The Andes-Galápagos Collection
Overview
Embark on a remarkable eight‑day, seven‑night journey that blends the cultural charm of mainland Ecuador with the extraordinary beauty of the Galápagos Islands. Begin your adventure in the historic heart of the Andes before travelling through the tranquil highlands, where sweeping landscapes and timeless traditions set the stage for your island escape. Continue to the Galápagos, exploring both Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal, each offering its own unique character, atmosphere and natural allure.
Important notes:
- This itinerary includes ferry/boat rides. If you are prone to seasickness, please plan accordingly.
- This itinerary may involve winding roads. If you are sensitive to motion sickness, we recommend planning accordingly.
- Driving times indicated in your itinerary are approximate and may vary due to traffic and road conditions.
- If your itinerary includes domestic and/or regional flight tickets, as well as entry tickets to landmarks that require passport details, you must call Air Canada Vacations immediately upon receiving your booking confirmation. Failure to provide Air Canada Vacations with your passport details may result in the unavailability of domestic and/or regional flight tickets and entry passes for certain landmarks included in your tour package. It is mandatory to call Air Canada Vacations at the number provided in your electronic confirmation as soon as your booking is confirmed to submit your passport details.
- Due to the natural characteristics of the Galapagos Islands, all the activities that visitors undertake there, both on cruises as well as in the Combined Programs (Hotel + Excursions), require certain levels of physical effort and adequate mobility. These activities include:
- To climb up and down stairways and steps.
- The excursions include walks over irregular natural trails as well as aquatic activities such as snorkelling.
- Most of the walks are over irregular terrain made of lava, rocks or sand.
- To constantly get in and out of small boats in motion, on landings that can be “dry” or “wet.”
- Dry Landing: Passengers step directly from the boat to a small pier or onto the rocks.
- Wet Landing: The boat reaches a beach, and passengers disembark in the water, usually with maximum knee-high water
- Unfortunately, due to the local conditions, the cruise vessels as well as the Combined Programs (Hotel + Excursions) in the Islands do NOT have facilities for passengers who need a wheelchair or who have limitations of mobility by themselves.
- Galápagos Islands entry procedure:
Your Galápagos experience begins smoothly, with both the Transit Control Card (TCT) and the Galápagos National Park entrance fee already included in your package. Prior to departure, all luggage must pass through the ABG biosecurity inspection, where bags are screened and sealed to prevent prohibited organic materials from entering the islands. Upon arrival in Baltra or San Cristóbal, visitors collect their luggage, proceed through the local biosecurity checkpoint and then exit the arrivals area to continue their journey
Format
Locations
- Ecuador
- Quito
- San Cristóbal Island, Galápagos Islands
- Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos Islands
- Baltra Island, Galápagos Islands
Inclusions
- Round-trip flight to Quito (if the Flight & Hotel option is chosen)
- One-way domestic flight in economy class from Quito to San Cristobal Island
- One-way domestic flight in economy class from Baltra Island to Quito
- Transit Control Card (TCT)
- Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee
- Ferry ride from San Cristobal Island to Santa Cruz Island
- Shared transfers for all the services within your itinerary
- 7 nights accommodation in select category (3 nights in Quito, 2 nights in San Cristobal Island, 2 nights in Santa Cruz Island)
- Early check-in upon arrival
- Daily breakfast, unless noted otherwise
- Other meals as per itinerary (drinks not included)
- More Moments activities included:
- Quito half-day city tour
- Highlands full-day excursion
- Galapaguera Breeding Centre tour
- El Junco Lagoon visit
- Full-day Galápagos Islands navigation 360° tour
- Half-day Santa Cruz Island Bay tour
- Hotel taxes
- Fees and service charges
- Service of an English-speaking local guide
- Entrance fees to the monuments as mentioned in the itinerary
- Earn extra Aeroplan® points per member on this tour
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Quito
Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, you’ll proceed through customs and immigration. Once cleared, you’ll collect your luggage and exit the baggage hall, where a local representative will be waiting to greet you with an Air Canada Vacations sign bearing your name. Your representative will then escort you to your transfer for a comfortable journey to your hotel to check in.
After breakfast, you’ll meet your local guide in the hotel lobby and set off on a captivating half‑day exploration of Quito. This immersive experience invites you to soak in the city’s charm, cultural richness and unique atmosphere as you journey through its most emblematic areas.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel, with the remainder of the day free to relax or continue discovering Quito at your own pace.
More Moments Activities Included
-
Half-day city tour
This half‑day sightseeing excursion showcases the very best of Quito, a city celebrated for its rich cultural legacy, ornate facades and dazzling gilt altars. Your journey begins at Independence Square, followed by visits to the Archbishop’s Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral. You will also explore outstanding examples of art and architecture, including the impressive Santo Francisco Convent. The experience concludes with a panoramic view of Quito’s historic colonial district from Panecillo Hill, offering an exceptional perspective of the city’s beautifully preserved layout.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 2
Quito
After breakfast, you’ll meet your local guide in the hotel lobby and set off on a captivating full‑day journey into Ecuador’s breathtaking Highlands. Depending on the day’s route, your adventure may lead you through the tranquil landscapes of Nono and the Yanacocha Reserve, the lush natural beauty of Mindo, the sweeping vistas of the Northern Highlands or the majestic Central Highlands, home to both Cotopaxi National Park and the Antisana Ecological Reserve. Each region offers its own distinctive atmosphere and high‑Andean charm, ensuring an unforgettable immersion into one of Ecuador’s most remarkable environments.
Please note: The national park to be visited must be selected at the time of booking.
After your visit, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel to unwind and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
-
Highlands full-day excursion
This full‑day excursion gives you the opportunity to experience the remarkable beauty and atmosphere of Ecuador’s Highlands. Throughout the day, you’ll travel through sweeping Andean landscapes, taking in the dramatic scenery and distinctive character that define this iconic region. Guided by a local expert, you’ll gain an appreciation for the highlands’ natural charm and timeless appeal, making this journey a memorable highlight of your Ecuadorian adventure.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 3
Quito – San Cristobal Island
After breakfast and your check out, a local representative will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you to the airport for your flight to San Cristóbal airport, one of the main gateways to the enchanting Galápagos Islands.
Upon arrival, you will complete the usual entry formalities before proceeding to the arrivals area, where a representative will be waiting to greet you with a sign displaying your name. From there, you will be escorted to your transfer to visit the Galapaguera Breeding Centre and El Junco Lagoon. Following your explorations, you will continue to your hotel to check in.
Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
-
Galapaguera Breeding Centre tour
One of the Galápagos Islands’ most inspiring conservation sites, where the remarkable life cycle of the giant tortoise unfolds before your eyes. At the Galapaguera Breeding Centre, you’ll wander along natural trails and observe these iconic creatures in various stages of growth, from tiny hatchlings to impressive adults, each cared for in a protected environment designed to support the recovery of this endangered species. Surrounded by lush highland scenery, this experience offers a meaningful glimpse into the vital preservation work that helps safeguard the Galápagos’ most emblematic inhabitants for generations to come.
-
El Junco Lagoon visit
One of the Galápagos Islands’ rare freshwater treasures. Nestled high in the misty volcanic highlands, this tranquil crater lake offers an atmosphere of pure calm surrounded by lush greenery and sweeping panoramic views. As you wander along its scenic rim, you’ll feel immersed in an otherworldly landscape shaped by ancient geological forces and thriving with birdlife.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 4
San Cristobal Island – Galápagos Islands
After breakfast, you’ll meet your local guide in the hotel lobby and set off on an unforgettable 360° full‑day navigation excursion tour through the extraordinary Galápagos Islands. Your guide will confirm the island you will explore that day, ensuring your adventure aligns with local schedules and approved routes while showcasing the remarkable beauty of this one‑of‑a‑kind archipelago.
Important Information
- Island assignments and itineraries are determined by availability and the operational schedule authorized by the Galápagos National Park.
- Navigation excursions are shared services, confirmed according to operational availability.
- All visits within the protected Galápagos National Park are conducted with one certified naturalist guide (English/Spanish) for every 16 guests, ensuring an enriching and responsible experience.
- Itineraries and sailing plans may change due to Galápagos National Park regulations or weather conditions, safeguarding both visitor safety and environmental protection.
- All navigation programs operate on vessels with a capacity of 16 to 26 passengers, offering an intimate and comfortable way to experience the islands.
- A light lunch is included during your excursion.
More Moments Activities Included
-
Full-day Galápagos Islands navigation 360 tour
Set sail on an unforgettable adventure, where the beauty of the islands unfolds from every angle. Glide through pristine waters, surrounded by dramatic coastlines, volcanic formations and breathtaking panoramas. Along the way, discover hidden coves, encounter abundant wildlife and immerse yourself in the serene rhythm of the sea. This all-encompassing journey offers a 360-degree perspective of nature at its most spectacular, creating memories that linger long after the day ends.
Meal(s): Breakfast and light lunch
Day 5
San Cristobal – Santa Cruz Island
After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning exploring San Cristóbal Island at your own pace. Once check-out formalities are completed, your local tour guide will escort you to the pier to board your ferry to Santa Cruz Island.
Please note that the ferry operates as a public service, offering shared transportation and limited English-speaking assistance.
Upon arrival at the Santa Cruz Island pier, a local representative will be waiting with an Air Canada Vacations sign displaying your name. You’ll be welcomed and accompanied to your hotel in Puerto Ayora for check-in.
Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 6
Santa Cruz Island
After breakfast, you’ll meet your local tour guide in the lobby of your hotel and embark on today’s exciting adventure, a half-day Santa Cruz Island Bay tour.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel to enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
-
Half-day Santa Cruz Island Bay tour
A captivating half‑day bay tour that showcases the island’s serene coastal beauty and inviting waters. As you journey along the shoreline, you’ll enjoy a relaxed exploration of the area’s stunning landscapes, vibrant marine environment and tranquil bays that define the heart of the Galápagos. Designed to offer a blend of gentle adventure and peaceful discovery, this tour provides an ideal balance of scenery and island atmosphere, perfect for immersing yourself in Santa Cruz’s coastal allure while leaving the rest of the day free to enjoy at your leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 7
Santa Cruz Island – Baltra Island – Quito
After breakfast and check out, your local representative will meet you in the hotel lobby and accompany you to Baltra Island for your flight back to Quito.
Upon arrival, a representative holding an Air Canada Vacations sign will warmly welcome you and guide you to your transfer. You will then be taken to your hotel to check in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 8
Quito – Canada
After breakfast and check out, your local representative will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel and take you to Mariscal Sucre International Airport to catch your flight back to Canada.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodations
Where you'll stay
Location
Hotel
Room details
Unless otherwise indicated, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Bed size(s): 1 king or 2 twin beds. Rollaway beds available upon request (locally)
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 guests (2 Adults or 1 adult + 1 child)
Room details
Unless otherwise indicated, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Bed size(s): 1 king or 2 twin beds. Rollaway beds available upon request (locally)
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 guests (2 Adults or 1 adult + 1 child)
Room details
Unless otherwise indicated, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Bed size(s): 1 king or 2 twin beds. Rollaway beds available upon request (locally)
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 guests (2 Adults or 1 adult + 1 child)
Important Information
-
Every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday from the 4th of December 2026 until 26th March 2027
-
Not included:
- Gratuities
- Airport taxes (where applicable)
- Meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Beverages during meals
- Porterage of luggage at hotels
- Additional hotel services (laundry, minibar, room service, etc.)
- Transfers for optional activities, or any additional transfers outside those listed in the itinerary
- Entrance fees to landmarks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities and excursions
- Visa fees (where applicable)
-
- Car: For all airport-hotel-airport and mainland Ecuador sightseeing transfers
- Ferry/boat for all sightseeing in the Galápagos Islands
- Plane: Quito to San Cristobal Island
- Ferry: San Cristobal Island to Santa Cruz Island
- Plane: Baltra Island to Quito