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School of yellowtail surgeonfish feeding over a rocky reef in the clear waters of the Galápagos

Avenue of The Volcanoes, Ingapirca and Isabela: 17-Day Tour

Days Icon 17 Days
Location icon Ecuador and Galapagos
Budget icon From USD 6,727 p.p.
Request a quote Book now

Ecuador Andes and Galápagos Tour Summary

Travel from the mountains to the islands on a 17-day Ecuador Andes and Galápagos tour that takes the scenic route through the country’s highlands rather than flying over them. From Quito, travel south through Cotopaxi, the Quilotoa crater lake, Guamote, the Devil’s Nose railway, and Ingapirca before reaching Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Then fly to the Galápagos for an uninhabited island excursion, snorkeling at Los Túneles, and a full day at legendary dive site Kicker Rock. See our other Ecuador tours for shorter options.

Rebecca Adventure Travel is a B Corp certified, female-owned operator based in Ecuador, founded in 2014. The Andes leg is a road journey with altitudes ranging from 2,500 to 4,000 meters, so the first two days are spent in Quito and the cloud forest to help you acclimatize before reaching Cotopaxi. The tour includes private transfers throughout, the Devil’s Nose train, all accommodation, the Galápagos flight, island excursions, and 24/7 assistance in English, Dutch, and Spanish. The USD 200 National Park entry fee and USD 20 INGALA card are paid in cash on arrival.

Highlights

  • check Quilotoa Crater Lake

    Hike to the turquoise waters of Quilotoa Crater Lake or kayak across its volcanic caldera.

  • check Devil's Nose railway

    Discover the engineering feat behind Ecuador’s famous Devil’s Nose railway while taking in dramatic Andean scenery.

  • check Ingapirca

    Explore Ecuador’s most important Inca archaeological site and its distinctive stone temples and ruins.

  • check Cuenca historic centre

    Wander Cuenca’s UNESCO-listed historic centre, filled with colonial architecture, churches, and elegant plazas.

Reviews

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Geoff V 
 
15/08/2025
 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Galapagos trip
Every detail and excursion was perfect. The guides were outstanding, hotel was first class. I would highly recommend Rebecca
  
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Daniel R 
 
06/02/2025
 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Intimate luxury Galapagos immersion
Highly recommend. The guide, nature hikes, snorkeling, kayaking, and food were outstanding. Rebecca Adventures is responsive and friendly.
  
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor rating score: 4.9 of 5, 
based on 588 reviews

Prices

Prices, based on number of guests, start at:
1 guestUSD 11,931 p.p.
2 guestsUSD 7,963 p.p.
6 or more guestsUSD 6,727 p.p.

Ecuador Andes and Galápagos Tour: Day-by-Day Itinerary

Download itinerary

  • DAY 1: Quito arrival

    The Virgin of Quito monument standing tall atop the green hill during a Panecillo Quito old town exploration tour

    This Ecuador Andes and Galápagos tour begins when you arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport. From there, a private transfer will take you to your hotel in central Quito. Depending on your arrival time, you can head out to explore the city independently and sample some local dishes and drinks.

    Alternatively, take the afternoon to rest after your flight and settle into Quito before the adventures begin.

    • Activity Activity:Transfer in.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Ikala Quito or similar.

  • DAY 2: Quito historic centre, cooking class and Capilla del Hombre

    Local guide holding a tray of fresh exotic fruits at a colorful market stall during a immersive Quito Culinary tour

    Begin with a guided exploration of Quito’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with colonial architecture, churches, and historic plazas. After exploring the city, take part in a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Ecuadorian dishes.

    In the afternoon, visit Capilla del Hombre, the cultural center dedicated to Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín. From here, enjoy views across Quito before returning to your hotel.

    • Activity Activity:Cooking. Sightseeing.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Ikala Quito or similar.

  • DAY 3: Intiñán museum, Pululahua and the cloud forest

    Visitors walking along a paved path toward the equatorial monument during a cultural tour at mitad del mundo

    Leave Quito behind and visit the Intiñán Museum and Pululahua Volcano before continuing into the cloud forest. After arriving at Maquipucuna, take a short guided walk before lunch to learn about the reserve’s medicinal and useful plants.

    Later, follow the Bear Trail and part of the Palmito or River trails through secondary and primary forest, keeping an eye out for spectacled bears or signs of their presence. A guided night hike is also available as an optional evening activity.

    • Activity Activity:Hiking. Exploring. Sightseeing.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Maquipucuna Reserve Lodge or similar.

  • DAY 4: Cloud forest birding and waterfall hike

    Vibrant green hummingbird hovering in flight with wings outstretched during a Mindo Birdwatching cloud forest tour

    Rise early for a dawn birding hike from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m., when many forest species are most active. Continue along the Humedal Trail toward a pre-Inca route once used by the Yumbos, learning about the forest’s plants and wildlife along the way before reaching the Yumbo waterfall or swimming hole.

    After lunch, explore the reserve’s coffee orchard, orchid garden, and organic garden. Alternatively, choose a half- or full-day excursion to the ziplines, Tulipe archaeological site, or Mindo Butterfly Garden. An optional guided night hike is also available.

    • Activity Activity:Bird watching. Exploring. Hiking. Swimming.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Maquipucuna Reserve Lodge or similar.

  • DAY 5: Cotopaxi and horseback riding

    Rider in a red jacket riding a dark horse across high Andean plains during a Cotopaxi horseback riding adventure

    Travel toward the Cotopaxi area, a journey of approximately four hours through Ecuador’s Volcano Avenue, with views of peaks including Pasochoa, Rumiñahui, and the Ilinizas. After arriving and having lunch, continue to the slopes of Rumiñahui Volcano for a horseback riding excursion.

    Take in the high-altitude landscapes from horseback before settling into Hacienda El Porvenir for the evening.

    • Activity Activity:Horseback riding. Sightseeing.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hacienda El Porvenir or similar.

  • DAY 6: Cotopaxi National Park, Limpiopungo and Isinliví

    Two female trekkers with caps and trekking poles navigating a lush green forest trail during an Isinlivi hiking tour

    Explore Cotopaxi National Park and stop at Limpiopungo Lagoon, where the surrounding volcanic landscape provides a striking introduction to the Ecuadorian Andes. From there, continue toward Isinliví and stop for lunch after arriving.

    Spend the afternoon trekking through the mountains around Isinliví, taking in the rural landscapes and local scenery. Return to your lodge afterward for a local dinner and a quiet evening in the mountains.

    • Activity Activity:Hiking. Exploring.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:LluLlu Llama Mountain Lodge or similar.

  • DAY 7: Quilotoa, Tigua and Chimborazo

    Pack horse grazing along the grassy ridge above the deep turquoise waters of Quilotoa Lagoon framed by mountain peaks

    Visit the Quilotoa Loop and hike toward the crater lake, with the option to kayak on the water when conditions and time allow. Continue to Tigua to visit the local community before heading south toward Guamote.

    Along the way, look for views of Chimborazo Volcano and stop for photographs when conditions provide a clear view. Arrive in Guamote and settle in for the evening.

    • Activity Activity:Exploring. Hiking. Sightseeing.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Dinner.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Inti Sisa or similar.

  • DAY 8: Guamote, the Devil's Nose train and Ingapirca

    Ancient stone Temple of the Sun standing under a blue sky at the historic Ingapirca archaeological site in Ecuador

    Head to the Devil’s Nose lookout around 8:00 a.m. to learn about one of Ecuador’s most remarkable railway engineering projects while taking in the surrounding Andean scenery. The area offers a glimpse into the history of the railway and the dramatic landscape through which it was built.

    Continue to Ingapirca, Ecuador’s most important archaeological site, before traveling onward to Cuenca. Check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

    • Activity Activity:Exploring. Sightseeing.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Victoria or similar.

  • DAY 9: Cuenca city tour

    Blue and white domes of the New Cathedral under a moody sky in historic Cuenca city during an Ecuador urban tour

    Take a relaxed day to explore Cuenca, one of Ecuador’s most historic cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A guided city tour introduces you to its architecture, plazas, and cultural landmarks.

    Later, visit Piedra de Agua hot springs for a spa circuit and some time to unwind. Return to Cuenca afterward for a free evening.

    • Activity Activity:Sightseeing. Relaxing.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Victoria or similar.

  • DAY 10: Cajas National Park and Guayaquil

    Panoramic vista of glacial valleys and alpine lakes stretching across Cajas National Park in the Ecuadorian Andes

    Your Ecuador Andes and Galápagos tour continues as you head into Cajas National Park, a high-altitude landscape of mountains, lakes, and native vegetation. Keep watch for wildlife, including Andean condors, giant hummingbirds, and coatis as you explore the park.

    Continue by road to Guayaquil, arriving in time to experience the city in the evening. Enjoy panoramic views before settling into your hotel.

    • Activity Activity:Exploring. Hiking. Sightseeing.
    • Transport Transport:Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Wyndham Guayaquil or similar.

  • DAY 11: Flight to Baltra and the Santa Cruz highlands

    A giant tortoise with its mouth wide open amidst lush green grass in the Santa Cruz Highlands of the Galápagos Islands

    Fly from Guayaquil to Baltra, where your guide will meet you and take you into the Santa Cruz highlands. Visit a local reserve to see giant Galápagos tortoises and look for native birds among the island’s vegetation, while your guide explains more about the tortoises and their habitat.

    Stop for a local lunch in the highlands before continuing to Puerto Ayora. Check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

    • Activity Activity:Exploring. Wildlife Watching.
    • Transport Transport:Boat. Bus. Car. Plane.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Fiesta or similar.

  • DAY 12: Uninhabited island day

    Male frigatebird displaying an inflated red gular pouch beside a female in low bushes on North Seymour Island

    Set out by boat for one of the Galápagos’ uninhabited islands. Your destination depends on the day of the week and may include Santa Fe, South Plazas, Floreana, Bartolomé, or North Seymour.

    Spend the day exploring the island’s landscapes and wildlife, with time for snorkeling in the surrounding waters. Return to Santa Cruz in the afternoon and enjoy a relaxed evening in Puerto Ayora.

    • Activity Activity:Exploring. Snorkeling. Wildlife Watching.
    • Transport Transport:Boat. Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Box Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Fiesta or similar.

  • DAY 13: Free morning and transfer to Isabela

    Brown pelican perched on a lava rock outcrop in turquoise coastal waters off Isabela Island near Tintoreras

    Enjoy a free morning to explore Santa Cruz at your own pace. You might visit Tortuga Bay, known for its white sand, clear water, and large marine iguana colony, or simply spend the morning in Puerto Ayora.

    At 2:00 p.m., board a public speedboat to Isabela Island, arriving in Puerto Villamil around 4:30 p.m. A transfer will meet you at the dock and take you to your hotel.

    • Activity Activity:Sightseeing.
    • Transport Transport:Boat. Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Volcano or similar.

  • DAY 14: Los Túneles snorkeling

    Green sea turtle swimming below snorkelers in the clear water of Los Túneles, Isabela Island

    Travel to Los Túneles for a snorkeling excursion through Isabela’s calm, shallow waters. The area’s unusual lava formations have created arches, tunnels, and sheltered habitats where you can see marine life beneath the clear water.

    After the excursion, enjoy free time to explore Isabela independently. Options include the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, the island’s wetlands, or the Wall of Tears.

    • Activity Activity:Exploring. Snorkeling. Wildlife Watching.
    • Transport Transport:Boat. Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Snack.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Hotel Volcano or similar.

  • DAY 15: Kayaking at Puerto Villamil and flight to San Cristóbal

    Family paddling in colorful sit-on-top kayaks along calm coastal waters during a Kayaking Isabela Island excursion

    Start the day with a kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding excursion around Puerto Villamil. After your time on the water, transfer to Isabela Airport for your flight to San Cristóbal.

    Once you arrive, explore independently if time allows. The Interpretation Center and Tijeretas are both conveniently accessible from the airport, offering an easy introduction to San Cristóbal’s natural and cultural history.

    • Activity Activity:Kayaking. Sightseeing.
    • Transport Transport:Car. Plane.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Casa Opuntia or similar.

  • DAY 16: Kicker Rock snorkeling

    The iconic volcanic rock spires rising from the sea at sunset on a kicker rock tour in the Galápagos Islands

    Set out for Kicker Rock, one of the most recognizable landmarks off San Cristóbal. The two volcanic formations rise about 140 meters above the water, attracting marine birds above the surface and abundant marine life below.

    Snorkel through the channel carved between the rocks, where you may encounter eagle rays, white-tip reef sharks, Galápagos sharks, and, occasionally, hammerheads. Return to San Cristóbal after a full day on the water.

    • Activity Activity:Exploring. Snorkeling. Wildlife Watching.
    • Transport Transport:Boat. Car.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast. Box Lunch.
    • Accommodations Accommodation:Casa Opuntia or similar.

  • DAY 17: Departure

    Elevated twilight view of glowing city lights, waterfront promenade, and Guayas River in Guayaquil city, Ecuador

    Your Ecuador and Galápagos Hidden Treasures journey comes to an end with a transfer from your hotel to San Cristóbal Airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll connect through Guayaquil for your onward journey.

    This concludes your grand Ecuador Andes and Galápagos tour. Continue home or extend your travels elsewhere in Latin America.

    • Transport Transport:Car. Plane.
    • Meal Meal:Breakfast.

Ecuador Andes and Galápagos Tour Map

Route map of a 17-day Ecuador Andes and Galapagos tour across the mainland and the islands

Inclusions

  • Meals as described in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation in a double or triple room.
  • Round trip flights between mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.
  • One way flight from Isabela Island to San Cristobal Island.
  • Transportation as described.
  • Transportation fee between Baltra Airport – Itabaca Channel each way.
  • Transfers from/to the corresponding airports.
  • English speaking guide during the activities. 
  • All activities as described in the itinerary.
  • Entrance fees as described. 
  • Guided horse tour on healthy strong horses for all levels.
  • 24/7 assistance in English, Dutch and Spanish.

Exclusions

  • International flights.
  • Food & drinks that are not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Entrance fee for the Galapagos National Park: $ 200 p.p. (cash only).
  • Migratory Control Card / Ingala Transit Card: $ 20 p.p. (cash only).
  • Isabela dock fee $10 p.p. cash only.
  • Water Taxi (small boat that takes you from the speedboat to the harbor and back).
  • For rent: wetsuit (recommended between May – November).
  • Optional mules rent at Quilotoa.
  • Optional 30 min. kayak trip in the lagoon at Quilotoa.
  • Personal travel & health insurance.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Optional tips for the guide.

Accommodations

Scenic aerial view of Hacienda El Porvenir Camping site nestled in green pastures below Cotopaxi volcano in Ecuador
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Machachi

Hacienda El Porvenir

Traditional Andean hacienda near Cotopaxi offering mountain adventures and cozy rustic stay.

  • Historic hacienda
  • Mountain views
  • Horseback riding
Rustic thatched-roof eco lodge nestled in lush cloud forest during a Maquipucuna luxury South America adventure
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Nanegal

Maquipucuna Reserve Lodge

Serene eco-lodge in a cloud forest reserve featuring birdwatching, trails, and river views.

  • Eco lodge
  • Cloud forest
  • Bird watching
Curved hotel building facade with blue glass windows and palm trees at Wyndham Guayaquil under dramatic sunset clouds
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Guayaquil

Wyndham Guayaquil Puerto Santa Ana

Upscale riverfront hotel near Puerto Santa Ana featuring a rooftop pool and fine dining.

  • Riverfront hotel
  • Outdoor pool
  • Spa services
Charming cottage cottage with wooden balcony set on a grassy hill under blue sky at Llullu Llama hotel in Ecuador
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Isinliví

Llullu Llama Mountain Lodge

Cozy eco-lodge in the Andes offering mountain views, hiking trails, and relaxation.

  • Mountain views
  • Eco lodge
  • Hiking trails
Exterior view of Inti Sisa Hotel with brick facade, tiled roofs, and a sunflower sign in Guamote Ecuador
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Guamote

Inti Sisa Guesthouse

Cozy guesthouse offering authentic Andean hospitality, cultural tours, and local impact.

  • Cultural stay
  • Social impact
  • Andean views
Historic brick facade and arched entryways of Hotel Victoria - Cuenca along a paved street under blue sky
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Cuenca

Hotel Victoria

Charming colonial hotel overlooking the river with classic decor and refined dining.

  • Historic charm
  • River views
  • Onsite dining
Street corner view of the modern exterior and tree-lined sidewalk at Ikala Hotel - Quito under bright blue skies
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Quito

Hotel Ikala Quito

Stylish boutique hotel in La Mariscal featuring eco-friendly suites, spa, and rooftop dining.

  • Boutique hotel
  • Rooftop terrace
  • Eco friendly
The front entrance and wooden sign of Hotel Fiesta surrounded by red tile roofs and tropical foliage
★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Puerto Ayora

Hotel Fiesta

Laid-back hotel in Puerto Ayora with comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.

  • Outdoor pool
  • Free breakfast
  • Onsite restaurant
Hotel Volcano - Isabela
★ ★ ★ ★
📍 Puerto Villamil

Hotel Volcano

Relaxed oceanfront hotel in Isabela Island featuring bright rooms and scenic ocean views.

  • Ocean views
  • Free breakfast
  • Beachfront access
Illuminated garden courtyard with arches and stone paths at Casa Opuntia, Galápagos
★ ★ ★ ★
📍 San Cristóbal

Hotel Casa Opuntia

Oceanfront boutique hotel situated along the main boardwalk with direct beach access.

  • Oceanfront
  • Outdoor pool
  • Kid-friendly

17 Days in the Andes and Galápagos: FAQs

  • On this Ecuador Andes and Galápagos tour, what is the Avenue of the Volcanoes?

    It’s the mountain corridor south of Quito, named by Alexander von Humboldt, which runs between two volcanic ranges that include Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, and Tungurahua.

  • Is the Devil's Nose train still running on this Ecuador Andes and Galápagos tour??

    The Alausí switchback section operates on a reduced schedule. We confirm current operation at booking and substitute a road route through the same valley if it is suspended.

  • How high does this Ecuador Andes and Galápagos tour go?

    Quilotoa sits at 12,795 feet (3,900 m), and the Chimborazo refuge road reaches 15,748 feet (4,800 m). You’ll spend the first two days in Quito acclimating to the altitude.

  • Is Cuenca worth two days on this Ecuador Andes and Galápagos tour?

    Yes. The UNESCO historic centre, the Panama hat workshops and the Cajas National Park day are each worth half a day, and Cuenca is the best-preserved colonial city in Ecuador.

  • Can you drive to every destinations on this this Ecuador Andes and Galápagos tour?

    No. The islands are 621 miles (1,000 km) offshore and are reached only by air from Quito or Guayaquil. This itinerary flies from Guayaquil at the end of the Andes leg.

Additional Information

  • Prices for the upcoming travel season are subject to change.
  • Essential items to bring include comfortable and lightweight clothing (with a jacket as a precaution), water, sunblock, sunglasses, and your passport.
  • To enter Ecuador, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended departure from the country.
  • Prices are subject to seasonal surcharges during Christmas, New Year’s, and Holy Week (Semana Santa).
  • For children under the age of 12, there is a 10% discount.
  • Activity schedules are subject to change based on departure/arrival times and availability. All inclusions are guaranteed until the afternoon of the final day of the itinerary.
  • Maximize your time in the Galápagos by choosing early arrival and late departure flights. Late arrivals or early departures may cause you to miss some of the included tours.
  • Bring smaller baggage/bags since public transportation on the Galápagos Islands is quite limited.
  • ​​There are no guides on the public speedboat transportation between islands.
  • It is suggested to have current travel insurance, including personal medical insurance. Please inform us of any known medical conditions you have.
  • Take the necessary precautions to avoid food poisoning (always wash your hands before eating, don’t eat street food, only eat peeled fruits, etc.).
  • Tap water in the Galápagos Islands might contain bacteria and should not be consumed, not even for brushing your teeth. Bottled or purified water is always recommended.
  • Rebecca Adventure Travel reserves the right to change the itinerary without prior notice due to weather conditions, availability, National Park regulations or notifications, or unforeseen circumstances.
  • When flying to the Galápagos from Quito or Guayaquil, we recommend arriving in the city at least 24 hours before your flight to avoid inconveniences.

Advantages of Booking with Rebecca Adventure Travel

  • Impactful Travel: Develop meaningful connections that provide mutual enrichment for both travelers and host cultures.
  • Empowering Locals: Support family-owned businesses, immerse yourself in local culture, and contribute to local economies.
  • Sustainable Travel: Preserve cultures and environments for future generations with our Huella Positiva, a sustainable and regenerative tourism model.
  • Peace of Mind: We’re here for you every step of the way, offering requisite insurance, certifications, and rebooking options.
  • Customized Service: Our personalized Travel Curator ensures your trip meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

When you book a tour with us, you agree to our terms and conditions.

Exact Code: 75HTEG17

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