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Karanki Magdalena community members in traditional Andean clothing, posing in front of an adobe house.
A Fusion of Nature and Culture

GO 2: GALAPAGOS CRUISE & ANDEAN CROSS-CULTURE EXPERIENCE

Experience the Best of Ecuador with Our 9-Day Galápagos & Andean Adventure! Discover the breathtaking Galápagos Islands, snorkeling with sea lions and spotting blue-footed boobies in their natural habitat. Then, immerse yourself in Andean culture, visiting indigenous communities and experiencing local traditions. Unwind in the soothing hot springs of Papallacta. This unique journey blends wildlife, nature, and culture for an unforgettable Ecuadorian experience!

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9 days / 8 nights

Enjoy 5 days land (Quito) / 4 days cruise (Galapagos Island)

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All meals included onboard

All meals included onboard, welcome and farewell cocktails.

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From $3,438

Per person in USD (subject to change)

Trip highlights

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: Quito
TOUCH

Quito

Quito

Quito Cultural Heritage of Humanity and the Middle of the World.

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: GO Quito Hotel
TOUCH

GO Quito Hotel

GO Quito Hotel

Start in Quito with a city view from the best five-star hotel, GO Quito Hotel.

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: Galapagos
TOUCH

Galapagos

Galapagos

Navigate the Galapagos Islands, an iconic conservation landmark.

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: A red footed booby
TOUCH

Galapagos

Galapagos

Navigate the Galapagos Islands, an iconic conservation landmark.
GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: A chuch in the historic center of Quito
TOUCH

Quito

Quito

Quito Cultural Heritage of Humanity and the Middle of the World.

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: View of GO Quito Hotel
TOUCH

GO Quito Hotel

GO Quito Hotel

Start in Quito with a city view from the best five-star hotel, GO Quito Hotel.

Choose your ship

Galapagos Legend
Coral Yachts
Boutique Expedition Cruise

Galapagos Legend

This exquisite vessel, designed for 100 guests, offers an intimate glimpse into the Galapagos’ charm. Await a voyage filled with culinary delights and extraordinary adventures. Elevate your experience with the knowledge* of our expert Galapagos guides, ensuring an adventure rich in discovery and luxury.

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Go1 Package Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: Galapagos Legend

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Quito

Day 1 - Welcome to Quito (airport - hotel)

AM
✈ Transfer Quito (airport – hotel). Welcome to Quito. A representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. You will have free time to explore the city, relax and settle in.

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: Day 1 Welcome to Quito

Accommodation: In the 5-Star GO Quito Hotel/ Premium Room

Day 2 - Quito Old Town Tour & Middle of the World

Day 2 - Quito Old Town Tour & Middle of the World

AM
Colonial Quito.
Stroll through the busy streets and squares of the most significant historic center of the Americas: a multi-ethnic, artistic, and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: Day 2 Quito Old town tour

PM
The Middle of the World.
Afterward, our guide will visit the Middle of the World Complex at latitude 0*0*0. Return to the hotel for the night.

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: Day 2 Quito Middle of the World
Accommodation: In the 5-Star GO Quito Hotel/ Premium Room

Day 3 - Quito - Otavalo & Magdalena Community

Day 3 - Quito - Otavalo & Magdalena Community

AM
Driving north from Quito, we pass through various ecosystems and agricultural zones, even crossing the equator. Along the way, we taste local flavors and enjoy scenic views of volcanoes, including “El Taita” Imbabura.

At the Otavalo market, visitors can engage with locals, negotiating for woven goods, bags, hats, flutes, and other crafts.

We visit villages like Peguche, known for traditional looms and Andean instruments, and Cotacachi, famous for its leather work. Next, we explore Cuicocha Lagoon in Cotacachi Cayapas National Park. Enjoy free time for lunch with recommendations from your guide.

NewWeb-HB-LT-CityPackQuito-gallery-church

PM
Our journey continues to the Karanki-Magdalena Community, at 3,100 meters above sea level. The landscape resembles a colorful patchwork, and locals are known for their exquisite embroidery, which is available for purchasing directly from artisans.

Experience their daily life, unhurried by modern distractions. Overnight in a comfortable room with private facilities and hot water. Enjoy authentic Andean home cooking and optional activities like horseback riding and hiking.

  • Meals Included: Dinner at Magdalena Home Stay.
  • Accommodation: Magdalena Home Stay.
Day 4 - Magdalena community & Ibarra & Quito

Day 4 - Magdalena community & Ibarra & Quito

AM
Join the locals in Magdalena for their morning activities, including milking cows.

Next, we head to Ibarra, famously known as “La Ciudad Blanca” and the capital of Imbabura. Your guide will delve into the city’s rich history while we admire its stunning architecture.

Our journey continues to “Parque Cóndor,” a rescue center for birds of prey. Here, you’ll learn about the significant challenges faced by Andean condors and owls.

Karanki Magdalena community members in traditional Andean clothing, posing in front of an adobe house.

PM
In the afternoon, we visit Hacienda Pinsaqui, a historic site in Imbabura Province. Savor a traditional lunch, stroll through the picturesque gardens, and interact with the horses.

Later, we drive back to Quito, ensuring your drop-off at either your hotel or the airport.

Meals Included: Breakfast at Magdalena Home Stay, Lunch at Hacienda Pinsaqui.

Landscape karanki magdalena

 
Day 5 - Welcome to Galapagos & Santa Cruz Island

Day 5 - Welcome to Galapagos & Santa Cruz Island

AM
✈ Welcome to Galapagos. Departure from Quito to Baltra Island is a 2 1⁄2 hour flight. Upon arrival in the Galapagos, passengers are greeted at the airport by our knowledgeable guides who will accompany them on a short ten-minute bus ride to the pier where they will board the Galapagos Legend.

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: Day 3 Galapagos Legend

PM
North Seymour Island This flat, uplifting, island is an important spot to see both magnificent and great frigate bird males courting the females and, we will also likely see courting blue-footed boobies too. Sea lions, swallow-tailed gulls, crashing surf and distant views of the Daphne Islands top off a great visit.

NewWeb-HB-islas-north-seymour-blue-two-footed-booby-tourist

 

Day 6 - Bartolome Island & Santiago Island

Day 6 - Bartolome Island & Santiago Island

AM
Bartolome Island Considered the most iconic landscape of the entire archipelago the view from the top of Bartolome Island, overlooking the famous Pinnacle Rock and the austere Santiago Island, Our subsequent snorkel here might put us face to face with Galapagos penguins, white-tipped reef sharks, and playful sea lions.

NewWeb-HB-islas-bartolome-landscape

PM
Sullivan Bay (Santiago Island) Visitors are always totally enthralled by the amazing beds of pahoehoe lava from the recent flow on the island. It is a landscape and macro photographer’s dream. As we hike over the lava, we will discuss the importance of pioneering plants such as the tiny Mollugo.

NewWeb-HB-islas-santiago-sullivan-bay

 

Day 7 - San Cristobal Island

Day 7 - San Cristobal Island

AM
Punta Pitt (San Cristobal) This is the only place on the islands where we will enjoy the chance to see all three of the booby species in the same place. The red-footed will be perched on the Cordia lutea and small trees, the Nazca ́s on the ground near the cliff edge, and the blue-footed will be further inland. Frigate birds will be all around and the views are breathtaking.

NewWeb-San-Cristobal-Gallery-Punta-Pitt-B

PM
Cerro Brujo (San Cristobal Island) From our dinghy ride, as we head to shore, we are first humbled by the immensity of the stunning cliffs of the Sorcerer’s Hill. You can enjoy simply sharing the beach with sea lions, snorkeling from shore, or walking to a hidden lagoon where you might spot black-necked stilts, ruddy turnstones, whimbrels, and white-cheeked pintails.

NewWeb-HB-islas-san-cristobal-cerro-brujo-shore

 

Day 8 - San Cristobal & return to Quito

Day 8 - San Cristobal Island & return to Quito

AM
Cerro Colorado (San Cristobal Island). In the moist highlands of San Cristobal, we will visit the giant tortoise breeding center “La Galapaguera” to witness the archipelago’s most iconic creature in its various life stages. The reserve aims to help restore the threatened San Cristóbal tortoise populations back into the wild. In town, there are shops to purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs.

San Cristobal Airport. After the visit, passengers will be transferred to the airport for their return flight to Quito.

NewWeb-San-Cristobal-Gallery-Cerro-Colorado

PM
Accommodation: In the 5-Star GO Quito Hotel/ Premium Room

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: DAY 6 Accommodation in GO Quito Hotel

 

Day 9 - Transfer to Airport

Day 9 - Transfer to Airport

AM
Transfer to Quito airport
Transfer to Quito airport or guests can also extend their stay in Ecuador with other land tours we offer.
 
GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: DAY 7, buffet in the GO Quito Hotel

 

Expedition Yachts

Coral I & Coral II

Coral I & Coral II are gorgeous and comfortable sister yachts. They offer charming social areas on three decks with outdoor and interior spaces that allow you to enjoy an intimate expedition experience on your way. They can accommodate 36 and 20 guests, respectively.

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CORAL-FACADE

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Quito

Day 1 - Welcome to Quito (airport - hotel)

AM
✈ Transfer Quito (airport – hotel). Welcome to Quito. A representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. You will have free time to explore the city, relax and settle in.

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: Day 1 Welcome to Quito
Accommodation: In the 5-Star GO Quito Hotel/ Premium Room
Day 2 - Quito Old Town Tour & Middle of the World

Day 2 - Quito Old Town Tour & Middle of the World

AM
Colonial Quito.
Stroll through the busy streets and squares of the most significant historic center of the Americas: a multi-ethnic, artistic, and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: Day 2 Quito Old town tour

PM
The Middle of the World.
Afterward, our guide will visit the Middle of the World Complex at latitude 0*0*0. Return to the hotel for the night.

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: Day 2 Quito Middle of the World
Accommodation: In the 5-Star GO Quito Hotel/ Premium Room

Day 3 - Quito - Otavalo & Magdalena Community

Day 3 - Quito - Otavalo & Magdalena Community

AM

Driving north from Quito, we pass through various ecosystems and agricultural zones, even crossing the equator. Along the way, we taste local flavors and enjoy scenic views of volcanoes, including “El Taita” Imbabura.

At the Otavalo market, visitors can engage with locals, negotiating for woven goods, bags, hats, flutes, and other crafts.

We visit villages like Peguche, known for traditional looms and Andean instruments, and Cotacachi, famous for its leather work. Next, we explore Cuicocha Lagoon in Cotacachi Cayapas National Park. Enjoy free time for lunch with recommendations from your guide.

NewWeb-HB-LT-CityPackQuito-gallery-church

PM

Our journey continues to the Karanki-Magdalena Community, at 3,100 meters above sea level. The landscape resembles a colorful patchwork, and locals are known for their exquisite embroidery, which is available for purchasing directly from artisans.

Experience their daily life, unhurried by modern distractions. Overnight in a comfortable room with private facilities and hot water. Enjoy authentic Andean home cooking and optional activities like horseback riding and hiking.

  • Meals Included: Dinner at Magdalena Home Stay.
  • Accommodation: Magdalena Home Stay.
Day 4 - Magdalena community & Ibarra & Quito

Day 4 - Magdalena community & Ibarra & Quito

AM
Join the locals in Magdalena for their morning activities, including milking cows.

Next, we head to Ibarra, famously known as “La Ciudad Blanca” and the capital of Imbabura. Your guide will delve into the city’s rich history while we admire its stunning architecture.

Our journey continues to “Parque Cóndor,” a rescue center for birds of prey. Here, you’ll learn about the significant challenges faced by Andean condors and owls.

community-karanki-magdalena

PM
In the afternoon, we visit Hacienda Pinsaqui, a historic site in Imbabura Province. Savor a traditional lunch, stroll through the picturesque gardens, and interact with the horses.

Later, we drive back to Quito, ensuring your drop-off at either your hotel or the airport.

Meals Included: Breakfast at Magdalena Home Stay, Lunch at Hacienda Pinsaqui.

landscape-karanki-magdalena

 
Day 5 - Welcome to Galapagos & Santa Cruz Island

Day 5 - Welcome to Galapagos & Santa Cruz Island

AM
✈ Welcome to Galapagos. Departure from Quito to Baltra Island is a 2 1⁄2 hour flight. Upon arrival in the Galapagos, passengers are greeted at the airport by our knowledgeable guides who will accompany them on a short ten-minute bus ride to the pier where they will board the Coral I or Coral II.

HB-Corals-Facade-banner

PM
North Seymour Island This flat, uplifting, island is an important spot to see both magnificent and great frigate bird males courting the females and, we will also likely see courting blue-footed boobies too. Sea lions, swallow-tailed gulls, crashing surf and distant views of the Daphne Islands top off a great visit.

NewWeb-HB-islas-north-seymour-blue-two-footed-booby-tourist

 

Day 6 - Santa Cruz Island & Mosquera Islet

Day 6 - Santa Cruz Island & Mosquera Islet

AM
Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz Island). Once home to the famous Lonesome George, the last tortoise of the Pinta race. The center is set in the Galapagos National Park Service where various interpretative buildings are available to visit. The grounds, with large stands of native vegetation are one of the better places to spot some of the seldom seen Darwins finches.

NewWeb-HB-islas-Santa-Cruz-charles-darwin-station

PM
Mosquera Islet. This tiny, low-lying islet, converted into coral sand, is set between the north and south Seymour Islands. It’s home to a group of sea lions that come to laze on the soft white sand, it’s an excellent spot to observe shorebirds, herons, lava gulls, and boobies. Snorkeling or diving here, one can often see sharks, rays, and barracudas.

NewWeb-HB-islas-mosquera-landscape

 

Day 7 - South Plaza Island & Santa Fe Island

Day 7 - South Plaza Island & Santa Fe Island

AM
South Plaza Island. Sea lions, swallow-tailed gulls, and land iguanas are all present at the landing site. The small island is covered with a carpet of a red succulent studded with Opuntia cacti. At the edge of the cliff, we spent time observing birds such as frigate birds, flocks of Galapagos shearwaters, and, notably, flights of displaying red-billed tropic birds.

NewWeb-HB-islas-south-plaza-girl-picture

PM
Santa Fe Island. After a fabulous snorkel in the turquoise waters of the protected bay, we may have enjoyed time with sea lions, turtles, reef sharks and spotted eagle rays. Landing on a sandy beach, we spend time watching the abundant sea lions there with us and . We begin a walk past a forest of island-endemic giant Opuntia cacti and we can watch the Santa Fe land Iguana

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: DAY 5 Sante Fe Island, a girl walking at the shore with many sea lions

 

Day 8 - Lobos Island & return to Quito

Day 10 - Lobos Island & return to Quito

AM
Lobos Island. Isla Lobos is approximately 20 minutes by boat from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Once on the island, the trail is about 850 meters and there will be rocky trails and a nice & easy sand trail too. There is a small population of blue-footed boobies and great frigatebirds nests at this site.

San Cristobal Airport. After the visit, passengers will be transferred to the airport for their return flight to Quito.

NewWeb-HB-islas-san-cristobal-cerro-brujo-girls

PM
Accommodation: In the 5-Star GO Quito Hotel/ Premium Room

GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: DAY 6 Accommodation in GO Quito Hotel

 

Day 9 - Transfer to Airport

Day 9 - Transfer to Airport

AM
Transfer to Quito airport
Transfer to Quito airport or guests can also extend their stay in Ecuador with other land tours we offer.
 
GO 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: DAY 7, buffet in the GO Quito Hotel

 

A couple in the Galapagos Islands

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Wildlife by expedition

What's Included?

Hiking icon
Two daily excursions
Cruise icon
Onboard activities
Snorkeling icon
Aquatic activities
Meal icon
All meals onboard
Included in the rates

Onboard

- High-quality Galapagos Islands cruise sharing double occupancy.
- 2 daily excursions to the islands with multilingual naturalist guides.
- Snorkeling opportunities (equipment included: fins, mask, snorkel).
- Glass bottom boat (Available in Galapagos Legend).
- Lectures and briefings.
- All meals included onboard, welcome and farewell cocktails.
- Luxury Cabins with sea views, air conditioning, and private facilities (one thermos and excursion bag per person included).
- All cabins are equipped with shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel. Body lotion is also available in balcony suites.
- Towels available for personal use: cabin, pool, and during excursions.

Mainland:

- Three nights’ accommodation at the 5-star Hotel: GO Quito Hotel.
- One night’s accommodation at Karanki-Magdalena Home Stay
- Meals: Three breakfasts in Quito.

- Assistance with check-in and baggage handling at the airport (one piece of luggage, max. 20kls per person).
- Roundtrip transfers.
- Transfers to/from the airport and dinghy rides to/from ports in connection with scheduled flights.
Not included and to be invoiced onboard
Not included and to be invoiced onboard (net in US$ per person subject to change):
⊗ Air ticket from Quito / Guayaquil to Galapagos.
– $ 495 per adult.
– $ 375 per child under 12 years old.
Issued by GO in connection with the cruise itinerary, arranging and securing logistics, luggage, and passenger transfers from airports to port – ship and back, documentation.
⊗ Galapagos Entrance Fee.
– $ 200 per adult
– $ 100 for children under 12 years old.
⊗ CGG Migration Control Card: $20 per person.
Supplements & Discounts

⊗ Single supplement: 50%, except in holiday seasons. (15 Dec – 5 Jan).

⊗ Triple occupancy: 25% discount for a third person sharing a cabin with two full-paying guests. (Only available on Galapagos Legend).

⊗ 50% discount for children under 12 years old sharing a cabin with two full-fare paying guests. 25% discount during the holiday season.

Optional onboard plus taxes

Optional onboard plus taxes (net per person in US$ subject to change):

- Internet: Single cruise: $45.00 | Double cruise: $65.00

- Wetsuit rental: $25 per person.

- Kayak rental: $25 per person.

- Alcoholic and soft drinks: (packages available).

- Scuba diving during GO’s cruises: $315 half-day tour with 1-2 dives and equipment included (pre-booking required).

- Doctor: Medical assistance and medication are additional costs.

- Tips: Suggested per person per day $20 for crew / $10 for guide.

* Note 1: If any other ticket to/from Galapagos is used, a non-refundable operational fee of US$ 90.00 net per person will be added to provide a dinghy ride to/from the ship in Galapagos. GO is not responsible if passengers miss the cruise or other services due to delays in independent arrangements.

What to take on the trip?

Go 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: two travelers with the essentials things to bring to the Galapagos Island

Essentials:

  • Passport and Travel Documents.
  • Cash in US Dollars and bring credit or debit cards.
  • Your medications for the journey.
  • Ocean-Friendly Sunblock.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Waterproof small backpack.
  • Photo and video cameras.
  • Journal
Go 1 - Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise: A family at the beach with a baby sea lion

What to Wear?

  • Water-resistant, closed-toe sport sandals.
  • Lightweight hiking shoes.
  • Lightweight hiking pants or shorts.
  • Long-sleeve shirts.
  • Bathing suits.
  • Warm sweater or fleece.
  • Wide-brimmed hat or cap.
  • Sunglasses

GO QUITO HOTEL

A unique hotel that offers 151 elegant rooms and lofts with a view of the city, inspired by the Andes. They have a modern home automation system that integrates lighting and heating. It also has a wellness area with a heated pool, sauna, spa, yoga room and a beautiful orchid garden.
GO Quito Hotel, committed to social and environmental responsibility, seeks to reduce its impact through responsible practices to conserve resources, manage energy efficiency and support the well-being of guests and staff.
 
Go Package Lobby Go Quito
Go Package Hotel Room
Go Package Swimming pool Go Quito

Enjoy optional full-day tours

Explore more of Ecuador with our additional land tours. Immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences this beautiful country has to offer.

Extend your stay in Ecuador with other land tours we offer