7-Day Quito and Santa Cruz (Galapagos) — Best of Ecuador: Quito History to Tortuga Bay
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in good general health; should be comfortable walking 2–4 km and snorkeling in calm seas.
Overview
From Quito’s highland plazas to Santa Cruz’s lava-strewn shores, this seven-day itinerary pairs cultural depth with Galapagos wildlife encounters. Expect colonial architecture, twin volcanic craters, snorkeling with sea lions, and close encounters with giant tortoises.
7-Day Quito and Santa Cruz (Galapagos) — Best of Ecuador: Quito History to Tortuga Bay
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The morning air in Quito is thin and clear at the viewpoint of El Panecillo, where the city spreads out below and the Andes press close enough to touch. Travelers begin here at 3,035 meters, walking past colonial stone façades and churches whose carved facades still hold smoke and stories from the Spanish era. Within days they exchange highland cool for the effervescent heat of Santa Cruz Island—salt on their lips, lava rock underfoot, and giant tortoises that move at their own deliberate pace.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Acclimatize in Quito
Spend your first day taking it easy above 3,000 m—drink water, avoid heavy exertion, and sleep well to reduce altitude effects.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The islands prohibit many chemicals that harm coral—use reef-safe sunscreen and a protective rash guard for long snorkeling sessions.
Wear sturdy water shoes
Lava rock is sharp and uneven at Las Grietas and some beach entry points—closed-toe water shoes protect feet on land and in shallows.
Carry a dry bag for electronics
Boat trips and beach walks can be unexpectedly splashy—keep phones and passports in a small dry bag to stay protected.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Galapagos giant tortoise
- Marine iguana
History
Quito’s historic center is one of the best-preserved in Latin America, and Darwin’s 19th-century visits to the islands informed modern evolutionary theory.
Conservation
The Galapagos are strictly managed—biosecurity checks, visitor limits, and rules against single-use plastics help preserve fragile habitats; follow local guidelines and park rules.
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Adventure Hotspots in Quito and Puerto Ayora
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin while preventing damage to marine ecosystems.
Sturdy water shoes
Needed for lava rock, wet docks, and walking to secluded beaches.
Lightweight rain jacket
Useful for Quito’s unpredictable mountain weather and island breezes.
Personal snorkel mask (optional)
Ensures a comfortable fit—snorkeling gear is provided but a personal mask can improve visibility.