Ecuador 360º: Journey through the Galapagos Islands
Ecuador 360º: Journey through the Galapagos Islands
The trip in a nutshell
This is the adventure of a lifetime: a unique journey from the Amazon to the legendary Galapagos, a dream for all nature lovers. Over two weeks, we'll immerse ourselves in natural and cultural wonders, traveling through Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, the Amazon rainforest, and the Galapagos islands of Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristobal.
We begin in Quito, the highest capital in South America, rich in history and vibrant culture. But our city stay is brief; soon, we venture into the Amazon rainforest, where nature's grandeur and life's vibrancy are ever-present. Next, we visit Baños de Agua Santa, a thermal paradise in the Andes, and then conquer Cotopaxi National Park, home to the world's largest active volcano, a humbling testament to nature's power.
From the mainland, we fly to the Galapagos, an enchanting UNESCO World Heritage site, teeming with extraordinary wildlife found nowhere else. We'll explore the volcanic islands of Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristobal, with their pristine beaches, wild animals, and breathtaking scenery.
This journey is more than just a nature trip; it's a 360° experience that will capture our hearts with Ecuador's rich history, vibrant music, and warm people. It promises to be a transformative adventure, offering unforgettable emotions and self-discovery.
Trip type
360º - it's our great classic that allows you to discover the destination in all its aspects. We recommend packing a backpack rather than a suitcase as there will be lots of moving around.
Physical rating
MODERATE - this itinerary may involve hiking or other activities that require a moderate amount of physical effort. Be prepared for some potential long transfers and early wake up calls!
Entry requirements
Please visit your country's official government website to find out the necessary requirements for entering the country of destination.
Arrival and departure
The trip begins and ends in Quito. Aim to arrive by 6pm on the first day - on the last day you are free to leave whenever suits you!
Group
3 WeRoaders
What's included
14 nights accommodation in shared rooms
All breakfasts
Bus for travelling between
Quito-Tena on day 2;
Tena-Banos on day 4
Private transfer and driver on day 6
Embark on an epic journey through Cotopaxi National Park led by an expert local guide!
Return flight to travel from Quito to the Galapagos (outbound flight to Baltra and return flight from San Cristobal)
Ferry journeys to travel between the Galapagos Islands:
Santa Cruz-Isla Isabela on day 9;
Isla Isabela-Santa Cruz on day 11;
Santa Cruz-San Cristobal on day 12
Discover the underwater wonders of Las Tintoreras on a thrilling snorkelling expedition from Isla Isabela!
Snorkelling excursion to Los Tuneles departing from Isla Isabela with (lunch included)
Embark on an exhilarating day adventure to Isla Española, the oldest uninhabited island in the Galapagos (lunch included)
Travel coordinator services
Free cancellation with 100% refund up to 31 days before departure
Itinerary
Welcome to Ecuador!
Check in
Round trip flights are not included in the package, so you can choose from where and when you want to fly. This is to give you maximum freedom of choice!
Arrive at your hotel in Quito for a warm welcome meeting. Nestled in the Andes, Quito isn't just a city—it's a hidden gem. Known officially as San Francisco de Quito, this bustling metropolis of over two million residents sprawls across the Andean slopes in central-northern Ecuador. It's the vibrant heart of the country, pulsating with cultural richness and serving as a nexus of politics, economy, and tourism. Quito's infectious energy captivates at first sight. Get ready to kickstart this extraordinary adventure! With toasts in hand, we'll celebrate the beginning of a journey brimming with unexpected wonders.
Included: overnight stay
From Quito to the Amazon
Are we ready to immerse ourselves in nature?
This morning marks the official start of our adventure, and what a beginning it is! Departing from vibrant Quito, we embark on a journey into the enchanting Amazon. Get ready to immerse yourself in the local culture—brush up on your Spanish because today, breathtaking landscapes, unexpected encounters, and pristine nature await us along the way.
Upon arrival in Tena, we transfer by taxi to our hotel. In the afternoon, our first foray into the wild awaits: we'll glide through the waters in canoes to reach AmaZOOnico. More than a wildlife recovery center, it's a gateway to an untouched world. As we wander through the rainforest, prepare to encounter an array of extraordinary creatures: acrobatic monkeys, vibrantly plumed birds, majestic turtles and more! Each encounter promises to be an exhilarating experience and an unforgettable discovery.
AmaZOOnico also stands as a beacon of hope for Amazon ecosystem conservation. Our visit to the center supports their vital work in protecting flora and fauna, making our journey both enriching and impactful.
Included: overnight stay with breakfast and public bus from Quito to Tena
Money pot: public transport (Uber, taxis etc), canoes and entrance to the AmaZOOnico centre
Not included: meals and drinks
Misahualli: Dive into Amazonian culture and nature
Local traditions and nature
In the morning, we'll visit the indigenous community of Misahualli, immersing ourselves in their ancient traditions, daily life, and local craftsmanship passed down through generations.
In the afternoon, the time is ours to enjoy! Relax by the banks of the Napo River, venture into the Amazon jungle on a guided trek in search of exotic creatures, or explore Puerto Misahualli—a charming village steeped in history. Let's make the most of our time exploring the surroundings before our next adventure begins tomorrow!
Included: overnight stay with breakfast
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities
Not included: meals and drinks
Baños: Andean Adventure Haven!
Adventure lovers, it's time to start your engines!
Today we jump on board another public bus (we liked the first one so much and wanted to do it again!) and let ourselves be lulled by the rhythm of the road, heading towards the magical Baños de Agua Santa. An array of pristine nature and pure adrenaline awaits us!
In the afternoon, let's prepare to challenge the vertigo! In front of the Pailon del Diablo, a breathtaking waterfall that plunges into an 80 meter deep canyon, our hearts will beat wildly. Let's go up the stairs to admire this force of nature from different angles and yes, let's also prepare to get a little wet!But Baños is not just this: trekking paths immersed in lush vegetation, thermal springs where you can regenerate and a sparkling atmosphere that is infectious; backpackers and free spirits, let's set off to discover this place surrounded by nature.
Included: overnight stay with breakfast, public bus from Tena to Banos
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities, entrance to the Pailon del Diablo
Not included: meals and drinks
Baños: Thrilling Morning, Relaxing Afternoon!
An explosion of adrenaline
This morning in Baños de Agua Santa promises a series of exhilarating experiences. We have the option of an electrifying rafting adventure on the rapids of the Pastaza River or an extreme canyoning expedition among waterfalls and dizzying gorges. Joyful shouts and adrenaline surges will be the soundtrack of this unforgettable morning! One thing is certain: we will have fun, confront our fears, and step out of our comfort zone – which, let’s be honest, can get dull at times!
Following the adrenaline-pumping activities of the morning, we'll indulge in some well-deserved relaxation in Baños’ renowned thermal waters in the afternoon. Soaking in these natural pools, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, we'll be able to release tension and rejuvenate both body and mind.
Included: overnight stay with breakfast
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities
Not included: meals and drinks
Cotopaxi National Park
High Altitude Wonders
Good morning WeRoaders! Today marks our sixth day of travel, and we have no more excuses: we're now accustomed to the altitude and ready to embark on the real adventure! We'll rise early and set off with a private transfer to Cotopaxi National Park. This park boasts three volcanoes, including the renowned Cotopaxi, one of the largest active volcanoes in the world. Cotopaxi is the second highest volcano in Ecuador, standing at 5,897 meters above sea level, and while it's still active and challenging to climb, don't worry—we won't be tackling it!
What truly captivates is the untouched nature surrounding us: the park is home to over ninety species of birds, such as hummingbirds, alpine condors, caracaras, ducks, Andean gulls, and lapwings. Mammals like deer, hares, Andean foxes, and pumas also inhabit this area.
Here we are, facing the majestic Cotopaxi, ready for a guided hike along the winding paths beneath the snow-capped volcano. We'll keep our eyes peeled for foxes, white-tailed deer, and Brazilian rabbits that call this area home. Breathing in the fresh, high-altitude air, we'll savor the beauty of the Andes until it's time to head back to Quito for the night.
Included: overnight stay with breakfast, private transfer with driver, entrance and excursion to Cotopaxi National Park with local guide
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities
Not included: meals and drinks
Discovering Quito
City exploration!
Finally, it's time to explore Quito! We begin our day with a couple of hours on a walking tour. An expert guide will take us through the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, uncovering the secrets of this enchanting city. We'll marvel at Plaza de la Independencia, surrounded by stunning colonial buildings, and be captivated by the neo-Gothic architectural masterpiece, the Basílica del Voto Nacional.
In the afternoon, we have free time to enjoy as we wish! We can wander through the vibrant stalls of Mercado San Francisco, sampling local delicacies and finding unique souvenirs. Alternatively, we can take the Teleférico Quito for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. But Quito offers more than just history and culture; it's also a city of rich flavours. We must try traditional dishes like locro de papa, a potato soup with meat and cheese, and hornado, roast pork served with potatoes and avocado. And for dessert, we can't miss the dulce de leche, a sweet condensed milk treat that will delight our taste buds.
Included: overnight stay with breakfast
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities, local guide in Quito
Not included: meals and drinks
Flying to the Galapagos
Las Grietas: The Volcanic Jewel of the Galapagos
Today, we embark on an unforgettable adventure: we reach the Galapagos! We'll fly from Quito to Baltra and then disembark on the enchanting Galapagos Islands. After settling into our hotel on Santa Cruz Island, we dive straight into the local culinary scene. We'll head to the bustling fishing port to enjoy a delicious lunch amidst the lively atmosphere.
In the afternoon, a taxi boat will take us to Las Grietas, a stunning geological formation featuring three narrow and elongated coves nestled between towering lava cliffs. This is a true paradise for swimmers, snorkelers, and sunbathers. Las Grietas is a national park and is open until 5 pm, so afterwards, we can visit Los Alemanes beach before returning to the hotel. This first day has already been filled with incredible landscapes, sea, and sun... and we can't wait to see what else the Galapagos has in store for us!
Included: overnight stay with breakfast, flight from Quito to Baltra
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities, Transit Control Card (20 Usd) and entrance to Las Grietas
Not included: meals and drinks, Galapagos entrance fee ($200 per person)
Isla Isabela: snorkeling in Las Tintoreras
Between snorkelling, relaxation and breathtaking views
Good morning WeRoaders! Today we’re up early as we travel from Santa Cruz to Isabela, the largest island in the Galapagos. Upon arrival, we’ll dive into an incredible snorkeling tour at Las Tintoreras. Amid volcanic rocks and pristine beaches, we’ll swim alongside tropical fish, sea turtles, and even Galapagos penguins—a true paradise for sea lovers! After this vibrant display of marine life, we’ll be ready for a delicious lunch featuring fresh fish at a local restaurant to recharge our batteries.
In the afternoon, we have options: we can relax on Isabela’s beach, soaking up the sun, sea, and tranquility, or embark on a bike adventure to Mirador Cerro Orchilla, where breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding sea await us. If we still have energy, we can explore the Wall of Tears, a historical site with the remains of an ancient prison camp. We’ll conclude the day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, sharing our experiences and savouring the wonderful flavours of Galapagos cuisine.
Included: overnight stay with breakfast, sea transfer from Santa Cruz to Isabela and snorkeling tour in Las Tintoreras
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities, possible bicycle rental
Not included: meals and drinks
Isabela's Treasures: Snorkelling in Cabo Rosa
Between Lava Mysteries and Marine Wonders
We wake up in Isabela, the largest and wildest island in the Galapagos, and get ready for an adventure that will leave us speechless! Today we will discover The Tunnels (Cabo Rosa), a magical place where nature has carved underwater lava tunnels, creating an aquatic playground for snorkeling that we will never want to leave! Imagine swimming in a natural aquarium, surrounded by tropical fish of a thousand colors, giant starfish and seahorses that move gracefully among the gorgonians. The sunlight filters through the cracks of the lava tunnels, creating a magical effect that will make us feel like we are in a dream.
But the adventure does not end there: we will enjoy a delicious lunch made with fresh local products, recharging our batteries for the rest of the day and in the afternoon we return to Isabela, ready to enjoy our last night on this island.
Included: overnight stay with breakfast, snorkelling tour in Cabo Rosa
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities
Not included: meals and drinks
Back to Santa Cruz: Playa Iguana
Santa Cruz: Relax and recharge your batteries!
Another day, another early wake-up call… yes, it’s tough, but there’s a good reason: there’s only one ferry in the morning, and it’s at six o’clock. But don’t worry, our next stop is all about relaxation! We bid farewell to Isabela, the volcanic island that charmed us with its lava mysteries and marine wonders, and return to Santa Cruz to spend the rest of the day at Playa Iguana, an earthly paradise that will take our breath away!
Imagine a pristine beach where golden sand kisses your feet and the Pacific waves whisper wild melodies. Here, marine iguanas move gracefully like exotic dancers, and colourful fish dart among the volcanic rocks. As we stroll along the beach, we’ll encounter marine iguanas sunbathing on the rocks and watch them dive into the water in search of their daily meal. Playa Iguana is a magical place where nature reigns supreme, and its pristine beauty will envelop us in an embrace. Today we recharge our batteries, and tomorrow we head to our final island, San Cristobal!
Included: overnight stay with breakfast, transfer to Santa Cruz
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities
Not included: meals and drinks
San Cristobal: Tijeretas Hill and Baquerizo Beach
Adventure between nature, history and relaxation
WeRoaders, today we take our last morning ferry (we promise!): from Santa Cruz we reach our last island, San Cristobal, in a couple of hours.
We start the day by dropping off our backpacks at the hotel and taking a taxi to the Interpretation Center, where we will immerse ourselves in the history and culture of the Galapagos. After this fascinating introduction, it is time to hit the road! We hike to Cerro Tijeretas, a hill that offers breathtaking views of the island and the sea. We admire the local flora and fauna, including iguanas, sea birds and sea lions.
The descent from Cerro Tijeretas will take us to Playa Baquerizo, a pristine beach where we can finally relax and enjoy the sun, the sea and the tranquility. We take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters, swim among the tropical fish or simply lie on the golden sand and let the sun caress us. Playa Baquerizo is the perfect place to end this exciting day in style.
Included: overnight stay with breakfast, transfer to San Cristobal
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities
Not included: meals and drinks
Excursion to Isla Española
A dive into the wild nature of Isla Española
Today is practically our last day in the Galapagos, and we want to make it unforgettable. We will explore Isla Española, a true natural gem teeming with unique wildlife. This island is a paradise for nature lovers, where we can get up close to a variety of wild animals found nowhere else in the world. Get ready to encounter waved albatrosses, majestic birds gliding gracefully through the sky with wingspans reaching three meters, along with marine iguanas, sea lions, tropical seals, and an incredible variety of seabirds, including boobies, seagulls, and frigate birds!
Isla Española is not just about wildlife! The island also boasts breathtaking landscapes: white sand beaches caressed by crystalline waters, imposing volcanic cliffs, and nature trails leading to pristine corners. We’ll also snorkel among tropical fish and enjoy a delicious lunch made from fresh local produce. Isla Española is a magical place that will leave us speechless, a perfect farewell to this earthly paradise.
Included: overnight stay with breakfast, excursion to Isla Española with lunch included
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities
Not included: meals and drinks
Back to Quito
Flying from San Cristobal to Quito
The good news today? We can sleep in until check-out! The bad news? We have to head back to Quito and say goodbye to the Galapagos. During the flight, we'll reflect on these 14 incredible days spent between Ecuador and the Galapagos: breathtaking landscapes, trekking, adventure, adrenaline, excursions, and encounters with wild, untouched nature. We'll toast to these experiences and our newfound friendships during our last dinner together, where we’ll share a mix of emotions. One thing is certain: we’ll already feel nostalgic for these places and the moments we’ve shared. The magic of a WeRoad trip is truly this and more.
Included: overnight stay with breakfast, transfer to Quito
Money pot: public transport, any extra activities
Not included: meals and drinks
Goodbye Ecuador
Check out and goodbye
Check-out and goodbye – until your next WeRoad adventure!
End of services. The itinerary may undergo some variations that differ from what is stated above. These variations may not be predictable nor depend on WeRoad’s will, i.e. climate conditions, national holidays, strikes, etc.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Round-trip flights are not included in any of our trips because we like to give you autonomy and flexibility: you can choose the airline you want to fly with, the departure airport that suits you best, and how many and which stops you want to make.
Since flights are not included, you also have more flexibility with your travel dates: if possible, you can arrive at your destination a few days earlier or return home a bit later – or even continue independently to a nearby destination!
This is the question of all questions, and here’s the answer, broken down into points!
The Money Pot is a common fund collected in local currency from all tour participants and managed by your Travel Coordinator.
It is used to streamline paymentsfor extra activities, goods and services that the whole group decides to do and to guarantee flexibility in choosing activities and excursions at the destination in line with the mood of the group.
It is typically collected on the first day of the trip in local currency, although at times, the Travel Coordinator may ask for it to be paid before departure.
You’ll find the amount of the money pot on the website under the section ‘What’s included in the money pot’ – how do you get there? Look for ‘What’s included’, scroll down to ‘Money pot? Click here’, and you’ll find the details.
The amount varies depending on the destination chosen.
It is used exclusively for group expenses that ALL participants decide to take part in.
It is estimated based on the experiences of other groups but can vary depending on the needs of the group itself. As such, the Travel Coordinator may need to increase the amount during the trip.
If not all of the money pot is used, the difference will be returned to all participants at the end of the trip in equal amounts.
The Money Pot also covers the Travel Coordinator’s share of the activities included in the money pot, except for those activities that are free for the Travel Coordinator.
If you pay in advance part of the money pot before the trip for certain non-refundable optional activities, unfortunately, the amount cannot be refunded in case of trip cancellation.
We offer several payment methods to meet all needs:
1. Credit or debit card from Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.
2. Installment payments for certain countries only
If you choose the deposit and balance option, you can pay the balance from your MyWeRoad Personal Area via bank transfer.
Anyone who books a WeRoad trip has the option to cancel or modify the trip – including both the dates and the destination – free of charge up to 31 days before departure. In case of cancellation, you will receive a 100% refund of the WeRoad trip price. If you make a change, a price adjustment will be applied to the new trip chosen – meaning, if the new trip is cheaper, we will refund the difference; if it’s more expensive, you will need to pay the difference.
If you’ve purchased the Flexible Cancellation Option (which you can add in the first step of the booking process), you can request a cancellation or trip change until 8 days before departure. In case of cancellation, you’ll receive a 100% refund of the WeRoad trip price, minus the cost of the Flexible Cancellation option.
How to request a cancellation or change to your trip? Send us an email at [email protected] or a WhatsApp on +447716573700. Please share the booking reference for the trip you want to cancel or change, and, in case of a change, the new trip you would like to join.
In general, we always choose local accommodations, avoiding large hotel chains, because we love to experience the culture of the place and, whenever possible, contribute to the local economy. Typically, our accommodations are hotels, apartments, guesthouses, and hostels run by local entrepreneurs, with the same standard maintained across all trips in the same destination.
For our Collection trips, which are our premium category, the accommodations are always 4 or 5-star or carefully selected boutique hotels.
The list of accommodations for your trip will be shared with you by your Travel Coordinator between 5 and 3 days before departure, along with other useful details for your adventure!
If you're wondering why WeRoad trips have a money pot, we’re assuming you already know what it is. If not, or if you have any doubts, we invite you to read all the information here!
Let’s quickly recap: The Money Pot is a common fund collected in local currency from all tour participants and managed by your Travel Coordinator. It’s used to speed up payments for extra activities, goods and services that the whole group decides to do and to guarantee flexibility in choosing activities and excursions at the destination in line with the mood of the group.
But let’s get to the point: why the money pot? First of all: it gives us a lot of flexibility. In all WeRoad trips you will have a bunch of Must See/Must Do activities already included - these are experiences, places or activities that simply cannot be missed! Any extra activities is decided by the group, why? Because each group is unique and may have particular wants or desires and the Money Pot allows each group to customise their trip to make it perfect for their requirements!
It also helps us speed up payments – imagine being in the subway in New York City, one by one purchasing the ticket...a nightmare right? Thanks to the Money Pot, the Travel Coordinator can simply purchase the tickets for everyone making the entire processes smoother! Any leftover money will be returned at the end of the trip and split equally amongst all participants.
In some destinations, buying goods or services on site is more economical as you are able to negotiate the price - places like Morocco, or South East Asia, bargaining is part of the culture. As such, our Travel Coordinators will be able to secure the best deal for all participants.
The amount of the money pot is specified in each trip – look for this button
which will take you to a detailed breakdown for each trip, like this:
WeRoad is not authorised to provide this information due to privacy reasons.
However, there is a solution - you can connect with your travel buddies by joining our Facebook group. Look for a post related to your trip, or ask the group admins for help in connecting with your future travel companions!
If a Travel Coordinator has already been assigned to the trip you're interested in, you can easily find their introduction post in the group via the website: in the tour list, click on 'Ask the coordinator', or in the trip details page, in the coordinator section, click on 'Ask [coordinator's name] for information on this trip in our Facebook group'. For both cases, see the screenshots below!
Tour List
Trip details page
In all our groups, the Travel Coordinator and participants speak English – knowing how to speak and understand English is therefore a fundamental requirement to participate in our trips.
On average the groups are made up of 6-15 people, with a minimum of 3/4 participants and a maximum of 15.
All our travellers are in theirs 20s, 30s and 40s. If you're very curios to know the age range of the group for a tour you're interested in, you can contact us by WhatsApp at +447716573700
Regarding the male-female ratio, this is not guaranteed and varies trip by trip.
The WeRoad Travel Coordinator is an experienced and skilled traveller and will be the perfect companion for your trip. They will be available for any eventuality and will manage all the logistical aspects of the itinerary (transports, timings, accommodations, meeting points, etc.), so you can enjoy the trip without any worries!
You will have the chance to get to know them when the WhatsApp group is created approximately 2 weeks before departure - this will be the moment to ask any pre-departure questions and get to know the rest of the group! If the trip you are interested in already has a Travel Coordinator assigned, you can contact them before booking – their details will be specified in the schedule or on the trip page, or you can search for their name here. After booking, you will find their contact details in your Personal Area, under ‘Bookings and Trips’ > ‘Your Upcoming Trips’ > ‘Trip Details’.
Yes, in all our trips you will share a room with other same-sex travellers, and the bathroom will either be private or shared only with fellow participants of the trip. The rooms we select can be doubles, triples, quadruples, or multi-bed (up to 8 people in exceptional cases), depending on the destination and availability.
There are never dorms with people outside the WeRoad group, except in certain cases for local experiences, which are specifically mentioned in the itinerary or communicated before booking. These typically involve specific nights in unique accommodations like tents, homestays, or camping, offering a more adventurous travel experience in exchange for some comfort.
During the booking process, you can also choose to opt for a mixed room: in this case, if needed, only those who have agreed to this option may share a room with travellers of a different sex. If you are booking for multiple people together and select this option, the room will not be exclusive to your group but may be shared with other travellers in the group.
When you set off on a WeRoad trip, you’re officially a WeRoader – and as we often say, 'Once a WeRoader, always a WeRoader'. This means that once you’re part of the community, a little piece of WeRoad will always stay with you, even if you no longer travel with us.
But you’re not just a WeRoader during your trips, far from it! The community is alive and active all year round: you can stay in touch by following and interacting on our social media channels, like the Facebook group or the Instagram profile. We can also meet up for a dinner or a trek together at one of the events organised by our coordinators around the world!