12 Day Itinerary
£15,600pp
Starting in the capital of Ecuador, Quito, to the Andes and onto the Galapagos Islands, discover the rich flavours of Ecuadorian cuisine from the markets to five star dining.
On arrival in Quito, our local representatives will be waiting for you in arrivals to take you to your hotel – Casa Gangotena, the most elegant hotel in the city and certainly the one with the best location and the most amazing views over Plaza San Francisco.
During your full day in Quito, you’ll explore this UNESCO World Heritage city with a private English speaking guide who will take you not only to some of the most beautiful and historical parts of the city but also some of the hidden gems for eateries, markets and simply amazing restaurants. You’ll learn all about local traditions, culinary delicacies, tropical fruits, the importance of corn, and other homemade treats.
On your tour you’ll visit places like Plaza de la Independencia, La Compañía Church, the oldest street in Quito known as Calle de la Ronda, as well as Calle Roca Fuerte, famous for its local sweet treats. You’ll visit a local brewery for an Ecuadorian craft beer experience.
Today your day will start with a visit to an agave distillery where you’ll learn about this particular process in Ecuador and you’ll have the chance to try some of their 100% organic and homemade products. You’ll then travel on to Hacienda Zuleta, a locally run boutique hotel set in a colonial era working farm with beautiful gardens and a true farm to table concept. You’ll have 3 nights here, giving you two full days to take part in the excursions on offer.
On your first full day, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in an indigenous cooking class. The gastronomy of Otavalo, nestled in the majestic Ecuadorian Andes, is a fusion of indigenous traditions and contemporary culinary techniques. For those who wish to further explore this rich gastronomic heritage, this class will allow you to learn about the secrets behind its delicious dishes. This experience is an opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of Andean cuisine and experiment with fresh local ingredients. This class may include the preparation of traditional dishes such as “locro de papa”, “fritada” “colada morada” among others under the guidance of community chefs. Participants help prepare traditional dishes while learning about the stories and culinary traditions of the region. It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience Ecuadorian hospitality firsthand.
Other activities on offer at Hacienda Zuleta include things like horse riding, birdwatching, hiking, visiting the Condor conservation project, the cheese museum, the organic gardens and the embroidery shop.
Flying from Quito to the Galapagos, meet your cruise team and board the vessel for your 7 night cruise exploring the magnificent Galapagos Islands.
Over the next 7 days you’ll be exploring the southern and central Galapagos islands, including San Cristobal, Española (the only island you can see the Waved Albatross), Floreana, Santa Cruz, Sombrero Chino, Las Bachas, Bartolomé, Black Turtle Cove, South Plaza and North Seymour. You’ll visit famous historical landmarks, such as Post Office Bay, and your wildlife and birdlife spotting opportunities will be endless. Expect to snorkel every day and swim with species such as marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, sea lions, countless species of beautiful tropical fish, white tipped sharks, giant sea turtles, octopus and more….
On board you will be joined by Chef Cristian Puente, known for showcasing the vibrant flavours of the Galapagos through his innovative dishes, drawing inspiration from his rich life experiences, friendships, childhood, and the unique landscapes of the archipelago. You will have the unique opportunity to attend a cooking demonstration from Chef Puente and learn how to create the perfect ceviche, the Ecuadorian version of this South American staple made by marinating raw fish and other ingredients in lime juice.
As the only floating Relais & Châteaux hotels in the Galapagos, you’ll enjoy a truly first class service but with a laid back family atmosphere. The staff are kind and friendly and will go above and beyond to ensure you’ll never forget your time in the Galapagos. You’ll enjoy iconic culinary delights, with delicious and varied food onboard from local delicacies to international dishes. In the evenings, enjoy light hearted entertainment, music, or simply a cocktail with truly amazing views.
Day Itinerary
£15,600pp
11 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £9,600pp
Set sail on a luxury expedition around the scenic Galapagos islands, where a variety of activities on the crystal-clear waters await, from snorkelling to surfing. Witness the islands’ rich biodiversity, thriving both above and below the waters.
8 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £5,500pp
Blend land and sea experiences together. Stay at a working Andean farm, featuring chocolate production and adventure trails and then unwind at a beachfront retreat on Santa Cruz Island, with boat trips to explore the extraordinary island ecosystem.
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