Enticing Ecuador & Galapagos
12 Day Tour
Enticing Ecuador & Galapagos
April 30 – May 11, 2025
Join us on an extraordinary small-group journey through Ecuador and the Galapagos curated by women, for women. We’ll kick off in Quito for a cultural immersion in this historical city, indulging in the legendary Ecuadorian chocolate before we venture into the heart of the Amazon for a two-night stay. Be mesmerized by the stunning views and natural beauty as we engage in activities, including a rainforest walk to uncover the hidden secrets, healing powers, and importance of the Amazon jungle.
Next, discover the wonders of the Galapagos Islands with a land-based stay on Santa Cruz Island (perfect for those prone to motion sickness). With our private yacht, we’ll sail the turquoise blue waters of the Galapagos, encountering incredible wildlife and landscapes as we explore North Seymour, Bartolome, South Plaza Island, and Tortuga Bay. Snorkel with penguins and playful sea lions, hike some of the most photographed landscapes of the Galapagos and discover the breeding programs for the giant tortoise with a visit to the Charles Darwin Scientific Centre.
As friendships blossom and memories are made, this journey promises an enriching blend of adventure, nature, and sisterhood. We conclude with one final night in Quito, cherishing the memories we’ve made before we bid farewell.
Are you ready to join us? Space is limited to 15 adventurous women so don’t delay – book today!
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Private group arrival/departure transfers (transfers based on group air arrival/departure times)
- Private transportation on air-conditioned bus as per itinerary
- 11 nights superior accommodation – 2 nights Quito, 2 nights Amazon Lodge, 1 night Quito, 5 nights Santa Cruz Island, 1 night Quito.
- Daily breakfast, 8 lunches, 8 dinners
- Domestic flights Quito/Baltra/Quito
- Sightseeing & entrance fees for sites, and excursions as per itinerary
- Highlights include Historical Quito, Amazon Jungle adventures, UNESCO Galapagos archipelago discoveries, snorkelling, hiking, wildlife viewing and more!
- Galapagos National Park Permits
- Services of an English-speaking local guide
- Services of a Broad Escapes Tour Manager
- Includes all applicable taxes and service charges
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- Insurance has not been included as part of your tour package. Broad Escapes strongly recommends the purchase of Manulife Insurance coverage for Cancellation and Interruption Insurance, Comprehensive Assistance, Health Coverage, Individual Accident Coverage and Baggage and Personal Effects Insurance. Contact us for rates and complete details.
- International airfare
- Passport, visas, government processing fees, vaccinations
- Luggage handling
- Beverages
- Meals not mentioned
- Items of personal nature
- Gratuities
- Additional taxes, fuel surcharges or service charges levied by the governments or our suppliers
OPTIONS
- International Flights – A designated flight from Toronto will be assigned. We would be pleased to book your flights from Toronto or any other departure gateway.
- Arrival and departure transfers – for those not arriving & departing on group flights
Day 1 | Wednesday, April 30
ARRIVE QUITO
*Independent arrival at the Quito Airport
Welcome to Quito’s Mariscal Sucre Airport. Upon arrival meet our local English-speaking Tour Guide. Transfer by private coach to our hotel for check-in and a warm welcome briefing.
Overnight Hotel Quito (or similar) – 2 nights
*Note: This is a land only tour, however, Broad Escapes will suggest a designated flight from Toronto. The group transfer will be based on the recommended group flight arrival time. Private transfers (additional cost) can be arranged for those arriving at a different time/date. Flights from all gateways can be arranged through Broad Escapes.
Day 2 | Thursday, May 1 (B/L/D)
QUITO
Today we explore Ecuador’s capital with a guided city tour of Quito. Walk through the vibrant streets, delving into the city’s rich history, from its Inca and Spanish conquest to its colonial and independence periods. Visit iconic sites such as Independence Square, San Francisco Church and indulge in a Chocolate Exhibition to savour some legendary Ecuadorian chocolate. Gather this evening for a welcome dinner.
Day 3 | Friday, May 2 (B/L/D)
QUITO – AHUANO: AMAZON LODGE
Satiate your curiosity for the Amazon rainforest as we travel south and check into one of the most established jungle lodges in Ecuador. Nestled above the riverside and the small indigenous village of Ahuano, Casa del Suizo offers breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest. Each day on the Napo River promises new adventures: spot monkeys, witness local communities, traverse the river on a wooden raft and more. As the sun sets unwind by the swimming pool and soak in the stunning jungle panorama. We’ll spend the next two nights here – enjoy!
Overnight Casa del Suizo (or similar) – 2 nights
Day 4 | Saturday, May 3 (B/L/D)
AHUANO: AMAZON LODGE
Embark on an exhilarating journey into the primary forest in Misicocha, La Casa del Suizo’s private reserve, accessible by a short canoe ride. Here, a guided jungle walk will lead us through the thick rainforest, where we’ll traverse muddy paths and encounter diverse wildlife. Learn about the hidden secrets, healing powers, and the importance of this mighty Amazon jungle. Return to the lodge for an afternoon at leisure or enjoy other activities offered on-site.
Day 5 | Sunday, May 4 (B/L)
AHUANO – QUITO
We depart the jungle today with a transfer back to Quito. We’ll stop for lunch along the way and visit a local artisan market before checking into our hotel for an evening at leisure.
Overnight Hotel Quito (or similar) – 2 nights
Day 6 | Monday, May 5 (B/L/D)
QUITO – GALAPAGOS (BALTRA) – PUERTO ACHORA – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Early in the morning, we’ll transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Baltra Island in the Galapagos. Upon arrival at Baltra’s airport, we’ll transfer to Puerto Ayora. En route, we’ll stop to visit the highlands and encounter the giant land tortoises. After a delightful lunch with scenic views, we’ll continue to our hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, visit the Charles Darwin Scientific Center to learn about the environmental issues of the Galapagos and the successful solutions scientists have applied, including the breeding program and reintroduction of giant tortoises to their natural habitat. Return to the hotel for the evening.
Overnight Ikala Galapagos (or similar) – 5 nights
Day 7 | Tuesday, May 6 (B/L/D)
SAILING TOUR NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the dock and board a private superior yacht for our first explorative tour in the Galapagos. North Seymour Island offers spectacular hiking, swimming, and snorkeling opportunities. Marvel at the turquoise waters contrasting with white sand and black lava coasts, perfect for observing marine life, including manta rays. Enjoy lunch onboard and return to the port in the afternoon. In the evening, take a guided walk to a local restaurant before retiring for the night.
Day 8 | Wednesday, May 7 (B/L/D)
SAILING TOUR BARTOLOME ISLAND – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Board our private yacht for another day in the crystal-clear waters. Bartolome Island boasts the most attractive landscape of the archipelago and is the most photographed in all the Galapagos Islands. Admire jaw-dropping views of lava formations, volcanic landscapes, and beautiful bays. Snorkel with penguins and playful sea lions in secluded bays. Enjoy lunch onboard before returning to our hotel with time to freshen up before dinner.
Day 9 | Thursday, May 8 (B/L)
SAILING TOUR PLAZAS ISLANDS – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Embark on our private yacht towards the South Plaza and North Plaza Islands. While the northern island is accessible only to scientists, South Plaza is one of the most impressive visitor sites in the Galapagos and is an excellent island for hiking. Encounter a plethora of fascinating wildlife, including sea lions, land iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, and vibrant vegetation. Enjoy lunch onboard and return to our hotel for an evening at leisure. Relax by the pool or stroll into town for dinner.
Day 10 | Friday, May 9 (B/D)
SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – TORTUGA BAY
This morning, we’ll visit the beach of Tortuga Bay, a nesting site of the black turtle. This long beach of fine white sand offers opportunities to relax, sunbathe, swim, snorkel, or go for a walk while observing wildlife such as iguanas and sea turtles. Spend the afternoon at leisure in Puerto Ayora or relax by the pool with a good book. Gather this evening for our last dinner in the Galapagos before our morning departure to the mainland.
Day 11 | Saturday, May 10 (B/D)
SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – QUITO
Bid farewell to the Galapagos with a private transfer to Baltra Airport and a domestic flight to Quito. Upon arrival, transfer to our hotel for check-in with free time to relax. In the evening, gather with fellow travellers for a memorable farewell dinner, sharing the memories, laughter, and experiences we’ve enjoyed on this fabulous journey.
Overnight Hotel Quito (or similar) – 1 night
Day 12 | Sunday, May 11 (B)
DEPARTURE
Every magical journey must come to an end. Say farewell to Ecuador and new friends with a group transfer to Quito’s Mariscal Sucre Airport. Depart with cherished memories of our adventures together.
*Departure from hotel will connect with the designated group flight, with check-in 3 hours prior. Those flying at a similar time as the designated group flight are welcome to transfer to the airport with the group. Arrangements for those departing at a different date/time can be arranged at an additional cost.
B – Breakfast / L – Lunch / D – Dinner
Note: **While it is our intention to adhere to the itinerary described above, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the tour. Due to traffic or other circumstances beyond our control, it may be necessary or desirable to make alterations. Broad Escapes reserves the right to change the itinerary when deemed necessary.**
$10,975 CAD
twin occupancy
Based on a maximum of 15 passengers
Upgrade to your own room for $1635 CAD
Deposit $1200 due: at time of booking
Balance due: January 30, 2025

Bonnie Hinschberger
Co-founder of Broad Escapes: Tours for Women, Group Specialist & Tour Leader
Bonnie’s passion for travel, keen interest in photography and love of outdoor adventure contributes to her enjoyment and appreciation for the uniqueness of destinations worldwide. With 30 years of travel industry experience, as well as being an avid traveller, she understands what makes the ultimate trip.
She embraces the “off the beaten path” type of travel and enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences with others. As a group specialist and co-founder of Broad Escapes, she is very excited to be part of this unique and exciting travel program and looks forward to “going with the girls” on journeys worldwide.