ECUADOR AND THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Despite being one the smallest countries in South America, Ecuador offers a staggering diversity of architecture, landscapes, wildlife and culture, including jungle tribes, colonial towns, huge expanses of rainforest, bird-filled cloud forests, snow-capped mountains and an extensive Pacific coastline.
It is also home to the Galapagos Islands - one of the world’s great natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site - with their remarkable collection of mammals, birds, reptiles and plants which led Charles Darwin to formulate one of the greatest scientific theories of all time: survival of the fittest, or the theory of evolution.

Ecuador/Galapagos For Families – In Considerable Comfort is an ideal itinerary for families wishing to experience the stunning Andean scenery of mainland Ecuador and the islands of the Galapagos, but without having to stay aboard a boat; suited more for families with older children (8 – 11), A Family Natural History Tour Of Ecuador And The Galapagos reveals the remarkable diversity of Ecuador’s natural history and visits Amazon rainforest, cloud forest and ends with a 7-night cruise of the Galapagos Islands; for added luxury Ecuador And Galapagos In Considerable Comfort And Style is all about the Enchanted Islands and will appeal to families wishing to explore the Galapagos Islands without mainland Ecuador.

When to Go

The influence of the Andes causes the climate of Ecuador to vary considerably between regions. The coast is very dry but can be cool and misty from June to September; the Andes have a pleasant spring-like climate and are generally driest between June and September; the Amazonian rainforest is generally hot and wet throughout the year with the highest rainfall from April to September. The Galapagos Islands receive very limited rainfall and can be visited at any time of the year. It is generally very hot, sunny and humid from December to May when thunderstorms may occur. From June to November the cold Humboldt current brings cooler weather, cloud, wind and mist (garúa).

This is also the breeding season for many seabirds (including the waved albatross) and when most migratory whales visit the islands. The islands are strongly affected by the El Niño phenomenon, which can dramatically alter the weather at any time.

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It is also home to the Galapagos Islands - one of the world’s great natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site - with their remarkable collection of mammals, birds, reptiles and plants which led Charles Darwin to formulate one of the greatest scientific theories of all time: survival of the fittest, or the theory of evolution. Ecuador/Galapagos For Families – In Considerable Comfort is an ideal itinerary for families wishing to experience the stunning Andean scenery of mainland Ecuador and the islands of the Galapagos, but without having to stay aboard a boat; suited more for families with older children (8 – 11), A Family Natural History Tour Of Ecuador And The Galapagos reveals the remarkable diversity of Ecuador’s natural history and visits Amazon rainforest, cloud forest and ends with a 7-night cruise of the Galapagos Islands; for added luxury Ecuador And Galapagos In Considerable Comfort And Style is all about the Enchanted Islands and will appeal to families wishing to explore the Galapagos Islands without mainland Ecuador. When to Go The influence of the Andes causes the climate of Ecuador to vary considerably between regions. The coast is very dry but can be cool and misty from June to September; the Andes have a pleasant spring-like climate and are generally driest between June and September; the Amazonian rainforest is generally hot and wet throughout the year with the highest rainfall from April to September. The Galapagos Islands receive very limited rainfall and can be visited at any time of the year. It is generally very hot, sunny and humid from December to May when thunderstorms may occur. From June to November the cold Humboldt current brings cooler weather, cloud, wind and mist (garúa). This is also the breeding season for many seabirds (including the waved albatross) and when most migratory whales visit the islands. The islands are strongly affected by the El Niño phenomenon, which can dramatically alter the weather at any time.	Ecuador/Galapagos for Families � In Considerable Comfort An ideal itinerary for families wishing to experience the stunning Andean scenery of mainland Ecuador and the islands of the Galapagos, but without having to stay aboard a boat. After colonial Quito and the awesome Cotopaxi volcano come seven nights by a sandy beach on Isla Santa Cruz, enjoying various island visits by 18 metre-long, luxury Hatteras motor yacht and other guided mainland excursions, all the while benefiting from very comfortable island-based accommodation with large swimming pool and a natural seafront setting. Find out more... A Family Natural History Tour of Ecuador and the Galapagos Suited more to families with older children (8-11), this itinerary reveals the remarkable variety of Ecuador’s diverse natural history. First comes an excellent jungle lodge in deepest Amazonia. Next a visit to the upland cloud forests should reveal prolific greenery and splendidly colourful birdlife. Then cruise the Galapagos islands aboard one of three identical, 83-feet sister vessels, each with 20 passengers and full air-conditioning. A limited number of special family cruises are available – please contact us for dates as they tend to fill fast. Find out more... Ecuador And Galapagos In Considerable Comfort And Style This luxury programme is all about the Enchanted Islands, and will appeal to families wishing to explore the Galapagos without mainland Ecuador, thereby avoiding a significant amount of travelling by using Guayaquil rather than Quito as the arrival point. After some relaxing acclimatisation at the pleasant Finch Bay Hotel near Puerto Ayora, embark on a full week’s cruise aboard the spacious 48-passenger yacht La Pinta – perhaps the most luxurious option available in the islands – with inter-connecting cabins and its unique ‘Young Pirates’ programme of activities tailored for children seven years and older. There is no better way for families to appreciate these magical islands. Find out more...	‘The holiday was wonderful. It probably exceeded our expectations and was exactly the right itinerary. The seven night option for Galapagos was just right... [Your representatives] were excellent and [our guide] was wonderful.. .once again, thanks for a great holiday.’ Mr R D - Herefordshire
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ECUADOR AND THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

When to Go

Ecuador/Galapagos for Families � In Considerable Comfort

A Family Natural History Tour of Ecuador and the Galapagos

Ecuador And Galapagos In Considerable Comfort And Style