• California Seller of Travel - Reg. #2160498-50
  • International Association of Travel Agents - Reg. #08599334
  • Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) - 08599334
  • American Society of Travel Agents - Reg. #900365960
  • California Seller of Travel - Reg. #2160498-50
  • International Association of Travel Agents - Reg. #08599334
  • Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) - 08599334
  • American Society of Travel Agents - Reg. #900365960
  • California Seller of Travel - Reg. #2160498-50
  • International Association of Travel Agents - Reg. #08599334
  • Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) - 08599334
  • American Society of Travel Agents - Reg. #900365960
  • California Seller of Travel - Reg. #2160498-50
  • International Association of Travel Agents - Reg. #08599334
  • Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) - 08599334
  • American Society of Travel Agents - Reg. #900365960
(208) 555-0112

Galapagos Signature:
Quito & M/C Elite Cruise

10 days From $4,106
Cruise

Trip Overview

This 10-day trip uncovers the best of Quito before flying you to the Galapagos Islands. Enjoy four nights of luxury and discovery aboard the Galapagos Elite, meeting some of the world’s most unique species.

Your full-day tour of Quito and the surrounding area includes a visit to the monument marking the equator. Learn about how pre-colonial civilizations celebrated the equinox here, and further your discoveries at the Ethnographic or Intiñan Museum. Back in Quito, you’ll see some of the city’s most attractive architecture, and enjoy a full chocolate experience, exploring Ecuador’s 5000-year history with ‘the Food of the Gods.’

Fly to the Galapagos, and begin your journey at Charles Darwin Research Station. Learn about the work being done here and put the rest of the trip into perspective as you appreciate this incredible archipelago. Plus, you’ll get up close and personal with giant tortoises. Sail to Genovesa the following day, visiting boobie colonies, fur seals, and more as you explore this beautiful island. Darwin Bay lets you snorkel alongside some of the Galapagos’ unique underwater species.

Your full-day tour of Quito and the surrounding area includes a visit to the monument marking the equator. Learn about how pre-colonial civilizations celebrated the equinox here, and further your discoveries at the Ethnographic or Intiñan Museum. Back in Quito, you’ll see some of the city’s most attractive architecture, and enjoy a full chocolate experience, exploring Ecuador’s 5000-year history with ‘the Food of the Gods.’

Fly to the Galapagos, and begin your journey at Charles Darwin Research Station. Learn about the work being done here and put the rest of the trip into perspective as you appreciate this incredible archipelago. Plus, you’ll get up close and personal with giant tortoises. Sail to Genovesa the following day, visiting boobie colonies, fur seals, and more as you explore this beautiful island. Darwin Bay lets you snorkel alongside some of the Galapagos’ unique underwater species.

Trip Itinerary

12 Day Classic Australia - First Class from Melbourne
  1. Arrive Quito

    Transfer

    Quito Airport to Quito - Old Town

    Property

    ILLA Experience Hotel

    Meal plan: Full Breakfast

    Illa Experience Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel in the historic center of Quito, Ecuador. More than a place to stay, it's a way to experience the richness of Quito's culture. Set inside a renovated 17th-century house, Illa Experience Hotel offers guests contemporary accommodations while complementing each stay with unique activities included at no additional cost. You might visit the workshop of a local artisan and watch as he hand-carves traditional wooden toys, try your hand at watercolour painting in one of the neighbourhood's many art studios, or taste a classic Quiteno treat, helado de paila, which is a homemade ice cream spun in a wide copper bowl. Each floor of Illa Experience Hotel represents a unique period in time, and guests are sure to enjoy the sensational exterior views, outdoor swimming pool, and the semi-enclosed outdoor bar found on-site and exclusive to guests. For a unique cultural experience in the heart of one of Quito's warmest and welcoming traditional neighbourhoods, look no further than Illa Experience Hotel.

    4 Night Stay
    View On Map
  2. The Middle of the Earth & Casa Agave

    Day Tour

    The Middle of the Earth & Casa Agave

    Ecuador is history, fascinating indigenous cultures, slow winding rivers and lush tropical forests, spectacular snow-capped volcanoes and some of the most exciting wildlife on earth. Today's private-guided tour to the middle of the earth begins just 30 minutes north of Quito, where a monument marks the equator at its closest point to the city. Archaeological evidence shows that both pre-Inca and Inca civilizations recognized and celebrated the equinox, the day the sun is directly over the equator, about which you'll learn more throughout the day. Your guide will also take you on a brief journey northwest, where you will visit the Pululahua volcanic crater for a peek into the crater floor where patchwork fields gleam far below. Later you will visit the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, a group of buildings designed to explain the significance of the site, and where you'll stop for lunch, as well as the Intiñan Museum, located directly on the Equator and where you'll see all sorts of interesting monuments, interactive displays and historic relics. Here you will have the chance to plant your feet in two hemispheres at the same time and to try to balance an egg on the head of a nail! Soon after visiting the Intiñan Museum, you'll be whisked away to Casa Agave. A unique distillery in Ecuador, Casa Agave specializes in producing Miske, a traditional and delicious spirit made from agave. Learn about the establishments local roots and pursuits, plant (and name) your own agave pup, discover the methods used to make Miske, then settle in for a sample. After touring and tasting at Casa Agave is complete, settle in for the return transfer to your hotel in Quito.

  3. Quito City Tour with Cooking Class

    Day Tour

    Quito City Tour with Cooking Class

    Ecuador is history, fascinating indigenous cultures, slow winding rivers and lush tropical forests, spectacular snow-capped volcanoes and some of the most exciting wildlife on earth. Today's private-guided tour to the middle of the earth begins just 30 minutes north of Quito, where a monument marks the equator at its closest point to the city. Archaeological evidence shows that both pre-Inca and Inca civilizations recognized and celebrated the equinox, the day the sun is directly over the equator, about which you'll learn more throughout the day. Your guide will also take you on a brief journey northwest, where you will visit the Pululahua volcanic crater for a peek into the crater floor where patchwork fields gleam far below. Later you will visit the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, a group of buildings designed to explain the significance of the site, and where you'll stop for lunch, as well as the Intiñan Museum, located directly on the Equator and where you'll see all sorts of interesting monuments, interactive displays and historic relics. Here you will have the chance to plant your feet in two hemispheres at the same time and to try to balance an egg on the head of a nail! Soon after visiting the Intiñan Museum, you'll be whisked away to Casa Agave. A unique distillery in Ecuador, Casa Agave specializes in producing Miske, a traditional and delicious spirit made from agave. Learn about the establishments local roots and pursuits, plant (and name) your own agave pup, discover the methods used to make Miske, then settle in for a sample. After touring and tasting at Casa Agave is complete, settle in for the return transfer to your hotel in Quito.

  4. Orchids, Butterflies & Chocolate in Mindo

    Day Tour

    Orchids, Butterflies & Chocolate in Mindo

    Ecuador is history, fascinating indigenous cultures, slow winding rivers and lush tropical forests, spectacular snow-capped volcanoes and some of the most exciting wildlife on earth. Today's private-guided tour to the middle of the earth begins just 30 minutes north of Quito, where a monument marks the equator at its closest point to the city. Archaeological evidence shows that both pre-Inca and Inca civilizations recognized and celebrated the equinox, the day the sun is directly over the equator, about which you'll learn more throughout the day. Your guide will also take you on a brief journey northwest, where you will visit the Pululahua volcanic crater for a peek into the crater floor where patchwork fields gleam far below. Later you will visit the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, a group of buildings designed to explain the significance of the site, and where you'll stop for lunch, as well as the Intiñan Museum, located directly on the Equator and where you'll see all sorts of interesting monuments, interactive displays and historic relics. Here you will have the chance to plant your feet in two hemispheres at the same time and to try to balance an egg on the head of a nail! Soon after visiting the Intiñan Museum, you'll be whisked away to Casa Agave. A unique distillery in Ecuador, Casa Agave specializes in producing Miske, a traditional and delicious spirit made from agave. Learn about the establishments local roots and pursuits, plant (and name) your own agave pup, discover the methods used to make Miske, then settle in for a sample. After touring and tasting at Casa Agave is complete, settle in for the return transfer to your hotel in Quito.

  5. Embark Cruising Galapagos

    Day Tour

    Orchids, Butterflies & Chocolate in Mindo

    Ecuador is history, fascinating indigenous cultures, slow winding rivers and lush tropical forests, spectacular snow-capped volcanoes and some of the most exciting wildlife on earth. Today's private-guided tour to the middle of the earth begins just 30 minutes north of Quito, where a monument marks the equator at its closest point to the city. Archaeological evidence shows that both pre-Inca and Inca civilizations recognized and celebrated the equinox, the day the sun is directly over the equator, about which you'll learn more throughout the day. Your guide will also take you on a brief journey northwest, where you will visit the Pululahua volcanic crater for a peek into the crater floor where patchwork fields gleam far below. Later you will visit the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, a group of buildings designed to explain the significance of the site, and where you'll stop for lunch, as well as the Intiñan Museum, located directly on the Equator and where you'll see all sorts of interesting monuments, interactive displays and historic relics. Here you will have the chance to plant your feet in two hemispheres at the same time and to try to balance an egg on the head of a nail! Soon after visiting the Intiñan Museum, you'll be whisked away to Casa Agave. A unique distillery in Ecuador, Casa Agave specializes in producing Miske, a traditional and delicious spirit made from agave. Learn about the establishments local roots and pursuits, plant (and name) your own agave pup, discover the methods used to make Miske, then settle in for a sample. After touring and tasting at Casa Agave is complete, settle in for the return transfer to your hotel in Quito.

  6. Genovesa: Prince Phillip's Steps (El Barranco) - Darwin Bay

    Day Tour

    Orchids, Butterflies & Chocolate in Mindo

    Ecuador is history, fascinating indigenous cultures, slow winding rivers and lush tropical forests, spectacular snow-capped volcanoes and some of the most exciting wildlife on earth. Today's private-guided tour to the middle of the earth begins just 30 minutes north of Quito, where a monument marks the equator at its closest point to the city. Archaeological evidence shows that both pre-Inca and Inca civilizations recognized and celebrated the equinox, the day the sun is directly over the equator, about which you'll learn more throughout the day. Your guide will also take you on a brief journey northwest, where you will visit the Pululahua volcanic crater for a peek into the crater floor where patchwork fields gleam far below. Later you will visit the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, a group of buildings designed to explain the significance of the site, and where you'll stop for lunch, as well as the Intiñan Museum, located directly on the Equator and where you'll see all sorts of interesting monuments, interactive displays and historic relics. Here you will have the chance to plant your feet in two hemispheres at the same time and to try to balance an egg on the head of a nail! Soon after visiting the Intiñan Museum, you'll be whisked away to Casa Agave. A unique distillery in Ecuador, Casa Agave specializes in producing Miske, a traditional and delicious spirit made from agave. Learn about the establishments local roots and pursuits, plant (and name) your own agave pup, discover the methods used to make Miske, then settle in for a sample. After touring and tasting at Casa Agave is complete, settle in for the return transfer to your hotel in Quito.

  7. Santiago: Espumilla Beach - Buccaneer Cove - Egas Port

    Day Tour

    Orchids, Butterflies & Chocolate in Mindo

    Ecuador is history, fascinating indigenous cultures, slow winding rivers and lush tropical forests, spectacular snow-capped volcanoes and some of the most exciting wildlife on earth. Today's private-guided tour to the middle of the earth begins just 30 minutes north of Quito, where a monument marks the equator at its closest point to the city. Archaeological evidence shows that both pre-Inca and Inca civilizations recognized and celebrated the equinox, the day the sun is directly over the equator, about which you'll learn more throughout the day. Your guide will also take you on a brief journey northwest, where you will visit the Pululahua volcanic crater for a peek into the crater floor where patchwork fields gleam far below. Later you will visit the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, a group of buildings designed to explain the significance of the site, and where you'll stop for lunch, as well as the Intiñan Museum, located directly on the Equator and where you'll see all sorts of interesting monuments, interactive displays and historic relics. Here you will have the chance to plant your feet in two hemispheres at the same time and to try to balance an egg on the head of a nail! Soon after visiting the Intiñan Museum, you'll be whisked away to Casa Agave. A unique distillery in Ecuador, Casa Agave specializes in producing Miske, a traditional and delicious spirit made from agave. Learn about the establishments local roots and pursuits, plant (and name) your own agave pup, discover the methods used to make Miske, then settle in for a sample. After touring and tasting at Casa Agave is complete, settle in for the return transfer to your hotel in Quito.

  8. Santa Cruz - Bachas Beach - Twin Craters and the Hightlands of Santa Cruz

    Day Tour

    Orchids, Butterflies & Chocolate in Mindo

    Ecuador is history, fascinating indigenous cultures, slow winding rivers and lush tropical forests, spectacular snow-capped volcanoes and some of the most exciting wildlife on earth. Today's private-guided tour to the middle of the earth begins just 30 minutes north of Quito, where a monument marks the equator at its closest point to the city. Archaeological evidence shows that both pre-Inca and Inca civilizations recognized and celebrated the equinox, the day the sun is directly over the equator, about which you'll learn more throughout the day. Your guide will also take you on a brief journey northwest, where you will visit the Pululahua volcanic crater for a peek into the crater floor where patchwork fields gleam far below. Later you will visit the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, a group of buildings designed to explain the significance of the site, and where you'll stop for lunch, as well as the Intiñan Museum, located directly on the Equator and where you'll see all sorts of interesting monuments, interactive displays and historic relics. Here you will have the chance to plant your feet in two hemispheres at the same time and to try to balance an egg on the head of a nail! Soon after visiting the Intiñan Museum, you'll be whisked away to Casa Agave. A unique distillery in Ecuador, Casa Agave specializes in producing Miske, a traditional and delicious spirit made from agave. Learn about the establishments local roots and pursuits, plant (and name) your own agave pup, discover the methods used to make Miske, then settle in for a sample. After touring and tasting at Casa Agave is complete, settle in for the return transfer to your hotel in Quito.

  9. Disembark Cruising Galapagos

    Day Tour

    Orchids, Butterflies & Chocolate in Mindo

    Ecuador is history, fascinating indigenous cultures, slow winding rivers and lush tropical forests, spectacular snow-capped volcanoes and some of the most exciting wildlife on earth. Today's private-guided tour to the middle of the earth begins just 30 minutes north of Quito, where a monument marks the equator at its closest point to the city. Archaeological evidence shows that both pre-Inca and Inca civilizations recognized and celebrated the equinox, the day the sun is directly over the equator, about which you'll learn more throughout the day. Your guide will also take you on a brief journey northwest, where you will visit the Pululahua volcanic crater for a peek into the crater floor where patchwork fields gleam far below. Later you will visit the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, a group of buildings designed to explain the significance of the site, and where you'll stop for lunch, as well as the Intiñan Museum, located directly on the Equator and where you'll see all sorts of interesting monuments, interactive displays and historic relics. Here you will have the chance to plant your feet in two hemispheres at the same time and to try to balance an egg on the head of a nail! Soon after visiting the Intiñan Museum, you'll be whisked away to Casa Agave. A unique distillery in Ecuador, Casa Agave specializes in producing Miske, a traditional and delicious spirit made from agave. Learn about the establishments local roots and pursuits, plant (and name) your own agave pup, discover the methods used to make Miske, then settle in for a sample. After touring and tasting at Casa Agave is complete, settle in for the return transfer to your hotel in Quito.

  10. Depart Ecuador

    Day Tour

    Orchids, Butterflies & Chocolate in Mindo

    Ecuador is history, fascinating indigenous cultures, slow winding rivers and lush tropical forests, spectacular snow-capped volcanoes and some of the most exciting wildlife on earth. Today's private-guided tour to the middle of the earth begins just 30 minutes north of Quito, where a monument marks the equator at its closest point to the city. Archaeological evidence shows that both pre-Inca and Inca civilizations recognized and celebrated the equinox, the day the sun is directly over the equator, about which you'll learn more throughout the day. Your guide will also take you on a brief journey northwest, where you will visit the Pululahua volcanic crater for a peek into the crater floor where patchwork fields gleam far below. Later you will visit the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, a group of buildings designed to explain the significance of the site, and where you'll stop for lunch, as well as the Intiñan Museum, located directly on the Equator and where you'll see all sorts of interesting monuments, interactive displays and historic relics. Here you will have the chance to plant your feet in two hemispheres at the same time and to try to balance an egg on the head of a nail! Soon after visiting the Intiñan Museum, you'll be whisked away to Casa Agave. A unique distillery in Ecuador, Casa Agave specializes in producing Miske, a traditional and delicious spirit made from agave. Learn about the establishments local roots and pursuits, plant (and name) your own agave pup, discover the methods used to make Miske, then settle in for a sample. After touring and tasting at Casa Agave is complete, settle in for the return transfer to your hotel in Quito.

  • Departures
  • Trip Inclusions and Exclusions
  • Terms and Conditions

Departures

From Quito:

2025*: January 10, 24; February 7; March 21; April 4, 18, May 2, 16, 30; June 13, 27;
July 11, 25; August 8, 22; September 5, October 17, 31; November 14, 28; December 12

*Departure dates listed above feature a 4-night cruise aboard the M/C Elite, however, other cruise routes (3-night and 7-night), as well as sailings aboard other ships, are available throughout the year. Please inquire.

Trip Includes

  • Private arrival and departure airport transfers in Sydney and Melbourne
  • Shared arrival and departure airport transfers in Ayers Rock, Alice Springs and Cairns
  • 3 nights first-class accommodation in Sydney
  • 2 night first-class accommodation in Ayers Rock
  • 3 nights first-class accommodation in Cairns
  • 3 nights first-class accommodation in Melbourne
  • Shared Lanes and Arcades Tour in Melbourne
  • Shared Melbourne City Tour
  • Shared Phillip Island Penguin and Moonlit Sanctuary Small Group Tour
  • Shared Great Ocean Road Small Group Tour
  • Shared Kata Tjuta Domes Tour
  • Shared KingsN ight at Field of Light Tour
  • Shared Kings Canyon and Outback Panoramas
  • Shared Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner Tour
  • Shared Uluru Highlights
  • Shared Outer Barrier Reef Cruise in Cairns
  • Shared Kuranda Classic Tour with Skyrail and Rainforestation
  • Shared Sensational Sydney City Tour
  • Shared Sydney Opera House Tour and Dine
  • Shared Blue Mountains Deluxe Experience
  • 2 lunches

Trip Excludes

  • Travel insurance
  • International, domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
  • Gratuities
  • Optional excursions
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Passport & Visa fees, if applicable

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please enquire.

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