Embark on an extraordinary journey to the heart of biodiversity and culture with our exclusive trip, “Galapagos & Cuenca Expedition with Itamandi Lodge Experience.” This meticulously crafted adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the enchanting Galapagos Islands, renowned for their unique wildlife and pristine landscapes. Your journey will continue to the historic city of Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you’ll immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry and architectural marvels of the Ecuadorian mainland.

Your adventure includes a stay at the exquisite Itamandi Ecolodge, nestled in the lush Amazon Rainforest. Here, you’ll be treated to a symphony of nature’s sounds, wildlife sightings, and various eco-friendly activities. The lodge is a serene retreat that combines comfort with the thrill of exploration. Enjoy guided treks through primary forests, bird watching, night walks, and canoeing along the Arajuno River. Witness the vibrant spectacle at the parrot clay lick and engage with local Kichwa communities to learn about their harmonious life with the forest.

This trip is not just a vacation; it’s a transformative experience that connects you with nature’s wonders and the soul of Ecuadorian heritage. Prepare to be captivated by the magic of the Galapagos, the charm of Cuenca, and the allure of the Amazon at Itamandi Lodge.

Itinerary 

Day 1, September 22: Flight from Guayaquil or Quito to Galapagos. 

Transfer to Puerto Ayora with a stop en route to explore the highlands and marvel at the iconic giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Experience the unique lava tunnels and delve into the fascinating geology of the islands. After arriving in Puerto Ayora, take advantage of some free time to explore the area and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, which plays a vital role in the conservation of the Galapagos' unique ecosystem.

Overnight in Puerto Ayora

Meals: Lunch

Day 2, September 23: Day trip to one of the uninhabited islands, either Santa Fe or Pinzon (based on availability).

These pristine islands offer a unique opportunity to witness abundant rare and exotic wildlife. These pristine islands are home to a variety of awe-inspiring marine life, which we'll have the chance to see during our snorkeling excursion. From graceful sharks and playful sea lions to elegant stingrays and magnificent marine turtles, the island's waters are teeming with fascinating creatures. Keep an eye out for the iconic blue-footed boobies as they perch along the rocky shores. Your expert guide will provide an informative commentary, explaining the island's diverse ecosystem and its inhabitants' unique adaptations.

Overnight in Puerto Ayora

Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch

Day 3, September 24: Discover the unspoiled Tortuga Bay and La Grietas.

With pristine white sand, azure waters, and abundant wildlife, Tortuga Bay it's a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. Accessible from Puerto Ayora, it offers a serene 1.5-mile walk amidst Palo Santo trees and Opuntia cacti, serenaded by Galapagos birds. Then you can explore the captivating geological wonder of La Grietas, named for its striking crevices. Enclosed by towering volcanic formations, its tranquil, current-free waters are ideal for snorkeling and swimming.Accessible via a short water taxi ride and a scenic one-mile walk. (Activities on your own, we will provide support making the arrangements) 

Overnight in Puerto Ayora

Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch

Day 4, September 25: Embark on a ferry to Isabela Island.

The largest in the Galapagos. Then you can explore the Tears Wall and the Turtle Breeding Center in the morning. Opt for an afternoon of optional surfing classes or relax on the beautiful beach. (Activities on your own, we will provide support making the arrangements) 

Overnight in Isabela

Meals: Breakfast

Day 5, September 26: Lava Tunnels Day Trip from Isabela

Experience the enchanting marine life of the Galapagos Islands as you venture

through the iconic lava tunnels on a tour that showcases the stunning underwater world.

Witness the unique rock formations and encounter various fascinating

marine creatures, including white-tipped reef sharks, graceful sea turtles, and vibrant

schools of tropical fish. Your expert guide will provide informative commentary about the

geological history of the tunnels and the diverse ecosystem within them. The tour

includes snorkeling and swimming alongside these captivating creatures.

Overnight in Isabela

Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch

Day 6, September 27: Tintoreras tour and Ferry back to Puerto Ayora

We'll take a short boat ride followed by a hike to observe the incredible biodiversity of the area, including iguanas, sea lions, blue-footed boobies, pelicans, and the iconic white-tipped Tintoreras sharks. We'll also have the opportunity to snorkel in the nearby waters. After the tour, we'll return to Isabela Island and catch a ferry back to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island.

Overnight in Puerto Ayora

Meals: Breakfast

Day 7, September 28: Transfer to the Baltra Airport and flight to Quito

You'll be taken back to the airport, ending an unforgettable Galapagos Island-hopping

adventure. In Quito, our driver will be waiting for you to take you to your hotel.

Overnight in the Quito airport area

Meals: Breakfast

Day 8, September 29: Immersive Amazon Experience

Take a taxi to get to Arajuno Bridge, you will embark on your adventure to Itamandi Ecolodge, starting with a scenic motorized canoe ride along the Arajuno River, offering glimpses of the enchanting Amazon jungle. Upon arrival, our friendly staff will greet you and provide essential information about your stay and upcoming activities. Enjoy a delicious lunch before immersing yourself in jungle activities like tubing and optional night walks to encounter nocturnal wildlife.

Overnight in Itamandi Lodge 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9, September 30: Itamandi Lodge 

Indulge in a hearty breakfast before setting off on a captivating long walk through the lush primary and secondary forests, immersing yourself in the rich biodiversity of the Amazon. After lunch, delve into the cultural heart of the region with a visit to an Amazonian Kichwa community. Learn about their traditional way of life, sample local delicacies like "chicha," and partake in traditional dances, all while supporting the community through the purchase of handmade crafts.

Overnight in Itamandi Lodge 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10, October 1: Itamandi Lodge 

We take a 40-minute canoe ride to visit "Anaconda Island," where we can spot the prehistoric Hoatzin bird, squirrel monkeys, and woolly monkeys, among others. We'll also meet a family from an indigenous community to learn about their farming practices, medicinal plants, and ancestral hunting methods using blowguns and handmade traps.

In the afternoon we will visit the Amazoonico, a rescue center for some endangered Amazonian animals. Unlike a zoo, Amazoonico provides a sanctuary where we can observe these animals up close in their natural habitat, gaining a deeper understanding of their lives and the conservation efforts to protect them.

Overnight in Itamandi Lodge 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11, October 2: Farewell to the Amazon, Hello to Quito

Say goodbye to the Amazon with a memorable final morning excursion. Embark on a 15-minute canoe ride upstream to witness the enchanting Parrot Saladero, where vibrant parrots and parakeets gather to consume essential minerals from the clay wall. Bid adieu to the rainforest before taking your bus to Quito. 

Meals: Breakfast

Overnight in Quito

Meals: Breakfast

Day 12, October 3: Cotopaxi Day Tour

Embark on an exciting Cotopaxi day tour and explore one of Ecuador’s most iconic volcanoes. Hike scenic trails, marvel at breathtaking landscapes, and discover the diverse flora and fauna of Cotopaxi National Park. This adventure promises unforgettable views and a deep dive into the natural beauty of the Andes.

Overnight in Cotopaxi area

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Day 13, October 4:  Explore Quito on a City Tour and visit the Equator 

Transfer from Cotopaxi to Quito. Then we begin out city tour through the cobblestone streets of Quito’s well-preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with colonial architecture, vibrant plazas, and magnificent churches. The adventure continues as you cross into both hemispheres at the Equatorial Monument, marking the precise location of the equator. Visit the Inti Ñan Museum, where interactive exhibits reveal the astronomical knowledge and cultural practices of the indigenous Quitu people.

Overnight in Quito

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Day 14, October 5: Transfer to Quito airport 

You will be transferred to Quito airport to take your flight back home

Meals: Breakfast