Ecuador is one of the most diverse countries in the world. Located in central South America and named after the equator that runs through it. Despite its small size, Ecuador offers distinct regions: the Pacific Coast with its sandy beaches and warm climate, the Andean highlands with majestic mountains and rich culture, and the Galápagos Islands, which inspired Darwin's theory of evolution.
On our stay in the Glapagos we will be based on land in Puerto Ayora. From this small town we will be embarking on tours best suited to the weather and wildlife. We will be sightseeing by boat, trekking some of the magical spots, visiting the Charles Darwin research centre and of course snorkelling!
This expedition combines Andean trekking, cultural heritage in historic Cuenca city and a visit to the Galapagos Islands. Offering the best things tio see and do in Ecuador.
17th Jan 2027 - 29th Jan 2027
Price £3,500 per person
You can secure your place with a £350 deposit and pay the remainder by instalments. These can be spread out throughout the lead up to the trip. You can pay on a monthly basis if this suits you.
The full amount is due 2 month before the start date. We except payments in any currency our website will covert your payment automatically.
Pay your deposit online now to reserve your place. Once minimum numbers of six people have booked on we will confirm this trip for all participants.
2 -nights accommodation in a hotel in Quito on arrival to help acclimatisation
Return flights to the Galapagos Islands from Guayaquil returning to Quito
All transport and transfers in Ecuador
Breakfast throughout and all meals when hiking
Snorkelling equipment for the Galapagos
Boat tour on the Galapagos
Naturalist guide
All entrance fees to all reserves
A comprehensive kit list will be sent out once the trip is guaranteed to run. Expect to be bringing good walking kit and a sleeping bag.
17th Jan 2027
Arrival in Quito and transfer to old town. Our base for two nights to aid you acclimatisation. Quito is 2,850metres above sea level.
Meals included - None
18th Jan 2027 - Quito
Orientation day in Quito - a chance to explore Quito and visit some of the sights of its Incan and Spanish colonial history. In addition to the city's well-known history, we will also learn about the LGBTQ+ community in Quito. We will visit hidden places where LGBTQ+ people gathered before homosexuality was decriminalized. This part of the tour will give us a deeper understanding of the challenges and strength of the Ecuadorian LGBTQ+ community.
Meals included - Breakfast
19th Jan 2027 - Travel to La Candelaria
Our morning starts southbound on the Route of Volcanoes. Glimpse head-turning views of volcanoes such as Cotopaxi, Rumiñahui, Pasochoa, Illinizas, and Tungurahua as we drive the four hours towards Riobamba. Stopping for pictures and to dine on delicious Ecuadorian cuisine we will spend the rest of the afternoon preparing for our trek and strolling through the quaint little town of La Candelaria at the foothills of the trail
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
20th Jan 2027 - Trek to El Altar basecamp 9km
Today our trek starts from La Candelaria at 3,000m and we trek to El Altar basecamp at 3830m. The distance is 9km, a very short distance. We will take 5-6 hrs to complete this trek at a very slow pace due to the altitude gain. Horses and mules of the families in the area will follow us with our other belonging so you will only carry a day bag. Tents and sleeping mats will be provided at El Altar basecamp our home for two nights.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
21st Jan 2027 - Trek into the crater 8km round trip
The main attraction of the trek awaits us after a healthy breakfast. Directly upward from the Collanes valley we will trek into the crater of the Altar volcano to Laguna Amarilla. This trek starts from 3830m and heads up to 4,500m over 4km. We will have a packed lunch at the lake. Named for the seven peaks that line it forming what appears to be an altar, this regal structure was formed by an eruption that caused the caldera to collapse. It’s a magical view! If you want to be blessed by the volcano and Pachamama a dip in the lake is compulsory!
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
22nd Jan 2027 9km to La Candelaria
Today we will descend back out to the trail head. After lunch we will drive on to Guamote where we can enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
23rd Jan 2027 - Cuenca and Ingapirica ruins
Today we will travel to the ruins of Ingapirca, Ecuador’s most significant pre-Columbian Inca archaeological site. The name Ingapirca translates to "Inca stone wall," and the site will give us a glimpse into Ecuador’s Incan past. After lunch we will travel to Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning colonial architecture and vibrant cultural traditions. We’ll also have the opportunity to discover the local artisan shops and lively markets that reflect Cuenca’s vibrant, artistic spirit.
Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch
24th Jan - Cuenca to Quayaquil
On the journey we will stop at Cajas National park for a walk amongst it’s lagoons. We will also visit a Cocoa farm and learn about the thriving chocolate industry in Ecuador. We will head to a traditional chocolate workshop, where we can witness the fascinating process of roasting, peeling, and grinding cocoa beans to create Ecuador’s famous artisanal chocolate. We will arrive late into Guayaquil.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
25th Jan - Fly Quayquil to Galapagos
Today we will take a morning flight and travel onto Santa Cruz island. On the way through the highlands we will visit private farms that conserve pristine, native, and endemic vegetation, providing a natural habitat for the Galápagos Giant Tortoise. We will have the incredible opportunity to get up close to these magnificent creatures! These dome shaped giants are a must see on the Galapagos. We will continue onward to our hotel in Puerto Ayora making some stops along the way at organic farms producing eco-products.
Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch
26th Jan - Galapagos tours
Today we’ll embark on a tour to one of the following islands depending on weather and wildlife
Bartolomé Island
Named after Sir Bartholomew Sulivan of the British Navy, Bartolomé Island spans 1.3 square kilometers and reaches a maximum altitude of 115 meters. Known for its striking landscapes, Bartolomé offers some of the most unique scenery in the Galapagos. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the iconic Pinnacle Rock, formed by volcanic ash and tuff.
North Seymour Island
A small island in the Galapagos, North Seymour is a wildlife haven. It’s the best place to witness the vibrant red balloon-like pouch of the frigatebird and observe the romantic courtship dance of the blue-footed boobies. The island is also home to land and marine iguanas, Galapagos sea lions, fur seals, and various seabirds such as swallow-tailed gulls, shearwaters, and tropicbirds. During this day, you’ll also have the opportunity to snorkel, where you may encounter sea turtles, rays, white-tip reef sharks, and vibrant fish.
South Plaza Island
Located off the east coast of Santa Cruz, South Plaza is a small but biodiverse island, offering some of the most concentrated wildlife in the Galapagos. On disembarking from the boat we’ll walk for two hours to see the wildlife. After this captivating walk, we’ll return to the boat for lunch and head to Punta Carrión for a snorkeling adventure. Here, you can swim with sea turtles, white-tip reef sharks, sea lions, and colourful fish.
Included meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch
27th Jan - Tortuga Bay beach and Charles Darwin Research Centre
Today’s adventure begins with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, located just outside Puerto Ayora. After our visit to the research station, we’ll head to Tortuga Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful and serene beaches in the Galápagos. We’ll walk 40-minutes through lush vegetation, where we’ll have the chance to spot local wildlife, including birds, marine iguanas, and perhaps even some young tortoises. Upon arrival at Tortuga Bay, we’ll be greeted by stunning white sand beaches and the lush backdrop of green mangroves, making this a perfect place to relax and take in the breathtaking surroundings. Once at Mansa Beach, a tranquil area within Tortuga Bay. we’ll relax or a few hours. The calm waters make it a safe and enjoyable environment for swimmers of all levels.
Included meals: Breakfast
28th Jan - Transfer from Puerto Ayora to Baltra airport - Flight back to Quito
You will be transferred to Baltra Airport in time for your flight back to Quito, where we’ll spend our final night. After some free time for souvenir shopping , we’ll gather for a farewell dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner
29th Jan - return home
Transfer to the airport in Quito in time for your flight home. You are welcome to spend extra days in Ecuador if you wish.
Meals included: Breakfast
Note: This itinerary could be changed according to flight schedules and climatic conditions. We will make the best of the weather and trek accordingly.
What once was an extremely conservative country is quickly becoming one of the more progressive countries in Latin America. TThere has been a dramatic change in LGBTQ+ legislation over the past 20 years.
Until 1997, gay life in Ecuador was difficult and being openly gay in public could lead to issues with the police. But in 1997, the constitution was changed to introduce gay-friendly legislation. Things like anti-discrimination laws on the basis of sexual orientation have been introduced and the age of consent for both LGBTQ+ people and heterosexuals was equalized. In June 2019, Ecuador’s highest court made an epic ruling requiring the government to recognise same-sex marriages. While the laws of Ecuador are firmly in support of gay rights, public displays of same-sex affection are very rare in the country and our travelers are advised to use discretion when in public places, especially outside of major cities where people may not have adapted to the new laws as quickly.
“I have just completed my first Pride Expedition which was excellent. Challenging but exciting with fantastic views and experiences every day. Local guides were very capable and experienced and our leader was outstanding.” Craig, Brighton
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