Ecuador and the Galapagos
3-4 weeks in
Highlights
- Explore Quito’s Old Town- a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Trek the Quilotoa Loop to witness the breath-taking crater lake
- Wander the colourful and unique market in Otavalo
- Visit the Galapagos Islands to witness the giant tortoises and blue footed boobies
- Work with remote Andean communities
Teachers!
All of our expeditions are completely tailored to your needs – if you’re undecided about where to go, just call us, we love sharing ideas. The world really is your oyster!
Expedition
Experience a very different culture
Teams can spend time exploring Ecuador’s capital city Quito, one of Latin America’s finest colonial centres with many incredible sights to see. The town of Otavalo is famous for its markets where you can find colourful local textiles, and traditional tradesmen such as hatmakers selling their goods. A big part of Ecuadorian culture is food which is often passed down through generations, so the traditional dishes are worth a taste!
Explore a new landscape
Some trek options in Ecuador are at altitude, allowing you to witness the beautiful landscapes this country has to offer. One option could take you on the Quilotoa Loop, hiking between Andean villages and around the breath-taking crater lake which locals believe is bottomless. Alternatively, you could trek in the Amazonian jungle, where you will experience the tropical weather and have the chance to spot some wildlife.
Be part of a global community
Teams can work with remote Andean communities, immersing themselves into the village life and culture. Students will make a real and lasting impact on the people they meet. All projects are chosen for their sustainability in consultation with the community. In the past our teams have restored community buildings, helped on farms and repaired fencing and signs in the cloud forest reserves.
Learn something important
In the famed Galapagos, take a tour of the islands and learn about the unique wildlife that is vastly different to what you witnessed in Ecuador. Exploring the islands offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching, with the possibility of spotting sea lions, iguanas and the iconic blue-footed booby.
What to expect
Terrain
Ecuador’s Andean Mountains neatly break the country into three district regions; the coastal, tropical regions to the east, the central Andean Mountains and the Amazon jungle to the west, all providing uniquely contrasting terrain to explore on foot.
Culture
Ecuador’s rich history means there are an abundance of fascinating cultural identities. Indigenous jungle communities who follow ancient traditions and ways of life are a stark contrast to the Andean Inca cultures, who remain distinct by their traditional dress and wish to preserve their heritage through music and artistry.
Weather
As Ecuador sits astride the equator the weather is pretty consistent all year round, but does vary depending on the region. In the lower elevations of the amazon the weather tropical with humidity and heavy downpours. In the mountains, you can experience bright and sunny days that are accompanied by cooler temperatures.
