Ecuador & The Galapagos Islands

12 Days | 11 Nights Itinerary

Experience the beauty, biodiversity, and cultural richness of South America on this 12-day Jewish heritage tour of Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands. Designed for private and group travelers, the journey includes colonial treasures in Quito, the breathtaking cloud forests of Mindo, indigenous markets in Otavalo, and an unforgettable luxury cruise through the Galápagos Islands. Enjoy Shabbat-friendly services, expert guides, and immersive wildlife encounters — from giant tortoises and marine iguanas to blue-footed boobies. Optional extensions to Peru and Machu Picchu are available.

More Info on this Tour

Jewish Travel Ecuador & Galapagos Islands

Private & Group Jewish Tours | Custom & Luxury Experiences

Discover the wonders of South America with our expertly curated Jewish Travel Ecuador and Galapagos programs.
Designed for private travelers, families, and small or large Jewish groups, these itineraries combine breathtaking nature,
cultural heritage, and meaningful Jewish experiences across mainland Ecuador and the legendary Galapagos Islands.

Ecuador may be one of the smallest countries in South America, but it offers an extraordinary diversity of landscapes—from the Andes Mountains
and cloud forests to pristine beaches and volcanic islands. Thanks to its equatorial location, Ecuador enjoys year-round travel opportunities,
making it an ideal destination for Jewish heritage and nature-focused travel.

Day 1 | Arrival in Quito

Arrival in Quito, Ecuador
Meet and greet by Shai Bar Ilan Geographical Tours staff
Private transfer to hotel

Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits at 2,850 meters above sea level and is considered one of the most beautiful cities in South America.
Surrounded by dramatic mountains and volcanoes, the city features remarkably preserved colonial architecture and a mild spring-like climate year-round.

Day 2 | Quito & Mindo Cloud Forest

Travel to the lush Mindo Cloud Forest on the western slopes of the Pichincha Volcano. This unique ecosystem is home to one of the greatest
concentrations of bird and plant species in the world, including hummingbirds, tanagers, toucans, cock-of-the-rock, and manakins.

Day 3 | Colonial Quito & Mitad del Mundo

Guided tour of Quito’s historic center
Independence Square and Presidential Palace
La Compañía de Jesús, San Francisco Church, and Metropolitan Cathedral
Gothic Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Parks, monuments, and colonial plazas

Overnight: Swissotel Quito

Day 4 | Shabbat in Quito

After prayers and breakfast, enjoy a walking tour of Quito, including the Central Bank Museum with its archaeological, ethnographic,
colonial, and modern art collections. In the evening, experience the vibrant Chiva Quiteña night city tour.

Overnight: Swissotel Quito

Day 5 | Quilotoa Crater Lake & Indigenous Markets

Visit the spectacular Quilotoa Lagoon, a turquoise crater lake set high in the Andes. Learn about its volcanic origins and changing colors,
then stop at the local market in Pujilí village to experience indigenous culture and craftsmanship.

Days 6–9 | Galapagos Islands Cruise (4 Days / 3 Nights)

Fly from Quito to the Galapagos Islands for a luxury cruise aboard the Galapagos Legend. These volcanic islands, formed millions of years ago,
are among the most biologically unique places on Earth and a highlight of any Jewish Travel Galapagos experience.

Highlights of the Galapagos Cruise

Bartolomé Island: volcanic landscapes, Pinnacle Rock, snorkeling with penguins and reef sharks
South Plaza Island: land iguanas, cactus forests, and seasonal red vegetation
North Seymour Island: blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, sea lions
Pitt Point & Cerro Brujo (San Cristóbal): snorkeling, seabirds, and pristine beaches
Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve: conservation programs and giant tortoises

Day 9 | Galapagos – Quito – Otavalo

Return flight to Quito and continue to Otavalo, a largely indigenous town in the Imbabura Province. Visit San Pablo Lake, set beneath
the Imbabura Volcano and surrounded by traditional communities.

Overnight: Hotel La Mirage

Day 10 | Otavalo, Cotacachi & Cuicocha Lake

Visit Cotacachi, famous for its leather goods
Explore Cuicocha Crater Lake with its twin islands
Return to hotel to prepare for Shabbat
Shabbat prayers and dinner

Overnight: Hotel La Mirage

Day 11 | Shabbat in Otavalo

After prayers and breakfast, enjoy a walking tour of Otavalo, home to the most famous indigenous market in Ecuador.

Overnight: Hotel La Mirage

Day 12 | Parque Cóndor & Departure

Visit Parque Cóndor, a raptor rescue and rehabilitation center featuring condors, eagles, hawks, and falcons.
Witness daily flight demonstrations and learn about conservation efforts.
Evening transfer to Quito Airport for your return flight home.