Galapagos, landscape, nature, equator, south america, wildlife, darwin
Bartolome Island, the Galápagos

Galápagos and Ecuador: A Family Adventure

Jun 29 - Jul 8 and Dec 21 - 30, 2013; Mar 8 - 17, Jun 27 - Jul 6 2014, and Dec 26, 2014 - Jan 4, 2015
For more details or to book your family vacation, enter your name and email below or Call 1-888-466-3590 M-F, 9 am-5:30 pm (EST)!
Adult Starting at $5,390
Child Starting at $5,240
Call 888-466-3590
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    Overview
  • Our new family program in Ecuador provides a fascinating overview of the natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands and the cultural history of the Andean Highlands. Your journey begins near Quito, where your children will learn about the Equator and its impact on world history. Next head to the Andean Highlands, where you stay at a top luxury hacienda and working ranch dating back to the 17th century. Explore the lush hills and valleys of the property by horseback or mountain bike, and learn about ranch traditions during your stay. Children can also meet a pen pal friend in the Highlands.

    Then fly to the Galápagos for a four-day exploration of Isabela and Santa Cruz Islands. Learn about Darwin and see up close his theses on the evolution of species. Gaze in amazement (and amusement!) at Blue-Footed Boobies, flightless cormorants, giant tortoises, and the only penguin species north of the Equator. On Isabela Island, take a boat from Puerto Villamil to explore the lava formations, volcanic underground caves, and tunnels and arches of Los Tuneles, renowned for fabulous snorkeling. Relax on beautiful beaches, learn about protected giant tortoises at a Tortoise Breeding Center, and paddle a kayak through mangroves rich in wildlife with newfound friends. Return home with fun family memories to last a lifetime. Recommended for families with children ages 8 and older.
    • Special Highlights
  • Enjoy the natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands. During four fabulous days on Isabela and Santa Cruz Islands, take specially planned excursions that feature the natural history of this amazing World Heritage site. Gaze in amazement (and amusement!) at Blue-Footed Boobies, flightless cormorants, giant tortoises, and the only penguin species north of the Equator. Stop at the Galápagos National Park Tortoise Breeding Center, where your family will learn how this species evolved to adapt to its environment. Explore Los Tuneles, a bizarre and precious site consisting of underwater arches, tunnels, and caves formed millions of years ago. Snorkel in Tortuga Bay, or stroll along the beach, considered one of the most beautiful in the islands, where marine iguanas bask in the sun and pelicans hunt for food along the shore.
  • Experience the cultural traditions of the Andean Highlands. During a two-and-a-half-hour hike, you’ll cross Eucalyptus forests, cattle farms, pastures, and hills and visit rural villages inhabited by indigenous peoples who still harbor the same close connection to the land as they have for centuries. Your destination is Hacienda Zuleta, a working hacienda dating back to the 17th century that offers a variety of ranch activities.
  • Learn from experts about the Equator and its astrological purpose. This invisible line for which Ecuador was named is of great historical and scientific importance. Learn how the area’s ancient native peoples used it as a seasonal, agricultural, and religious tool. Visit an interactive museum and a sundial right on the Equator, and learn from experts in astral archaeology. The knowledge you acquire will prove useful later during a navigation game using the sextant to sail the Galápagos waters.
    • World Heritage Sites
  • This tour features the following World Heritage site:
    • The Galápagos Islands in Ecuador
    To see a complete list of all our tours featuring World Heritage sites, click here.


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