Embark on an incredible 10-day itinerary that delves into the rich culture of Quito and the stunning natural beauty of the Galápagos Islands.

Start your adventure in Quito, Ecuador's charming capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled high in the Andes. Wander through the picturesque Old Town, filled with museums, churches, monuments, plazas, and verdant parks. Indulge in decadent chocolate tastings, enjoy forested trails with breathtaking views of volcanoes and valleys, and explore bustling markets offering beautifully crafted handicrafts, ponchos, ceramics, and artisan chocolate.

Your journey continues to the Galápagos Islands, a ‘living laboratory’ renowned by Charles Darwin. This unique archipelago, with its lunar-like terrain and rugged vegetation, is home to pristine beaches and thriving populations of marine iguanas, sea lions, giant tortoises, and a remarkable variety of birds, including the blue-footed booby, frigate bird, and flightless cormorant.

A paradise for wildlife and nature lovers, this awe-inspiring journey is a bucket-list experience you’ll never forget.

10 Day Galapagos Itinerary

Day 1 - 2: Quito

Upon arrival in Quito, a representative will welcome you and take you to your hotel. Nestled in a ring of Andean peaks and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito boasts remarkable museums, churches and art galleries. Begin your visit in the city center, passing through Quito's modern areas to the historic district. Enjoy the ambiance of the Plaza de la Independencia, surrounded by the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, the Archbishop's Palace and the City Hall. Stroll past the church of El Sagrario and admire the impressive stone facade of the church of La Compañía. Visit the Church of San Francisco, built on the remains of an Inca palace in the 16th century.

Enjoy a delightful chocolate tasting at Galeria Ecuador, where you’ll learn about cacao cultivation and create your own chocolate truffles. Following your chocolate adventure, head to Cafe Plaza Grande for a cooking class to explore Ecuador’s culinary traditions. After a delectable lunch, continue your journey to the Equatorial Monument, which honors French scientists who determined the earth’s shape in the 1700s. Nearby, the Ethnographic Museum highlights elements of Ecuador’s diverse ethnic groups.

Day 3 - 5: Santa Cruz Island, Española Island & San Cristobal Island

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. Upon arrival at Baltra Island, travel to the dock to board the luxurious Integrity Yacht. Explore the stunning islands:

Santa Cruz Island: Observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat, seek out Darwin’s finches, and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts.
Española Island: Relax on the white sandy beach of Gardner Bay, swim or snorkel with vibrant fish, turtles, sea lions, and possibly small sharks, and enjoy the views from Punta Suárez, known for its diverse wildlife.
San Cristobal Island: Visit the olive-green beach of Punta Pitt, see various bird species, take a panga ride along Cerro Brujo’s cliffs, visit a coral sand beach, and cruise around Kicker Rock for dramatic sunset views.

Day 6 - 9: Santa Fe Island, South Plaza Island, Santiago Island, Bartolome Island, Rabida Island & Sombrero Chino Island

Discover unique wildlife and landscapes on these islands:

Santa Fé Island: Relax on a white sandy beach with sea lions, explore a giant Opuntia cactus grove, and snorkel or kayak in the bay's turquoise waters.
South Plaza Island: Observe interactions between terrestrial and marine species, and occasionally see hybrid iguanas.
Genovesa Island: Hike through red mangroves and encounter red-footed boobies, frigate birds, and other seabirds, culminating with a climb up Prince Phillip’s Steps and a visit to Palo Santo forest.
Santiago Island: Walk across recent lava flows at Sullivan Bay and appreciate its unique features.
Bartolomé Islands: Snorkel with Galápagos penguins and enjoy spectacular views from the island’s summit of Pinnacle Rock, Santiago Island, and Daphne Major and Minor.
Rabida Island: Observe wading birds, ghost crabs, and finches on a short inland trail.
Sombrero Chino Island: Search for Galápagos Penguins and enjoy a snorkel trip with potential sightings of sharks, sea lions, penguins, and rays.

Day 10: Derparture

After breakfast, disembark at Baltra Island for your flight to Guayaquil. Bid farewell as you board your international flight home.

10 Day Galapagos Itinerary Includes

Accommodation

Three meals daily

Soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beers, teas and coffees, and refreshments on excursions

All excursions including panga tours, hikes, island visits, beach walks, visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, sea kayaking and snorkelling (included snorkelling gear: short wetsuit, mask, snorkel and fins)

Guides' Journal with illustrations of fauna and flora to record your sightings

Area map with illustrated Star Birds checklist

Emergency medical evacuation insurance

VAT

VIP Lounge at the Galapagos’ airports, road transfers to and from Galapagos Airport (Baltra or San Cristóbal Island)

Limited laundry

Internet (via Starlink)

Private English speaking local guides in Quito.

Private transportation in the best available vehicles in each city

10 Day Galapagos Itinerary Does not Include

Administration fee

Telephone calls

All items of a personal nature

Flights to and from the Galapagos Islands

Gratuities

Champagne, cognacs, fine wines, premium brand spirits and cigars

Landing fees

Travel insurance

Park fees

Migratory card

Early check-in or late check-out charges

Items of personal nature like laundry, phone calls, etc.

Any video/still camera fee during the trip

Tipping, Drinks, Excess of baggage

10 Day Galapagos Itinerary Highlights

Giant Tortoises on Santa Cruz: See these massive reptiles in their natural environment and learn about their conservation at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Snorkeling with Galápagos Penguins: Swim alongside these charming penguins and other marine life in the clear waters of Bartolomé Island.

Panoramic Views from Pinnacle Rock: Climb to the top of Bartolomé Island for stunning views of Pinnacle Rock and the surrounding Galápagos landscape.