7-Day Quito to Galapagos to Guayaquil: Andean Heights and Island Wildlife
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 days
Fitness Level
Moderate—suitable for walkers who can handle multiple short hikes and stairs at altitude; allow time to acclimatize in Quito.
Overview
From Quito’s high plazas to the lava-scarred shores of the Galápagos and Guayaquil’s riverside promenades, this seven-day tour combines Andean culture, volcanic landscapes and iconic island wildlife. Expect altitude, biosecurity checks, day boat trips and close-up encounters with giant tortoises and sea lions.
7-Day Quito to Galapagos to Guayaquil: Andean Heights and Island Wildlife
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The bus slips through Quito’s thin air before dawn, headlights cutting through a pale mountain haze. Street vendors are already arranged on the plazas and the colonial churches hold a cool silence; up here the city breathes slow and high, a place that makes your lungs remember they have altitude to manage. By day three you swap that altitude for the buoyant, briny world of the Galápagos — where lava fields look like frozen waves and seabirds treat you like a reef-side neighbor.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Acclimatize in Quito
Spend the first day taking it easy to reduce altitude sickness—drink water, avoid heavy meals and delay strenuous hikes for 24–48 hours.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen
The Galápagos ecosystem is fragile—use biodegradable sunscreen and a rash guard for marine activities.
Bring a lightweight daypack
You'll need a small pack for hikes to Tortuga Bay and boat days to carry water, snacks, and wet swimwear.
Expect biosecurity inspections
All luggage is checked before boarding flights to the islands; avoid bringing fresh fruit or soil-containing items.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Galápagos giant tortoise
- Marine iguana
History
Quito’s center is one of the best-preserved colonial districts in South America; the islands were later visited by whalers and naturalists, including Darwin, shaping both culture and science in the region.
Conservation
The Galápagos are a protected national park; visitors must follow strict biosecurity controls and support conservation fees that fund research and habitat protection.
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Adventure Hotspots in Quito
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Support and traction for cobbled Quito streets and uneven volcanic trails in the Galápagos.
Snorkel mask and fins
Optional but useful for repeated swims with turtles and sea lions; rentals are available locally.
Light rain jacket
Quick rain showers are possible in both highlands and islands; also useful against wind on boat trips.
Reef-safe sunscreen & sun hat
Protect skin at high altitude and under tropical sun while minimizing environmental impact.