B&R’s newest way to travel! This itinerary is one of our new locally-supported, private trips. They use the hallmarks that we’re known for: great hotels, friendly and talented local guides plus memorable experiences but it’s just your group and on the dates that work best for you.*

This independent trip begins in Ecuador and takes you into the majestic Northern Andes, past the Cayambe volcano and through the historic market of Otavalo, before boarding a flight to the Galapagos Islands: a modern-day Eden with an unmatched amount of exotic endemic wildlife. Here, you will spot sea lions sharing the beach with marine iguanas, explore archaic volcanic tunnels, walk alongside the storied Wall of Tears, and yes, cross paths with  giant tortoises. This inimitable adventure is sure to provide your family with memories they’ll treasure forever.

*Dates subject to hotel availability.

Day 1 After checking into the elegant Plaza Grande hotel, you will have the first night to explore Quito on your own
Day 2 Check out the Art Workshop School, peruse La Ronda Street and then visit the house and private art collection of painter Oswaldo Viteri
Day 3 Enter the Northern Andes, passing by the valleys of the Cayambe volcano and visiting the ancient market of Otavalo
Day 4 Enjoy the Hacienda Zuleta and its surroundings: from a condor rookery, cheese factory and organic garden to onsite embroidery workshops and horseback riding
Day 5 Fly from Quito to the Galapagos Islands, where you will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and unwind on Tortuga Bay's white sands
Day 6 Embark on a full-day boat tour to the islands accompanied by a naturalist guide
Day 7 Take a mid-morning tour of the Santa Cruz highlands and then explore the ancient lava tunnels beneath your feet
Day 8 Fly to Isabela Island to swim with white tip sharks in the cooled lava floes of Las Tintoreras
Day 9 Fly from the Galapagos Islands back to Quito, Ecuador
Day 10 Get in some last-minute shopping and then board your flight home