Ecuador and Galapagos Islands

Ecuador is one of only a few countries in the world that has a little of everything, which makes it so wonderful to explore - high Andean mountains, stunning beaches, the incredible Amazon jungle, fascinating indigenous culture, cosmopolitan Quito, amazing wildlife on the Galapagos Islands, volcanoes and hot springs.

Named for the equator which the country straddles and about the same size as New Zealand, Ecuador has a history of human habitation dating back some 6000 years. The country formed part of the Incan Empire, prior to colonisation from the Spanish in the 1830s. The country gained independence from Spain in 1822. Ecuador currently has a population of 15 million and is one of 17 mega diverse countries in the world, named by the United Nations Environment Program.

The Galapagos Islands are simply unique and home to a vast number of endemic species. They are renowned for their distinct fauna and are famous as the birthplace of Darwin's Theory of Evolution. A volcanic archipelago isolated 1000 kilometers off the coast of Ecuador, 97% of the land area of the islands is taken up by the National Park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cruising among the islands and having close encounters with whales, turtles, iguanas, blue-footed booby’s and innumerable other terrestrial, avian and marine life is incredible and unforgettable – we cannot rate this experience highly enough.

Ecuador and Galapgos Islands
student programs, small group tours and travel

Pacific Discovery offers the following student programs and small group adventure travel tours in Ecuador and Galapagos Islands. Alternatively, if you are interested in a custom tour for your high school group, university group, family or special interest group, then please contact us, as we are happy to work with you to develop an itinerary that incorporates experiences and excursions to suit your group and focus.

Discover Peru tour & Galapagos Islands

20 days of fantastic adventure travel through Peru with optional 9-day Galapagos Islands extension

Peru is a land of contrasts - explore the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, see the intriguing Nazca Lines, walk in the shadows of the mighty Colca Canyon, homestay on an island in Lake Titicaca, wander the ancient plazas and markets of Cusco and Arequipa, head up-river into the Amazon jungle, and much more. And if you have time, join us for an amazing trip exploring the Galapagos Islands.
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