Ecuador Private Expedition

Famed for being one of the world’s most magnificent wildlife sanctuaries, explore Ecuador during an 11-day private expedition with National Geographic. From the lush tropical rain forests to the exquisite coral reefs of diverse islands, enjoy magnificent encounters with marine and land wildlife. Explore with unique excursions that including kayaking, snorkelling, hiking and more. Journey to the mainland and discover colonial Quito with a private guide. Cap off your expedition by discovering the Chocó rain forest’s breathtaking array of flora and fauna on guided nature walks through some of the country’s most pristine jungle.

Trip highlights

Sail among the isles of the Galápagos archipelago by yacht, disembarking for close encounters with sea lions, blue-footed boobies, Galápagos penguins, and much more.

Ride an aerial bike through the treetops of the Chocó rain forest, and let bioluminescent flora guide you on a jungle night walk.

Itinerary - 11 Days

1 Quito, Ecuador

Arrive in Quito and transfer to your hotel.
Wyndham Hotel Quito

2 Galápagos

Fly to Isla Baltra, then take the ferry to Isla Santa Cruz and tour the giant tortoise reserve.
Later, transfer to Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel, located just steps from the shore.
Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel (B/L/D)

3-5 Galápagos

Sail among these diverse islands aboard the lodge’s yacht, searching for blue-footed boobies, land iguanas, sea lions, and much more. On Isla Santa Cruz, go swimming and snorkelling, and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Enjoy a private cooking class.
Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel (B/L/D)

6-7 Galápagos/Quito

Return to the airport on Isla Baltra and fly to Quito. Enjoy an evening at leisure in the colonial centre. The next day, tour Quito’s Old Town.
Casa Gangotena (Day 6: B; Day 7: B/L)

8-10 Mashpi Reserve

Travel to the archeological site of Tulipe, then continue to Mashpi Lodge, deep in the Chocó cloud forest, a biodiversity hotspot. Take a guided night walk through the jungle and an exclusive tour of the lodge's research station. Then survey the canopy from the observation tower, and ride an aerial bicycle through the treetops.
Mashpi Lodge (B/L/D)

11 Mashpi Reserve/Quito

Enjoy a bird-watching walk or hike to a waterfall. Later, visit the Equatorial Monument at the “middle of the world.” Transfer to the airport in Quito and catch your flight home. (B/L)