10-Day Ecuador & The Galapagos Adventure Tour for Teens

Course Description: 10-Day Ecuador & The Galapagos Adventure Tour for Teens

Ecuador & the Galapagos Adventure Tour for Teens 🌎�*

Bienvenidos! This South American summer adventure invites teens to explore two of the world’s most extraordinary destinations: Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Experience life along the equator, zip-line over a cloud forest, snorkel in protected island waters, and hike pristine beaches filled with wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. Along the way, feel the warm hospitality of the Ecuadorian people and travel with a small, close-knit group led by experienced program leaders. With natural wonders, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion, this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime journey. ✨

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Program Highlights ✨

• Hike through Santa Cruz Island’s incredible lava tunnels.

• Zip-line high above the Mindo Cloud Forest canopy.

• Snorkel in the Galapagos Islands’ crystal-clear waters.

• See the iconic giant tortoises of the Galapagos.

• Sunbathe alongside marine iguanas at Tortuga Bay.

• River tube through the rapids of the Mindo Cloud Forest.

• Stand on the equator at La Mitad del Mundo.

• Hike and kayak through the beaches and mangroves of Tortuga Bay.

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Itinerary �*

Days 1–3 — Quito, Ecuador 🇪�*

Arrive in Ecuador’s vibrant capital and settle into the lively Mariscal District. Explore the historic colonial center, visit the world-famous equatorial monument at La Mitad del Mundo, and get your adrenaline pumping as you:

• Zip-line 11,975 feet across 12 cables above the cloud forest

• River tube the rapids of the Mindo River

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Days 4–8 — Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos 🐢�*

Experience the UNESCO-protected Galapagos Islands up close.

• Visit the Charles Darwin Research Center

• Hike to Tortuga Bay, known for marine iguanas and pristine white sand

• Kayak through a mangrove-lined saltwater cove

• Explore lava tunnels and Twin Craters

• Take two full-day snorkeling excursions to Bartolome and Floreana Islands to discover the region’s incredible biodiversity

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Days 9–10 — Quito, Ecuador

Return to Quito for your final nights in Ecuador. Share memories with your new friends before parting ways on departure day. The adventure may end, but the memories last forever. 🌅

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Accommodations �*

Quito, Ecuador

Hotel Embassy — A centrally located property in the Mariscal District, close to museums, galleries, and the historic center. Rooms include Wi-Fi, phone, and a safe.

Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos

Villa Laguna — A three-story hotel overlooking a fresh-water pool. Clean, comfortable rooms with Wi-Fi and spaces to relax in the island breeze.

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What It’s Like �*

A small, tight-knit adventure focused on cultural immersion, nature, and thrilling outdoor activities.

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Cultural Sensitivity �*

Teens will experience new foods, customs, and environments. An open mind is essential when engaging with local communities and exploring natural ecosystems.

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Meals 🍽️

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included daily.

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Activities �*

All listed recreation, exploration, and adventure activities are included.

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Transportation �*

Travel in air-conditioned, professionally driven vehicles, from deluxe motor coaches to passenger vans.

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Local Guide �*

A knowledgeable guide accompanies the group, offering insight into Ecuadorian culture, history, and ecosystems.

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Accommodations Summary 🛏️

Basic, comfortable hotels chosen for safety, cleanliness, and proximity to key attractions.

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Group Size �*

Up to 24 participants.

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Dietary Options �*

Most dietary preferences and allergies can be accommodated.

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Program Specifics ✈️

Flight to Quito, Ecuador

A chaperoned flight is offered from the USA, typically from South Florida or New York depending on group demographics. Final routes are confirmed in spring.

Internal Flights

An additional $595 USD fee covers internal flights between Quito and the Galapagos Islands.

Return Flight from Quito

A chaperoned return flight to the USA is offered. Teens from other regions may join the group flight or arrange suitable independent connections.

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Meals & New Cuisines 🍤�*

Ecuadorian and Galapagos cuisine includes chicken, beef, plantains, rice, beans, and fresh seafood such as ceviche. North American options are often available.

Purified drinking water is always provided for refilling bottles.

Most dietary needs—including vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-free, kosher-style, and allergy-sensitive diets—can be accommodated.

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Drinking Water �*

Large containers of purified water are always available for refilling reusable bottles.

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Vaccinations �*

Follow CDC guidance and consult your physician for travel immunization updates. Families receive detailed guidance in spring.

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Altitude Adjustment 🏔️

Quito’s elevation (9,350 ft) may cause temporary symptoms such as increased heart rate or shortness of breath. The schedule builds in time for safe acclimatization.

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Laundry �*

Laundry can be dropped off weekly at a local wash-and-fold service and picked up clean and ready to wear.

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What’s Included / Not Included ✅

Included

• All lodging

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily

• All listed recreation & activities

• Airport transfers at designated times

• Gratuities & taxes

Not Included

• Transportation to/from program

• Internal airfare

• Snacks

• Souvenirs

• Laundry

• Optional travel insurance