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Volcanoes + Andean Peaks of Ecuador
Conquer Ecuador’s volcanoes, trek Andean trails, marvel at equatorial wonders, and relax in Patate’s haciendas, embracing vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes!
Discover
11-Day Adventure
Trip recommended for families with tweens 12 years old +
Rate $$$
Rate based on double accommodation.
Highlights
Ecuador & Peru
Isabela Island
Sierra negra Volcano
Galapagos National Park & Marine Reserve
Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu & Archeological Sites
Your Ecuadorian adventure begins with a late-night arrival in Quito, the captivating capital nestled high in the Andes. After clearing customs, a comfortable private transfer by your local team will whisk you and your weary travelers to your family-friendly hotel. Even in the late hours, the crisp mountain air hints at the excitement to come. Settle into your spacious accommodations, knowing a comfortable night's rest is just what you need before the real exploration begins. Your accommodation would likely have a 24-hour service allowing you to order room service for your hungry tweens and comfort them with a warm soup.
–As per your request, if you feel you would need more time to settle in, we can add an extra buffer day before flying to Galapagos the second day, and perhaps visit the middle of the world monument to step with one foot in the northern hemisphere and one in the south.–
AM: Domestic Flight > Galápagos Islands. An early morning flight from Quito takes you on a breathtaking journey over the Pacific to Baltra in the Galapagos Islands. The stark, volcanic landscape of Baltra immediately sets the stage for an otherworldly experience. Upon arrival and a warm welcome from your local naturalist guide, you will be taken to Santa Cruz Island, where your Galápagos adventure truly kicks off. Remember, we need to keep our distance from the wildlife. While it's so tempting to touch them—for their own sake— we should maintain a prudent distance of 6 feet or 2 meters to admire these beautiful creatures.
Dive into the unique ecology of the highlands with a visit to a Giant Tortoise Reserve. Witness these magnificent, ancient creatures in their natural habitat, lumbering through lush greenery. Teens will be fascinated by their sheer size and slow, deliberate movements, an authentic living relic of evolution. Explore fascinating lava tunnels, underground formations created by ancient volcanic flows, offering a thrilling glimpse into the geological forces that shaped these islands. It's like stepping into a real-life science fiction movie!
PM: Continue your immersion into Galápagos conservation at the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, your family can learn about ongoing research, observe tortoise breeding programs, and gain a deeper understanding of the fragile ecosystem. The interpretive exhibits and the sight of baby tortoises will undoubtedly spark curiosity in your kids, connecting them to the importance of conservation.
AM: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tortuga Bay, a pristine white-sand beach known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. A scenic walk through a cactus forest leads to this idyllic spot, where you can relax on the beach, observe marine iguanas basking in the sun, and spot various bird species. For adventurous tweens, the calm turquoise waters allow them to explore the mangroves and spot rays or even baby sharks in the shallows.
PM: Get ready for an exhilarating journey as you board a speed boat from Santa Cruz to Isabela Island, the largest of the Galápagos. The ride itself is an adventure, with opportunities to spot dolphins or even whales breaching in the distance. Upon arrival in Puerto Villamil, Isabela's charming town, you'll visit Concha de la Perla, a tranquil lagoon perfect for snorkeling. Here, your family can experience the thrill of swimming alongside playful sea lions, colorful fish, and perhaps even white-tipped reef sharks in crystal-clear waters. It's an unforgettable underwater encounter that will leave you buzzing with excitement.
AM: This morning promises another incredible aquatic adventure with a snorkeling excursion to Tintoreras. This small islet is a haven for white-tipped reef sharks, which can often be seen resting in the shallow channels, as well as marine iguanas, sea lions, and various tropical fish. Snorkeling here offers an up-close and personal encounter with the Galapagos' vibrant marine ecosystem, a definite highlight for active teenagers.
PM: Embark on a unique historical and scenic bike ride to the "Muro de las Lágrimas" (Wall of Tears). This historic wall, built by prisoners, offers a somber yet intriguing glimpse into Isabela's past. The bike ride itself takes you through diverse landscapes, including coastal areas and wetlands, with opportunities to spot flamingos and other birdlife. It’s a great way to combine exercise, history, and nature, offering a different perspective of the island.
Full Day: Today is dedicated to exploring the magnificent The Tunnels, considered one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Galápagos. A two-hour boat trip takes you to a labyrinthine network of lava formations that have created shallow, crystal-clear tunnels and arches underwater. This surreal landscape is teeming with marine life. Your family can snorkel or swim through these unique formations, encountering sea turtles, eagle rays, colorful reef fish, and possibly even the elusive Galapagos penguin. The otherworldly scenery and abundant wildlife make this a truly magical and memorable experience for everyone.
Transition Day: This is a significant transition day as you bid farewell to the incredible Galápagos Islands and begin your journey to the Peruvian Andes, as you start hearing the sounds of the Andean flute and the rondador
You'll take an early series of flights from Isabela all the way to Guayaquil on mainland Ecuador and finally Lima, Peru. Upon arrival, your local guide will welcome you and your family to Peru and help you check in at your hotel for the night.
AM: Your journey continues this morning with a short domestic flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. The anticipation of Machu Picchu will keep spirits high! Upon arrival in Cusco, a private transfer will take you and your family directly to your hotel in the Sacred Valley, allowing for a slightly lower altitude to aid in acclimatization.
PM: In the afternoon, your exploration of the Sacred Valley will likely include visits to charming towns and ancient Incan sites. Perhaps you'll explore the vibrant Pisac market or Chinchero, where teens can practice their bargaining skills and find unique souvenirs amidst colorful textiles and local crafts. Later, engage in a cultural experience by having a traditional lunch with a local family. The serene beauty of the valley and the rich cultural encounters will provide a stark contrast to the Galápagos and set the stage for Machu Picchu.
AM: Begin your day exploring the magnificent Ollantaytambo ruins, a massive Inca fortress and agricultural complex that served as a strategic stronghold. The impressive stonework, agricultural terraces, and intricate water channels will leave your family in awe of Inca engineering. Your guide will share captivating stories of Inca history and daily life, bringing the ancient stones to life. If you are up for an Inca challenge, the climb to the top of the ruins offers stunning panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
PM: From Ollantaytambo, board a scenic train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The train journey itself is a delight, winding through dramatic landscapes alongside the Urubamba River, with towering peaks and lush cloud forest passing by your window. Teens will enjoy the panoramic windows and the sense of anticipation as you get closer to the "Lost City of the Incas." Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, check into your hotel and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling gateway town.
AM: The pinnacle of your Peruvian adventure! An early morning bus ride up the winding mountain road takes you to the breathtaking citadel of Machu Picchu. As the mist clears, the awe-inspiring ruins emerge, perched dramatically amidst verdant mountains. Your private local guide will lead you on an insightful tour, revealing the secrets of this architectural marvel – from the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana stone to the agricultural terraces and the stunning views from the various viewpoints. Teens will be captivated by the sheer scale and mystery of this UNESCO World Heritage site, imagining the lives of the Inca people who once inhabited this sacred space. Opportunities for incredible family photos abound.
PM: After your unforgettable exploration of Machu Picchu, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes and board your train back to Cusco. The journey back allows for reflection on the incredible day you've had. Upon arrival in Cusco, transfer to your hotel in the city, ready to discover more of its colonial charm.
AM: Enjoy a half-day city tour of Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire and a vibrant colonial city. Explore the Plaza de Armas, visit the impressive Cusco Cathedral, and wander through the ancient Inca walls and cobblestone streets of the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops. You'll learn about the fascinating blend of Inca and Spanish influences that shape this captivating city. Teens can enjoy exploring the bustling San Pedro Market, sampling local delicacies, or browsing for unique, beautiful crafts.
PM: After a fulfilling morning, you'll have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or simply soaking in the atmosphere of Cusco. Later, you'll be transferred to Cusco airport for your flight back to Lima, where you'll connect with your international flight, departing for home. This marks the end of an extraordinary family adventure, filled with incredible wildlife encounters, ancient wonders, and unforgettable memories.
Thank you for sharing your time with us and allowing us to support your family on this adventure. Today, you arrive home, undoubtedly tired but brimming with stories and photographs of your incredible journey through the diverse and captivating landscapes of Ecuador and Peru. The Galápagos Islands and Machu Picchu will forever be etched in your family's memories, a testament to an epic adventure and unforgettable experiences, along with the hospitality of all Ecuadorians and Peruvians you met during your visit. Welcome back home, and we hope to serve you again soon on another Andean Adventure.
