Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands

Village of the Highlands and Quito City Tour

This morning we head north 2 hours on another scenic drive to the Highlands to explore 3 villages: Otavalo, world famous for its colorful blankets and weavings and its Saturday market, although handicrafts are available any day; Peguche, where we will learn about the native lifestyles and observe farmers working in their fields and weaving in their homes; and lastly Cotacachi, where you can observe the local villagers working on their looms creating beautiful wall hangings. After lunch at Puerto Lago (open menu), we head back to Quito for a city tour.

Colonial Quito at twilight is magical. The Quitenos are bustling about shopping, visiting friends, going to church and hurrying home for dinner. You will admire the richly sculptured façade of Ecuador’s House of Congress which depicts scenes from Ecuadorian history, the Independence Square with the Presidential Palace, and the Cathedral. Visit La Compañía Church with its breathtaking gold-plated altars, considered the finest baroque jewel of America, and the church and monastery of San Francisco, dating to the early 16th century. Afterwards you will be dropped off at your hotel or you can ask the guide to drop you off a local restaurant for dinner. (This service is on a private basis.)

Sasquisili Market and Cotopaxi National Park

Today you drive 2 hours south along the fabulous Avenue of the Volcanoes until you reach the Thursday market at Sasquisili. This is the most authentic indigenous market in all of South America. You will see the animal market where locals barter for squealing pigs, snorting llamas and all types of pigeons. The best part is watching a group of men try to shove a slippery recalcitrant pig onto a pick- up truck! Next is the produce market where locals buy their fruits and vegetables. Try a few new delicacies! Lastly is the handicraft market where you can find bargains for local weavings and artisans’s works. This is photographer’s heaven but be respectful of anyone who does not wish to have their picture taken. Ask first.

After a stop for lunch (included) at San Agustin de Callo, you proceed to Cotopaxi National Park for some hiking and hopefully gorgeous views of Cotopaxi Mt, which is often shrouded in clouds. (This service is on a private basis.)

You will be met at your hotel and transferred to Quito airport for your morning flight to Baltra, in the Galapagos. You will be given airport assistance in obtaining your cruise ticket and your airline boarding pass. There will be a touchdown in Guayaquil to board passengers.

Galapagos

Famous for their incredibly fearless and unique wildlife, the Galapagos Islands offers an unforgettable nature experience. You can swim with sea lions, float eye-to-eye with a penguin, stand next to a blue-footed booby feeding its young, watch a giant tortoise lumbering through a cactus forest, and try to dodge the iguanas scurrying over the lava. The wildlife is truly phenomenal and the scenery, which is barren and volcanic, is hauntingly beautiful.

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, a guide will meet you, help you collect your luggage, and escort you on a bus ride to the harbor. Motorized rafts, called ‘pangas,’ will transport you to your ship and the crew will welcome you aboard.,

Galapagos Cruise on board the MV Ocean Spray

The classic Catamaran Ocean Spray offers the exceptional performance and comfort in the Galapagos cruising. The elegant design includes an ample shaded sundeck with Jacuzzi and sun chairs to give guests the opportunity to relax while they are on board. The spacious cabins each with a private balcony, her speed, comfort, top guides and itinerary will make Ocean Spray perfect for your luxury Galapagos cruise. Kayaks and paddle boards are also available for use.

https://www.oceanspraygalapagoscruise.com/itineraries/itinerary-7n-a/

Cruising the Galapagos Islands

Join your expert guides as you explore the exotic beauty of the Galapagos Islands filled with one-of-a-kind experiences. Astounding wildlife such as Galapagos turtles, native iguanas, sea lions, Darwin’s finches and blue-footed boobies will leave you with wide-eyed excitement. Snorkeling excursions and hiking lava rock trails will challenge and thrill you. Views of breeching whales and ocean-side cliffs will make an imprint in your memory. The exact details of your specific itinerary can be found at the link above.

After your cruise you are transferred back to the airport for your flight back to the mainland and onward connection back home.