Duration of trip: 18 days
Guaranteed year round weekly departures with a minimum of 2 people per excursion
This is a tour with excursions that include horseback riding, rafting, short treks through the Andes; also canoeing and hiking in the Amazon.
In addition, we offer a boat tour to the Galapagos and eco-naturalistic excursions.
Scheduled activities for the first and last day may be changed according to the flight schedules of the travelers.
DAY 1: DEPARTURE FLIGHT – Saturday
Departure and flight to Quito with private transfer to hotel.
DAY 2: QUITO – Sunday 
Leisure time. Exclusive transportation and English-speaking guide upon request. The atmosphere of the historical center of Quito takes the visitor back in time to the age of the Spanish Conquest as stops are made at the magnificent Jesuit and Franciscan churches, the plazas, and the Government Palace. The colonial center of Quito, which has been meticulously restored, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a pleasant early evening experience not far from downtown, we suggest an excursion to the new scenic cable car, which can be easily arrived at by taxi.
DAY 3: OTAVALO – Monday
Departure at 9:00 am in private chauffeur driven transportation to the beautiful province of Imbabura. During the trip, weather permitting, the majestic mountaintops of the Cayambe, Imbabura and the Cotacachi can be admired. After passing beautiful San Pablo Lake, visitors arrive at Otavalo. This city is a favorite destination for visitors due to the fact that here one finds the Plaza de los Ponchos which is a huge artisans’ market that offers wool clothing, jewelry, and sculptures all of which are locally produced. Additional visits can be made to the local fruit and meat markets. In the afternoon, an excursion to Cuicocha Lagoon, located 40 minutes from Otavalo can be taken in a chauffeur driven car. This small lake was formed in the crater of an inactive volcano and offers a marvelous natural spectacle. Visitors will return to Quito in the late afternoon. The trip from Quito to Otavalo lasts approximately 2-3 hours not including stops.
DAY 4: MOJANDA – QUITO – Tuesday
An expert driver accompanied by an experienced local guide will take travelers over mountain roads, climbing to where the Mojanda Lakes are nestled at the foot of the Fuya Fuya volcano. For the more adventurous who are up to a challenge, the volcano presents an opportunity to hike to the summit, which overlooks the lakes (approximately 4263 m / 13,986 f), accompanied by a guide. If something less strenuous is what travelers are looking for, then a relaxing walk around the lakes (approximately 3800 m² / 2.6 mi²) will be the answer. The landscape of the Andean high plateau is enchanting. Return to Otavalo in the afternoon and continue on to Quito by car.
DAY 5: QUILOTOA – TIGUA – Wednesday
Departure at 8:00am for the route of the volcanoes. After going around the Cotopaxi volcano which can be seen while driving along the Panamericana Sur Highway, the road leads up to the Quilotoa Lake, one of the most spectacular places in the Ecuadorian Andes
. Here the traveler finds themselves in a rural setting of faraway valleys where the indigenous people work the land up to an altitude of 4000 m / 13,123 ft. Quilotoa Lake is peaceful body of water that was formed in the crater of an inactive volcano. Those tourists who want a closer look at the lake can walk down into the crater and then go back up on horseback. The excursion is included in the original cost of the package. The setting that surrounds the lake is part of the province of Cotopaxi, an area rich in tradition and history. The expedition arrives at Tigua, the heart of this indigenous territory, in the afternoon. Travelers will spend the night at an old mountain ranch. Supper is included.
DAY 6: SAQUISILÍ - BAÑOS – Friday
Departure at 8:00 am to the traditional market of Saquisili. The tim e spent in Saquisilí on Thursday allows visitors to get off the beaten track and experience the reality of the indigenous people of the Andes. At the many plazas scattered throughout the city, the local people carry out their daily activities. Here, animals and vegetables are bou ght and sold as well as cooked. Later on in the afternoon, the tour arrives at Baños de Ambato, is a famous tourist attraction known for its thermal springs which are open to the public day and night.
DAY 7: AMAZONIA – Saturday
Departure at 9:00am aboard a four-wheel drive vehicle. At this point, the landscape transforms into a tropical garden with numerous waterfalls situated along the route. After about 2 hours, travelers arrive at the city of Puyo, the threshold to the Amazon Rainforest. Later on, having made a brief rest stop, tourists will meet their indigenou s guide, try on and select the required footwear (boots) and then continue on to the rainforest. Leaving behind the vehicles, travelers will hike along the jungle paths for approximately 40 minutes passing jungle huts, arriving at a hill that rises up between two rivers, the Puyo and the Pastaza. Fortunately, there will still be time to reach a look-out point where a splendid panorama of the rainforest can be enjoyed. The expert guide accompanies travelers on the jungle trek enlightening them on the mysterious culture of the Amazon, offering interesting information related to traditions and the medicinal plants found in the rainforest. All excursions to the Amazon Rainforest are included and within the possibilities of anyone in good physical condition. The night will be spent in rustic huts which are owned and operated by local indigenous families. The bungalows which are very simple but decorous offer limited comfort conditions. An indigenous guide is available for daily excursions. Supper is included.
DAY 8: AMAZON RAINFOREST – BAÑOS – Sunday
Undertake an excursion to the Ola Vida waterfall where it will be possible to swim beneath the cascade amid the luscious natural beauty of the rainforest. Later on, travelers reach the Puyo River where they will go by canoe or raft to the bungalows. The journey by water lasts approximately 40 minutes. Those who wish not to travel by water may go by foot. Return to Baños for supper. An indigenous guide is available for daily excursions. Lunch is included.
If the Tungurhua volcano is active, travelers will be taken by “chiva” (a traditional South American vehicle) to the flanks of the volcano after supper to view the spectacular nightly lava displays.
DAY 9: BAÑOS RAFTING – Monday
After breakfast, travelers will be transferred by car to the Patate River which is a tributary of the Pastaza River where there will be a rafting expedition of approximately 1.5 hours. The suggested technical level for this adventure is intermediate but those non-experts can also partake of the rafting experience. The scenery surrounding the river offers lush green valleys nestled at the foot of Andean summits in addition to deep canyons.
Travelers not wanting to go rafting can undertake an excursion by car followed by a hike to the Manto de Novia waterfall. This location offers a chance to become one with a sub-tropical setting with the added possibility of taking a spectacular cable car ride which provides a magnificent view of the surrounding landscape. Rafting and the alternate excursion are included in the original cost of the package.
DAY 10: SALINAS DE GUARANDA – Tuesday
Departure at 9:00am with a driver. The route reaches an altitude of about 4000 m / 13,123 ft. before going down and finally arriving at Salinas de Guaranda, a small Andean village. The indigenou s people of the village have undertaken a series of productive activities that can be visited by tourists in the afternoon. These activities include cheese and chocolate production, candies, wool textiles including sweaters, essential oils, etc. The journey is breathtaking as the highway leads to the Arenal plateau which is overlooked by the spectacular Chimborazo volcano, the tallest in Ecuador. Travelers arrive at Salinas in the afternoon. The night will be spent at a refuge operated by the local community. While in Salinas, travelers can visit the indigenous company stores that function within the local commercial network. Lunch and supper are included.
DAY 11: CHIMBORAZO – RIOBAMBA – Wednesday 
There will be a guided excursion by foot or horseback in the morning to the community of Verde Pampa. The mountainous setting offers a very exhilarating adventure and this excursion is within the possibilities of those who have never ridden a horse. If the traveler is not up to a challenge, then there is an alternate hiking excursion available. These excursions are included in the original cost of the package. Lunch at a location near the refuge is included also.
Departure for the Arenal plateau at 2:00pm (14:00) accompanied by a private driver. While traveling along the highway it is common to see herds of vicunas roaming the area near the Chimborazo volcano.
Travelers arrive at Riobamba, the first capital city of Ecuador, by nightfall. The hotel is located in a rural setting not far from downtown. It is recommended that after settling in the hotel room , to do some sightseeing along with the driver who as a guide. While driving around the city, travelers can experience the historic atmosphere of this beautiful Andean city with its cobblestone streets.
DAY 12: INGAPIRCA – CUENCA – Thursday 
Early departure at 6:00am for the train station. The train goes along at a relaxed pace giving travelers an opportunity to enjoy the spectacular Andean scenery until it reaches the Nariz del Diablo. The journey, which begins at 7:00am and ends at around 1:00pm (13:00), allows tourists to ride atop the cars giving them a front row seat for the “show”. It is important to note that this service may be interrupted or suspended due to inclement weather or technical problems. In any case, the driver will cover the same breathtaking route by car.
In the afternoon, travelers will arrive at the magnificent ruins of Ingapirca, the most important archeological remains of the Incas in Ecuador. At the site, one can view what appear to be the remains of an elliptical-shaped Incan temple. Despite their age, these seem to be in perfect condition. Later, the journey continues to the city of Cuenca, arriving just before supper. This will be a long intense day for our travelers, but the majestic scenery makes it all worthwhile.
DAY 13: CUENCA – GUAYAQUIL – Friday
Tourists will have the opportunity to visit the colonial district of this Andean city, which is considered to be the most beautiful of Ecuador. Although the historic district is smaller than that of Quito, it gives travelers the chance to experience the rich cultural atmosphere of the colonial cities of the Ecuadorian highlands.
DAY 14: THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS – Saturday
Transfer to the airport along with our guide and departure for The Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival, visitors will be accompanied to the hotel. The Galapagos Islands make up a unique natural paradise unlike any other in the world. The wildlife wandering along the paths and beaches of the Enchanted Islands cannot escape. Here, it is not unusual to swim with a sea lion or a giant sea turtle. Having settled in to the hotel, a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station with its Galapagos Giant tortoises is a must.
DAY 15: THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS – Sunday
Morning departure and excursion by boat to visit one of the islands of the archipelago in the company of a specialized guide from the National Park Service. These excursions require the active participation of the visitors and include navigating the terrain on hiking trails, relaxing moments on the beach, swimming in the ocean and for those who are adventurous, masks can be rented for snorkeling. Encounters with the indigenous wildlife are continuous and the rocky terrain of the islands is volcanic in origin. For trekking around the islands, it is necessary to wear comfortable footwear. Return to the hotel is scheduled for the afternoon. The planned program includes Plazas – Punta Carrión or North Seymour – Bachas.
The program of activities is subject to change due to situations beyond the control of the tour operators. The final schedule of activities will be delivered before departure from the tour’s point of origin.
DAY 16: THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS – Monday
Scheduled activities will follow the same plan as the previous day, instead visiting Bartolome Island.
DAY 17: THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS QUITO (OR GUAYAQUIL) – Tuesday
Final hours on the islands; transfer to the airport and flight to Quito or Guayaquil where visitors will arrive in the afternoon. Flight to the point of origin. Overnight on the flight.
DAY 18: POINT OF ORIGIN – Wednesday
Arrival at the point of origin of tour.
RATES PER PERSON FOR 18 DAYS TOUR OF ECUADOR / THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
USD 2640 per person for a double or single room in a Tourist Class Hotel
OFFER VALID ONLY FOR THOSE WHO REGISTER THROUGH THE MASHIPURA VIAJES WEBSITE
ADDITIONAL FEES
Superior Tourist Class Hotel: USD 240 per person for single occupancy
English speaking guides in Quito (2 ° day) and Guayaquil: USD 60 per person
PRICES INCLUDE
Accommodation and breakfast
All transfers with transportation and private chauffeur
Round trip airfare Ecuador – Galapagos
Planned excursions
6 meals during the tour + 2 lunch onboard the yacht in the Galapagos Islands
Local assistance in case of emergency by calling emergency assistance number
PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE
Round trip intercontinental flight
Meals not included
Galapagos National Park entrance fee (USD 110 )
Entrance fees for museums, churches, archeological sites (approximately USD 30 per person)
Unrequested tour guides
Tips
Airport exit fee on departure from Guayaquil or Quito on intercontinental flight (USD 27/ USD 43)
FLIGHTS
Mashipura Viajes does not sell intercontinental airline tickets.Tickets may be purchased at the travel agency of your choice or on specialty websites such as: www.kayak.com
PAYMENT
If you decide to purchase the tour package, it will be necessary to make two (2) deposits in our foreign account: an advance deposit of $600 at the time of registration and the balance 30 days before the tour begins.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
It is mandatory to purchase travel insurance that is essential in case of misfortune, accident or illness during the tour. Under no circumstances will Mashipura cover any unforeseen expenditures of this nature.
HOW TO REGISTER FOR TOUR PACKAGE
Direct registration through this website
The following information is required:
Departure date
Name of tour: Ecuador and Galapagos Adventure
Complete name of each of the travelers
Passport number and expiration date of each of the travelers
Complete address of each of the travelers
Mobile and landline telephone numbers and e-mail address of each of the travelers
Birthdates of the travelers
Type of accommodation desired
Possible additional costs required
Possible extended stays required
Once this information has been received, a voucher will be mailed indicating the necessary information related to the tour, costs, and payment arrangements for the money transfers.
HOTELS PLANNED FOR LODGING
Quito: Hotel San Francisco – a colonial style hotel located in the historical center.
Otavalo: Hotel Doña Esther – a small hotel with cozy rooms located near the central park.
Tigua: Posada de Tigua – an established business of the mountainous region.
Baños de Ambato: Hotel Posada de Arte – a small but cozy hotel managed in a friendly way.
Amazon Rainforest: Chozas Chupa Punda – traditional bungalows for two people offering limited comfort conditions
Salinas de Guaranda: El Refugio – private rooms with bath at a refuge within the indigenous community
Riobamba: Hostería El Troje – estate hotel in a rural setting offering spacious rooms.
Cuenca: Hotel Incas Real – colonial style hotel located in the heart of Cuenca.
Guayaquil: Gran Hotel Guayaquil – a full comfort hotel situated near the Cathedral and the Iguana Park.
Puerto Ayora: Hotel Fernandina – a hotel with a small pool located near the Charles Darwin Research Station.
Accommodations may be changed due to situations beyond the control of the tour operators to others of the same category or better. The hotels are chosen based on what is offered regardless of category, of the rates in relation to quality and guaranteed services.
CRUISE TO THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
A cruise can be requested as an alternative to hotel reservations in The Galapagos Islands. The additional cost involved depends on the type of boat asked for.
Every weeks of the year.
INFORMATION:
Live Chat directly with an our operator
International Mashipura phone number: 00593 4 6002675
Skype: MashipuraInfo3
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Schedule:: 9.00 - 13.00 14.00 - 17.00. from Monday to Friday. Ecuador's hours