Adobe Stock 242218893

Luxury Vacations

in Ecuador & Galápagos Islands

Explore
Scroll

Why Choose a Luxury Vacation in Ecuador & The Galápagos Islands?

A destination defined by soaring volcanoes, colonial towns rich with history, vibrant highland markets, and the lush biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest. Luxury vacations in Ecuador & The Galápagos offer travelers a curated experience through South America's most fascinating contrasts. The Galápagos Islands are the pinnacle of exploration, where land-based stays and exclusive cruises provide close encounters with endemic wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. From the highlands to the Pacific, a luxury Ecuador vacation in South America with Rothschild Safaris reveals the extraordinary at every turn.

Experiences on a Luxury Vacation in Ecuador & The Galápagos Islands

Wander through the well-preserved Old Town of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where colonial architecture, ornate churches, and lively plazas create a vivid cultural landscape. This historic city offers a meaningful start to luxury vacations in Ecuador & The Galápagos Islands.

In the heart of the Mashpi Rainforest, a pristine cloud forest in Ecuador, enjoy immersive experiences in one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. Enjoy the lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, diverse wildlife, nature walks, and hikes along well-maintained trails.

Explore the Galapagos Islands with daily boat trips. Each day, embark on boat excursions to different islands, discovering wildlife like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and endemic birds. Day boat trips allow you to enjoy the islands while returning to the mainland each evening.

Aboard comfortable yachts or expedition ships, you’ll enjoy a fully immersive experience in the Galápagos. These all-inclusive cruises offer daily guided excursions to some of the most pristine and remote islands, which are only accessible by boat. Excursions typically include snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking across volcanic landscapes, and relaxing on secluded beaches, often inhabited only by sea lions. The flexibility of a cruise allows you to visit multiple islands, each with its unique ecosystems while enjoying the comfort of returning to your ship after each day's adventure.

Safari

Witness rare wildlife in dramatic, untouched South American landscapes.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Amazonian Wildlife Safari

On Foot

Explore vibrant towns and rainforest trails with expert naturalist guides.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Hiking the Highlands

On Water

Cruise island coastlines and spot marine life in crystal-clear Pacific waters.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Sailing the Enchanted Isles

Unseen Places

Access remote islands and cloud forests only few ever reach.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Hidden Gems of Ecuador

Through the lens

Photograph iconic wildlife and volcanic vistas with stunning clarity.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos A Photographer s Paradise

Wild encounters

Spot marine iguanas, sea lions, and tortoises in their native habitats.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Close Up with Nature

Cultural Immersion

Engage with local communities and Ecuador’s deep cultural heritage.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Embracing Indigenous Traditions

Culinary Delights

Taste Andean and coastal flavors shaped by tradition and origin.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Flavors of the Andes the Sea

Private Luxury

Experience a personalized journey with an exclusive itinerary.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Exclusive Getaways

Conservation

Support efforts protecting Ecuador's fragile ecosystems and species.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Protecting Nature s Paradise

Most Popular

Our travelers' top-rated experiences in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Exploring the Galápagos Islands

Slow Journeys

Savor each destination with immersive, well-paced exploration.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Embracing the Art of Slow Travel

Tropical Islands

Swim, snorkel, and relax on remote islands in the Galápagos.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Island Escapes in the Pacific

Family-Friendly

Adventure-filled itineraries designed for families of all ages.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Adventures for All Ages

Romantic

Secluded escapes for two with nature, luxury, and privacy combined.
Discover More
Ecuador Galápagos Intimate Island Retreats
Luxury Galapagos Cruise60
Quilotoa 2048x1365
Pexels simon berger 1190690 2048x2048
Pailon del Diablo
Adobe Stock 307188689
Adobe Stock 339653733 1
Adobe Stock 140667683

Places to Visit on a Luxury Vacation in Ecuador & Galápagos Islands

Ecuador’s cultural highlands blend Spanish colonial and Amerindian influences, evident in the architecture and vibrant markets found throughout the region. Luxury vacations in Ecuador & The Galápagos offer an immersion into these layered traditions, where cobbled streets lead to artisan workshops and historic churches. In contrast, the Galápagos Islands reveal volcanic beauty, endemic wildlife, and secluded coastal views shaped by time and tide. Together, they offer unmatched diversity on a luxury Ecuador vacation in South America.

Ecuador Galapagos Snorkeling

The Galápagos

A luxury vacation in Ecuador & Galápagos Islands brings you face-to-face with rare wildlife in volcanic terrain. Snorkel, kayak, or dive alongside sea turtles, sharks, and manta rays. Discover lava fields, black sand beaches, and endemic species on Ecuador & Galápagos Island Vacations in South America.

Quito 1

Quito

Begin your luxury vacation in Ecuador & Galápagos Islands in Quito’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Wander colonial streets, explore historic churches, and enjoy views from El Panecillo hill. Lively plazas, markets, and a rich cultural heritage make Quito a highlight of Ecuador & Galápagos Island Vacations in South America.

Cotopaxi volcano glacier covered 5 897m summit co 2022 03 08 23 20 54 utc jpg

Central Highlands

The Central Highlands are a striking part of a luxury vacation in Ecuador & Galápagos Islands. Hike volcanic slopes, explore artisan markets, and visit crater lakes. Discover high-altitude landscapes shaped by tradition on Ecuador & Galápagos Island Vacations in South America, where culture and nature meet.

Peru The Peruvian Amazon

Ecuadorian Amazon

Explore the Ecuadorian Amazon on a luxury vacation in Ecuador & Galápagos Islands. Journey through dense jungle with expert guides, meet indigenous communities, and spot exotic wildlife. Ecuador & Galápagos Island Vacations in South America offer unmatched access to one of the planet’s richest ecosystems.

Accommodation on a Luxury Vacation in Ecuador & Galápagos Islands

Southern Ecuador offers refined accommodations with colonial-style elegance. The Central Highlands feature 5-star stays housed in beautifully restored buildings dating from the 16th to 18th centuries, blending heritage architecture with personalized luxury.

Eco-hotels in the Amazon combine modern comfort with low-impact design. In the Galápagos, where lodging is limited, we recommend luxury hotels and curated cruises. These options ensure that your luxury vacation in Ecuador & Galápagos Islands maintains both style and exclusivity.

1 5 Theory
Mashpi lodge full view
Ecuador Galápagos Credit Eco Ventura 44
Ecuador Galápagos Credit Eco Ventura 19
Ecuador Galápagos Credit Mashpi Lodge 32
Ecuador Galápagos Credit Mashpi Lodge 24
Ecuador Galápagos Credit Mashpi Lodge 19
Ecuador Galápagos Credit Eco Ventura 23
Ecuador Galápagos Credit Eco Ventura 34
Casa Zuleta 28
Casa Zuleta 34
Ecuador Credit Napo Wildlife Center 19
Ecuador Galápagos Credit Quasar Evolution 3
Ecuador Galápagos Credit Quasar Evolution 16
Elite lounge and dining golden galapagos1
Elite upper deck terrace golden galapagos1
Ecuador Galápagos Credit Mashpi Lodge 28
Ecuador Galápagos Credit Mashpi Lodge 15
Ecuador Credit Napo Wildlife Center 18

Credit Mashpi Lodge

Credit Mashpi Lodge

Credit Mashpi Lodge

Credit EcoVentura

Credit EcoVentura

Credit Casa Zuleta

Credit Casa Zuleta

Credit Napo Wildlife Center

Credit Quasar Evolution

Credit Quasar Evolution

Credit Golden Galapagos

Credit Golden Galapagos

Credit Mashpi Lodge

Credit Mashpi Lodge

Credit Napo Wildlife Center

Itineraries to Inspire 
Ecuador & Galápagos Islands 

Peru
19
Days

Luxury Peru & the Galapagos Cruise

This 19-day journey combines Peru’s ancient monuments with the pristine beauty of the Galápagos Islands. Explore the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco, then discover Quito’s architecture, the Galápagos' unique wildlife and stunning landscapes, offering a rare, untouched natural experience.
View Itinerary
Sea Lion and Cruise Galapagos
10
Days

Luxury Galápagos Cruise & Ecuador

Embark on a unique journey to the Galápagos, inspired by Darwin’s ‘On the Origin of Species.’ Begin in Quito, exploring its Spanish & Incan heritage, then sail to the Galápagos islands. Witness giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies & vibrant underwater life, all while enjoying onboard comfort.
View Itinerary
Luxury Galapagos Cruise15
9
Days

Classic Galápagos

Explore the Galápagos' landscapes & unique wildlife, starting in Quito with its rich culture & architecture. After a visit to Otavalo, embark on a Galápagos cruise, visiting islands with fascinating wildlife & opportunities to snorkel & kayak in crystal-clear waters, discovering vibrant marine life.
View Itinerary
New 8 1
8
Days

Ecuador highlights & Cruising the Galápagos Islands

Embark on an journey to the Galápagos Islands, where unique wildlife & up-close encounters await. Begin in Quito, the world’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, before sailing to explore Santa Fe, Espanola, San Cristobal & Floreana, each offering stunning landscapes & incredible animal experiences.
View Itinerary

Ecuador & Galápagos Islands 
At A Glance

Icon cal 2x

Best time to visit

June to November 
is best for diving and wildlife sightings with cooler waters.

December to May 
is ideal for snorkeling in warm, calm conditions.

Icon sun 2x

Seasons

Dry Season
June to November

Wet Season
December to May

Icon temp 2x

Climate

Low temperatures 
range from 69 - 74°F (21 - 23°C) in August and September.

High temperatures 
range from 84 - 88°F (29 - 31°C) in February and March.

Icon users 2x

Best for

Wildlife enthusiasts
Marine life enthusiasts
Photographers

Galapagos equador map
Search for...
Destinations, Experiences, Itineraries and Articles