Quito, Galapagos & Papallacta

Arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito.

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before setting out on an unforgettable journey through the Middle of the World. Our first stop is the Pululahua Crater, whose name means “smoke of water” in the indigenous Quichua language. Pululahua is an inactive volcano and one of the few places on Earth as spectacular as this natural wonder. It is also home to one of only two inhabited volcanic craters in the world. After admiring the breathtaking views, we continue to the Intiñan Museum, where your tour guide will demonstrate fascinating physics experiments that prove you are standing exactly at latitude 0° 0’ 0’’ . The tour continues with a stroll through the Middle of the World City, a charming colonial-style town. Upon entering, you’ll walk along Geodetic Avenue, flanked by 13 stone busts honoring the members of the French Geodesic Mission, who arrived in Ecuador in 1736. Inside the complex stands the iconic Equator Monument, a nine-story structure offering panoramic views of this unique location at the center of the world. Here, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, featuring a set menu and one included drink. Middle of the World iddle of the World

Transfer to the airport for your flight from Quito to the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival, your guide will greet you and accompany you on a shuttle bus to the Baltra Channel, followed by a ferry ride to Santa Cruz Island. From there, take private transportation to the highlands to visit the Twin Craters, a stunning volcanic formation. Surrounded by lush vegetation, this area is home to a variety of endemic birds, making it a perfect introduction to the islands’ incredible biodiversity. Continue to a private ranch, where a short nature walk will bring you face-to-face with the iconic Galapagos Giant Tortoises in their natural habitat — a truly unforgettable experience and a perfect photo opportunity. Stroll through the fascinating lava tunnels, natural formations created by ancient eruptions. After the tour, enjoy a delicious set-menu lunch with one drink at the ranch.

After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the Itabaca Channel, where you will board the yacht that will take you to North Seymour Island, one of the most remarkable destinations in the Galapagos. North Seymour is a hiker’s paradise, featuring a scenic 2-mile circular trail that crosses the island’s interior and follows its rocky coastline. Along the way, you’ll encounter some of the largest seabird colonies in the archipelago. This island is home to the famous blue-footed boobies and the striking frigatebirds, both visible year-round. Watch in awe as the male frigatebirds inflate their vibrant red pouches to attract females, or observe the playful courtship dance of the blue-footed boobies — a fascinating ritual where males present a perfect pebble as a gift to win their mate. These unforgettable wildlife encounters are among the highlights of visiting the Galapagos. After a delicious lunch on board, dive into an exciting snorkeling session in the pristine waters surrounding the island. Keep your eyes open for sea turtles, Galapagos sharks, and playful sea lions that often swim close to shore, creating a truly magical experience.

06:30 AM – After enjoying your boxed breakfast, you’ll be picked up at the hotel for a short walk to Ayora Port, where your journey to Isabela Island, the largest island in the Galapagos, begins. The scenic boat ride takes approximately two hours, offering beautiful views of the Galapagos waters along the way. Upon arrival at Puerto Villamil, we’ll visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you’ll have the chance to observe tortoises of all ages, from hatchlings to fully grown adults, and learn about the important conservation and breeding programs designed to protect these iconic and endangered creatures. Next, we’ll explore the Flamingo Lagoon and the stunning beaches of Isabela Island, where you can observe large colonies of sea lions and marine iguanas lounging in the sun, playing along the shore, and interacting naturally in their habitats. This is a perfect opportunity for photography and enjoying the unique Galapagos wildlife up close. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

before checking out. Enjoy a leisurely morning to explore Puerto Ayora, stroll along the charming streets, and shop for local souvenirs to remember your unforgettable Galapagos adventure. Later, you will be transferred to the Itabaca Channel, where you’ll take a shared ferry to Baltra Island. Enjoy the scenic views as you cross the channel, soaking in the unique landscapes of the Galapagos one last time. Upon arrival at Baltra, board the shared shuttle bus to the airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador. Upon arrival in Quito, you’ll be warmly welcomed at the airport and transferred to a restaurant for lunch. Then transfer to Papallacta. On the way, enjoy the breathtaking Andean landscapes. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax and unwind after your exciting trip to the Galapagos. The

making the most of its facilities. You will have access to the exclusive hot spring pools according to your accommodation area, as well as the general hot spring pools. The hot springs of “Termas de Papallacta” are renowned for their natural volcanic origin and mineral-rich waters, which are believed to offer therapeutic benefits. These waters contain minerals such as sodium, sulfates, calcium, and magnesium, known to help relax muscles, improve circulation, relieve stress, and promote overall well-being—all while you enjoy the unique Andean mountain surroundings. You may also choose to take a self-guided walk along the “La Isla” trail, an easy 1-hour route where you can observe small

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Quito. Depending on your flight departure time, explore local artisan markets or relax.