
GO 3: GALAPAGOS CRUISE & ECUADOR'S VOLCANO AVENUE
Embark on a 13-day journey through Ecuador’s stunning Andes and the Galápagos Islands. Explore Quito’s colonial heritage, marvel at the towering Cotopaxi along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, and experience authentic culture in the Karanki Magdalena community. Conclude with a luxury Galápagos cruise aboard the Galapagos Legend or Coral I & II, featuring guided excursions, unique wildlife encounters, and breathtaking landscapes. This all-inclusive package offers the perfect balance of nature, culture, and comfort.
13 days / 12 nights
Enjoy 7 days land (Quito) / 6 days cruise (Galapagos Island)
All meals included onboard
All meals included onboard, welcome and farewell cocktails.
From $5,196
Per person in USD (subject to change)
Trip Highlights

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

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

Galapagos
Galapagos
Navigate the Galapagos Islands, an iconic conservation landmark.

Galapagos
Galapagos
Navigate the Galapagos Islands, an iconic conservation landmark.
Quito
Quito
Quito Cultural Heritage of Humanity and the Middle of the World.

Cuenca
Cuenca
Start in Cuenca, exploring its historic center, colonial architecture, and iconic blue-domed cathedral.
Go 1: Colonial Quito & Galapagos Cruise
Choose your Ship
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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Sample Itinerary
Day 1 - Welcome to Quito
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.
Accommodation: In the 5-Star GO Quito Hotel/ Premium Room
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.
.jpg?width=800&height=342&name=DAY%202%20(AM).jpg)
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.
Accommodation: In the 5-Star GO Quito Hotel/ Premium Room
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.
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
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.
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.
Day 5 - Quito - Cotopaxi Volcano - Baños de Agua Santa & Riobamba
AM
Travel south to Baños, passing through lush agricultural landscapes and admiring the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano in its stunning national park. Visitors can explore and climb to scenic rest stops for breathtaking views.
PM
Arriving in Baños, enjoy a cooler climate near Tungurahua Volcano, with adventure tours, relaxing thermal waters, and scenic waterfalls. After exploring, continue to Riobamba for an overnight stay in a classical hacienda.
Day 6 - Riobamba - Balbanera Church - Sand Dunes Palmira - Ingapirca Ruins & Cuenca
AM
If weather permits, admire Chimborazo, the world’s farthest mountain from Earth’s center at 6,310m. Travel south through stunning landscapes, stopping at La Balbanera, Ecuador’s first Catholic church, and Guamote, home to a vibrant indigenous market on Thursdays.
PM
Explore the Palmira sand dunes for breathtaking photos before visiting Ingapirca Ruins, a fusion of Cañari and Inca heritage. Discover ancient artifacts in the site museum before reaching Cuenca for an overnight stay in a first-class hotel.
Overnight: First Class Hotel in Cuenca
Day 7 - Cuenca - El Cajas National Park & Guayaquil
AM
Begin the day with a panoramic tour of Cuenca, Ecuador’s third-largest city, rich in colonial history and home to over 20 churches. A UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site, it also preserves pre-Inca Cañari archaeological remains.
PM
Next, explore El Cajas National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and over 200 lagoons, including the famous La Toreadora.
Overnight: First Class Hotel in Guayaquil
Day 8 - Welcome to Galapagos & Mosquera Islet
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.
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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.
Day 9 - Santiago Island & Rabida Island
AM
Egas Port (Santiago Island). The black volcanic sand sets this landing apart from most. It’s best known for the dramatic shoreline, where we meet a host of species that choose to live between land and sea. Among these are the endemic Galapagos fur seals, which maintain a small colony at the end of our walk.

PM
Rabida Island Lying at the archipelago’s heart, this dramatic island with a distinctive red-sand beach is home to sea lions, mockingbirds, finches, endemic Galapagos doves, and vermilion flycatchers. A walk takes us through a forest of palo santo and cacti to a beautiful overview of the bay.
Day 10 - Isabela Island
AM
Urbina Bay (Isabela Island) At the far end of a long level hike, we arrive at a strange phenomenon where large blocks of coral lie completely exposed after a dramatic geological uplift in 1954. Located at the western base of Alcedo Volcano, we hope to run into a few impressive land iguanas and some volcanoes endemic to Galapagos giant tortoises during the wet season.

PM
Tagus Cove (Isabela Island) Tagus Cove is a historic pirate hideout and anchorage. Visited by Charles Darwin and the HMS Beagle in 1835. Hike past Darwin Lake and stunning volcanic landscape, revealing Isabela island’s dramatic northern volcanoes. Snorkel along a submerged wall with turtles, fish, penguins, and flightless cormorants. Enjoy a panga ride or kayak for added excitement!
Day 11 - Fernandina Island & Isabela Island
AM
Punta Espinosa (Fernandina Island) Pristine Fernandina, the marine iguana capital. Its desolate volcanic backdrop hosts a massive concentration of these enigmatic reptiles. Surprisingly, Galapagos penguins share the same shoreline. Snorkeling offers an exciting opportunity to witness marine iguanas feeding underwater, alongside penguins, turtles, and unique flightless cormorants.

PM
Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela Island) Spectacular site, surrounded by immense cliffs of an eroded volcano. Studded with resting seabirds like brown noddies and Nazca boobies. Superb snorkeling with unique fish species. Swim with penguins and green turtles.
Day 12 - Santa Cruz Island & Return to Quito
AM
Highlands (Santa Cruz Island) In the central highlands of Santa Cruz Island, we have our best opportunity to interact at close quarters with totally wild, Galapagos giant tortoises. A short walk among these huge, 600lb (272.16 kg), reptiles will also offer the chance for more highland species, especially several species of the famed finches.
✈Baltra Island Airport After the visit, passengers will be transferred to the airport for their return flight to Quito.

Day 13 - Transfer to Airport
Transfer to Quito airport
Transfer to Quito airport or guests can also extend their stay in Ecuador with other land tours we offer.

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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Sample Itinerary
Day 1 - Welcome to Quito
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.
Accommodation: In the 5-Star GO Quito Hotel/ Premium Room
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.
.jpg?width=800&height=342&name=DAY%202%20(AM).jpg)
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.
Accommodation: In the 5-Star GO Quito Hotel/ Premium Room
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.
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
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.
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.
Day 5 - Quito - Cotopaxi Volcano - Baños de Agua Santa & Riobamba
AM
Travel south to Baños, passing through lush agricultural landscapes and admiring the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano in its stunning national park. Visitors can explore and climb to scenic rest stops for breathtaking views.
PM
Arriving in Baños, enjoy a cooler climate near Tungurahua Volcano, with adventure tours, relaxing thermal waters, and scenic waterfalls. After exploring, continue to Riobamba for an overnight stay in a classical hacienda.
Day 6 - Riobamba - Balbanera Church - Sand Dunes Palmira - Ingapirca Ruins & Cuenca
AM
If weather permits, admire Chimborazo, the world’s farthest mountain from Earth’s center at 6,310m. Travel south through stunning landscapes, stopping at La Balbanera, Ecuador’s first Catholic church, and Guamote, home to a vibrant indigenous market on Thursdays.
PM
Explore the Palmira sand dunes for breathtaking photos before visiting Ingapirca Ruins, a fusion of Cañari and Inca heritage. Discover ancient artifacts in the site museum before reaching Cuenca for an overnight stay in a first-class hotel.
Overnight: First Class Hotel in Cuenca
Day 7 - Cuenca - El Cajas National Park & Guayaquil
AM
Begin the day with a panoramic tour of Cuenca, Ecuador’s third-largest city, rich in colonial history and home to over 20 churches. A UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site, it also preserves pre-Inca Cañari archaeological remains.
PM
Next, explore El Cajas National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and over 200 lagoons, including the famous La Toreadora.
Overnight: First Class Hotel in Guayaquil
Day 8 - 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.
PM
Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz Island). Here we can find four species of mangrove in the extensive tidal lagoon system that stretches for almost a mile inland. During our panga ride through the labyrinth we will spot many turtles, herons of several species, sharks and rays. The experience is otherworldly and seems to transport us back to the beginning of time.
Day 9 - Isabela Island & Fernandina Island
AM
Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela Island). Spectacular site, surrounded by immense cliffs of an eroded volcano. Studded with resting seabirds like brown noddies and Nazca boobies. Superb snorkeling with unique fish species. Swim with penguins and green turtles.

PM
Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela Island). Pristine Fernandina, the marine iguana capital. Its desolate volcanic backdrop hosts a massive concentration of these enigmatic reptiles. Surprisingly, Galapagos penguins share the same shoreline. Snorkeling offers an exciting opportunity to witness marine iguanas feeding underwater, alongside penguins, turtles, and unique flightless cormorants.
Day 10 - Isabela Island
AM
Urbina Bay (Isabela Island) At the far end of a long level hike, we arrive at a strange phenomenon where large blocks of coral lie completely exposed after a dramatic geological uplift in 1954. Located at the western base of Alcedo Volcano, we hope to run into a few impressive land iguanas and some volcanoes endemic to Galapagos giant tortoises during the wet season.

PM
Tagus Cove (Isabela Island) Tagus Cove is a historic pirate hideout and anchorage. Visited by Charles Darwin and the HMS Beagle in 1835. Hike past Darwin Lake and stunning volcanic landscape, revealing Isabela island’s dramatic northern volcanoes. Snorkel along a submerged wall with turtles, fish, penguins, and flightless cormorants. Enjoy a panga ride or kayak for added excitement!
Day 11 - Santiago Island
AM
Egas Port (Santiago Island). The black volcanic sand sets this landing apart from most, it’s best known for the dramatic shoreline where we meet a host of species that chose to live between land and sea. Among these are the endemic Galapagos fur seals, which maintain a small colony at the end of our walk.

PM
Sullivan Bay (Santiago Island). It has an extensive features relative to young pa-hoe-hoe lava flows formed during the last quarter of the 19th century. In the middle of the lava flow, older reddish-yellow-colored tuff cones appear. Mollugo plants with their yellow-to-orange whorled leaves usually grow out of the fissures. Walking on solidified lava gives the impression of being on another planet.
Day 12 - Santa Cruz Island & Return to Quito
AM
Highland (Santa Cruz Island). In the central highlands of Santa Cruz Island, we have our best opportunity to interact at close quarters with totally wild, Galapagos giant tortoises. A short walk among these huge, 600lb (272.16 kg), reptiles will also offer the chance for more highland species, especially several species of the famed finches.
✈ Baltra Island Airport. After the visit, passengers will be transferred to the airport for their return flight to Quito.

Day 13 - Transfer to Airport
Transfer to Quito airport
Transfer to Quito airport or guests can also extend their stay in Ecuador with other land tours we offer.


Wildlife by expedition



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What's Included?
Onboard
- 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:
- One night accommodation at Karanki-Magdalena Home Stay.
- Three nights’ accommodation at First Class hotels in Riobamba, Cuenca and Guayaquil.
- Meals: All Breakfasts during your trip.
- Roundtrip transfers.
- Transfers to/from the airport and dinghy rides to/from ports in connection with scheduled flights.
– $ 495 per adult.
– $ 375 per child under 12 years old.
– $ 100 for children under 12 years old.
⊗ 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 (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: $355 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.
What to take on the trip?

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

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
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.



Enjoy optional full-day tours?

Otavalo: One of the most famous handcraft markets in Latin America
More information