Explore Ecuador’s beautiful capital of Quito, where each traveler will uncover fascinating history through a guided tour. This capital is home to one of Spanish America’s best-preserved historic centers, making Quito a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Travelers will view the Virgin Mary statue, the nearby equator line, along with other geographic landmarks. Travelers will explore the beautiful Galápagos Islands, just 600 miles off of the coast of Ecuador. Travelers will be given the opportunity to take a speed boat to two different islands, Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal island. Spend time visiting popular places, such as the Charles Darwin Station, a conservation center showcasing giant tortoises and groundbreaking Galapagos research, Manzanillo Ranch, a highland reserve where giant tortoises roam freely among lush vegetation, and Tortuga Bay beach, a pristine white-sand beach famous for marine iguanas and turquoise water. While on the islands, visit the interpretation center and hike to Cerro Tijeretas (Frigate Bird Hill) where travelers will scope out two different tropical bird species, also nicknamed “pirates of the sky”. Travelers will visit El Junco, the largest freshwater lake in the Galápagos Islands. Here, explore the scenic trails that surround the crater rim before going into the town of San Cristobal. Using locally grown products, enjoy a homemade cup of coffee by one of the oldest coffee farm families nearby. End at Lo Loberia where travelers will enjoy the beautiful views of the most beautiful beach in the Galápagos Islands. Travelers will discover playful sea lions, vibrant tropical fish, and captivating white sand beaches.
This is an 8 day trip that costs $2,795 led by Under30 Experiences, which caters to solo travelers and adventurous young adults ages 21-35, but they don’t enforce a strict age limit. They are a small team that loves sustainable travel by supporting local communities in an eco-friendly way. The company was founded 10+ years ago by co-founders Matt Wilson and Jared O’Toole. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.