ROUNDTRIP TO THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Once you're landed and settled in Quito, you can explore the city in your own pace. You can catch a cable car to the top of the Pichincha volcano for an amazing view, wander the city's historic quarters, do some coffee and chocolate tasting, or sample some craft beer at a local pub. After a night in Quito, you'll leave for the Amazon the next morning by bus and truck.

Tena is town in the Ecuadorian part of the Amazon. You'll stay for four nights with a local Quichua family hosting you and two nights at a hotel. During your time here you will experience loads of different activities with your group, among which are a cacao culinary experience and tasting, jungle walks, a shamanic healing ceremony and a mock jungle marriage ceremony. On one of the days, you'll also take a bike ride to the nearby town of Shandia to learn more about the beauty of the Amazon with guidance from a member of the community.

After saying goodbye to your host family, it's time to head back to Quito. Here you have some free time, while you prepare for your next adventure: the breathtaking Galapagos Islands. A bucket list item for many, you'll be excited for sure! But first you have to make your way there, most likely by taking a local flight to Baltra, before taking a ferry to Santra Cruz.

Arrive on Santa Cruz and head to Puerto Ayora, where you'll meet your travel group and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to see the famous giant tortoises up close. Afterwards, get to know your fellow travellers over a few drinks and shared adventure stories.

Travel by speedboat to Isabela Island, keeping an eye out for dolphins and whales along the way. After settling in, hike the impressive Sierra Negra volcano for spectacular views. The following day is free to explore your way, with options including Los Tuneles, Tintoreras snorkelling, surfing, or relaxing on the beach.

Before leaving Isabela, enjoy a snorkelling excursion at Concha de Perla. Return to Santa Cruz and spend the afternoon exploring Puerto Ayora's shops, cafés, and local food scene.

Continue to San Cristóbal, where you'll visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the islands' unique wildlife and history. Later, snorkel at Tijeretas in search of sea lions, rays, and marine iguanas, then enjoy sunset along the malecón. Your final day is free to spend as you wish, with options including Kicker Rock, Isla Lobos, Playa Mann, or La Lobería.

Your adventure ends where it all started; in the charming city of Quito. Spend a few days and get lost in the colonial styled old town and take in the vibrant atmosphere of this city. If you're ready to go home board the plane from Quito, and if you're not done traveling yet, we can talk about some of all the other experiences that awaits in South America.