Ecuador to Galapagos: Jungle Beats & Island Heat

G Adventures · 17 days

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

Ecuador to Galapagos: Jungle Beats & Island Heat
Ecuador to Galapagos: Jungle Beats & Island Heat
Ecuador to Galapagos: Jungle Beats & Island Heat
17 Days
From AUD $4449
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating

Ecuador to Galapagos: Jungle Beats & Island Heat

Ecuador to Galapagos: Jungle Beats & Island Heat

G Adventures · 17 days

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

Duration

17 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

If wild jungles crystal-clear crater lakes and volcanic island vibes sound like your kind of adventure, Ecuador is about to blow your mind.

Includes

Activities

  • Your G for Good Moment: Shandia Community Lodge, Shandia Your G for Good Moment: Shandia Biking & Community Experience, Shandia Your G for Good Moment: Entrance + Community living experience in Guayama Grande, Quilotoa Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group Your Discover Moment: Baños Your Big Night Out Moment: Quito Your Big Night Out Moment: - San Cristóbal Island, San Cristóbal Island
  • Cacao and Chocolate Experience
  • Amazon Jungle Walk & Pimpilala Waterfalls Visit
  • Community Artisan Workshop Visit
  • Guayama Community Project Visit
  • La Carolina Park Orientation Walk
  • Interpretation Centre Visit (San Cristóbal Island)
  • Snorkelling equipment and activity at Tijeretas (San Cristóbal)
  • Concha de Perla snorkelling excursion
  • Hike to Sierra Negra volcano (Isabela Island)
  • Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz Island)
  • Isabela Municipal Tax
  • Opportunities for snorkelling, swimming, and incredible wildlife encounters
  • Internal flights
  • Free time in Tena, Baños, Quilotoa, & Quito
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

  • Simple hotels (12 nts), Community Lodge (2 nts), Eco-friendly Inn (2 nts, multi-share).
  • 16 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners

Transport

  • Public bus, private vehicle, taxi, plane, public speedboat

Group Leader

  • CEO (Chief Experience Officer)/Naturalist Guide while in the Galápagos Islands (certified by the Galápagos National Park Authority), local G Adventures Representative in Quito, local community guide.

Highlights

  • Stay deep in the Amazon jungle surrounded by the sounds and sights of the wild
  • Bike through a local community and learn how chocolate is made from bean to bar
  • Chill or thrill in Baños with hot springs hikes and giant canyon swings
  • Hike down to a lake at the centre of the crater in Quilotoa and choose to paddle across its turquoise waters
  • Snorkel with sea lions and spot blue-footed boobies in the Galápagos
  • Trek the Sierra Negra volcano and feel the power of a truly wild landscape
Ecuador to Galapagos: Jungle Beats & Island Heat

Trip Details

Duration

17 days

Transportation

Public bus, private vehicle, taxi, plane, public speedboat

Guide Language

English

Starts

Quito, Ecuador

Finishes

Quito, Ecuador

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

18 - 39 Year Olds Only, Budget

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Quito

Arrive at any time and prepare for an epic adventure through Ecuador's highlights and hidden gems. It will be 1000% better than watching reels of these beautiful places! Attend a welcome meeting in the evening and then choose to hang out with the group afterwards for an optional dinner in Quito. Break the ice, get to know each other, and share your best travel stories before making new ones together over the next nine days.


Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
2

Day 2: Quito/Tena

Hop on a bus and travel into the lush Amazon Jungle and your community lodge stay in the rainforest. Learn about local food production and everything there is to know about cacao. If in season, collect cacao pods from the nearby plants. At the end of the experience, the group will enjoy a taste of this sweet treat amid the sounds of the forest. It is here you will experience life in the jungle firsthand and connect with the local indigenous culture. It's the perfect way to fall in love with the Amazon you have been learning about since you were younger.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.Activity - Expand your knowledge of local food production and learn everything there is to know about cacao. If it's in season, collect cacao pods from the nearby plants and learn about the history of cacao in Ecuador. While the plant has been harvested since the early 16th century, the late 19th century saw the beginning of the Ecuadorian cacao boom. The plant remains a key export and is fundamental in supporting local communities across the country. Roast and de-shell the beans, then re-heat the beans with milk and cinnamon into a fondue to be eaten with local fruits. When finished, enjoy a fire-side traditional jungle snack.Activity - Stay overnight at the Shandia Indigenous lodge located in the Ecuadorian Amazon. With the support of G Adventures and Planeterra, the community has developed new culturally immersive tours led by the village’s youth. The community lodge is seen by the community as a way to rescue their Indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. Watch a chocolate making demonstration and learn about their cultivation of cacao and their traditional agriculture practices. Meals of local ingredients grown in the village are prepared by women who were provided with culinary training through the project. Leave Shandia community knowing your visit is creating opportunities for a whole new generation of people in this community to improve their lives, and the lives of their children and grandchildren.Accommodation - Shandia Lodge
3

Day 3: Tena

Put the pedal to the metal on a cycling excursion to the Indigenous Shandia community. This rural village is surrounded by rivers and the fertile Amazon landscape. Take in the beauty as you ride through the jungle. And take pride in being able to help support the preservation of the community's indigenous culture. Afterwards, spend free time at the lodge and choose to enjoy some of the activities available to visitors. Choose to walk to the nearby beach along the river and try to spot wildlife in the jungle. Later go on an included walk to the Pimpilala Waterfalls and perhaps there will be time for a quick dip into the natural pool formed at the base of the falls. Group selfie, anyone?

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Cycle to the Indigenous Shandia community, a rural village surrounded by rivers and lush Amazonian landscapes. With the support of G Adventures and Planeterra, the community has developed new culturally immersive experiences led by the village’s youth. Spend 40 minutes cycling from Shandia lodge stopping along the way to take in the beauty of the Amazon. These cultural tours are seen by the community as a way to rescue their Indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. This provides an economic opportunity for youth who traditionally would have left the community to find work. Leave Shandia community knowing your visit is creating opportunities for a new generation in the community and contributing to the preservation of their culture.Free_time - Take advantage of free time to enjoy the activities available at the lodge.Activity - Head into the jungle today where you will see a variety of plants (medicinal, timber, and fruit), and animals including birds, monkeys, and insects. As you walk learn more about the uses and relationships between these plants and the indigenous people in the area. The group will also visit the Pimpilala Waterfalls and perhaps there will be time for a quick dip into the natural pool formed at the base of the falls.Activity - Stay overnight at the Shandia Indigenous lodge located in the Ecuadorian Amazon. With the support of G Adventures and Planeterra, the community has developed new culturally immersive tours led by the village’s youth. The community lodge is seen by the community as a way to rescue their Indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. Watch a chocolate making demonstration and learn about their cultivation of cacao and their traditional agriculture practices. Meals of local ingredients grown in the village are prepared by women who were provided with culinary training through the project. Leave Shandia community knowing your visit is creating opportunities for a whole new generation of people in this community to improve their lives, and the lives of their children and grandchildren.Accommodation - Shandia Lodge
4

Day 4: Tena/Baños

Experience a slice of local life on a public bus ride between Tena and Baños. Download those road trip playlists and stare at the passing scenery. Arrive in the afternoon and get settled. The town is surrounded by lush cloud forest and has an abundance of outdoor optional activities for travellers to indulge in. Maybe soak in the nearby hot springs to relax after bumping along on the bus. But rest up because you're in the adventure capital of Ecuador and tomorrow there's no time to waste.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.Free_time - Enjoy free time in Baños, a town famous for outdoor activities. Visit the local hot springs, or simply relax in town.Accommodation - Napolitano Apart Hotel
5

Day 5: Baños

Discover your adventurous spirit on this full free day to enjoy the epic outdoor adventure activities in Baños. Nestled at the foot of the active Tungurahua volcano, this town is a gorgeous place to hangout for the day. From ziplining to canyoning and visiting the famous Casa del Arbol, you won't have time to worry about what to do next. And maybe end the day with a group dance party to see if you can make the next viral Tik Tok.
Opt to pre-book the "Baños Canyoning Adventure" or "Baños Ziplining Adventure Bundle" activity on the checkout page ahead of time to include one of these optionals on your tour.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - There's plenty to see and do in Baños, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like hiking, canyoneering, and relaxing in the hot springs. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!Accommodation - Napolitano Apart Hotel
6

Day 6: Baños/Quilotoa

Leave Baños behind to travel to Quilotoa and its stunning caldera lake formed by a volcanic eruption. It's a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. Along the route the group will stop for a visit to an art workshop and gallery that celebrates the indigenous art of the region, showcasing the breathtaking works in Tigua's artistic community. Here, you can meet local artisans and learn about their techniques. Upon arrival to the town of Quilotoa the group will hike down to the lake in the centre of the crater to enjoy the dramatic surrounding landscape and turquoise coloured water. Check-in to your eco-friendly accommodations in the evening located high in the Ecuadoran Andes at over 10,400 feet in elevation (3200 meters above sea level) with views that will make you fall in love. Who wants to move here and stay forever?

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle. There will be a stop along the way at a community artist workshop.Activity - Nestled in the heart of Tigua, you will find a vibrant gallery that celebrates the local indigenous art of the region. Visit here and see the beautiful works of Julio Toaquiza, a pioneer in Tigua's artistic community. The kaleidoscope of colors and intricate designs that tell stories of the Andes and its people. Each piece reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Tigua community, making it not just an art gallery, but a living museum of the traditions and values that shape this beautiful region. Meet local artisans, learn about their techniques, and consider participating in a workshop to create your own piece of art.Activity - This popular hike down to Quilotoa's crater is relatively short, but steep. It offers gorgeous views and a chance to experience the mesmerizing water up close. The way down is shorter, but steep and the ascent back up can be more challenging due to the high altitude. Once down at the crater choose to relax by the water or maybe rent a kayak for a unique experience while here in Ecuador.Accommodation - The Black Sheep Inn
7

Day 7: Quilotoa

Feel the warmth and impact of community connection today on a visit to the Guayama Community project nearby. Learn about the culture and lifestyle of the area's indigenous peoples while supporting the sustainable development of this project. Discover the Kichuas Panzaleos culture project led by the local population. Lunch will be had on your own at the on site restaurant. You'll be welcomed into their indigenous community with open arms and leave with a deeper love of this region and its people. Later, relax back at your accommodations in Quilotoa, play some cards, swap travel stories, and laugh together as a group.

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - The Guayama Grande Community Tourism Cultural Center offers travellers a meaningful experience where they can learn about the culture and lifestyle of the area's indigenous peoples, while also supporting the sustainable development of this centre. Enjoy the landscape's natural beauty surrounded by mountains. Learn about daily life in the quichua agricultural community, walk through the farming area with a local guide to learn about the community's traditional crofts, crop seasonality, and their project to eliminate pesticide use. Then head out to the fields to watch the planting or harvesting process, depending on the season. Feel welcome by the community and leave with a deeper connection and appreciation of this land and its people.Free_time - Free time will be had back at the accommodations. Choose to hang out as a group or head into town for a night of fun, laughter, and some cold beverages. You can also choose to hike again in the area or find a stunning view of the crater as the sun begins to set.Accommodation - The Black Sheep Inn
8

Day 8: Quilotoa/Quito

After breakfast, travel back to Quito swapping stories with your travel crew on the ride back. Take some time to grab lunch on your own, maybe find some potato soup, or fried cheese empanadas, or fresh ceviche. Then, come back together with everyone for an orientation walk at La Carolina Park with its natural oasis within the city. The night belongs to you and it's time to let loose. Find somewhere to dance your heart out and let the beat move your soul.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Set off on an orientation walking tour with your CEO of La Carolina Park. This large, 165-acre urban park can be found in the heart of Quito. It features a botanical garden with diverse ecosystems, including high-altitude Andean grasslands, cloud forest, wetlands, and Amazon. Walk around a bit and get a sense of its immense size and importance as a recreational space for locals within the city. Then choose to enjoy extra time here yourself if you desire.Free_time - The night is yours in Quito. Find a local spot for a delicious dinner on your own and maybe dance the night away with your travel family by your side. What are your best dance moves?Activity - Enjoy a night out on the town with your travel friends and truly let your hair down in the lively Ecuadorian city of Quito.
9

Day 9: Quito

Get those legs moving on a full free day in Quito. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and highest constitutional capital in the world. Choose to check out the equator and visit the museum there or simply walk to a local park and chill out with some good food from a delicious café. No judgement, the choice is all yours.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Spend a full free day in Ecuador's historic capital. Relax, visit museums, walk through parks, and find some great local places to eat. There's nothing better than a day to reset while travelling and this is the perfect opportunity.
10

Day 10: Quito/Santa Cruz Island

Wheels up! Fly to the Galápagos Islands. Transfer across Santa Cruz island to town and take a guided visit in the afternoon to the Charles Darwin Research Station for an opportunity to see the famous tortoises up close. Get to know the group in the evening over a few drinks. Cheers to new adventures with new friends!

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.Accommodation - Hotel Brisas del Pacifico
11

Day 11: Santa Cruz Island/Isabela Island

Hop on a speedboat and head to Isabela Island. Soak up the views around you — you might even see dolphins or whales alongside the boat! After dropping your stuff at the hotel, get up close and personal with a volcano as you hike the Sierra Negra. Explore the incredible landscape and admire spectacular views from above.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Hike to the rim of the 10km (6 mi) wide crater of the Sierra Negra volcano, which has the largest basaltic caldera in the Galápagos. Trek across the moon-like landscape of the lava fields and fumaroles, and enjoy spectacular views looking north toward Fernandina and the rest of Isabela Island. The volcano last erupted in June 2018, making it the most recent eruption of the Galápagos. This hike is 7km in total (3.5 km each way).Transport - Jump aboard this speedy vessel, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins or whales en route to the next island.Accommodation - Hotel Iguana
12

Day 12: Isabela Island

Take advantage of a full free day on Isabela Island where optional activities abound to do as much or as little as you like. Choose to take an excursion to Los Tuneles, go snorkelling at Tintoreras, take a surf lesson or just laze on the beach.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy a free day on Isabela Island to lounge on the beach or try out some of the many optional activities available in the area.Accommodation - Hotel Iguana
13

Day 13: Isabela Island/Santa Cruz Island

This morning enjoy a snorkelling excursion at Concha de Perla. Travel by speedboat back to Santa Cruz Island and enjoy a free afternoon exploring the town. Later, head out to explore Puerto Ayora town, time for shopping or enjoy a bite to eat.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Visit the calm bay of Concha de Perla for a snorkelling experience. Snorkel alongside up to 20 different species of bird as well as tropical fish, sea lions, and maybe even penguins.Transport - Jump aboard this speedy vessel, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins or whales en route to the next island.Accommodation - Hotel Brisas del Pacifico
14

Day 14: Santa Cruz Island/San Cristóbal Island

Take another speedboat to San Cristóbal Island and visit the Galapagos National Park Interpretation Center near town to learn about the unique history of the ecosystems, flora, and fauna of the islands.. Later, go snorkelling at Tijeretas to look for wildlife like sea lions, rays and marine iguanas before wandering along the malecón to look for a local place to watch the sunset. Later, choose to get your dance on!

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Learn about the history of the Galápagos Islands from the very beginning of their volcanic origins through to today’s conservation efforts. Tour the Human History exhibit to learn about the islands’ discovery and colonization, and discover the natural history and variety of flora and fauna that make the Galápagos so fascinating.Activity - Enjoy a snorkelling excursion at Tijeretas, which happens to be one of the best places to search for underwater life in the Galapagos. As you move through the water be on the lookout for sea lions, rays, and marine iguanas, and sea turtles.Activity - Enjoy a night out on the town with your travel friends and truly let your hair down in the fun and lively atmosphere of San Cristóbal Island.Transport - Jump aboard this speedy vessel, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins or whales en route to the next island.Accommodation - Casa de Laura Hotel
15

Day 15: San Cristóbal Island

The day is yours to explore San Cristóbal Island. You can opt to snorkel at epic Kicker Rock or Isla Lobos, visit the white-sand beach of Playa Mann, or La Lobería to mingle with the resident sea lions.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Accommodation - Casa de Laura Hotel
16

Day 16: San Cristóbal Island/Quito

Say "Adios!" to the Galapagos Islands and board a morning flight back to Quito. Transfer to the hotel to kick back and relax before enjoying the last night in the capital city.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
17

Day 17: Quito

Depart at any time.

Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $4,449
(Tour only)
Per Person Standard

Duration: 17 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

If wild jungles crystal-clear crater lakes and volcanic island vibes sound like your kind of adventure, Ecuador is about to blow your mind.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 18 Oct 2026

Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990