Ecuador Escorted Tours
Ecuador, a fascinating country in its own right, is known as the gateway to the Galapagos Islands, a chain of islands celebrated for their endemic flora and fauna and famed as being the inspiration of Darwin's theories on evolution.
Mainland Ecuador, small in size relative to some of its neighbours, still packs a punch in terms of diversity. The colonial capital Quito, high up in the Andes, is full of Spanish charm while colourful Guayaquil acts as an entrance to the beaches of the Pacific Ocean.
The main attraction of an Ecuador tour, however, must be the opportunity to visit the incredible Galapagos Islands. Home to tortoises and iguanas, sea lions and more birds than you could believe these islands are an animal lovers paradise quite unlike anywhere else on the planet.
Your tour of Ecuador is just a phone call away
Call our Travel Specialists today on 1800 804 006
Where possible we have secured a limited number of places without a single Supplement on each escorted tour. These are strictly subject to availability and once they are all booked a supplement will apply.
All of our English speaking local guides are passionate about their country and will accompany you from the moment you arrive in your destination, throughout your escorted tour and right until your departing flight home.
All the hotels chosen for these escorted tours have been personally sourced and inspected by us. We pride ourselves on offering you comfortable, handpicked accommodation in some of the best locations around the world.
Once you have booked, we will send you a comprehensive dossier with all your accommodation details, flight and airport information, country advice and other useful tips such as what to pack and luggage allowance.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Your guide to visiting Ecuador
Popular Destinations in Ecuador
Ecuador is a land of contrasts, where Andean peaks meet Amazonian jungles, colonial cities blend with Indigenous traditions, and the Galápagos Islands offer a window into evolution itself. From cloud forests to cobbled streets, here are some of the country’s top destinations:
Quito
Ecuador’s high-altitude capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture and dramatic mountain backdrop. Wander through the historic Old Town, visit ornate churches, and enjoy panoramic views from El Panecillo. Just outside the city, the Middle of the World Monument offers a fun and educational stop, where you can stand on the equator and explore interactive exhibits and cultural displays.
Cuenca
Charming and cultured, Cuenca is another UNESCO gem with cobbled streets, flower-filled plazas, and elegant churches. It’s a hub for artisans and expats alike. Explore the local markets, and enjoy the relaxed pace of life along the Tomebamba River.
Cotopaxi
One of the world’s highest active volcanoes, Cotopaxi rises dramatically from the Andes and is surrounded by a national park of sweeping plains and rugged beauty. Escorted tours often include scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and optional hikes with stunning views of the snow-capped summit.
Amazon Rainforest
Ecuador’s Amazon region is rich in biodiversity and Indigenous culture. Escorted tours here often include river cruises, jungle walks, and visits to local communities. It’s a chance to experience the rainforest’s vibrant ecosystems and learn about traditional ways of life.
Galápagos Islands
A bucket-list destination, the Galápagos are a living laboratory of biodiversity. Snorkel with sea lions, hike volcanic landscapes, and encounter giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies. Each island offers unique wildlife and landscapes, making this archipelago a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Best Time to Visit Ecuador
Ecuador’s diverse geography means there’s always somewhere in season. The best time to visit depends on where you’re going—coast, highlands, Amazon, or Galápagos. Generally, June to September and December to February offer the most pleasant weather for travel across regions.
Winter (December – February)
In the highlands, this is the dry season—ideal for exploring Quito, Cuenca, and the Avenue of the Volcanoes. On the coast, it’s warmer and wetter, perfect for beachgoers. The Galápagos are lush and vibrant, with excellent wildlife viewing and calm seas.
Spring (March – May)
Expect more rain in the Andes, but the landscapes are green and blooming. It’s a great time for birdwatching in the cloud forests of Mindo or exploring the Amazon, where wildlife is active and river levels are high.
Summer (June – August)
Dry and sunny in the highlands, this is peak hiking season. The Galápagos are cooler and drier, with great underwater visibility for snorkelling and diving. Coastal areas are drier too.
Autumn (September – November)
A shoulder season with fewer tourists and mild weather. It’s a great time to explore cultural sites, enjoy harvest festivals, and experience the changing colours of the páramo in the Andes. Wildlife in the Galápagos remains active year-round.
Food & Drink in Ecuador
Ecuadorian cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes, with coastal seafood, hearty highland stews, and tropical Amazonian flavors. Meals are often simple, fresh, and deeply rooted in local traditions. Whether you’re dining in a market stall or a mountain lodge, food in Ecuador is a cultural experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ceviche – A coastal favourite made with shrimp, fish, or shellfish marinated in citrus juice, often served with popcorn or plantain chips. Refreshing and tangy.
Hornado – Slow-roasted pork served with hominy, plantains, and salad. A festive dish often found at weekend markets in the highlands.
Locro de Papa – A creamy potato and cheese soup, sometimes topped with avocado and served with aji (spicy sauce). Comforting and perfect for chilly Andean evenings.
Encocado – A coconut-based seafood stew from the Pacific coast, rich with spices and served with rice and fried plantains.
Helado de Paila – A traditional hand-churned sorbet made with tropical fruits like naranjilla or guanábana. A sweet treat from the highlands.
Local drinks include fresh fruit juices, often made with papaya, passionfruit, or tree tomato, and canelazo, a warm spiced cinnamon drink popular in the highlands—especially welcome on cool evenings.
Tips for Planning Your Ecuador Tour
Ecuador’s most comfortable travel seasons - June to September and December to February, are also its most popular, so booking in advance is recommended. These months offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for sightseeing, hiking, and island-hopping.
Our escorted tours offer a smooth and enriching way to explore Ecuador’s diverse regions, cultures, and ecosystems. With local expertise, thoughtful planning, and seamless logistics, you’ll enjoy a deeper connection to the country’s landscapes, traditions, and hospitality. Whether you're navigating colonial cities, cruising through the Galápagos, or trekking in the Andes, our tours are designed to make your journey effortless and unforgettable.
