Galapagos trip | Luxury stay Galapagos at the Pikaia Lodge

The archipelago that inspired Charles Darwin to formulate his theory of evolution. On these remote volcanic islands, a thousand kilometres off the Ecuadorian coast, you’ll find extraordinary biodiversity. Many animal species are found nowhere else in the world. Here you’ll find marine iguanas, giant Galápagos tortoises and blue-footed boobies. Sea lions, penguins and albatrosses also call this place home. Beneath the surface of the sea, just as on land, life teems. Marine mammals and fish, including whales, manta rays and hammerhead sharks, inhabit the ocean.
Please note: The Galápagos Archipelago is a protected nature reserve where strict regulations must be observed during your visit; always follow your guide’s instructions to ensure you do not cause any damage to this very special and unique ecosystem.

Quito averages 2,850 metres above sea level in the Andes mountains. The colonial downtown was one of the first city centres to be inscribed on the World Heritage List and is beautifully maintained. Quito is ranked among the continent's most beautiful cities. It also has one of the largest colonial centres in Latin America; only Havana in Cuba has a larger historic core, but is not nearly as beautifully restored. Outside the old city centre, Quito also has modern neighbourhoods.... On a clear day, Quito offers stunning views of the snow-capped summit of the Cotopaxi volcano. And where Rio de Janeiro has the famous statue of Christ, in Quito a stone Maria looks out over the city from the 'Panecillo' hill.

The spectacular Galápagos National Park is situated approximately 1,000 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador on Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos archipelago. The park is often referred to as a ‘living museum’ due to its phenomenal melting pot of species.
The area inspired Charles Darwin’s theories of evolution and is regarded as a living laboratory where evolution is still taking place. The park is home to a variety of animals and plants found nowhere else. These factors, together with ongoing volcanic and seismic activity, have earned the park its UNESCO status.
Visitors can spot animals such as land iguanas, giant tortoises, a variety of finches and many other animal and plant species. Situated at the confluence of three ocean currents, there is also an incredibly rich and abundant marine life off the coast.
Please note: The Galápagos Archipelago is a protected nature reserve where strict regulations must be observed during your visit; always follow your guide’s instructions to ensure you do not cause any damage to this very special and unique ecosystem.

With a dramatic landscape of soaring peaks, numerous volcanoes and exuberant cloud forests are the Northern Andes, a long, narrow plateau looming over Ecuador's western region. Visitors to the area can lose themselves in the wide variety of things to do on the mountain slopes, ranging from exciting outdoor activities to fascinating cultural experiences. Highlights include a scenic hike and canopy tour along the verdant landscape of Mindo Cloud Forest and a stroll along the cobblestone streets of Quito's Old Town to see the beautiful colonial architecture. Don't miss a visit to the small town of Otavalo, home to the hugely popular Otavalo Market, known as the largest market for traditional jewellery, textiles and handicrafts in South America.