Luxury Ecuador Holidays
Ecuador is much more than just the Galapagos Islands. Yes, the UNESCO-designated archipelago which inspired Darwin is unmissable, but Ecuador’s fabulous mainland boasts Amazon rainforest, the Andean highlands and vibrant cultural sites of Quito.
For us, wildlife is the true highlight of Ecuador. We’ll take you to remote corners of the vast Amazon Rainforest, where you can spot howler monkeys and enjoy sightings of colourful toucans in this biodiverse paradise. And you won’t want to miss the Andean Cloud Forest, where birds, reptiles and rare flowers flourish in the mountain air high above Quito.
Ecuador’s capital is a historic landmark of its own – so much so that Quito’s centre was among the first locations anywhere in the world to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Archaeologists believe there’s been human activity here for 8,000 years, but with the modern-day restaurants, galleries and nightlife, you won’t have to choose between savouring the past and enjoying the present. Journeysmiths can design your perfect Ecuadorian adventure – including cityscapes, mountaintops and verdant jungles teeming with life.
- Vibrant and historically significant capital city of Quito.
- Tours of the lush Amazon rainforest.
- World-class birdwatching.
- Combine the Galapagos with mainland Ecuador.
- Exclusive accommodations for privacy, adventure and wellness.
Of the four main regions in Ecuador, the Amazon is by far the largest and most biodiverse. This splendid rainforest is protected by four national parks, the largest of which is Yasuni National Park and Biosphere Reserve.
The Andean Cloud Forest stretches across Bolivia and Peru into Ecuador, enveloping the slope of the northern Sierra region with its dense frees. Both the Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve and the Chocó-Andean Forest are rich in biodiversity.
Ecuador’s Avenue of Volcanoes runs 200 miles south of Quito, creating a dramatic landscape of valleys and peaks, some of which soar to heights above 5,000 metres. It’s a lovely range for hiking and horse riding.
The Cajas National Park dominates the highlands of Ecuador and is rich in wildlife. Many of the species found here are endemic, including the majestic Andean condor. Combine the park with a stay in Spanish-influenced Cuenca.
An unparalleled immersion into the natural world.
At 2,850 metres, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world. The natural landscape lends an easy beauty, but the UNESCO-designated historic city centre is not to be missed.
"One month tour to Ecuador - the whole experience was amazing. I have no negative comments to make: guides excellent, drivers very safety aware, accommodation and meals top class"
The centre of Ecuador's capital, Quito, is one of the largest and best preserved historic cities in the Americas. When it comes to wild places, not only does Ecuador have the Galapagos Islands, it has the Amazon Rainforest. We’ve created an enticing list of the most memorable things to do in Ecuador.The centre of Ecuador's capital, Quito, is one of the largest and best preserved historic cities in the Americas. When it comes to wild places, not only does Ecuador have the Galapagos Islands, it has the Amazon Rainforest.
We’ve created an enticing list of the most memorable things to do in Ecuador.
Set sail in the wake of Darwin and The Beagle on a voyage to the Galapagos. An archipelago comprising 21 islands some 900 km off the Pacific coast of Ecuador, it’s a place you’ll likely visit just once so be sure to do it well. We’ll provide the best guides on board the finest vessels as you discover the islands and islets of this remarkable region. Geographically isolated for millennia, local wildlife has evolved along unique paths. As you hike, snorkel, dive and kayak, we can pretty much guarantee that you are going to come face to face with creatures you’ve never seen before including giant tortoise, marine iguana and the Galapagos penguin, which are found nowhere else on Earth.
In the Ecuadorian Cloud Forest, your inner birder will come alive as the morning air echoes with birdsong. You’ll set out to explore the forested mountains with an expedition leader, excited to share their vast avian knowledge and experiences with you. There are over 350 species in this unique environment, 36 of which are endemic to the region. Mashpi Lodge proudly works with local communities and conservation teams to make sure this paradise remains unspoiled. After a sunrise coffee on the rooftop observation terrace, take to the skies on a canopy gondola or aerial bicycle to find the Crimson-rumped Toucanet.
Any lover of underwater wildlife will find snorkelling around the Galapagos islands unforgettable. Crystalline waters invite you to jump right into the action as you wonder at rays and docile sharks, say hello to friendly sea lions and turtles and swim amongst schools of stunning reef fish and seahorse. Whether from the shoreline or cruise boat we will arrange the right itinerary, with the best gear. If you are experienced, there is world-class diving available too.
The monumental Cotopaxi stratovolcano dominates the landscape of the Cotopaxi National Park. One of the world's highest active volcanoes, it commands your attention! The park’s vast Andean landscape has so much to offer, including wildlife, as you hike past wild horses to the foot of the volcano and gaze upon Cotopaxi’s reflection in the glacial waters of Limpiopungo Lagoon. If you have the time, follow your experienced guide to the Jose Rivas Refuge, the climbers base camp at 4500 metres above sea level and the spectacular Cotopaxi Glacier.
A fascinating way to spend an afternoon in Cuenca is to learn about the famous Panama Hat. Your guide will accompany you to the Homero Ortega factory. Here you can watch these iconic straw hats being woven by hand, followed by a visit to the Barrancos Panama Hat Museum where you delve deeper into the accessory’s intriguing history. Find out why they are called Panama Hats but born in Ecuador!
In our experience, Saturdays and Wednesdays are the best times to explore the indigenous Otavalo Market. As a throng of vendors gather to sell fine woven products and artisanal wares, the streets are a blaze of rich colour and texture: ponchos, wall hangings, handicrafts and more. Each Otavalenos trader is dressed in traditional clothing as they proudly maintain their culture and identity.
The Amazon Rainforest covers almost half of Ecuador, lovingly protected by four national parks. From your luxurious forest home you will head out with expert naturalist guides, trekking through the forest or taking to the rivers in a dug-out canoe. Lush vegetation surrounds you, as does the Amazon’s wildlife. Spot coppery tamarin monkey, giant otter and boa constrictor as macaws fly overhead, or, look out for monkeys and toucans from the highest branches of a giant kapok tree. Try creek paddling, rafting, and tree climbing, or simply sit still and watch the exotic birds.
Nestled in a picturesque valley of the Andean moor, Termas de Papallacta is committed to offering a healthy dose of escapism from city life. Indulge your senses in the SPA pool circuit; hydro massagers will soothe away tension as you immerse yourself in the varying temperatures of the water. After using the excellent spa facilities, take a seat at the restaurant and order something delicious to eat, and end with a guided stroll around the breathtaking natural pathways.
Every perspective of Quilotoa Lake changes its breathtaking hues of blue and green as you hike around the edge of its volcanic crater. The 7.5 mile Quilotoa Loop trail comes with some challenging terrain but it is well worth the effort. Look up from your position atop Ecuador’s most westerly volcano and you will find yourself mesmerised by the breathtaking Andean landscape. Look down and you’re gazing into one of the most spectacular lakes in the world and beyond, across a patchwork quilt of farmland, home to the indigenous Kichwa community.
Charmed cobbled streets gently lead you through Cuenca’s old colonial quarter with an invitation to slow down and really appreciate the mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site truly deserves its status. Markets, mansions, museums and cathedrals will captivate you before you indulge in a spot of people watching over coffee in Plaza de los Geranios Colgantes.
Originally dating from the 18th century, Casa Gangotena was rebuilt in the 1920s following a fire and therefore has a distinctly Art Deco feel. An aristocratic and elegant place that feels intimate and personal, it is the ideal base for exploring Quito.
Mashpi Lodge is a superb boutique hotel set in breathtaking rainforest surroundings, giving its guests an unrivalled Ecuadorian experience. Encounter exotic species, explore magical waterfalls, and completely unwind in your private suite.
With more ecological diversity per acre than almost the whole of North America, the ecological reserve surrounding Sacha Lodge is teeming with opportunities for experiencing the Amazon at its very best. Spot coppery tamarin monkeys, giant otters, boa constrictors and more than 600 species of birds as you trek through the rainforest with the lodge’s expert guides.
With a gloriously isolated location right in the midst of the Ecuadorian Amazon, and benefiting from strong ties to the local indigenous people, La Selva Lodge is a place where you can immerse yourself in the nature and culture of this abundant ecosystem.
Formerly the home of one of Ecuador’s most prominent families (including two former presidents), and also once the base for explorer Alexander von Humbolt, this hacienda was built on the site of both an Inca palace and Augustinian monastery. To spend time in original Incan rooms, complete with metre-thick walls, is an unrivalled experience.
With bags of style, plenty of history and an excellent city-centre location, Hotel Cruz del Vado is a perfect place to explore the charming city of Cuenca. You will love the rooftop views.
Being completely owned by the local community, you could not ask for a more authentic Amazonian experience than the Napo Wildlife ecolodge. It is the perfect location to be immersed in the ecology and anthropology of the Yasuni National Park.
At an altitude of 3,320m, Hostería La Andaluza is on the south eastern slopes of the mighty Chimborazo volcano, the highest point on the equator. It is about a ten minute drive from Riobamba, in the valley of Guano.
Without doubt, the great advantage of Hotel Itza is its centrality. All the wonderful opportunities of stylish Cuenca are right on its doorstep; a fact that you will appreciate if you spend time surveying the panorama from its rooftop.
As the location of a plot to assassinate the president in 1875, this hotel near the centre of Quito is, without doubt, a historic and cultural gem. You will love the arty vibe, and relish the rooftop views.
Built in 1859, Santa Lucia Hotel is one of Cuenca’s most notable buildings, having been the previous home of the provincial governor. It is the perfect place from which to venture out to see the highlights of vibrant Cuenca and return for great food and elegant ambience.
Otavalo Market, Ecuador
Dug out canoe in the Ecuadorian Amazon
Squirrel Monkey, Ecuador
Quito, Ecuador
Cotopaxi Volcano, Ecuador
Snorkelling with sea turtles in the Galapagos Islands
Dragonfly at Mashpi Lodge in the Ecuadorian Cloud Forest
San Rafael Falls in the Ecuadorian Amazon
Quilotoa Lake in the Ecuadorian Andes
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
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