Ecuador and Galapagos Family Holidays
A unique family holiday in Ecuador and the Galapagos
Treat your family to an extraordinary wildlife adventure holiday in the Galapagos and Ecuador. It’s a place you’ll likely visit just once so be sure to do it well. We have access to the finest yachts, lodges and expert guides. This way your family can visit remote islands in comfort and privacy encountering amazing wildlife.
After exploring the Galapagos, stay in Ecuador where the Amazon rainforest, Andean volcanoes, Inca history and beautiful cities add dimensions to your trip.
The ingredients of a top quality wildlife holiday are privacy, access and expertise. The ingredients of a top quality wildlife holiday are privacy, access and expertise. As an independent specialist we have access to the finest yachts in the Galapagos and the best wildlife lodges. An extended family or two families travelling together will enjoy the flexibility of chartering a 16-berth yacht or catamaran. If you prefer the facilities of a larger vessel, we can arrange your ocean safari aboard a luxurious 40 to 50 berth motor yacht. We do not book larger cruise ships.
After exploring the Galapagos, stay in Ecuador where the Amazon rainforest, Andean volcanoes, Inca history and beautiful cities add dimensions to your trip.
The ingredients of a top quality wildlife holiday are privacy, access and expertise. The ingredients of a top quality wildlife holiday are privacy, access and expertise. As an independent specialist we have access to the finest yachts in the Galapagos and the best wildlife lodges. An extended family or two families travelling together will enjoy the flexibility of chartering a 16-berth yacht or catamaran. If you prefer the facilities of a larger vessel, we can arrange your ocean safari aboard a luxurious 40 to 50 berth motor yacht. We do not book larger cruise ships.
Why Choose Ecuador and Galapagos For Your Family Holiday?
Galapagos and mainland Ecuador are the perfect combination for a family safari in South America. You’ll cruise in a luxury yacht visiting beautiful islands filled with fascinating wildlife. You can snorkel, hike and kayak among turtles, seals and iguanas. Then, a couple of days later you can be exploring the awesome Amazon rainforest. Ecuador is a compact country blessed with an extraordinary diversity. Hummingbirds and orchids adorn cloud forests which cling to the slopes of volcanoes. Further along the Avenue of Volcanoes your family can walk through quaint Andean towns and visit inca ruins.Galapagos and mainland Ecuador are the perfect combination for a family safari in South America. You’ll cruise in a luxury yacht visiting beautiful islands filled with fascinating wildlife. You can snorkel, hike and kayak among turtles, seals and iguanas. Then, a couple of days later you can be exploring the awesome Amazon rainforest.
Ecuador is a compact country blessed with an extraordinary diversity. Hummingbirds and orchids adorn cloud forests which cling to the slopes of volcanoes. Further along the Avenue of Volcanoes your family can walk through quaint Andean towns and visit inca ruins.
Ecuador is a compact country blessed with an extraordinary diversity. Hummingbirds and orchids adorn cloud forests which cling to the slopes of volcanoes. Further along the Avenue of Volcanoes your family can walk through quaint Andean towns and visit inca ruins.
1. Travelling and the Seasons
Any time of year is a good time to visit Galapagos and Ecuador. Ecuador sits on the equator and temperatures are cooler in the mountains and warmer and more humid in the rainforest. The Galapagos has subtle changes of temperature, rainfall and ocean visibility through the year. Talk to our experts about weather, sea conditions and breeding seasons so that we can create the best itinerary for your family.
We can fly you from London to Ecuador’s high altitude capital Quito via Madrid or the USA. There are regular flights between Galapagos and Quito. If you’d prefer to combine Galapagos with Machu Picchu we can also fly you from there to Peru.
We can fly you from London to Ecuador’s high altitude capital Quito via Madrid or the USA. There are regular flights between Galapagos and Quito. If you’d prefer to combine Galapagos with Machu Picchu we can also fly you from there to Peru.
2. Wildlife and Landscapes
Marine iguanas, sea lions, seals and giant tortoise are some of the extraordinary animals that your family can encounter as you cruise the Galapagos. Walk right up to waved albatross and blue footed boobies. Snorkel among turtles and coral fish. Watch whales and dolphins as you cruise from one extraordinary island to another. Each has its unique landscapes and wildlife.
The Avenue of volcanoes runs like a green mountainous spine through Ecuador. Pretty Andean towns sit in valleys beside rivers and lakes. East of the Andes the vast Amazon rainforest is filled with tropical birds, primates and caiman. In every location your family will be able to get out and be active in company with expert guides.
The Avenue of volcanoes runs like a green mountainous spine through Ecuador. Pretty Andean towns sit in valleys beside rivers and lakes. East of the Andes the vast Amazon rainforest is filled with tropical birds, primates and caiman. In every location your family will be able to get out and be active in company with expert guides.
3. Getting it right for you
We know that holidays are precious milestones in family life. You’ll have worked, waited and probably dreamed about this holiday. So we go to great lengths to understand you and get it 100% right. The selection of exactly the right yacht will be key. We’ll talk with you about the relative merits of sizes and styles of vessel. These can range from a twelve berth luxury catamaran which you might charter or share with a few others to a substantial 50 berth motor yacht.
On land we usually find that “small is beautiful” and have spent over 30 years discovering the most exclusive accommodation and the best guides to take you on private excursions.
On land we usually find that “small is beautiful” and have spent over 30 years discovering the most exclusive accommodation and the best guides to take you on private excursions.
A Costa Rica holiday as unique as the family it’s for
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Why Travel With Journeysmiths
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It is rare that we hear from our clients while they are away, but if you need us, we are here 24 hours a day and act swiftly to resolve any issue. - Knowledge, Experience & Passion
Since 1990, we’ve been exploring our planet, discovering the world's finest properties and most reliable partners so that you too can experience the best of the wild world.
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We appreciate that like our trips, each client is unique, so our journeys are tailor-made to you, with a focus on flexibility. - Financial Security
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Family Ecuador and Galapagos - Top 9 Experiences
Ecuador is a fantastic choice for a family holiday. The saying goes that the best things come in small packages and Ecuador is no exception. Packed into this relatively small country are dramatically beautiful landscapes, impressive wildlife and vibrant culture. Of course, Ecuador is also home to the world famous archipelago and nature lovers’ paradise, the Galapagos Islands. On a practical note, travel times between destinations are fairly short, ideal for families. If you’re looking for a place where you can embrace adventure, learn more about our planet’s incredible wildlife and truly connect to nature, Ecuador has it all. Below, we’ve listed some of our favourite family activities in this spectacular country.Ecuador is a fantastic choice for a family holiday. The saying goes that the best things come in small packages and Ecuador is no exception. Packed into this relatively small country are dramatically beautiful landscapes, impressive wildlife and vibrant culture.
Of course, Ecuador is also home to the world famous archipelago and nature lovers’ paradise, the Galapagos Islands. On a practical note, travel times between destinations are fairly short, ideal for families. If you’re looking for a place where you can embrace adventure, learn more about our planet’s incredible wildlife and truly connect to nature, Ecuador has it all. Below, we’ve listed some of our favourite family activities in this spectacular country.
Of course, Ecuador is also home to the world famous archipelago and nature lovers’ paradise, the Galapagos Islands. On a practical note, travel times between destinations are fairly short, ideal for families. If you’re looking for a place where you can embrace adventure, learn more about our planet’s incredible wildlife and truly connect to nature, Ecuador has it all. Below, we’ve listed some of our favourite family activities in this spectacular country.
1. Luxury catamaran cruise
With 30% more space than other boats exploring the Galapagos, the Aqua Mare is one of our favourite luxury catamarans. Incredibly well-appointed, she boasts exemplary social spaces including a sun deck, barbecue area and a panoramic lounge. You’ll travel with two knowledgeable naturalists and an attentive crew - and with a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio on board, your family’s every need will be catered for.
Go ashore by zodiac with your expert guide and come up close to giant tortoise, frigate birds and marine iguana. Between safaris snorkel among turtles and ride paddleboards or clear bottom kayaks.
Go ashore by zodiac with your expert guide and come up close to giant tortoise, frigate birds and marine iguana. Between safaris snorkel among turtles and ride paddleboards or clear bottom kayaks.
2. Spend a day with the Huaorani people
Deep in the Amazon rainforest live the Huaorani people. For centuries they lived at one with the forest, hunting with blowpipes – all their needs provided by the forest. They have a completely unique language, not related to any other existing languages on Earth.
Your family can set off from the luxurious Hamadryade Lodge to visit the Huaorani communities and learn about their way of life. You’ll all gain fascinating insights into their understanding of the forest. This journey with an expert guide along rivers and through the remote forest takes a full day.
Your family can set off from the luxurious Hamadryade Lodge to visit the Huaorani communities and learn about their way of life. You’ll all gain fascinating insights into their understanding of the forest. This journey with an expert guide along rivers and through the remote forest takes a full day.
3. Climb the Bartolome volcanic cone
When your Galapagos yacht calls in at Bartolome Island, climb to the top for an iconic view of the Pinnacle Rock. Landing by zodiac your family will walk past sea lions onto a wooden walkway that takes you up through spectacular lava fields.
It’s a good workout to the top where you’re rewarded with sensational views. Afterwards, cool off with a snorkel around Pinnacle Rock looking out for Galapagos penguins.
It’s a good workout to the top where you’re rewarded with sensational views. Afterwards, cool off with a snorkel around Pinnacle Rock looking out for Galapagos penguins.
4. Ride the Teleferiqo from Quito
Quito is a beautiful Andean city with hundreds of colonial churches in the winding streets of the Old Quarter. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One particularly exciting experience is the eighteen minute Teleferiqo cable car ride which takes you to 4000m onto the Pichincha volcano. Enjoy stunning views of the city and ride a set of swings on the edge of the precipice! If you have a good set of lungs, allow four hours to trek to the 4690m summit of the volcano.
One particularly exciting experience is the eighteen minute Teleferiqo cable car ride which takes you to 4000m onto the Pichincha volcano. Enjoy stunning views of the city and ride a set of swings on the edge of the precipice! If you have a good set of lungs, allow four hours to trek to the 4690m summit of the volcano.
5. Ride an aerial bicycle through the Cloud Forest
Luxurious Mashpi Lodge is surrounded by magical rainforests, yet is only a couple of hours from Quito. Your children will be spellbound as they walk the hummingbird trail seeing colourful frogs, orchids and hundreds of beautiful birds.
Take a ride on the dragonfly canopy gondola and aerial bicycles that take you up among the birds and monkeys. It’s a precious biodiversity hotspot of primary forest that cloaks the Andean mountainside.
Take a ride on the dragonfly canopy gondola and aerial bicycles that take you up among the birds and monkeys. It’s a precious biodiversity hotspot of primary forest that cloaks the Andean mountainside.
6. White water rafting in the Amazon
Looking for an adrenaline rush? Try running the Land of the Giants grade V rapid on the Lower Misahualli River, chorused by monkeys and birds. In its changeable moods the river passes through rocky gorges and spectacular rainforest.
Rapids range from quite sedate grade II and III, to challenging IV and V - we will tailor the experience to match your family’s sense of adventure. After a thrilling day together, return to your lodge, where you’ll enjoy dinner in the jungle, accompanied by incredible creatures of the Amazon Rainforest.
Rapids range from quite sedate grade II and III, to challenging IV and V - we will tailor the experience to match your family’s sense of adventure. After a thrilling day together, return to your lodge, where you’ll enjoy dinner in the jungle, accompanied by incredible creatures of the Amazon Rainforest.
7. Stay in a Giant Tortoise Reserve
Pikaia Lodge is a boutique hotel set on the edge of an extinct volcano in a private giant tortoise reserve, the perfect place to stay to spot these gentle giants as they steadily graze on the lush grasses of Santa Cruz.
Around three to five nights here is ideal, snorkelling through one of the planet’s richest ecosystems, exploring mysterious lava tunnels and taking yachts out to find more wildlife on smaller islands. If you’re interested in a more in-depth learning experience, spend some time discovering natural history collections in the Charles Darwin Research Station.
Around three to five nights here is ideal, snorkelling through one of the planet’s richest ecosystems, exploring mysterious lava tunnels and taking yachts out to find more wildlife on smaller islands. If you’re interested in a more in-depth learning experience, spend some time discovering natural history collections in the Charles Darwin Research Station.
8. Take a break in Cuenca
Cuenca is a beautiful city in the Avenue of Volcanoes. We recommend spending a few days here with a private guide. Explore the narrow streets of the old colonial quarter of Cuenca - with two cathedrals, monasteries and colonial mansions, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It’s also home to the Panama Hat Factory, where you can watch these iconic straw hats being woven by hand. After your time in the city, enjoy hiking through the surrounding majestic Andean landscape - your family might see its first condor soaring above the lakes of El Cajas National Park!
It’s also home to the Panama Hat Factory, where you can watch these iconic straw hats being woven by hand. After your time in the city, enjoy hiking through the surrounding majestic Andean landscape - your family might see its first condor soaring above the lakes of El Cajas National Park!
9. Scuba diving in the Galapagos
If your family wants to dive we’ll select a yacht with the right gear and an itinerary taking in top dive sites. Galapagos is one of the world’s best dive locations and the conditions are good all year round. Some sites, like Bartolome Island, are great for beginners.
At Bartolome expect to see turtles, sea horses, white tip reef sharks, rays and even sea lions. If you’re highly experienced (over 100 dives) we can arrange a liveaboard near remote sites where you can see whale shark and large numbers of hammerheads. It’s tough but an amazing experience!
At Bartolome expect to see turtles, sea horses, white tip reef sharks, rays and even sea lions. If you’re highly experienced (over 100 dives) we can arrange a liveaboard near remote sites where you can see whale shark and large numbers of hammerheads. It’s tough but an amazing experience!
What is the Best Time to Go on an Ecuador and Galapagos Holiday
Your family can enjoy a trip to the Galapagos and mainland Ecuador at any time of year. However there are quite subtle variations in climate and sea conditions which may lead you to prefer a particular time of year to travel. Birds, land animals and marine creatures live their lives in harmony with the seasons. You may want to take into account nesting and breeding seasons and migratory patterns. If you intend to dive, the ocean is warmer and clearer from December to May.Your family can enjoy a trip to the Galapagos and mainland Ecuador at any time of year. However there are quite subtle variations in climate and sea conditions which may lead you to prefer a particular time of year to travel.
Birds, land animals and marine creatures live their lives in harmony with the seasons. You may want to take into account nesting and breeding seasons and migratory patterns. If you intend to dive, the ocean is warmer and clearer from December to May.
Birds, land animals and marine creatures live their lives in harmony with the seasons. You may want to take into account nesting and breeding seasons and migratory patterns. If you intend to dive, the ocean is warmer and clearer from December to May.
1. What are the main weather seasons in the Galapagos?
December to May the Galapagos is the warm season when temperatures reach the high 20s °C. Winds are light leading to calmer ocean conditions. Most days you will experience a short shower of heavy rain, though the days are mostly sunny. The warmer ocean and clearer waters makes these months comfortable for snorkelling and visibility is good.
From June to November the southern trade winds and cold Humboldt current causes the temperatures to drop to the low 20s C. The tradewinds lead to choppier ocean conditions. However, rainfall is lower in these months and the cooler temperatures make activities like hiking more comfortable. The ocean is full of nutrients in these months attracting whales and marine life.
From June to November the southern trade winds and cold Humboldt current causes the temperatures to drop to the low 20s C. The tradewinds lead to choppier ocean conditions. However, rainfall is lower in these months and the cooler temperatures make activities like hiking more comfortable. The ocean is full of nutrients in these months attracting whales and marine life.
2. Do the seasons affect wildlife you will see in the Galapagos?
Whatever time of year you travel to the Galapagos you will see a huge variety of wildlife. Each island and different localities on islands have their own “specials”. December is a great time to see sea lion pups, marine iguanas start their mating season and fledgling waved albatross start appearing.
At Easter you can see huge numbers of waved albatross on Espanola island where they begin their courtship rituals. It’s a great time for seeing pacific green turtles and giant tortoise. By August the ocean is rich in nutrients attracting whales and dolphins. Most species of sea birds are nesting and it’s the best time to set off in search of giant tortoise in the hills of Santa Cruz.
At Easter you can see huge numbers of waved albatross on Espanola island where they begin their courtship rituals. It’s a great time for seeing pacific green turtles and giant tortoise. By August the ocean is rich in nutrients attracting whales and dolphins. Most species of sea birds are nesting and it’s the best time to set off in search of giant tortoise in the hills of Santa Cruz.
3. What are the weather seasons on mainland Ecuador?
The equator passes through Ecuador and the main factor affecting temperature is altitude. The Amazon rainforest is quite low lying and is warm and humid all year round. Temperatures average the mid to high 20s °C. As you would expect it rains quite a lot though the drier months are August and december.
In the Quito and the Avenue of Volcanoes the weather is warmer from December to March and cooler from July to October. During the day temperatures are pleasant for walking and outdoor activities, though it can be very cold at night. In these mountainous areas a sharp rain or hail shower can happen at any time though this is less likely from July to October which is traditionally the dry season.
In the Quito and the Avenue of Volcanoes the weather is warmer from December to March and cooler from July to October. During the day temperatures are pleasant for walking and outdoor activities, though it can be very cold at night. In these mountainous areas a sharp rain or hail shower can happen at any time though this is less likely from July to October which is traditionally the dry season.
Which Areas of Ecuador and the Galapagos Should You Visit?
Brimming with natural beauty, exhilarating adventures and unique wildlife, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are incredible parts of the world. There’s so much to see and do here and, by listening to your family’s priorities and interests, we can help to ensure your holiday is full of special moments and treasured memories. We’ll create a bespoke, balanced itinerary which will include a sequence of beautiful, contrasting places. We’ll propose exclusive accommodation and a schedule that will give the ideal amount of time in each place. Hugely important where children are concerned, we’ll also include the most efficient travel between locations.Brimming with natural beauty, exhilarating adventures and unique wildlife, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are incredible parts of the world. There’s so much to see and do here and, by listening to your family’s priorities and interests, we can help to ensure your holiday is full of special moments and treasured memories.
We’ll create a bespoke, balanced itinerary which will include a sequence of beautiful, contrasting places. We’ll propose exclusive accommodation and a schedule that will give the ideal amount of time in each place. Hugely important where children are concerned, we’ll also include the most efficient travel between locations.
We’ll create a bespoke, balanced itinerary which will include a sequence of beautiful, contrasting places. We’ll propose exclusive accommodation and a schedule that will give the ideal amount of time in each place. Hugely important where children are concerned, we’ll also include the most efficient travel between locations.
Quito
Quito’s affectionately known to the locals as la mitad del mundo (the middle of the world) on account of being just 25 miles from the equator. Archaeologists believe there’s been a human population here for 8,000 years, though the city you see today dates from the arrival of the Spanish in 1541. Your holiday to Ecuador is bound to include a couple of nights here and we know some suitably historic hideaways offering fine cuisine and high comfort.
Andean Cloud Forest
The Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve is just a short drive outside Quito, so it’s the obvious destination for a forest adventure in Ecuador. Founded in 1991 by husband and wife team Richard and Gloria Parsons, it’s a biologically rich conservation area of 2,000 acres on the northwestern slopes of the Andes. Birds, exotic flowers, tiny reptiles and butterflies flourish in this unique environment and every minute of a walk is filled with fascination.
Avenue of Volcanoes
The Avenue of Volcanoes is aptly named: Cotopaxi is the highest active volcano in the world, and it’s erupted more than 50 times in the last 300 years. It’s flanked by dozens of other volcanoes, both dormant and active, making for a truly dramatic skyline. We’ll encourage you to take a journey onboard the Devil’s Nose Train. This breathtaking stretch of track between Quito and Guayaquil is a nail-biting collection of switchback as the altitude changes 500 m in just 12 km.
Cuenca and El Cajas
Cuenca and the El Cajas National Park are in south-central Ecuador, in the Avenue of Volcanoes. The Pan-American Highway - one of the greatest road trips on Earth - cuts through this area, but the area is vast so you can quickly escape into the wilderness. The jagged landscape of the Cajas National Park is dominated by mountain peaks, hills, and turquoise lagoons. The city of Cuenca is quite a contrast with its Spanish colonial architecture.
Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Archipelago comprises of 21 islands some 900 km off the Pacific coast of Ecuador. Geographically isolated for millennia, local wildlife has evolved along unique paths. Journeysmiths will take you on a breathtaking voyage of discovery aboard a luxury yacht in search of iguanas, whales and boobies.
Private Journeys Unique to You
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 25 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made holidays to megadiverse Latin America. 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 25 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made holidays to megadiverse Latin America. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.
Who Are Journeysmiths?
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.
Why Travel With Us?
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.
Positive Impact Mission
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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