Ecuador and the Western Galápagos on Silver Origin

Enjoy included UK airport lounge access before your overnight flight to Quito.

Arrive in Ecuador's high-altitude capital, where you'll be met and transferred to Casa Gangotena, one of the city's most distinguished hotels. Occupying a privileged position on Plaza San Francisco, it's an ideal base for exploring Quito's historic heart. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, perhaps enjoying panoramic views across church domes, rooftops and surrounding mountains from the hotel's rooftop terrace.

Leave Quito behind as you travel into the Chocó cloudforest, one of the planet's richest biodiversity hotspots. Upon arrival at Mashpi Lodge, settle into your rainforest surroundings before joining an expertly guided nature walk. Search for colourful birdlife, exotic orchids, waterfalls and elusive mammals hidden among the lush vegetation. In the evening, learn more about the reserve's wildlife and conservation initiatives during presentations led by resident naturalists.

The morning, embark on a full day's exploration of the extraordinary ecosystems surrounding Mashpi Lodge. Rise early for superb birdwatching opportunities before venturing deeper into the forest on guided trails. Discover observation towers, canopy experiences and hidden streams while learning about the area's remarkable biodiversity. With luck, you'll spot toucans, tanagers, monkeys and countless butterfly species. After dark, head out once more to observe nocturnal creatures that emerge beneath the rainforest canopy.

Return to Quito and spend two days uncovering the treasures of Ecuador's capital. Explore elegant colonial squares, impressive churches, historic monasteries and atmospheric cobbled streets lined with traditional balconies, galleries and cafés. Visit landmarks including Independence Plaza and the San Francisco complex, or opt to stand astride the equator at the famous Middle of the World monument. A special evening tour provides a memorable perspective on Quito's illuminated historic centre.

Stay: JW Marriott, Quito

Fly to the Galápagos Islands and board the luxurious Silver Origin for an unforgettable expedition cruise. After meeting the expert expedition team, settle into your suite and enjoy your first views of the archipelago. The voyage begins with a passage around dramatic Kicker Rock, an iconic volcanic formation rising from the ocean. Watch for seabirds from the deck before enjoying dinner and onboard entertainment as your Galápagos adventure gets underway.

Stay: Silver Origin (Deluxe)

Today's explorations reveal some of the Galápagos' most photographed landscapes. Visit Bartolomé Island, home to the famous Pinnacle Rock, with opportunities for guided walks and spectacular island viewpoints. Keep an eye out for lava lizards, hawks and seabirds among the volcanic scenery. Later, explore the caves and cliffs of Buccaneer Cove by Zodiac or kayak, encountering blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies and other nesting seabirds.

Stay: Silver Origin (Deluxe)

Sail to the western reaches of the archipelago, where younger volcanic islands showcase dramatic geological landscapes. At Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela, enjoy Zodiac excursions and excellent snorkelling opportunities among marine life-rich waters. Continue to pristine Fernandina Island, one of the world's most untouched ecosystems. Here, wildlife encounters include sea lions, Sally Lightfoot crabs, flightless cormorants and large colonies of marine iguanas basking across black lava fields.

Stay: Silver Origin (Deluxe)

Explore Tagus Cove, a historic anchorage surrounded by volcanic cliffs and rich wildlife habitats. Guided walks, kayaking and snorkelling excursions offer opportunities to spot penguins, cormorants and Galápagos mockingbirds. Later, enter the tranquil mangrove ecosystems of Elizabeth Bay. Cruising quietly through sheltered channels by Zodiac, look for sea turtles, herons, pelicans and sea lions as your guide reveals the ecological importance of these coastal environments.

Stay: Silver Origin (Deluxe)

Discover the fascinating history and wildlife of Floreana Island. Visit the famous Post Office Bay, where a long-standing maritime tradition continues at a historic wooden mail barrel. Nearby wildlife-rich shores are home to curious sea lions and their playful pups. Continue with opportunities for snorkelling in crystal-clear waters frequented by reef fish, turtles and sharks before walking to lagoons and beaches where flamingos and nesting sea turtles may be seen.

Stay: Silver Origin (Deluxe)

Today you'll explore Santa Cruz's greener highlands, where cooler conditions create ideal habitats for the Galápagos' famous giant tortoises. Observe these magnificent reptiles roaming freely while learning about local conservation efforts and sustainable farming initiatives. Later, visit the Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre, part of the Charles Darwin Research Station, to gain insight into ongoing programmes protecting several endemic tortoise species that once faced severe population decline.

Stay: Silver Origin (Deluxe)

Your final full day explores the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. At Cerro Dragón, learn about successful conservation projects that helped restore local land iguana populations. Continue with opportunities to swim or snorkel around Guy Fawkes Islets, where colourful marine life thrives among reefs and rocky outcrops. Later, visit peaceful Borrero Bay, a beautiful coastal area known for nesting sea turtles, volcanic scenery and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Stay: Silver Origin (Deluxe)

Enjoy one final Galápagos sunrise before breakfast onboard. Disembark Silver Origin on San Cristóbal and transfer to the airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador. Arrive in Quito in time to connect with your overnight flight to the UK