Solo-ish Ecuador & Galapagos

Enjoy an included arrival transfer to the start hotel in Quito where you will attend a welcome briefing with your newest travel companions. Then, head out on foot through the city streets to your hands-on cooking experience with the entire group. Listen to instructions from a talented local chef and enjoy stories throughout the lesson about the various ingredients and dishes you are working on creating. Witness the joy of sharing a meal prepared together and come away with new knowledge of Ecuador’s culinary tastes and traditions.

Anreise und Begrüßungstreffen: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

: Am Beginn deiner Erlebnisreise wirst du am Flughafen abgeholt und zum Hotel gebracht.

Speiseplan: DINNER

Today is all about the landscapes and communities of Ecuador. Start the day with a city tour of Quito and walk past important sites like the golden Compañia Church, San Francisco Square, and the Panecillo, a towering statue of the virgin of Quito. Then dive deeper into the meaning of community with an intriguing chocolate tasting experience through a locally-owned establishment that prioritizes the values of Minka, a tradition of collective labour that supports many social and infrastructure projects. Enjoy an included lunch afterwards featuring many traditional local dishes and continue to the Intiñan museum to explore the scientific riches only found on our planet’s equatorial line. Enjoy a free evening back in Quito.

Stadttour durch Quito: Lerne auf einer Tour durch Quito diese faszinierende Stadt und ihre Kultur besser kennen. Besuche die Altstadt, ein UNESCO-Welterbe, mit Stopps bei der goldene Kirche La Compañía, der Plaza San Francisco und dem Aussichtspunkt El Panecillo, einer Statue der Jungfrau von Quito.

: Sit back and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Quito and the Intiñan Museum. It will take about an hour each way.

Freizeit: Spend a free evening in Quito. Find a local spot to grab dinner on your own, or choose to relax and unwind at the hotel.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

Prepare to experience what G Adventures does best and enjoy an epic adventurous day in Cotopaxi National Park with a surprise G twist occurring somewhere along the way. Depart from Quito in the morning and enjoy a day immersed in the wilds of this high Andean ecosystem. Highlights include a visit to Limpiopungo Lake featuring picturesque views of the Cotopaxi volcano. If feeling up for it, travellers can hike up to the refuge at 4800m to get closer to the volcano, or simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings at the lagoon. On the way out, visit an old military fortress built on a hilltop and offering 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. From here travel to Baños for an orientation walk through the abundantly green surroundings, and be on the lookout, for an unexpected surprise to cap off G Day.

The Wild Landscapes of Cotopaxi & Baños: With your Solo-ish travel mates and CEO, explore some of the world's coolest activities alongside new friends. It's not just an epic day of fun, its chock full of incredible experiences and a surprise G element along the way to take your day to an 11. Prepare to fall in love with the untamed landscape of Cotopaxi National Park. If weather allows, enjoy a clear reflection of the volcano from Limpiopungo Lagoon. Travellers feeling extra adventurous can hike to the refuge at 4800m. Then it's time to jet off to the sights and sounds of Baños' subtropical highland climate at the base of the Tungurahua volcano. Keep a lookout for wildlife and your surprise G twist along the way.

: Mach's dir bequem und genieße die Landschaft vom komfortablen Privatfahrzeug aus.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

It’s time for a day that belongs to you! The choice really is all yours. From spending the day doing an array of optional activities available like hiking to the Pailon del Diablo or soaking in the local hot springs. You’ll also have the option of joining your CEO for a visit to the famous Casa del Arbol perched on a hilltop overlooking epic views of the Tungurahua volcano on a clear day. Dinner will be on your own this evening amid the lush scenery of Baños.

Baños Me Day: Traveling solo alongside your new Solo-ish travel mates means there's always something fun to do and new friends to explore with. But the joy of travel can also be about taking time to yourself to recharge, refresh and reflect on the journey. Today, choose to join your CEO for a local activity, or take the time to yourself to enjoy your own company in one of the most incredible places on our planet.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST

Travel away from the misty green foliage of Baños to the lush Amazon Jungle and your community lodge stay in the rainforest. Here, you’ll enjoy the hospitality of the local indigenous people of Shandia and experience life in the jungle firsthand. Once you arrive the group will cycle through the community and discover the beauty of the area with a local member as your guide. Your lodge stay is operated by the people of Shandia, who are committed to providing guests with a sustainable and authentic experience. After the bike ride and delicious lunch, the group will embark on a village walk and tour the cacao plantation here. Learn more about the cultivation process and the traditional chicha drink, which you can try a taste of. This is followed by an included dinner at the lodge.

Shandia Community Erlebnis & Radtour: Cycle to the Indigenous Shandia community, a rural village surrounded by rivers and lush Amazonian landscapes. With the support of G Adventures and Planeterra, the community has developed new culturally immersive experiences led by the village’s youth. Spend an hour and 45 minutes cycling from Pimpilala village to Shandia stopping along the way to take in the beauty of the Amazon. These cultural tours are seen by the community as a way to rescue their Indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. This provides an economic opportunity for youth who traditionally would have left the community to find work. Your time spent here is creating opportunities for a new generation in the community and contributing to the preservation of their culture.

: Mach's dir bequem und genieße die Landschaft vom komfortablen Privatfahrzeug aus.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Enter into the rainforest today during a jungle walk led by a member of the lodge’s community. Learn more about the plants and animals found in this region and how the indigenous people have been using them across generations. Finish the walk with a visit to the Pimpilala Waterfalls where you can choose to take a quick dip into the natural pool at the base if time allows. Travel back to the lodge for an included lunch and enjoy a free afternoon to relax and explore the property on your own. You can also choose to participate in any number of the other activities offered onsite. Come back together for a group dinner and celebrate your final night in the mighty Amazon.

Amazon Jungle Walk & Pimpilala Waterfalls Visit: Head into the jungle today where you will see a variety of plants (medicinal, timber, and fruit), and animals including birds, monkeys, and insects. As you walk learn more about the uses and relationships between these plants and the indigenous people in the area. The group will also visit the Pimpilala Waterfalls and perhaps there will be time for a quick dip into the natural pool formed at the base of the falls. Return to the lodge just in time for an included lunch.

Freizeit: Take advantage of a free afternoon to relax in the jungle or choose to try some of the other community activities available through the lodge. Choose to walk to the nearby beach area along the river for local culture displaces like, the Yachak Ritual.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Enjoy one final breakfast at the Amazon lodge before transferring to Papallacta. Here, take some time to relax in the natural mineral hot pools with volcanic views before travelling back to Quito. Once in the city there will be free time to explore and relax. Opt to find a local restaurant for dinner this evening.

Besuch der Thermalquellen von Papallacta: Tauche in die Thermalquellen ein, für die diese Region berühmt ist, und lass das natürliche Mineralwasser deine Muskeln verwöhnen.

: Mach's dir bequem und genieße die Landschaft vom komfortablen Privatfahrzeug aus.

Freizeit: Spend free time in Quito, get to know the city on your own, and choose to be as adventurous or relaxed as you like.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST

Fly to the Galápagos Islands and on arrival travel up into the highlands of Santa Cruz for an included lunch at a private eco reserve. While here, the group will have the chance to observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat and enjoy the panoramic views of the other islands from this elevation. Then, explore the lava tunnels, which offer a unique opportunity for travellers to walk through the large, naturally formed underground tunnels created by ancient lava flows. This is an excellent way to experience the volcanic history of the islands and observe a unique ecosystem not found elsewhere. Later, the group will board a water taxi to The Point, a waterfront restaurant offering views of sharks, rays, and seals as you dine. Here, partake in a hands-on cooking experience led by a local chef who will explain the importance of fresh ingredients throughout the islands and share some tips on how to master the preparation of ceviche. Sit down together afterwards to enjoy the fruits of your labour and get to know one another.

Ausflug ins Hochland der Insel Santa Cruz: Begib dich in das grüne Hochland von Santa Cruz. Dies ist ein perfekter Ort, um durch die Landschaft zu wandern und Riesenschildkröten in ihrer natürlichen Umgebung zu sehen. Anschließend genießt du ein inbegriffenes Mittagessen.

: Schau! Da am Himmel! Ist es ein Vogel? Ist es ein Flugzeug? Es ist... ein Flugzeug! Was sonst?

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Today is all about immersion into the wildlife and sustainable farming practices of the Galapagos. First, fill up on breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Garrapatero Beach, known for its pristine white sand, crystal clear waters, and nearby brackish lagoon. It’s one of the best spots within all the islands for viewing unique wildlife in a paradise setting. Enjoy time to snorkel secluded amid the calm waters, escape from the crowds, and feel as if you have a piece of this island to yourself. Then, travel to a local organic coffee farm where you’ll learn about the plantations, the process involved in the cultivation of the product, and hear about the sustainable efforts being taken to protect the landscape and continue growing produce. An included lunch will be enjoyed onsite before your afternoon visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Observe the giant Galapagos tortoises here as you learn more about their journey from captivity to the wild. Finish off the day back at the hotel where there will be free time for some sightseeing and dinner on your own.

Wildlife & Sustainability of Santa Cruz: With your incredible CEO at the helm, get to know the local community and your Solo-ish travel mates on a day packed full of interesting and engaging adventures. Immerse yourself in the wildlife and sustainability efforts of an organic farm on Santa Cruz Island. Start by snorkelling through the crystal clear waters and coves near Garrapatero Beach. The group will travel here from Puerto Ayora and take a short walk along a trail past the small lagoon to the water. Once here, spend time observing the underwater wildlife, swimming, and relaxing in the white sand. Then, visit an organic farm where you will learn more about the economy of the Galapagos and how hydroponic crops are helping to protect the environment in order to reduce the consumption of water within agriculture. As you walk through the property you will also learn about the other organic produce grown throughout the islands like coffee, cacao, and vegetables. During the experience, the group will also try different endemics plants like, pinneaples, Scalesias, and figs.Finish the experience with lunch at your host's home featuring empanadas and local coffee.

Freizeit: Take advantage of a free evening in Puerto Ayora. Sightsee, relax at the hotel, and grab some dinner in town on your own.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

Prepare to experience what G Adventures does best and enjoy an epic day in Isabela with a surprise G twist occurring somewhere along the way. After breakfast the group will transfer from Santa Cruz to Isabela. Upon arrival you’ll visit "Tintoreras" or Shark Alley to observe the whitetip reef sharks found swimming in the channels between the rocks. Enjoy time to snorkel for a closer look at the wildlife below the surface, and view pelicans, frigatebirds, and diving blue-footed boobies above water. Sit down for an included group lunch at a local restaurant on the island, and then hike the trails through the Humedales. This significant wetland area is home to island wildlife including flamingos, marine iguanas, different bird species, and all four native Galapagos mangrove species. Spend the day exploring the allure of Isabela and keep an eye out for a special surprise!

Snorkelling & Hiking on Isabela: With your Solo-ish travel mates and CEO, explore some of the world's coolest activities alongside new friends. It's not just an epic day of fun, its chock full of incredible experiences and a surprise G element along the way to take your day to an 11. Start off with snorkelling at the islet Las Tintoreras, located south of Puerto Villamil – it's the perfect place to glide along watching the magic unfold under the water’s surface. Enjoy a small calm turquoise bay to look for the whitetip reef shark, which are fairly common in the archipelago. (The sharks are called Tintorera in Spanish, which is where the site gets its name.) Keep an eye out for sea lions, sea turtles, marine iguanas, and rays as well as the sharks. Follow this up with lunch at a local restaurant on the island before a hike to the Humedales. This special wetland area is home to a diverse ecosystem and a variety of unique wildlife including flamingos, marine iguanas, and different bird species. Walk along the well-maintained paths and learn about this vital habitat for many species within the archipelago. Throughout the day be on the lookout for your surprise G twist!

: Alle an Bord und Leinen los.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

The key to a well-rounded solo experience is time to do your own thing. It’s built in here with a free day in Isabela that belongs entirely to you. Choose to visit Los Tuneles for a truly remarkable underwater snorkeling experience through the natural arches and tunnels made from volcanic lava formations or hike to the sulfur mines located within the crater of the active Sierra Negra volcano for a unique experience. In the afternoon your CEO will be leading a visit to the Breeding Centre and Flamingo Lagoon. Choose to join, or continue exploring the island of Isabela on your own.

Isabela Me Day: Traveling solo alongside your new Solo-ish travel mates means there's always something fun to do and new friends to explore with. But the joy of travel can also be about taking time to yourself to recharge, refresh and reflect on the journey. Today, choose to join your CEO for a memorable activity, or take the time for yourself to enjoy your own company in one of the most incredible places on our planet.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST

In the morning board the boat to Floreana Island where you will enjoy lunch at the G Adventures-supported community restaurant there featuring local favorites and prepared by those who have spent up to three generations living on this island. Your meal contributes to the self-sufficiency of this project and supports members of this community. Afterwards, take a short walk to the nearby Black Beach to learn more about the support being provided here to the local residents through the restaurant and guesthouse while you also make your own cocktail beachside. From here the group will board the second boat of the day and travel to San Cristobal and enjoy free time for dinner and relaxing at the hotel.

Floreana Community Restaurants: Um die Menschen auf Floreana noch mehr zu unterstützen, bietet ihnen G Adventures Ausbildung in allen Bereichen des Tourismus an, einschließlich der Gastronomie. Die Gemeinschaft wird sich während deines Aufenthalts auf dieser kleinen Insel um dein leibliches Wohl kümmern, wobei die Mahlzeiten auf verschiedene Mitglieder aufgeteilt werden, damit möglichst viele vom Tourismus profitieren können. Durch das Essen in den Community-Restaurants trägst du dazu bei, dass sich der erste Gemeinde-Tourismusanbieter in den Galápagos-Inseln selbst erhalten kann.

: Alle an Bord und Leinen los.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

Take advantage of a free morning on San Cristobal and perhaps choose to visit Kicker Rock, a renowned snorkelling and diving spot in the narrow channel created by a towering volcanic rock split in two, or opt to book the San Cristobal Island 360 Experience and view incredible marine life like sharks, rays, sea turtles, and colourful tropical fish, as well as seabirds. In the afternoon stop by the Interpretation Centre on the island which provides visitors with a comprehensive educational experience about the history, geology, and unique wildlife of the Galapagos. Coupled with exhibits on Charles Darwin’s visits and stunning island views, this stop is an ideal location to honour the natural beauty and protection of this archipelago. Attend an optional dinner this evening with your fellow solo-ish travellers.

Besuch im Interpretationszentrum von San Cristóbal: Besuche das Informationszentrum, um dort alles zu erfahren, was du über die Naturgeschichte der Galápagos-Inseln sowie ihre Ökosysteme und Flora und Fauna wissen möchtest.

Freizeit: Enjoy a free half day to explore San Cristobal on your own. Perhaps choose to book the Kicker Rock snorkelling excursion for a truly thrilling experience in an iconic Galapagos location. Plus, plenty of opportunities to witness the unique wildlife that call these islands home.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST

Say goodbye to your solo-ish adventure on the Islands and take a flight back to the mainland from San Cristobal. Upon arrival the group will transfer to their nearby hotel and enjoy a free evening to relax, explore some of Quito on their own, or grab a bite to eat with your newest friends and debrief about your experiences. It’s the perfect way to wind down in preparation for returning home.

: Schau! Da am Himmel! Ist es ein Vogel? Ist es ein Flugzeug? Es ist... ein Flugzeug! Was sonst?

Freizeit: Spend a free evening in Quito and explore a bit on your own. Choose to relax at the hotel, go for a walk through the city, or find a place to grab some local staples with your new travel pals before heading home.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST

You arrived a solo traveller and are leaving with many new friends. Say goodbye to your fellow Solo-ish travellers and depart at any time.

Tag der Abreise: Du willst noch nicht abreisen? Dein CEO kann dir bei deinen Reisevorbereitungen helfen, um dein Abenteuer zu verlängern.

Speiseplan: BREAKFAST