Discover the ultimate Ecuadorian journey, where the volcanic majesty of the Andes meets the unparalleled biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. This complete adventure takes you from the historic streets of Quito and the lush cloud forests of Mindo to the iconic peaks of Cotopaxi and the pristine shores of the archipelago.
Whether you are seeking high-altitude thrills, indigenous cultural experiences at Otavalo, or a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter in the Galapagos, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of mainland exploration and island discovery for every type of traveler.
Cotopaxi National Park
Galapagos
A Galapagos Islands vacation is very inspirational in many ways. The Galapagos Islands are unique and offer the opportunity to see many wildlife species combined with pristine nature. Walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, who laid the foundations for his revolutionary evolution. With nothing that can prepare you for a destination like this, The Galapagos is a destination that attacks all of your senses, day and night. No matter how dramatic this can sound, visiting the Galapagos Islands is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The fauna and flora on the islands are unlike anywhere else, and if you want to see them, you need to visit the Galapagos. The Galapagos animals don't fear humans at all so you can get close to them (or them to you) and take pictures of a lifetime. The long stretches of fine white sand are on almost every island in the archipelago and although you probably won't have that much time to lie down and relax here (because there is so much to do), only walking on those beaches from one end to another is an unforgettable experience. The Galapagos Islands are also known as a perfect snorkeling and diving destination. We did not try diving but can only confirm that you shouldn't miss snorkeling. The walkways on the Galapagos will walk you through a unique landscape and help you better understand the process of evolution of the islands and how these islands were formed. These walks will also reveal most of the fauna and flora in unbelievable symbiosis. To cut a long story short, The Galapagos Islands are the essential destination on any Ecuador and Galapagos Islands trip.
Quito
Quito is situated between mountain peaks, so you have insane, sprawling views from anywhere you stand. You will have dramatic, commanding views anywhere you stand, including the center of town framed by snow-capped mountains and volcanic peaks. In downtown, the Compania de Jesus a 17th-century church constructed from volcanic stone with interiors decorated entirely out of real gold. The Plaza Grande is in the heart of Plaza de la Independencia, the main square, dating back to the 15th century, and in a remarkable state of preservation. There are also few places in the world you can stand, with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and your other foot in the Southern Hemisphere, and Quito is the only major city on this planet where this is possible. Ecuador's capital has everything for your Galapagos trip, be it on the mainland.
Mindo
In Mindo, you can experience cloud forests, bird watching, hike along waterfalls, ride by cable car, admire butterflies, taste chocolate and coffee, or do adventure activities. Mindo is a village in the Andean Mountains and attracts backpackers on small budgets and luxury travelers alike. The reason to visit Mindo lies in its surroundings, and you do not have to go too far. It inspires travelers to get out of their comfort zone and offers many adventure activities. The main highlight is the possibility of exploring cloud forest trails, admiring the unique flora and fauna, and learning more about Ecuador's exceptional biodiversity.
Otavalo
Otavalo combines the charm of an Ecuadorian town with the beauty of the surroundings, such as the peaks of Imbabura, Peguche Waterfall, Cotacachi and Mojanda volcanos. Otavalo has one of the oldest indigenous markets in Latin America for visitors who love shopping, where tourists can buy crafts, textiles, and other typical products of the zone, and even bartering still works there. This emblematic market is where the local manufacturers sell colorful fabrics, like tablecloths, handmade blankets, and much more. In the past, indigenous people (Quichuas) worked making textiles, so they have an extensive tradition of designing clothes and processing lamb wool. They also produce typical jewelry like necklaces that are worn by indigenous women, as well as embroidered blouses. Tourists can enjoy this experience, not only for the shopping but also to know the indigenous communities. Visiting Otavalo is like traveling to the past. Otovaleña women wear distinctive clothes with blouses, skirts, and braids, and men wear the typical ponchos and white trousers. Otavalo is not just about clothing and textiles; other fascinating traditions include musicians and their local cuisine.
Cuicocha and Papallacta
Cuicocha is a beautiful crater lake located right beside Cotacachi mountain. This geological formation offers visitors the possibility of hiking along fantastic trails or perusing the typical handicrafts sold in the small market situated on the lake's edge. Cuicocha’s rests inside a 3 km (2 mi) wide caldera that resulted from a massive explosion that occurred approximately 3,100 years ago. The volcano has been dormant ever since, but the volcanic ash that scattered due to that old eruption turned the area into one known for its nutrient-rich soils. The whole area surrounding the town of Otavalo is covered in fertile soils resulting from the eruption of neighboring volcanos such as Imbabura, Mojanda, and Cayambe. You can admire all these mountains and many more while driving north to Cuicocha. Papallacta is a tiny village famous for its steamy, therapeutic waters to soothe sore muscles or combat the high-altitude chill. At the Termas de Papallacta, more than a dozen sparkling pools offer the country’s most luxurious experience. The main spa complex is 1.8 miles (3km) above the village of Papallacta. Papallacta is located between the Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve and the Antisana Ecological Reserve, which makes it the ideal place for hiking and birdwatching.
Cotopaxi
The Cotopaxi National Park is home to the volcano of the same name, one of the most active and recognized volcanos on the Avenida de Los Volcanes and all of Ecuador. The Cotopaxi Volcano was the first park in Ecuador’s continental territory to be declared a national park. The Cotopaxi volcano is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, so seeing or climbing it can be one of the most enriching experiences you can have when visiting Ecuador. The volcano has an altitude of 5,897 meters above sea level. The Limpiopungo lagoon offers one of the best landscapes in Cotopaxi when the volcano is clear of clouds. It is ideal for walking around and enjoying flora and fauna of the Andean mountain range. The lagoon is located on the slopes of the inactive Rumiñahui volcano, and this hike offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Ecuador.
Visit the main highlights of Ecuador and the Galapagos islands on this Complete Ecuador and Galapagos Adventure with Va Expeditions for your Galapagos Islands vacation, and see the best of Ecuador's mainland. Contact us here!
