From the high peaks of the Andes to the far-flung isles of the Pacific, Ecuador is a country of contrasts where cloud forests, volcanoes, and ancient cities unfold within a day’s drive. One morning you might wake in a colonial hacienda among misty valleys, the next you are cruising beside sea lions in the Galapagos as blue-footed boobies dance across black lava rock.
In the highlands, local markets bloom with color and tradition, while centuries-old churches glint with gold in Quito’s UNESCO-listed center. Deep in the Amazon, river canoes slip through tangled rainforest where monkeys swing overhead and toucans call through the trees. Offshore, the Galapagos Islands feel timeless, surreal, and alive with creatures found nowhere else on Earth.
Here, luxury means access and authenticity. Boutique eco-lodges, expert naturalist guides, and private charters let you explore at your own pace, whether hiking with giant tortoises, snorkeling with rays, or simply taking in the silence of nature. In Ecuador, every journey feels like a discovery.
Why Travel to Ecuador & the Galápagos?
- Snorkel with sea lions, get up close with giant tortoises, and watch blue-footed boobies dance on lava rock.
- Travel from the snow-capped Andes to the Amazon Basin in a single day.
- Wander Quito’s cobblestone streets, golden churches, and vibrant neighborhoods.
- Browse colorful textiles and handwoven crafts at highland markets steeped in tradition.
- Spot monkeys and macaws on guided jungle walks deep in the Amazon rainforest.
- Sail the Galapagos in style aboard a small yacht with expert naturalist guides.
In Ecuador, volcanoes, cloud forests, and colonial cities lie just hours apart. One day you’re wandering golden churches in Quito, the next you’re cruising beside sea lions in the Galapagos. Explore colorful highland markets, glide through the Amazon by canoe, or hike with giant tortoises on ancient lava trails.
Luxury here means intimate lodges, expert guides, and once-in-a-lifetime access to nature and culture.
- Ecuador & Galapagos
Isles to Andes
- An indulgent escape through Ecuador’s wildest places, from Amazon lagoons to cloud forest suites and Galapagos sunsets.
- 15 days
- from $8,800 pp
- Ecuador & Galapagos
Galapagos Explorer
- An epic family Galapagos adventure, from lava tunnels and giant tortoises to tidepools, sea lions, and starry skies.
- 10 days
- from $4,700 pp
- Ecuador & Galapagos
Andes & Adventure
- Family thrills & adrenaline in the Ecuadorian highlands, with zip lines, waterfalls, volcano hikes and chocolate by the fire.
- 8 days
- from $3,200 pp
- Ecuador & Galapagos
Galapagos Explorer
- An epic family Galapagos adventure, from lava tunnels and giant tortoises to tidepools, sea lions, and starry skies.
- 10 days
- from $4,700 pp
- Ecuador & Galapagos
Timeless Andes
- An immersive journey through Ecuador’s Andes, from colonial Quito and Cuenca to mountain markets and Inca ruins.
- 10 days
- from $4,000 pp
- Ecuador & Galapagos
Islands of Fire
- Discover colonial Quito and the wonders of the Galapagos, from giant tortoises to lava tunnels and starry beaches.
- 8 days
- from $4,200 pp
Mashpi Lodge, Chocó
A glass-walled sanctuary in the clouds, Mashpi Lodge is a striking contemporary retreat hidden within Ecuador’s remote Chocó cloud forest. Sky bikes, waterfalls, and hanging bridges bring the misty landscape to life, while the lodge’s spa, fine dining, and floor-to-ceiling suites offer quiet contrast to the wild just outside. It’s nature in high definition, with comfort to match.
Pikaia Lodge, Santa Cruz
Set high on a volcanic ridge, Pikaia Lodge is the Galápagos’ most exclusive land-based retreat. Sleek, minimalist design opens to sweeping views of sea and savanna, with an infinity pool, private yacht, and expert-led excursions that bring island wildlife within reach. After a day of snorkeling and sea lions, return to refined comfort in one of the world’s most extraordinary settings.
Iguana Crossing, Isabela
Steps from the beach and framed by volcanoes, Iguana Crossing offers barefoot elegance in the heart of wild Isla Isabela. This locally owned boutique stay features ocean-view rooms, a relaxed poolside vibe, and fresh island cuisine. Out front, marine iguanas bask on black lava rock as waves roll in. It’s laid-back, intimate, and proudly Isabela-born.
Casa Gangotena, Quito
Set on the edge of Plaza San Francisco in Quito’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, Casa Gangotena is a restored mansion that exudes quiet sophistication. With just 31 elegant rooms, a refined restaurant, and panoramic rooftop terrace, it offers an immersive stay at the crossroads of colonial heritage and contemporary comfort. It's perfect for couples or culture-loving families.
Luna Volcán, Baños
Tucked high in the Andes above Baños, Luna Volcán is a boutique wellness lodge with panoramic views, thermal pools, and lush gardens spilling down the hillside. Perched above waterfalls and rainforest, it’s a retreat for adventurous travelers looking to recharge after a day of canyoning, hiking, or zip-lining. Here, spa-like serenity meets easy access to Baños’ wildest thrills.
Hacienda Zuleta, Otavalo
Shorten this slightly: Set on a 17th-century working estate in the Andean highlands, Hacienda Zuleta blends timeless elegance with living tradition. Hand-embroidered linens, fireplaces, and mountain views create a sense of quiet luxury, while condor conservation walks, horseback rides, and farm-to-table cuisine root you in Ecuador’s cultural heart. Warm, personal, and deeply authentic.
Regional Expertise
With deep roots across Central and South America, we’ve traveled every terrain, by road, air, and river. Our team curates bespoke journeys grounded in personal insight, from secluded island retreats to sunrise hot air balloon rides above the rainforest. Every itinerary is handpicked, perfectly paced, and thoughtfully tailored to you.
Seamless & Personalized
From the first conversation to your final day abroad, we design each trip around your style, interests, and rhythm. You’ll receive curated options, stress-free planning, and no-pressure guidance, along with 24/7 support throughout your journey. With thoughtful extras along the way, your experience feels as smooth as it is unforgettable.
Responsible Travel
We believe indulgence and impact belong together. Our journeys support local communities, cultural preservation, and conservation across the region. There are no added fees for doing good. Our partners fund our work, so your investment stays where it matters most. Travel with Osaviva and experience luxury that gives back.
Quito’s Historic Center
Ecuador’s capital is home to one of Latin America’s best-preserved colonial quarters. Wander golden churches, lively plazas, and cobblestone lanes with a private guide, then head to panoramic viewpoints where the Andes rise beyond the city’s edge.
Galápagos Island Hopping
Sail between volcanic islands where each stop brings new wonders. Walk among marine iguanas, snorkel with sea lions, and witness the blue-footed booby’s iconic courtship dance with expert naturalist guides.
The Avenue of Volcanoes
This dramatic Andean corridor is lined with snow-capped peaks, fertile valleys, and remote villages. Hike beneath Cotopaxi’s perfect cone or ride horseback through the highlands from a historic hacienda.
Amazon Rainforest Lodges
Travel by canoe into the Ecuadorian Amazon to reach secluded eco-lodges surrounded by wildlife. By day, spot monkeys and macaws from canopy towers; by night, paddle through moonlit creeks as frogs and cicadas sing.
Otavalo & the Highlands
Colorful markets, handwoven textiles, and centuries-old traditions await in the town of Otavalo. Visit family-run workshops, taste Andean flavors, and explore the rich cultural heritage of the highlands.
Giant Tortoises of the Galápagos
Meet these ancient icons in their natural habitat, from highland reserves on Santa Cruz to open trails on Isabela. Watch them lumber through lush terrain, living relics of a prehistoric world.
Expect limited connectivity
Especially in the Galapagos and Amazon. Embrace being offline.
Galapagos entry requirements
Expect park fees and a transit control card. Your travel advisor will handle the details.
Varying climates
Dress in layers. Quito is cool, the Amazon is hot & humid, the Galapagos are tropical.
US Dollar is the currency
Ecuador uses the US dollar, so no need for exchange if you're coming from the States.
High elevation considerations
Quito and many highland areas are above 9,000 feet. Take it slow and stay hydrated.
Conservation comes first
Stay on trails, use certified guides, and choose eco-conscious operators.
