Ecuador | Ancient Culture and Galapagos Adventure: A Women's TravelCircle to Ecuador
Tour Sponsor: Shasta Nelson’s GirlFriendCircles
Ecuador is an adventurer’s dream, offering a vibrant mix of culture, history, and some of the most awe-inspiring natural beauty on Earth. From the towering peaks of the Andes to the lush Amazon rainforest and the iconic Galapagos Islands, Ecuador is packed with unforgettable experiences. Known as the “Middle of the World,” it’s the only place where you can stand with one foot in both the northern and southern hemispheres. As one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet, Ecuador boasts incredible wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich indigenous and colonial history. Whether it’s exploring ancient Incan ruins, wandering colorful markets, or strolling through Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this trip promises adventure, culture, and lasting memories.
Our 11-day/10-night TravelCircle adventure focuses on the magical Galapagos Islands, where we’ll spend 6 days snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, and boating through one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. As the birthplace of Darwin’s theory of evolution, the Galapagos offer you the chance to witness species found nowhere else on Earth—-like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies—-in their natural habitat. Whether you’re swimming with sea lions or hiking volcanic craters, the wildlife and scenery are second to none.
Before and after the Galapagos, we’ll immerse ourselves in the rich culture of Quito, one of Latin America’s most beautifully preserved cities. You’ll stand on the equator, explore historic Old Quito, visit the legendary Otavalo market, and connect with locals to learn more about Ecuador’s indigenous peoples. It’s the perfect mix of culture, history, and connection to locals.
If you love fun activities, breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and a dash of history, this trip is for you! Plus, with our carefully planned day trips, you’ll enjoy all the adventure without constantly packing up, giving you a more relaxed and settled vacation.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
-Visit the Equator on a tour of the Middle of the World Monument; stand on the divide of the northern and southern hemisphere
-Enjoy a guided walking tour of Old Quito and view major colonial sites
-Connect with local women through a women’s panel, featuring a Superior Court Judge and youth speaker
-Shop around South America’s largest market
-Enjoy an easy hike around the Peguche waterfalls, a sacred place in the culture of the indigenous people of Octavalo
-Experience a water purification ceremony with a local Kichwa Curandero/ Shaman
-Adventure to one of the best snorkel sites in the Galapagos
-Visit sea turtle nesting sites
-Boat to the island of Isabella, a volcanically active island famous for its wildlife
-Get up close to giant tortoises during a hike through the Galapagos mangroves
-Experience a hike around the Sierra Negra volcano, one of the largest volcanic craters in the world
-Kayak through the Bay of Puerto Villamil and observe penguins, sea iguanas, sea turtles, blue-footed boobies, and more
-Snorkel and explore Concha Perla and swim with fish and sea lions
-Relax on the island of Santa Cruz and explore lava tubes and tunnels
-Visit the Charles Darwin Research Institute and learn about the ongoing conservation efforts in the Galapagos
Tour Price
$5565 double occupancy per person (payment plans are available)
Single supplement $800
$1000 deposit due upon registration
50% due 6 months before trip
100% due 60 days before trip
Should you need to drop out, if we can fill the spot with someone else, we can refund you most of the costs, but we also recommend purchasing travel insurance to ensure that you are protected in the event you need to cancel at any time.
Trip Itinerary
View Trip Itinerary Here
