Discover the wonders of Ecuador & Galapagos ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/1%20Meals%20%28red%29_26.png) 38 Meals ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/2%20Small%20Group%20%28red%29_9.png) Small Group ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/3%20CT%20Ratings%20%28red%29_27.png) CT Rating 4/5 - Very Challenging ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/4%20Leader%20%28red%29_23.png) Led by Susanne Collins **A Diverse and Captivating Experience** We'll explore Quito, the breathtaking Andes, ancient indigenous culture, rich Spanish colonial history and stunning landscapes. Major highlights of our journey are the two nights we'll spend at Mashpi Lodge in the cloud forest, renowned as one of the top ecological preserves in Ecuador, and an adventure on the beautiful Yacht Isabela II to unravel the enigma of the Galapagos Islands. We'll delve into the origins of these volcanic wonders, and marvel at the stark beauty of the landscape and its unique flora and fauna. Seals, iguanas, tortoises, and an astonishing variety of birds freely roam in their natural habitat, seemingly putting on a show just for us. **This journey is now available on request.** .button { display: inline-block; padding: 10px 20px; margin: 5px; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 6px; background-color: gray; /* default color */ color: white; } .button:hover { opacity: 0.9; } [Submit Booking Request](mailto:sharper@craigtravel.com?cc=sales@craigtravel.com&subject=Ecuador%20%202026%E2%80%93ON%20REQUEST&body=Dear%20Craig%20Travel%20team%2C%0A%0AI%20would%20like%20to%20submit%20an%20online%20booking%20request%20for%20the%20**Ecuador%20journey**%20departing%20in%20**October%202026.**%0A%0AI%20understand%20that%20this%20departure%20is%20not%20currently%20available%20for%20immediate%20confirmation%20and%20that%20availability%20must%20be%20requested%20with%20your%20local%20suppliers%2Fground%20partners.%20I%20realize%20it%20can%20take%20approximately%20**5%E2%80%937%20business%20days**%20%28sometimes%20longer%29%20to%20receive%20confirmation%20or%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.%0A%0AI%20give%20permission%20for%20a%20sales%20agent%20to%20contact%20me%20by%20phone%20or%20email%20to%20discuss%20availability%2C%20pricing%2C%20accommodation%2C%20any%20waitlist%20possibilities%2C%20or%20alternative%20departures%2Foptions%20if%20this%20journey%20cannot%20be%20confirmed.%0A%0A**My%20contact%20details%3A**%0A%0AFirst%20name%3A%0ALast%20name%3A%0APhone%20number%3A%0AEmail%20address%3A%0A%0APlease%20indicate%20whether%20you%20would%20like%20a%20double%2Ftwin%20accommodation%20or%20a%20single%20room%20%28single%20supplement%20applies%29.%0A%0A) [Download Brochure](https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/tCTD8wZ/EcuadorOct2026) [![Map of Ecuador and the Galapagos](/sites/default/files/2026-01/Ecuador%202026.png)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-01/Ecuador%202026.png) ### Tour Highlights - Discover the UNESCO treasures of colonial Quito, Cuenca, and the ancient Ingapirca Ruins - Cruise the Galapagos for 4 nights aboard the Yacht Isabela II, viewing iconic wildlife in its natural habitat - Immerse yourself in the cloud forest with a 2-night stay at the exclusive Mashpi Lodge - Experience Andean culture at the vibrant Otavalo Market, a historic hacienda and local artisan shops - Colonial gem of Cuenca - Hike dramatic landscapes at the Cotopaxi Volcano and the glacial lakes of El Cajas National Park - Stand at the "Middle of the World" and explore the equator's history at the Intiñan and Tulipe Museums - Savour local cuisine with unique dining experiences at a trout farm and on the edge of a volcanic crater ### Inclusive Features - Return economy group airfare from Canada to Quito with Copa Airlines, plus domestic flights within Ecuador - First-class accommodation as indicated or similar, including the famous Mashpi Lodge - 4-night fully inclusive cruise on Yacht Isabela II - 38 meals as shown in the itinerary (B - 15 breakfasts, L - 12 lunches, D - 11 dinners) - Services of your journey leader, national and local guides - All gratuities, taxes and service fees for included services - Airport transfers in Canada or equivalent value with purchase of group airfare ### Itinerary Overview Full View CANADA / QUITO, ECUADOR October 15, 2026 Travellers from across Canada gather in Toronto for our flights to Quito. Nestled on the slopes of the Pichincha volcano, the capital was founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city. Standing at an altitude of 2,850 metres, it offers an imposing setting for the start of our journey. On arrival, we are welcomed by our local guide and transferred to our hotel. **JW Marriott Quito** (3 nights) QUITO October 16, 2026 Established in 1534, Quito has one of the best-preserved historic centres in Spanish America, a UNESCO site that we explore in depth today. We dive into local life at a market, browsing stalls piled with exotic fruits. Next, we connect with the country's artistic soul at the Guayasamín Museum. We then ascend to El Panecillo, once a pre-Incan sun temple and now the site of the towering Virgin of Quito. We marvel at the Church of the Society of Jesus, a baroque masterpiece regarded as Latin America’s most impressive for its ornate gold-leaf interior. Our tour also brings us to Independence Square and the San Francisco Plaza, built atop an ancient indigenous market. At the Casa del Alabado Museum, we view pre-Columbian artifacts to learn about the spiritual practices of Ecuador’s ancestors. Tonight, we gather for our welcome dinner. Breakfast, Dinner OTAVALO MARKET October 17, 2026 We travel north into the Andean highlands to discover why Ecuador’s equatorial light and altitude create the perfect environment for growing roses. At a hacienda, we admire many of the rose varieties grown on-site. We will continue to the lively Otavalo Market, a trading hub since the 16th century that offers a rich array of indigenous textiles and crafts. For lunch, we step into history at Hacienda Pinsaquí, built in 1790 as a wool weaving workshop, this heritage property famously hosted Simón Bolívar as he prepared for the Battle of Ibarra. Our day concludes in the nearby village of Peguche, where we witness traditional weaving on Andean looms, crafted without electricity or chemicals, and learn about Andean instruments. Breakfast, Lunch COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK / CUENCA October 18, 2026 Leaving the capital behind, we travel south along the spectacular Avenue of the Volcanoes to the landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park. Dominated by the perfect snow-capped cone of the Cotopaxi Volcano, this reserve offers a dramatic backdrop for our day. We immerse ourselves in the paramo ecosystem on a walk around the lake at the volcano's base, keeping a lookout for Andean foxes, caracaras, and the majestic condor. After a home-style lunch with incredible mountain views, we drive to the airport for our short evening flight to the colonial city of Cuenca. **Four Points by Sheraton Cuenca** (3 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner CUENCA October 19, 2025 Our tour of Cuenca begins at the Homero Ortega Hat Museum, where we discover the true Ecuadorian origins of the famous Panama hat. We then walk the cobblestone streets of the historic centre, visiting the vibrant Flower Market and the leafy Parque Calderón, the Old Cathedral and the massive blue-domed Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. After a relaxing lunch at a local favourite, we stroll along the Tomebamba River to admire the greenery of the El Barranco neighbourhood. Our afternoon continues at the Turi Lookout for a panoramic view of the city’s red- tiled roofs, followed by a visit to the gallery of renowned ceramicist Eduardo Vega. The day concludes with a dinner celebrating fresh, seasonal ingredients. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner EL CAJAS NATIONAL PARK October 20, 2026 Just 40 minutes from Cuenca, we leave the colonial streets behind to enter the beautiful landscape of El Cajas National Park. This protected sanctuary for more than 40 species of mammals and over 150 species of birds is a stunning mosaic of glacial lakes, moorlands, and ancient polylepis forests. After a rewarding hike and a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant, we return to Cuenca where you can enjoy the evening at your leisure. Breakfast, Lunch CUENCA / GUAYAQUIL October 21, 2026 Today, we travel to the fascinating archaeological site of Ingapirca. The Inca constructed their temples directly upon the foundations of an earlier Cañari settlement. We explore the impressive Temple of the Sun, an unusual elliptical structure constructed from precisely cut andesite stone, as well as the workshops, terraces, and even a section of the famous Inca Trail. After a local lunch, we continue our drive down from the Andes to the bustling port city of Guayaquil. **Hilton Colon Guayaquil** (1 night) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner GUAYAQUIL / GALAPAGOS October 22, 2026 The day we have been waiting for is here. A short flight takes us to Galapagos, a sanctuary of evolution located 1,000 kilometres from the coast. Upon landing at Baltra and ferrying across the Itabaca Channel, a scenic drive through Santa Cruz brings us to a local restaurant for lunch. We then head to the Charles Darwin Research Station and Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, the scientific heart of the archipelago, to witness the critical conservation work saving these gentle giants. Afterward, stroll the lively waterfront of Puerto Ayora before we embark on our vessel to toast the start of our cruise with the Captain’s welcome cocktail and dinner. **Yacht Isabela II** (4 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner BARTOLOME & SANTIAGO ISLAND October 23, 2026 Bartolomé Island is the archipelago’s most photographed area. A climb up a wooden staircase rewards us with a stunning panorama of volcanic cones. After the trek, we set off on a panga ride around the majestic Pinnacle Rock in search of Galapagos penguins. In the afternoon, we land at Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island to witness the island's geological birth. The otherworldly lava fields contrast beautifully with the pristine white coral sand beach where we enjoy a refreshing swim. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner SANTA CRUZ & SANTIAGO ISLAND October 24, 2026 Back on Santa Cruz Island we explore Dragon Hill, named for the iconic land iguanas that roam its rocky slopes. Our trail winds past a brackish lagoon often teeming with American flamingos, leading to panoramic views of the western archipelago. After a chance to snorkel with green turtles, sharks and rays, we navigate to Buccaneer Cove on Santiago Island. Once a refuge for explorers stocking supplies, this dramatic coastline now offers sanctuary to sea lions and marine birds. We admire striking rock formations like "Elephant Rock" and "The Bishop" before exploring by snorkel, panga or glass-bottom boat. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ISABELA & FERNANDINA ISLAND October 25, 2026 The nutrient-rich waters of Punta Vicente Roca are best explored by panga, allowing us to observe Galapagos fur seals, nesting Nazca boobies, and penguins from the water. Snorkellers may also see green sea turtles beneath the cliffs. Then, we visit Fernandina, the archipelago's youngest and most pristine island. At Punta Espinoza, set against a backdrop of active volcanoes, we see colonies of marine iguanas and the unique flightless cormorant. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner GALAPAGOS / QUITO October 26, 2026 We disembark this morning for our return flight to the mainland. Upon arrival in Quito, we transfer to our hotel for an evening at leisure. **JW Marriott Quito** (1 night) Breakfast QUITO / MASHPI LODGE October 27, 2026 Today we depart for the lush northwest, entering a 2,800-hectare sanctuary that protects a rare transition zone between cloud forest and rainforest. Upon arrival at the award-winning Mashpi Lodge, we discover a unique approach to exploration where there is no set schedule; instead, expert naturalists curate our activities based on our interests. We might begin with a walk through the forest as darkness falls. A hidden ecosystem stirs to life on our nocturnal exploration, offering the chance to spot glass frogs, snakes, and tarantulas in their natural habitat. **Mashpi Lodge** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner MASHPI LODGE October 28, 2026 We spend a full day immersed in this rich ecosystem, home to pumas, kinkajous, and over 500 species of birds. A highlight for many is the "Dragonfly" aerial tram, an open-air gondola that glides silently through the canopy, offering a rare chance to see life in the treetops. For a more active perspective, you might climb the observation tower to spot toucans, woodpeckers, barbets, and tanagers. Those seeking tranquillity can hike to the refreshing waters of the Copal Waterfall, head to the Hummingbird Garden, or visit the Life Center, a lounge raised into the canopy. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner MASHPI LODGE / QUITO October 29, 2026 We bid farewell to the cloud forest this morning and begin our return to Quito. Our first stop is the Tulipe Site Museum, where we explore the history of the ancient Yumbo people. We then ascend to the Pululahua volcanic crater for a lunch with spectacular views of the reserve below. Before reaching the capital, we visit the Intiñan Museum to stand on the equatorial line and test the unique physics of the middle of the world. Upon arrival in Quito, there is time to freshen up before we gather for a farewell dinner together. **JW Marriott Quito** (1 night) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner QUITO / CANADA October 30, 2026 Our once-in-a-lifetime journey draws to a close as we catch our flight to our homes across Canada. Breakfast [Download Brochure](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-05/brx_TSA151026_Ecuador_Galapagos_REV25MAY26.pdf) [![Sea lion in the Galapagos](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/Galapagos-sea-lion-with-young-cnva-web_0.jpg?h=684fc13e&itok=F7ONJi2J)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/Galapagos-sea-lion-with-young-cnva-web_0.jpg) [![Amazing creatures on the Galapagos Islands](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2024-09/iStock-509919972_adj_crop.jpg?h=96494677&itok=XtZ3-tc9 "Amazing creatures on the Galapagos Islands")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2024-09/iStock-509919972_adj_crop.jpg) [![Cuenca, Ecuador](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2024-09/iStock-614430422_Cuenca_Ecuador_adj.jpg?h=bb88099b&itok=T_-1Pqgs "Cuenca, Ecuador")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2024-09/iStock-614430422_Cuenca_Ecuador_adj.jpg) [![Colourful Galapgos crab](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2024-09/crab-2113971_1920.jpg?h=c744bf40&itok=h85dd5QA "Colourful Galapagos crab")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2024-09/crab-2113971_1920.jpg) [![Textiles in the Otavalo market](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2024-09/ecuador-1257123_1920_Otavalo_market_web.jpg?h=38bf06a5&itok=xofRQW7v "Textiles in the Otavalo market")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2024-09/ecuador-1257123_1920_Otavalo_market_web.jpg) [![Iguana in Galapagos Islands](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2024-09/iguana-3500924.jpg?h=b10830ba&itok=3OoYP1Bj "Iguana in Galapagos Islands")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2024-09/iguana-3500924.jpg) [![Galapagos blue boobies](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2024-09/blue-footed-booby-2422192.jpg?h=a1e1a043&itok=0qf5ysfs "Galapagos blue boobies")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2024-09/blue-footed-booby-2422192.jpg) ### Have any questions? Contact Stacey at sharper \[at\] craigtravel.com or call [1-800-387-8890](tel:1-800-387-8890) ![Book early and save](/sites/default/files/2026-01/2026_NEW_EBB_Banner_800x753_Ecuador_0.png) ### Tour Cost in Canadian Dollars Per Person Land & Cruise Only* $15,395 Toronto $16,755 Ottawa / Montreal $16,945 Halifax / Winnipeg $17,145 Regina / Saskatoon / St. John’s $17,245 Calgary / Edmonton / Vancouver $17,145 Victoria $17,245 Single supplement (land only) On Request [Submit Booking Request](mailto:sharper@craigtravel.com?cc=sales@craigtravel.com&subject=Ecuador%20%202026%E2%80%93ON%20REQUEST&body=Dear%20Craig%20Travel%20team%2C%0A%0AI%20would%20like%20to%20submit%20an%20online%20booking%20request%20for%20the%20**Ecuador%20journey**%20departing%20in%20**October%202026.**%0A%0AI%20understand%20that%20this%20departure%20is%20not%20currently%20available%20for%20immediate%20confirmation%20and%20that%20availability%20must%20be%20requested%20with%20your%20local%20suppliers%2Fground%20partners.%20I%20realize%20it%20can%20take%20approximately%20**5%E2%80%937%20business%20days**%20%28sometimes%20longer%29%20to%20receive%20confirmation%20or%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.%0A%0AI%20give%20permission%20for%20a%20sales%20agent%20to%20contact%20me%20by%20phone%20or%20email%20to%20discuss%20availability%2C%20pricing%2C%20accommodation%2C%20any%20waitlist%20possibilities%2C%20or%20alternative%20departures%2Foptions%20if%20this%20journey%20cannot%20be%20confirmed.%0A%0A**My%20contact%20details%3A**%0A%0AFirst%20name%3A%0ALast%20name%3A%0APhone%20number%3A%0AEmail%20address%3A%0A%0APlease%20indicate%20whether%20you%20would%20like%20a%20double%2Ftwin%20accommodation%20or%20a%20single%20room%20%28single%20supplement%20applies%29.%0A%0A) ### **Payment and Booking Terms** Deposit is **$2,000 per person**. Final payment is due **June 17, 2026**. \*Land & cruise only rate is based on joining and leaving the group at the JW Marriott Quito in Quito, and it includes all internal flights. International airfares from other gateways are available on request. Airfares and air carriers are subject to change and will be confirmed prior to final payment. Refer to inclusive features for details. **SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE** **LIMITED TO 22 TRAVELLERS** Singles are very limited. Land-only single supplement (if sharing on cruise) is subject to availability and on request. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy (hotels & cruise) and a minimum of 16 participants travelling. Rates are based on taxes, surcharges, and exchange rates effective January 2026 and are subject to change. Group to be escorted with a minimum of 16 travellers. Insurance is NOT INCLUDED but is highly recommended. Premiums are calculated based on the individual’s age, destination (country), trip length, and trip booking window – please contact our staff to receive a quote. Your coverage starts on the effective date of your confirmation of coverage. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Refer to the [terms and conditions](/terms-conditions) for more details. #### CT Rating **4/5 - VERY CHALLENGING** Although close to the equator, the high altitudes in central Ecuador and the cooling currents near the Galapagos mean that we can expect pleasant temperatures. During the cruise we will travel to shore in small boats and will experience a number of wet landings. During the time in the central highlands we will be between 7,000 and 10,000 feet above sea level (altitude sickness is possible). Because of the many different and sometimes difficult conditions, it is vital that all members be fully mobile and in good physical health. Do you have any questions about this journey? [Email Us]() #### Journey Leader ![Profile picture for user Susanne Collins](/sites/default/files/styles/user/public/pictures/2023-07/Susanne_Collins-edited.jpg?h=a427ed6f&itok=zNGCATnp) Susanne Collins - is a lifelong traveller and excited to share a curiosity for new cultures and locations with others. Since retiring from a senior partner role with a global financial services firm, Susanne is able to dedicate more time to pursue her passions, including travel, pottery, photography, and hiking. Travel has taken Susanne to 6 continents with too many favourites to list! Susanne's travel and work experience provides her with the background to host tours that create treasured memories. ![](/sites/default/files/2024-09/1%20CT%20Loyalty%20Points_1.png) [Craig Travel Loyalty Points](/loyalty-club) ![](/sites/default/files/2024-09/3%20Pay%20By%20Cheque_1.png) [Pay by Cheque Discount](/pay-cheque-discount) ![](/sites/default/files/2024-09/2%20Refer%20a%20Friend_1.png) [Refer a Friend ](/refer-friend) ![](/sites/default/files/2024-09/5%20CT%20Rating_1.png) [About CT Ratings](/craig-travel-ratings) ![](/sites/default/files/2024-09/4%20Travel%20Insurance_1.png) [Travel Insurance](/travel-insurance)