Two nights prior to the Ecoventura cruise
When visiting the Galapagos Islands, you have the choice of flying into Quito or Guayaquil. There are several airlines with international routes into both cities. While it is possible to arrive one night prior to the cruise, we recommend guests consider spending two nights prior and explore the area.
Guayaquil is considered the gateway to Galapagos and the closest point from the mainland on a 90-minute non-stop flight to the islands. The airport is a 15-minute drive to downtown or Samborondon, an upscale suburb. At sea level, you will avoid the higher altitude of Quito.Â
Quito is situated in an Andean valley at 9186 feet above sea level, making it the 2nd highest capital city in the world. The airport is a 50-minute drive into downtown Quito where most hotels are located. The flight from Quito makes a stop in Guayaquil.
- Guayaquil
Hotel del Parque & Hacienda La Danesa
Ecuador’s largest city and seaport has been revitalized and its crown jewel is the Malecon 2000, a two-mile pedestrian walkway along the Guayas River, Las Penas and Santa Ana Hill, the centuries old neighborhood where restored homes line narrow streets, and Parque Historico, recreating Guayaquil’s past through its history and culture.
- Quito
Casa Gangotena & Colonial Quito
Nestled at the foot of a 15,696-foot Pichincha Volcano is the Colonial Capitol set in the Middle of the World known for its eternally spring-like climate and beauty of its well-preserved colonial center. UNESCO declared Quito the first of its World Heritage sites in 1978 and is a Cultural Patrimony of Mankind.