Cartagena, Quito & the Galapagos
From cityscapes to beautiful beaches
Get ready for a South American exploration adventure! This exciting vacation package takes you through Cartagena, Quito, and the Galapagos! Spend time discovering historical cityscapes and marveling at gorgeous beach views. Surround yourself with the beauty and romance of Cartagena. Then, get ready to see some incredible wildlife up close; blue-footed boobies, land iguanas, tortoises, penguins, and more! You'll also spend time in the capital of Quito, once called "the City of the Heavens."
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Cartagena (CTG), out of Baltra (GPS)
- 3 nights in Cartagena at the Cartagena Plaza Hotel or similar
- One-way economy class flight from Cartagena (CTG) to Quito (UIO)
- Transfer from Quito airport to Quito Hotel
- 3 nights in Quito at the Hotel Ibis Quito or similar
- Transfer from Quito hotel to Quito airport
- One-way economy class flight from Quito (UIO) to Baltra (GPS)
- Transfer from Baltra (GPS) tp Puerto Ayora hotel, including Santa Cruz Highlands tour
- 4 nights in Puerto Ayora at the Villa Laguna or similar
- Airport transfer from Puerto Ayora hotel to Baltra (GPS)
- Breakfast daily
**Please note additional fees to be paid in destination:
- Galapagos National Park entrance fee - $100.00 (USD) per person
- Galapagos Transit Control Card - $20.00 (USD) per person
- Bus airport Baltra to Canal and return to the airport from Canal - $10.00 (USD) per person
Great Ways to Explore
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Discover the cobblestone streets and shops of Cartagena's Old Town!
Experience the city of Quito, the capital of Ecuador!
-
Look for rare and unique wildlife in the Galapagos!
-
See the Twin Craters in the Highlands of Santa Cruz Island!
-
Discover three important pieces of South American culture!
This 10-night vacation package will introduce you to three fantastic places! Discover the history, culture, and beautiful scenery as you experience Cartagena, Quito, and the Galapagos.
Begin in Cartagena where you'll spend a few nights exploring the city and getting acquainted with the Colombian culture. You can treat yourself to a walking tour of the city, spend free time exploring, and taste some delicious Colombian coffee!
Your next stop is Quito! Here, you'll experience beautiful churches and important historical sites. You'll also have free time to explore as you wish!
Your final stop is Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos! You'll have plenty of free time here to soak up the sun, gaze at the beautiful beaches, or indulge in water sports.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Enhance your vacation with:
Upgrade for $375 pp to Include Even More!
- Arrival transfer from CTG to Cartegena hotel
- Departure transfer from Cartagena hotel to CTG
- Quito City Tour with entrance to San Francisco Church and La Compania Church
- Full-day boat excursion, with lunch*
*Please note: the included full-day boat excursion will be to one of the following islands: North Seymour, South Plaza, Bartholomew or Santa Fe. The exact island will be confirmed after booking as the time of travel and daily weather conditions will determine which island will be the best experience for your trip.
Let's do this!- Round-trip economy class airfare into Cartagena (CTG), out of Baltra (GPS)
- 3 nights in Cartagena at the Cartagena Plaza Hotel or similar
- One-way economy class flight from Cartagena (CTG) to Quito (UIO)
- Transfer from Quito airport to Quito Hotel
- 3 nights in Quito at the Hotel Ibis Quito or similar
- Transfer from Quito hotel to Quito airport
- One-way economy class flight from Quito (UIO) to Baltra (GPS)
- Transfer from Baltra (GPS) tp Puerto Ayora hotel, including Santa Cruz Highlands tour
- 4 nights in Puerto Ayora at the Villa Laguna or similar
- Airport transfer from Puerto Ayora hotel to Baltra (GPS)
- Breakfast daily
**Please note additional fees to be paid in destination:
- Galapagos National Park entrance fee - $100.00 (USD) per person
- Galapagos Transit Control Card - $20.00 (USD) per person
- Bus airport Baltra to Canal and return to the airport from Canal - $10.00 (USD) per person
-
Discover the cobblestone streets and shops of Cartagena's Old Town!
Experience the city of Quito, the capital of Ecuador!
-
Look for rare and unique wildlife in the Galapagos!
-
See the Twin Craters in the Highlands of Santa Cruz Island!
-
Discover three important pieces of South American culture!
This 10-night vacation package will introduce you to three fantastic places! Discover the history, culture, and beautiful scenery as you experience Cartagena, Quito, and the Galapagos.
Begin in Cartagena where you'll spend a few nights exploring the city and getting acquainted with the Colombian culture. You can treat yourself to a walking tour of the city, spend free time exploring, and taste some delicious Colombian coffee!
Your next stop is Quito! Here, you'll experience beautiful churches and important historical sites. You'll also have free time to explore as you wish!
Your final stop is Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos! You'll have plenty of free time here to soak up the sun, gaze at the beautiful beaches, or indulge in water sports.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Enhance your vacation with:
Upgrade for $375 pp to Include Even More!
- Arrival transfer from CTG to Cartegena hotel
- Departure transfer from Cartagena hotel to CTG
- Quito City Tour with entrance to San Francisco Church and La Compania Church
- Full-day boat excursion, with lunch*
*Please note: the included full-day boat excursion will be to one of the following islands: North Seymour, South Plaza, Bartholomew or Santa Fe. The exact island will be confirmed after booking as the time of travel and daily weather conditions will determine which island will be the best experience for your trip.
Day 1. Welcome to Cartagena!
Welcome to Cartagena, the colonial jewel of Colombia!
Cartagena was founded in 1533 by the Spaniard Pedro de Heredia. Gold-crafting indigenous tribes, Spanish colonialism, pirates and corsairs, African slaves, fortifications, Catholicism and The Inquisition: Cartagena has led a very interesting life! With such a fascinating and turbulent history, you can bet that there are plenty of must-see spots for visitors.
Head into the old town and get lost in the dreamy cobbled streets and vine-draped balconies.
Check-in - Cartagena Plaza
Wake up to the sound of the Caribbean waves crashing at this 4-star hotel in Cartagena's modern Bocagrande district. You'll be just steps from miles of sandy beach and mere miles from Cartagena's enchanting Old Town. Each of the hotel's 311 bright and comfortable rooms face the bright blue sea and are equipped with air conditioning, in-room safes and more. Relax with a drink in hand by the beautiful outdoor pool, enjoy delicious meals at two restaurants, and learn how to salsa at the disco club. You'll leave Cartagena Plaza knowing you experienced the best hospitality Colombia has to offer!
Day 2. Cartagena
Today you could visit some of Cartagena's highlights! Cartagena was given the name La Heroica (Heroic City) by Simon Bolivar in 1815 after the city resisted 105 days of siege by the Spanish.
After the tour, stroll over to Plaza de la Aduana, the largest and oldest square in Cartagena's old town that was once the home of the city's government (aduana means customs).
Sip an ice-cold cocktail at one of the outdoor bars near Plaza de la Aduana as you watch the sun go down!
Day 3. Cartagena
In the morning, head to Plaza Santo Domingo to see Colombian sculptor Fernando Botero’s bronze “La Gordita Gertrudis” and the impressive golden-yellow Santo Domingo Church, the oldest in the city dating back to 1539.
Then consider visiting the Palace of the Inquisition, one of Cartagena's most visited tourist sites that documents the darkest period in the city's history. Enter through the baroque limestone doorway off Plaza de Bolívar to see the torture devices used during the 1700s.
Day 4. Cartagena - Quito
Today, you'll arrive at the Cartagena airport for your flight to Quito! Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your new hotel.
Arrive in Quito and enjoy a transfer to your first accommodation. Quito is set at the foot of the volcano Pichincha and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The city is known for its colonial churches, monasteries, paintings, sculptures and the magnificent blend of Spanish, Flemish and Moorish architecture. Quito has a total of 86 churches and monasteries, giving it the name of the “Convent of America."
Spend your first night in Quito trying the local cuisine like hornado (roasted pork) and llapingachos (corn cakes). The more adventurous eaters should try cuy (guinea pig)!
Flight from Cartagena to Quito
Transfer from Quito Airport to Quito hotel
A walkable 1.3 miles from El Ejido Park and even closer to attractions such as La Carolina Park, Foch Square, and the Ecuador Natural Science Museum, Hotel Ibis Quito is the ideal place to stay while visiting the area. Enjoy a comfortable stay in your cozy guestroom after a full day of excursions and exploring. With this hotel's close proximity to excellent restaurants, museums, and more, this property is the ideal base from which to explore Quito.
Keeping guests happy and comfortable for 30 years, Hotel Embassy is an excellent choice if you want to stay close to the city. Located only a short walk from Foch Square, popping out for a quick lunch or a walk through the park has never been easier. Less than half a mile from the Artisanal Market and El Patio de Comedias Theater, leisure time is easy to enjoy regardless of transportation.
The hotel offers amenities such as an on-site restaurant, bar/coffee shop, and room service. Grab a shuttle into the city or stop by the tour desk to pick up tickets to see a show. Whatever way you enjoy your stay, the friendly staff are ready to help make it perfect.
Day 5. Quito
In the morning, head to Quito's Old Town and admire its picturesque plazas and magnificent churches. Plaza Grande is a great place to get a true sense of the city! You'll also pass a few incredible churches like Basilica de Voto Nacional, La Merced, and Compania de Jesus.
Quito lies 15 miles south of the equator - this afternoon, consider heading just outside of the city to La Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World). Take a photo standing on the equator line and visit the small accompanying museum.
In the evening, return to Quito's old town and head to Calle La Ronda, a narrow cobbled street. Here you'll find some of the tastiest Ecuadorian treats to end a day of sightseeing!
Day 6. Quito
Today is yours to explore Quito on your own. For spectacular views over Quito's mountainous landscape, hop aboard the cable car known as TelefériQo, which takes you on a 10-minute ride to the top of Cruz Loma.
For a dose of art and culture, see the magnificent works of pre-Hispanic and colonial religious art at Ecuador's National Museum or learn more about Quito's history at the City Museum.
In the evening, head to Plaza Santo Domingo to watch the street performers along with quitenos (as Quito's residents are known). This plaza is absolutely breathtaking at night!
Day 7. Quito - Santa Cruz Island
Depart Quito and fly to Baltra Island! From the airport, take a bus to the Itabaca Canal where you will board a ferry to the other side of Santa Cruz island.
Santa Cruz is the second-largest island of the Archipelago and is the most important harbor. Colonized since the 1920s, Puerto Ayora is the main tourist hub and is home to the Galapagos National Park headquarters and the Charles Darwin Research Station.
En route to your accommodation, enjoy a tour of the Santa Cruz highlands where you will see the Twin Craters (Los Gemelos)!
Transfer from Quito hotel to Quito Airport
Flight from Quito to Baltra
Transfer from Baltra Airport to ferry terminal
This boutique hotel in Puerto Ayora has just 16 rooms, offering a quiet and comfortable stay. It boasts a poolside bar and restaurant where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All rooms are equipped with complementary toiletries, a flat screen television, and free WiFi. Just a 12 minute walk away is the beach, plus a slew of waterfront bars and restaurants. If you're feeling adventurous, the Galápagos National Park is just over 8 miles away. Whatever adventure you choose, Villa Laguna will provide a comfortable stay.
Hotel Deja Vú is an adults only hotel in Puerto Ayora. The hotel boasts a bar and restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, and free WiFi. Free American breakfast is included with your stay. All rooms are air conditioned and include free toiletries. If you're interested in a beach day, Playa de la Estación is within walking distance, and Playa de los Alemanes is a 10 minute drive away. Spend a day exploring Galápagos National Park, only 2,650 feet from the hotel, or take a stroll to the downtown area. Whatever adventure you choose, you'll be satisfied with your decision to stay at Hotel Deja Vú.
Santa Cruz Highlands Tour (en-route to Puerto Ayora hotel)
Visit the Santa Cruz highlands and see the Twin Craters, also known as Los Gemelos. Located side by side and connecting Puerto Ayora to Baltra, the magnificent Twin Craters were formed as a result of the collapse of the crust into the crater. There are many craters of this type in this area, signaling the possibility that these craters are all elements of the same fissure.
The vegetation of this area is dominated by Scalesia trees, giving the whole landscape a lush green feel. See a lava tunnel and take a short walk where you can observe the famous giant tortoise in its natural environment.
Day 8. Santa Cruz Island
Begin your day in Puerto Ayora with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, a biological research station and breeding center housing an extensive collection of preserved specimens of Galápagos plant life and the famous giant tortoise. See how the conservation of the islands is conducted, and understand the huge efforts that scientists, park rangers and park managers among others have to make to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 9. Santa Cruz Island
Today, consider a visit to Las Grietas, a rocky bay surrounded by high cliffs which offers an amazing spot to snorkel with colorful fish as the water is crystal clear and shines in all shades of blue. You reach it after a short water taxi ride from the pier of Puerto Ayora and a 15-minute walk along the incredible volcanic landscapes of the Galapagos Islands.
On the way you pass the “Playa de los Alemanes” (“Beach of the Germans”), where you can make a break in order to enjoy the sun and swim in the refreshing ocean!
Day 10. Santa Cruz Island
Make it a beach day! El Garrapatero Beach is a beautiful beach with tide pools and lagoon with flamingos and other exotic birds.
In the evening, head to Calle de los Kioskos (Street of the Kiosks) to experience the local life of the Galapagueños. Every night at 6:30pm restaurants put out their tables on the streets to attract hungry customers. Choose from a variety of cuisines including just-caught seafood. Watch how it is prepared in front of you!
Day 11. Depart Ecuador
This morning you'll head to the Baltra Airport for your flight home!
Fly home!
Where available, the Flexible Change Plan allows you to change your travel date for ANY reason (between 30 days and 14 days before planned departure). You will receive a Future Travel Credit for the entire amount you paid. Please note that prepaid instant purchase airfares and group airfare are not eligible for the Flexible Change Plan and are subject to airline-imposed change or cancellation fees based on airline rules at the time that the change is requested. You must rebook using the original air carrier at least 14 days prior to your originally scheduled departure and complete travel at least 1 year from original booking date. Additional fees may apply. Future travel credit is non-transferable, non-refundable, and may not be redeemed for cash.