charles Darwin Research Station.
Itinerary
Here is the day-to-day itinerary for the Galapagos and Mainland Ecuador See Almost It All in 11 Days 1st Class Traveling tour:Day 1: Quito
- Welcome to Quito! Upon arrival, check-in at the Mercure Quito Hotel.
- Meet your guide and get a briefing about the upcoming tour.
Day 2: Quito – Otavalo – Quito
- After breakfast, head to the Otavalo Market and experience one of the biggest markets in South America.
- Visit Cuicocha Crater Lake and enjoy a hike around it, with picturesque views of the surrounding area.
- Return to Quito and stay at Mercure Quito Hotel overnight.
Day 3: Quito – Quilotoa – Lasso
- After breakfast, drive to Quilotoa Crater Lake, which is known for its emerald green water and the picturesque views of the Andes.
- Afterward, continue to Lasso, where you’ll check-in at the CotopaxiPungo Finca Hotel and stay overnight.
Day 4: Lasso – Cotopaxi – Quito
- After breakfast, experience horseback riding in the Cotopaxi National Park, home to the Cotopaxi Volcano.
- Return to Quito, and stay overnight at Mercure Quito Hotel.
Day 5: Quito – Baltra Island – Santa Cruz Island
- Transfer to the airport and take a flight to Baltra Island to join the Galapagos Cruise.
- Upon arrival, transfer to Santa Cruz Island, where you’ll have lunch and visit the tortoise breeding center.
- Check-in at Isabela Ocean View Hotel, and stay overnight.
Day 6: Santa Cruz Island – North Seymour Island
- After breakfast, visit North Seymour Island, which is home to blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and sea lions.
- Go for a snorkeling excursion in the crystal-clear waters, and spot different kinds of marine animals.
- Return to Isabela Ocean View Hotel, and stay overnight.
Day 7: Isabela Island – Bartolomé Island
- After breakfast, take a tour of Bartolomé Island, which is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife.
- Visit Sullivan Bay, a unique volcanic landscape that was formed less than 100 years ago.
- Return to Isabela Ocean View Hotel, and stay overnight.
Day 8: Isabela Island – Floreana Island
- After breakfast, take a tour of Floreana Island, where you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel with sea turtles, reef sharks, and other marine life.
- Visit the famous Post Office Bay and learn about the island’s fascinating history.
- Return to Isabela Ocean View Hotel, and stay overnight.
Day 9: Santa Cruz Island – Puerto Ayora
- After breakfast, transfer to Santa Cruz Island and check-in at the Pergamino Galapagos Hotel.
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you’ll see giant tortoises and learn about the conservation efforts in the Galapagos.
- Stay at the Pergamino Galapagos Hotel overnight.
Day 10: Santa Cruz Island
- After breakfast, visit the Tortuga Bay beach and relax on the beautiful white sand beaches.
- Go for a kayak tour and explore the mangroves and observe different species of birds.
- Stay at Pergamino Galapagos Hotel overnight.
Day 11: Santa Cruz Island – Baltra Island – Quito
- After breakfast, transfer to the Baltra Island airport and take a flight back to Quito.
- Finish the tour with unforgettable memories and a greater appreciation for the natural wonders of Ecuador.
Booking Information
Ready to book the Galapagos and Mainland Ecuador See Almost It All in 11 Days 1st Class Traveling tour? Visit the booking page on Viator’s website and follow the instructions. Please note that availability is limited, and the tour operates all year round. You can make your payment online using a credit card, and you’ll receive an instant confirmation of your booking. In conclusion, the Galapagos and Mainland Ecuador See Almost It All in 11 Days 1st Class Traveling is an excellent tour option for those who want to experience the best of Ecuador in a short time. From majestic mountains to tropical forests and unique wildlife, this tour has something for everyone. Book your tour now and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
FAQs About Quito, Ecuador
Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is located in the Andes and is categorized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and culture. In this FAQ, we will try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Quito.1. What is the best time to visit Quito?
The best time to visit Quito is during the dry season from June to September. During this time, the skies are clear, and the weather is pleasant. However, the temperature can drop significantly at night, so it is advisable to carry warm clothing. The rainy season, which runs from October to May, can be challenging for visitors as heavy downpours are common. July and August are the peak months for tourism in Quito.2. How do I get to Quito?
Quito is accessible by air, bus, and car. The Mariscal Sucre International Airport, located on the outskirts of the city, is the main airport in Quito. Regular flights from major cities around the world such as Madrid, Miami, and New York, land in Quito. The city also has a well-connected bus network that connects it to other parts of Ecuador. A taxi or private car can be hired from the airport to reach the city.3. What are some of the top tourist attractions in Quito?
Quito offers a diverse range of tourist attractions, including:Old Town (La Ciudad Vieja)
Old Town is the historic center of Quito and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to several colonial-era buildings, churches, and monuments such as the Plaza de la Independencia, the Cathedral of Quito, and the Church of Santo Domingo.TelefériQo
TelefériQo is a cable car that takes visitors to the top of the Pichincha Volcano, which overlooks the city. The ride offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains.El Panecillo
El Panecillo is a hill that rises above Quito and is home to a statue of the Virgin Mary. It is a popular spot for panoramic views of the city.Mitad del Mundo
Mitad del Mundo, which translates to “Middle of the World,” is a monument that marks the equator line. Visitors can stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern hemisphere.La Compañía de Jesús
La Compañía de Jesús is a Jesuit church that features stunning interior decorations made of gold leaf.4. Is it safe to visit Quito?
Quito is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any other big city, visitors should be cautious and take necessary safety precautions. It is advisable to keep valuables like wallets and mobile phones concealed and not carry too much cash. Visitors should also avoid walking alone late at night in less crowded areas.5. What are some traditional foods to try in Quito?
Quito offers a range of traditional dishes that visitors can try, including:Locro de Papas
Locro de Papas is a potato soup made with cheese and avocado.Sopa de Arvejas
Sopa de Arvejas is a soup made with green peas, potatoes, and corn.Ceviche
Ceviche is a popular seafood dish made with shrimp, lime juice, onions, and cilantro.Encebollado
Encebollado is a hearty fish soup made with onions, yucca, and spices.Empanadas
Empanadas are a popular snack in Ecuador and are made with stuffed dough that is filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables.Book Your Tour Now
Quito is a fascinating city that offers visitors an opportunity to experience its rich culture, history, and beautiful landscapes. From the historic Old Town to the panoramic views from the top of Pichincha Volcano, there is something for everyone in Quito. Visitors should keep in mind the safety precautions and try some of the delicious traditional dishes to enhance their trip.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Quito
Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers tourists a wide range of activities and experiences. With a rich history and culture, Quito has many attractions that can be enjoyed by travelers of all interests. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s architecture, hiking through the Andes, or experiencing the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Quito. In this blog post, we will provide you with a guide to spending your time as a tourist in Quito, including the best attractions to visit, activities to do, and places to eat.Top Attractions in Quito
1. The Historic Center of Quito
One of the most popular attractions in Quito is the historic center of the city, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area is home to many beautiful colonial buildings, churches, and plazas, including the Plaza de la Independencia, the Plaza Santo Domingo, and the Church of La Compañía de Jesús. Visitors can spend hours wandering the cobblestone streets and admiring the colonial architecture.2. Teleférico de Quito
The Teleférico de Quito is a cable car that takes visitors up to the top of the Pichincha volcano, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding Andes mountains. At the top, there are hiking trails and a restaurant where visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the view.3. Mitad del Mundo
Mitad del Mundo, which means “middle of the world” in Spanish, is a monument located at the equator, which is only about 14 miles north of Quito. Visitors can stand on the equator line, which is marked by a yellow line, and learn about the science behind this important geographic location. There are also museums, shops, and restaurants on-site.Activities to Do in Quito
1. Hiking in the Andes
Quito is located in the Andes mountains, and there are many hiking trails in the surrounding area that offer breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Some popular hikes include the Cotopaxi National Park, the Quilotoa Loop, and the Antisana Ecological Reserve.2. Cooking Classes
Ecuadorian cuisine is diverse and delicious, and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about the local ingredients and recipes. Many cooking classes in Quito include a visit to a local market to purchase ingredients, followed by a hands-on cooking lesson.3. Street Art Tour
Quito is home to a thriving street art scene, and taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide is a great way to see some of the best street art in the city. Many of the murals have political or social messages, and the tour guides can provide insight into the meaning behind the art.Where to Eat in Quito
1. Zazu
Zazu is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the trendy La Floresta neighborhood of Quito. The menu features Ecuadorian-inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as the ceviche de chochos and the pork belly with tamarind sauce.2. El Rincon de Cantuña
El Rincon de Cantuña is a traditional Ecuadorian restaurant located in the historic center of Quito. The menu features classic dishes such as locro de papas, ceviche, and grilled meats. The restaurant also offers live music on certain nights.3. La Mariscal Brewing Company
La Mariscal Brewing Company is a craft brewery and restaurant located in the La Mariscal neighborhood of Quito. The beer is brewed on-site, and the menu features pub food with an Ecuadorian twist, such as the quinoa burger and the yuca fries with aji sauce.Book Your Tour Now
Quito is a city that has something to offer everyone, from history buffs to foodies to nature lovers. With so many attractions, activities, and restaurants to choose from, visitors to Quito will never be bored. We hope this guide has provided you with some inspiration for your trip to Quito and that you will enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer.Table of Contents
