Ecuador & Galapagos | Add ons

QUITO
We recommend a few days in Quito to acclimatise to the altitude and also to experience the city. Quito's large, well preserved historic quarter of cobbled streets and impressive colonial buildings, many with ornate facades and richly decorated interiors, is an UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site. Half or full day guided city tours can be arranged.

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Off the coast of Ecuador far into the Pacific lie the thirteen major islands of the Galápagos. On islands formed by volcanoes and isolated by 600 miles of ocean, life has adapted in new ways that helped to inspire Darwin's theory of evolution. Today there has been such little contact with man that the animals have no particular fear of humans and allow you the great privilege of getting close to them in their natural habitat.
Walking on the islands can bring you right up close to courting or nesting seabirds, sun bathing iguanas, relaxing sea lions or perhaps even a rare giant tortoise. Snorkelling is wonderful with the thrill of swimming with penguins, turtles and curious young sea lions.
The best way to see the islands is on one of the motor and sailing yachts that are based in the islands. We recommend Ecoventura who have a first-class fleet of three motor-yachts and a custom designed dive boat. Sailing with only 20 guests and venturing ashore in small groups of ten, you experience the islands in a highly personal way.
Experienced naturalist guides accompany you on nature walks, snorkelling  and kayaking. Wet suits, snorkeling equipment and kayaks are provided at no additional charge and scuba diving packages can be arranged. There are ten outside-facing ensuite cabins with a window or port hole view, double or twin beds and air-conditioning. These boats have a reputation for environmental integrity and are committed to preserving the Galápagos National Park.

AMAZON
Eastwards from the high Andes, the mountains and high sierras give way to Amazon rainforest. A short flight from Quito to Coca brings you to the edge of the rainforest from where you travel by boat to reach one of a small number of wildlife lodges accessible only by boat. Each provides a good level of comfort, knowledgeable guides and excellent opportunities to experience the forest from trails, by boat and from canopy towers. There is an astonishing variety of trees and forest plants, bird species, monkeys and other small mammals, although most large animals, such as tapir and jaguar, are very hard to find. Napo Wildlife Centre is located within its own 82 square mile reserve area within the Yasuni National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The centre was created and built by the Añangu community in partnership with charitable foundations.

Other combinations are possible please call for more options.