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Arrive in Ecuador’s capital, Quito, nestled in a long, narrow valley between the lush base of the Pichincha Volcano and the precipitous Machángara River canyon. Begin exploring!
Explore Ecuador's beautiful capital on this guided tour of Quito's downtown. Visit sites dating back to Spanish colonization, and continue to Panecillo where you will find an impressive panoramic view of the city and the surrounding valleys. Jump from the southern to the northern hemisphere in an instant at Mitad del Mundo, the Equator Monument that marks the equinoctial line.
Hop on a plane to Baltra, the smallest of the Galápagos Islands. Then, make your way to Isla Santa Cruz, home of the Charles Darwin Research Station.
Highlands excursionExplore the silent lava tunnels found across the island, which sits on the Nazca tectonic plate. One of more than 40 hotspots on Earth, the Galapagos Islands give scientists insight into our planet's core.
Primicias Ranch visitThe Galapagos giant tortoise is the largest living tortoises in the world, can weigh up to 660 pounds, and can live as long as 150 years in the wild. The wild population of these amazing creatures has dropped sharply since the seventeenth century due both to excessive hunting and the introduction of predators and humans. For a rare chance to see these amazing endangered tortoises roam free in the natural habitat, head to Primicias Ranch.
A must-see while in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island! The biological research station is a great way to take in some interesting facts about the environment of the Galápagos many take for granted while relaxing on the beach. On display, the center has information on local conservation, habitats, and other interesting relevant statistics. The station's most impressive attraction is the tortoise breeding center, where you can see tortoises of all shapes and sizes.
LunchEnjoy lunch with your group.
Tortuga Bay excursionExplore the glistening blue Tortuga Bay and snorkel in the lagoons (or just enjoy time on the beach!).
Transfer to San Cristobal Island via boat.
La Galapaguera visitThis tortoise breeding and conservation center is dedicated to increasing the population of the island’s vulnerable tortoises. Follow a meandering trail through a large park full of roaming giant tortoises, then visit the pens where smaller tortoises are grouped together by age before being released into the wild.
Hike to El Junco LakeEl Junco Lake is located at the center of San Cristóbal Island and is one of the few fresh water lakes in the Galápagos. Walk among the lush green ferns and watch as White-cheeked Pintails and colorful Gallinules swoop and swim around you.
LunchEnjoy lunch with your group.
La Loberia BeachSpend time snorkeling at the beach while taking in views of sea lions, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and lava lizards.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch with your group.
Spend a free afternoon exploring the city.
La Mariscal artisanal craft market visitA visit to La Mariscal market is a must for anyone looking for a souvenir from your trip or a present to bring home. Packed with crafts and specialties from all around the country, enjoy the dazzling displays of blankets, paintings, jewelry, bags, flutes, chocolate and more.
Board your flight home or opt to extend your stay!
Extend your stay in Ecuador by visiting the Antisana Ecological Reserve!
Through our Discovery for Credit Program, students traveling on an international WorldStrides program have the opportunity to earn academic credit by completing an online course that allows them to reflect upon many of the themes and topics explored during their travel program. Those in grades 6–12 at the time of travel can earn free elective high school credit upon successful completion of both the travel program and online course. Through our university partner, George Mason University, eligible students in grades 9-12 at the time of travel can earn up to three college credits upon successful completion of both the travel program and online course. Students who earn credit with WorldStrides will find this distinguishes them as online learners and gives them a jump-start on their path to a successful higher education experience. Click here for more details.
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