A Wildlife Adventure in Ecuador, the Amazon & the Galapagos Islands

Situated 9,350 ft above sea level and nestled between sublime mountain peaks, Quito is quite literally a world away from anywhere you've ever been before. Combining traditional Ecuadorian Sierra culture with modern day life, Quito delightfully fuses the old and the new; expect overflowing market stands, shamanistic healers, Panama Hat makers alongside a vibrant and sophisticated culinary and nightlife scene. 

With a UNESCO World Heritage old town, it's imperative that you spend the day exploring this handsomely restored district; its Seventeenth Century architecture will really make you feel like you've stepped back in time. The main square is home to a delightful array of boutiques, bars and chocolate workshops, so make sure you visit some of these and taste authentic Ecuadorian goods - particularly the chocolate!

Welcome to the Amazon, the largest rainforest in the world and home to approximately 10 million species. With your stay at Sacha Lodge, the adventures you can have are endless; from thrilling canopy walks and rainforest hikes to wildlife trails and creek canoeing, you can do as much or as little as suits you. 

We particularly recommend you cross the lodge's 940-foot walkway, suspended 94-feet high above the treetops, as it provides an astounding opportunity to spot multitudes of birds, animals and epiphytes that are seldom seen from the ground. Like a true king of the jungle, you may even be lucky enough to spot a troop of monkeys as they forage through the jungle canopy - make sure you've got your camera ready as you'll need it!

Cloud Forests are unique ecosystems unlike anywhere else on Earth, akin to Gardens of Eden, hosting a whole array of unique wildlife; imagine moss covered trees, crystal-clear burbling steams, vivid orchids, exotic birds - the list is endless! 

The Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve is particularly phenomenal, its exceptional native bird species meaning that it's not uncommon to see birds such as Golden-headed Quetzals, Pale-Mandibled Aracaris and Chocó Toucans. With an expert local guide, you'll explore this natural wilderness, spotting the hundreds of bird species who call these trees their home, including 35 of which are endemic. The highlight of the day will undoubtedly be white water tubing the down the Rio Mundo, potentially spotting Capuchin monkeys, hummingbirds, toucans and spectacle bears as you race down the river. For a more relaxed afternoon, you can head along one of the manty trails and relax in the soothing waterfall baths.   

A volcanic archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands provide some of the best wildlife-viewing opportunities in the world; indeed, it was Charles Darwin's visit here which inspired him to develop his Theory of Evolution. 

Aboard the Seaman Journey, you'll cruise these unique habitats in style; with your local naturalist guides, you'll learn more about the islands and the wildlife here, exploring the islands on foot, by panga (dingy) and kayaks. As well as this, snorkelling will immerse you in the mesmerising world beneath the waves, the crystal-clear water perfect for spotting Galapagos penguins, seals and sharks. You'll particularly relish exploring the ancient lava fields on foot where prehistoric reptiles room - it will really feel like you've stepped back in time! 

Guayaquil is the largest city in Ecuador, known as a gateway to the Galapagos Islands and gorgeous Pacific beaches.

Characterised by its brightly-coloured buildings, its bustling port and thriving commercial hub, you can spend the afternoon strolling through the picturesque barrio of Las Peñas, which perches over the river; this is a great opportunity to purchase those last-minute souvenirs and, of course, the famous Panama Hat which originated in Ecuador - not actually Panama!