Days 2 to 4 – Andean Highlands
Leaving behind coastal Guayaquil, we’ll venture up into the Andean Highlands. Rolling hillsides nestle the ruins of lost civilizations such as the Cañari, a sophisticated society of astronomers who ruled this area for a thousand years before being conquered by the Incas. The Incas controlled the Andean Highlands for less than a century; the Spanish arrived in the 1530s, and by 1557 the rubble of Incan buildings was being used to create the colonial city of Cuenca.
Hike the Highlands
Enjoy a short hike along the trails of the Andean Highlands and be amazed by the views of the valley and local fields. Along the way you'll learn about the indigenous tribes that once ruled the area.
Friends Across Borders
Thomson families love this program! Children traveling with us can choose to exchange letters with a local child of a similar age before leaving for their adventure. Then, while on the trip, kids can meet their new friend during a scheduled activity, like soccer or hacky sacking. It’s amazing how such interaction can be a real eye-opener for everyone involved.
Rock climbing at Cojitambo Mountain
Our expert mountaineers will teach you the ins and outs of rock climbing at Cojitambo, a mountain sacred to the native Cañari Indians.
Bargain at Mercado 10 de Agosto in Cuenca
Get a feel for the local way of life by going bargain shopping at Mercado 10 de Agosto, one of Cuenca’s largest markets.

Days 5 to 7 – Galapagos Islands Cruise
Board the Galapagos Explorer II for a first-class, three-night cruise through one of the true wonders of the natural world. Our cruise ship is 293 feet long and holds only 100 passengers, so families have plenty of room to spread out and can enjoy the journey without experiencing the motion of a smaller vessel. Experienced naturalists lead two shore expeditions per day to seek out wildlife and help our families learn about the fascinating natural history of these volcanic islands.

Welcome to Darwin’s Enchanted Islands…
San Cristobal Island
Some say these Islands are like zoos without the bars, and San Cristobal is a great place to get started. Look for land iguanas at Dragon Hill and marine life as you snorkel along the coastline, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see the rare Chatham mockingbird.
Española Island
Its remote location helps make it the jewel of all wildlife viewing. On your walking adventures look for sea lions, iguanas, masked and blue-footed boobies, sea turtles and views of lava cliffs where sea water jets high in the air.
Santa Cruz & Rabida Islands
See enormous tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station on the larger Santa Cruz Island, and look for pelicans, pink flamingos and pintail ducks in the shallow salt water lagoons on the red sand beaches of tiny Rabida Island. This is an ideal spot to swim with the sea lions, so don’t forget your underwater cameras!

Day 8 – Galapagos Islands / Guayaquil
After one more activity in the Galapagos, we say goodbye to these enchanted isles and hello to mainland Ecuador once again!
Farewell dinner
Say good-bye to your guide and fellow travelers while sharing your favorite moments from your adventure.
Day 9 – Depart Guayaquil / Arrive U.S.