Ecuador Flexible schedule Tours & Trip Packages

Ecuador Flexible schedule Tours & Trips

491 Ecuador trips. Tours from 147 tour companies. 1,197 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

102 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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Flexible schedule
Galapagos Islands Retreat
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4.9/5 Excellent
51 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Galapagos, Pacific Ocean, Quito, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz Island

Highlights

  • Be inspired by the serenity of yoga on this wellness tour of theGalapagos Islands
  • Watch the dance of marine iguanas and see a parade of blue-footed boobies as frigate birds soar overhead
  • Quito is one of the most incredible cities in South America. From its historic churches to the middle of the world, there is always something to do
  • Get up close and personal with the famed giant tortoises in the highlands of Santa Cruz island
  • Witness the most incredible, endemic wildlife on the planet. Remember, the animals can touch you, but you can’t touch the animals!

Themes

50 plus, Birding, Cultural, Education / Learning, Nature & Wildlife, Relaxing Retreats, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness

What travelers are saying

"We loved this trip. Our guide was excellent. We really enjoyed all the included highlights. Our favorite was Biltmore Estate. It is a must!"

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Galápagos — South & East Islands aboard the Yolita
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Darwin, Guayaquil, Isla Santa Fe, Quito, Sucre

Highlights

  • Four nights cruising in the galápagos islands aboard the yolita
  • Explore the beautiful southern and eastern islands to see iguanas and sea lions
  • Relax on the white sandy beaches
  • Cruise by the dramatic kicker rock
  • Visit some of the best snorkelling spots in the galápagos

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

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Absolute Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Charles Darwin Research Station, Cotopaxi, Darwin, Galapagos, Isabela Island, Isla Baltra, Isla Floreana, Isla Santa Fe, Isla Santiago, Quito, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Island, Santa Fe, Santiago

Highlights

  • With over two weeks spent on the archipelago, this trip takes a more leisurely pace. Spend more time on each island, soaking up the sun and the sea (lions).
  • Hike, snorkel, sleep, repeat – this isn’t your average cruise. Get active in the rugged and isolated Galapagos Islands.
  • Sea lions are like the dogs of the ocean: playful, goofy and curious. And while you can’t pat them, you’re bound to fall in love with these furry frolickers.
  • Pink flamingos, red-throated frigates and blue-footed boobies will have you craning your neck, snapping photos and contemplating a career in ornithology.
  • Towering cacti, rocky cliffs, red-sand beaches and more await you in this otherworldly archipelago.
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Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Pure Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Darwin, Galapagos, Isabela Island, Isla Bartolome, Isla Santiago, Quito, Santa Cruz, Santiago

Highlights

  • If there’s one ultimate Galapagos adventure, this is it. Combining off-the-beaten-track gems with iconic sights like the Pinnacle Rock, this trip is a microcosm of the Galapagos
  • This unique, stand-alone sailing adventure shares its itinerary with no other Intrepid trip. Enjoy minimal contact with other travellers and boats
  • Explore the remote west coast of Isabela on a small Panga boat, and venture to the far-west Fernandina, home of the highest density of marine iguanas
  • Beach-lovers will be in heaven. The turtle-dotted Las Bachas is about as idyllic as they come.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, The Galapagos Conservancy. Donations support their Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship (WISE) program, providing capital for sustainability initiatives and empowering female entrepreneurs in the Galapagos. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Galapagos at a Glance: Southern Islands (Grand Daphne)
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Darwin, Galapagos, Galapagos Islands, Isla Floreana, Quito

Highlights

  • Pink flamingos, red-throated frigates and blue-footed boobies will have you craning your neck, snapping photos and contemplating a career in ornithology.
  • Snorkel through the underwater wonderland of Devil’s Crown, the formerly volcanic crater that is now home to turtles, rays and sharks.
  • Have an up-close encounter with the lumbering gentle giant that is the Galapagos tortoise, both captive and in the wild.
  • This 6-day tour is a short and sweet introduction to the famed archipelago, the perfect addition to any South American adventure.
  • An itinerary that strikes the perfect balance between active adventure on land and relaxing evening on the Grand Daphne, our newest motor yacht.
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Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
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Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Darwin, Galapagos, Galapagos Islands, Guayaquil, Isla Baltra, Isla Floreana, Isla Santa Fe, Isla Santiago, Quito, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Santa Fe, Santiago

Highlights

  • Snorkelling in the Devil’s Crown is like nothing else. This submerged crater – full of sea lions, turtles and rays – boasts some of the best underwater views in the archipelago.
  • This trip is one for the bird-lovers. Witness the albatross colonies of Isla Espanola and seek out the rare red-footed booby on Isla Genovesa.
  • Plant your feet on 100-year-old pahoehoe lava as you walk across Bahia Sullivan, perhaps spotting a colourful marine iguana or twelve along the way.
  • Discover the otherworldly landscapes and creatures the islands are famous for, going deeper with a knowledgeable local naturalist who will accompany you on all your excursions.
  • Sea lions, marine iguanas, and more fish than you can shake a snorkel at – this trip is packed with guaranteed wildlife encounters.
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Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Ultimate Galapagos: Central Islands (Grand Daphne)
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Cotopaxi, Darwin, Galapagos, Galapagos Islands, Isabela Island, Isla Baltra, Isla Santiago, Quito, Santa Cruz, Santiago

Highlights

  • Experience the benefits of small group travel aboard your vessel, M/Y Grande Daphne, sailing through the natural beauty of the Galapagos, day and night.
  • Explore the remote west coast of Isabela on a small panga boat, and venture to the far-west Fernandina, home of the highest density of marine iguanas.
  • Encounter the unique Galapagos wildlife in their natural habitat, from giant blue-footed and masked boobies, pelicans and frigate birds to iguanas, sea lions and turtles.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, The Galapagos Conservancy. Donations support their Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship (WISE) program, providing capital for sustainability initiatives and empowering female entrepreneurs in the Galapagos. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

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Galapagos Adventure: Northern Islands (Grand Daphne)
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Darwin, Galapagos, Guayaquil, Isla Baltra, Isla Santa Fe, Isla Santiago, Quito, San Cristobal, Santa Fe, Santiago

Highlights

  • Hike, snorkel, sleep, repeat – this isn’t your average cruise. Get active in the rugged and isolated northern Galapagos Islands.
  • From sunbathing sea lions to colourful crabs, this trip is bound to feature encounters with crazy critters of all shapes and sizes.
  • Wander along the beautiful white sand beach at Bahia Borrero, then snorkel with reef sharks and manta rays..
  • This 7-day tour is a short and sweet introduction to the famed archipelago, the perfect addition to any South American adventure.
  • An itinerary that strikes the perfect balance between excursion-packed days and relaxing evenings on the Grand Daphne, our newest motor yacht.
Show more

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

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Ecuador Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
1,197  Reviews
See all Ecuador tour reviews
Excellent
213
Great
45
Average
1
Disappointing
0
Terrible
0
D

Devon

May 2022

A must for anyone...

A Culture Trip curated trip is a must for anyone burnt out planning their own trips or going to a remote or unfamiliar area. Having a local insider was the highlight...

M

Margaret

Oct 2015

Written on

Personal knowledge and experience of our guide

Personal knowledge and experience of our guide Juan Martín Aguirre who ...

J

Jessica

Oct 2015

Written on

Very good experience. Well organized and great

Very good experience. Well organized and great tour leaders.

D

Dan

Sep 2015

Written on

This is our second trip with Intrepid

This is our second trip with Intrepid and also our second amazing experience. The itinerary and of course our guide, Juan Martin, were excellent. We saw almost every...

E

Elizabeth

Sep 2015

Written on

I was completely satisfied with my experience.

I was completely satisfied with my experience. It met all my expectations, and then some.

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Ecuador Tour Selection Trips

  • Ecuador is so rich in biodiversity and tourist attractions – the Galapagos, the Andes, the Amazon, the colonial cities, the Pacific coast -- that you may need several visits to do the country justice. 
  • Taking a week-long Galapagos cruise allows you to see more of the islands and their diverse wildlife than simply staying on one of the two populated islands.
  • Many visitors combine Galapagos tours with tours to Machu Picchu in Peru, and many tour operators offer such combinations.
  • If your tour takes you to the Amazon basin, look to stay at least three days if possible in a jungle lodge. This not only allows you to get a good taste of the region, but it will increase your chances of seeing certain species, and more animals. 
  • Even though Ecuador is on the Equator, pack a jacket if your tour includes high-elevation cities like Quito and Cuenca. In these mountain towns, the temperatures can drop pretty significantly at night.  You might also consider bringing high-altitude medication if you’re really bothered by the rarefied air, but discuss possible side effects with your doctor.

Additional details

Tours in Ecuador are great for active travelers. If you love being outdoors, many Ecuador tours focus on activities like hiking, horseback riding, rafting, and bike riding.

Food in Ecuador is heavily rice and seafood based. Vegetarians won’t have too much difficulty finding delicious meals, though many dishes involve cheese so vegans may encounter more trouble. You’ve probably heard of “Cuy” which is guinea pig, and is a delicacy throughout the country.

4 Different Kinds of Escorted Trips in Ecuador 

1. Culture: Ecuador’s Indigenous People and Their Crafts

One of the most unique features of Ecuador is the strength of its indigenous population. In many Latin American countries, indigenous populations were stifled and dwindled under colonialism for a variety of reasons. In Ecuador, however, these numbers remain strong -- 25% of the entire  country has completely indigenous heritage, and 70% has mixed indigenous and European heritage. Ecuador is quite proud of its heritage this way, and as a result the country maintains specific crafts, fashions, and styles of living that are entirely their own. 

Silver Making and Chordeleg
When you visit Otavalo, and Ecuador’s largest market, you are sure to see some of the classic craft attributable to Ecuador: alpaca-wool ponchos and rugs, tagua nut jewellery, chess seats, embroidered bags, etc. What is less well known, however, is that each region of Ecuador produces its own unique crafts which may be harder to get.

For example, people living in the Cotopaxi region are known for their native paintings and ceremonial masks. The Pastaza region produces various plates and bags made of crossed palm fibers, as well as ceramic goods. Some off-the-beaten path locations are surrounded around their crafts, which you may want to visit. 

The town of Chordeleg, for example, is renowned for its silverworking. The entire town still lives by the “guild system” established during colonial times, and focuses on its handmade jewellery produced with locally mined silver. One interesting fact about this picturesque town is that has become increasingly popular for spot American retirees to settle down.

The Bowler Hat
Another cultural feature of Ecuador you will notice immediately on your escorted trip, especially in more rural areas, is the style of dress. Ecuador is unique in that a large portion of the population continues to dress in traditional clothing, or wear bits and pieces of traditional outfits.You may notice that some men wear large blue ponchos, a fedora, and have a single, long braid for their hairstyle.

This braid is called the shimba, and is so significant that men are not required to cut it in order to join the military. For women, you may notice (particularly amongst the older generation) that they choose to wear multiple layers of long skirts and ponchos, as well as bowler hats. To learn more about why these traditions remain so strong, consider taking a cultural tour of Ecuador

2. Ecuador Birding Tours

Ecuador is a very popular destination for birdwatching. The country boasts more than 1600 avian species over several kinds of habitat, and, as a result, its hard for birders to resist trying to see everything at once. If you have the time, you should definitely take a birding tour 2 weeks or longer -- however, if this simply isn’t an option, we recommend visiting the Northwest of the country. This part of Ecuador has better infrastructure (making good birding spots more accessible) and a large population of endemic species.

3. Wildlife and Outdoor Adventure Tours

One draw to Ecuador are its many national parks. Home of the Galapagos, Ecuador is a country that fully appreciates the power of ecotourism, and as a result 20% of its land has some kind of protected status. 

Some popular places to trek outside of the Galapagos include El Cajas National Park, Machalilla National Park, Cayambe National, and Yasuni National Park -- just to name a few. In these parks you have the opportunity to go on a horseback riding excursion, or be escorted on a hike to some of the most beautiful natural features of Ecuador.

Another popular activity in Ecuador is to hike its many active and extinct volcanoes. One popular volcano to hike is Cotopaxi, a massive snow-capped peak high in the Ecuadorian Andes. For those looking for an extreme and adventurous hike, here is your challenge: try summiting Cotopaxi. One thing to note is that any peak in Ecuador over 5,000 meters high cannot be climbed without a guide, so make sure to book your mountaineering guided tour.

Once you’ve exhausted yourself on a hike of the volcano, treat yourself to a dip in some of the thermal pools. One great place to warm up in the hot springs water is in the jungle town of Bãnos, where you can visit the public bath houses for relatively cheap and soak up some of the healthy minerals.

4. Luxury Tours in Ecuador

Although Ecuador is known for being a rugged and outdoors-oriented travel locale, this doesn’t mean that you can’t travel it in style. The booming tourism industry surrounding the Galapagos island has pushed the majority of accomodation options to adopt modern amenities, and there are some particularly nice lodgings today. 

For example, on a luxury trip to Ecuadoryou are likely to stay in a hacienda. A hacienda is the estate attached to what was usually a ranch, but also could have been a mine or a factory. These were typically owned by Spaniards, and are known for their beautiful architecture and large size. Many have been converted into hotels.

Another option might be touring Ecuador from the decks of a luxury cruise ship. Both small cruise ship tours, large cruise ship tours, and river cruises travel through Ecuador, so no matter your interests, there is a cruise option for you.

The Weather in Ecuador

Ecuador’s weather is famously varied depending on where you are and the time of year. Because the landscape of Ecuador covers many elevations and environments you can expect to see a lot of different temperatures and weather patterns. It rains throughout the year, most heavily between October and April.

Tours visit Ecuador year round, but one of the top times to visit is the High Season between June and September on the mainland; January through May in the Galapagos.

If you are visiting the Galapagos, consider that the seas will be very rough in the Low Season, June through September.

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