Ecuador and Galapagos holidays

Marvel at the ice covered peak of the world's highest active volcano in the Cotopaxi National Park. After an early morning departure from Quito you will head south along the Pan-American Highway for an hour and a half heading towards the 88,920 acre park encompassing the iconic Cotopaxi Volcano. Upon arrival there will be a short briefing about the region's habitats, flora and fauna. Next stop in the Limpiopungo Lagoon where you may glimpse bird life and even wild horses. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Quito.

Enjoy a full day exploring the city of Cuenca (full name Santa Ana de los Ríos de Cuenca), Ecuador's third city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This walking tour takes place in the colonial downtown area with myriad parks, plazas and religious monuments. Following lunch at a local restaurant you will be transported, via a ceramic shop, to the Turi hill for panoramic city views and a lesson on Cuenca's history and geography. The tour ends with a visit to a museum and workshop where Panama straw hats are created.

This full day experience takes you on an exploration of the Andean landscapes, traditional towns and the bustling Otavalo Market. After an early start from Quito you will head north towards the most famous Indian fair, Otavalos textile market. Ponchos, scarves, blankets and many other crafts are on sale which you can barter for in a unique silent fashion. You will then travel onto the town of Peguche where you can witness the locals weaving the products that are sold at market. Enjoy lunch at a local hacienda or inn before returning to Quito.

Upon leaving Quito this experience will take you north towards Otavalo, stopping en route at the city of Cayambe to visit a bakery where you can sample bizcochos, a traditional melt-in-the-mouth biscuit and dulce de leche - heaven for those with a sweet tooth. Enjoy the aromas and ambience at the local market in Octavalo before preparing and then eating lunch at a local hacienda. Before the return trip to Quito you will visit a flower plantation and view Ecuadorian roses.

Enjoy the Caribbean ambience in Guayaquil, Ecuador's natural port and largest city. You will visit the main city sights including Centennial Plaza, the Moorish Clock Tower, Bolívia Park and the popular waterfront overlooking the River Guayas which merges history, culture and entertainment. Visit one of the oldest neighbourhoods , Barrio las Peñas which boasts beautiful wooden buildings and a number of art galleries. At Historical Park you can discover Ecuadorian culture and history in three sections - 'Wildlife', 'Urban Architecture' and 'Traditions'.

Quito, the first city in the world to be granted UNESCO World Heritage status, can be explored on this three hour experience. View the city's splendid colonial architecture, some of the finest examples in Latin America, on this short introductory walking tour. The trip begins at the Independence Plaza, bordered by buildings such as the Cathedral and the Presidential Palace, and continues onto the Monastery of San Francisco and ends at a lookout point offering panoramic views of the city.