Ecuador & Galapagos: 17-Day Hidden Treasures Adventure from Andes to Kicker Rock

Quito•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

17 days

Fitness Level

A moderate level of fitness is required: you should be comfortable walking several hours on uneven trails and doing multiple snorkeling or kayak sessions.

Overview

From Quito’s high streets to the blue channels around Kicker Rock, this 17-day journey threads Ecuador’s volcanic Andes, cloud forest and Galapagos into one continuous wildlife- and culture-forward route. Expect active days, close wildlife encounters, and logistics that mix flights, boat transfers and moderate hikes.

Ecuador & Galapagos: 17-Day Hidden Treasures Adventure from Andes to Kicker Rock

Other

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

You step out of the plane into Quito’s thin air and the city breathes below you—red-tiled roofs, churches stacked against the flanks of the Pichincha, and a horizon of jagged volcanoes. The first day is a soft landing: a historic center walking tour, a hands-on cooking class, then a rooftop view from Capilla del Hombre where the Andes seem to lean in and listen. It’s the tone setter for a trip that moves fast between ecosystems—cloud forest, páramo, coastal mangrove and the volcanic islands born from the sea.

Adventure Photos

Ecuador & Galapagos: 17-Day Hidden Treasures Adventure from Andes to Kicker Rock photo 1

Adventure Tips

Acclimatize in Quito

Spend your first 24 hours taking it easy—hydrate, avoid heavy exertion and walk slowly to reduce altitude sickness risk.

Use reef‑safe sunscreen

The Galapagos require biodegradable sun protection; regular sunscreens harm coral and are often discouraged.

Carry a small dry bag

Island boat rides and snorkeling trips are wet affairs—keep electronics and passports dry.

Bring cash for markets and tips

Smaller towns and craft markets often prefer cash; tip guides and local staff in local currency.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Galapagos giant tortoise
Marine iguana

History

The Andean corridor is shaped by pre‑Columbian cultures and Spanish colonial towns; the Galapagos gained scientific fame after Darwin’s 1835 visit, shaping modern evolutionary theory.

Conservation

The Galapagos National Park enforces strict biosecurity and visitor rules; travelers should use reef‑safe products and follow guides to reduce ecological impact.