An Unforgettable Galápagos Family Adventure
Trip highlights
- Discover Quito's charms on a privately guided tour
- Spend two nights in a Galápagos island lodge
- Snorkel and swim with playful sea lions
- Set sail on a four-night Galapagos cruise
- Explore the islands and their majestic wildlife
- Enjoy daily water-based expeditions and expert-guided tours
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. This bespoke trip includes:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Expert-guided tours
- Private transfers and internal flights
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
- Days 1–3 Quito
- Days 3–9 The Galápagos
- Days 9–10 Guayaquil
- Days 1–3 Quito
- Days 3–9 The Galápagos
- Days 9–10 Guayaquil
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Three days in Ecuador’s charming capital, Quito
Your trip begins in Ecuador’s capital, Quito, the first-ever UNESCO World Heritage city. The historic centre has been incredibly well preserved and you’ll get a sense of stepping back in time and into contemporary Ecuadorian culture at the same time. The main plaza, the ‘Plaza de la Independencia’, is where you’ll find the Government Palace, the Cathedral and some of the most important churches. ‘Panecillo’, the hill that divides Quito, is crowned by the famous statue of Our Lady of the Panecillo, built by Bernardo de Legarda, and offers spectacular views.
To help you explore, you’ll have our list of recommendations as well as private guides. We can arrange a number of private, interest-led tours and book the best restaurants for you. Talk to your travel designer about how you would like to spend your time here.
Where you could stay
Quito
Highlights
- 31 rooms
- Restaurant
- TV
- WiFi
- Room upgrade will be provided subject to availability
- Box of Pacari chocolates upon arrival
Overview
Removed you may think, but the hotel sits quite comfortably in this characteristically Old World part of town, and being conveniently positioned at the colonial and cultural heart of Quito its thirty-one rooms have magnificent views over the square and surrounding monuments.
Inside the décor is elegantly traditional, but is kept quite minimal for a contemporary twist. Downstairs is the lobby, complete with marble floors, velvet Chesterfields, and peppered with the odd antique, as is the dining room, bar and conservatory central patio. Then via the spiral stairs (or lift) are the rooms that feature all the contemporary amenities matched to the more modern soft furnishings, but the high ceilings, mouldings, wall murals and marbled bathrooms nod loyally to the mansion’s past and the opulence of a bygone era.
We can arrange for a number of private city tours of Quito with our expert, local guides. Please discuss this with our consultants when planning your itinerary
→ Find out moreQuito
Overview
One of Quito’s largest hotels, the JW Marriott Quito is perfect for those who want all the extensive infrastructure, amenities and service that only a five star business class hotel can provide.
Rooms are well decorated and equipped, most with views of the city or volcano. Hotel facilities include a very large heated outdoor pool area (almost unique in Quito), four restaurants, bars, lounges and a well equipped spa.
→ Find out moreQuito
Overview
Step back into Ecuador’s fascinating history, with a stay at this charming historical hotel in the centre of Quito, which has quite rightly been awarded UNESCO status. Situated amongst the narrow, cobbled streets and baroque architecture this hotel is located in a restored colonial mansion, with 22 beautifully decorated colourful rooms, replete with décor from the colonial era. For some peace and quiet from the bustling bohemian streets, you can sit back and relax in the hotels central patio, carefully designed to represent the importance of Quito’s historical past and the present, modern day.
Outside of the hotel you will find some of Quito’s most beautiful historical monasteries, churches and a splendid collection of art shops, cafes and restaurants. At the weekend this area is a very lively with a fantastic atmosphere, a great place to be to be immersed into Quito’s culture.
→ Find out moreSee Quito like a local
On a half-day tour walking tour of the Old Town with a local resident guide, you’ll learn more about the largest and best-restored historical centre in the Americas. They’ll take you to meet artisans, shopkeepers, hat makers and sweet confectioners. Up the hill on Calle Rocafuerte, in San Francisco Market, one of the oldest in the capital, you’ll learn about some of the country’s culinary traditions and meet one of the market’s local herbal healers. You’ll continue on to the Monastery of San Francisco and the temple of La Compañía de Jesús with its awesome gilded interior.
Four nights cruising the Galápagos
You’ll begin your exploration of the Galápagos with four nights on your choice of Jacada’s selected luxury expedition cruises. The exact itinerary will depend on which you choose – and your travel designer will help you pick the best for you and your family.
Hopping between the islands you’ll set off on daily water-based expeditions and guided tours with naturalist guides. Highlights include snorkelling off of pristine sandy beaches, walking among fields of lava and spotting inquisitive sea lions and iguanas. The islands’ endemic wildlife has no fear of predators, and opportunities to observe both animals and birds are unparalleled.
Your choice of yachts
Galapagos - Cruises
Highlights
- 8 spacious cabins with their own private balconies
- Lounge
- Dining room
- Several outdoor decks from which to dine and observe the sights
- Jacuzzi
- Sundeck
Overview
Ocean Spray is a well-equipped and very reasonably priced vessel.
With a capacity for only 16 guests with eight very spacious cabins (the top four are 32m² in size) all with their own private balconies, this is a cruiser that prizes an intimate and comfortable Galápagos experience for its guests.
Enjoy al fresco dining on the deck to soaking in the Jacuzzi after your day’s excursions.
A comprehensive schedule of land-based and boat excursions to the islands will be discussed with you before the trip and when you first board the Ocean Spray. Talk to our designers for more details.
→ Find out moreGalapagos - Cruises
Overview
Natural Paradise is a newly launched luxury yacht designed specifically for cruising the Galapagos in comfort with custom features such as soundproofed engines.
There are nine cabins which can sleep up to 16 guests, all with comfortable beds, air-conditioning and private bathrooms. Four of these feature private balconies and the main deck suite can be converted into a triple room.
Her social areas include a beautiful teak sundeck with Jacuzzi and a cozy al fresco dining. On the main deck you will find a spacious lounge, bar and dining room.
To help you explore the archipelago’s underwater world, snorkeling gear, wetsuit and underwater camera are available for your use. 10 crew members, including a naturalist guide who will lead you on your exploration, ensure a high standard of service throughout your cruise.
→ Find out moreGalapagos - Cruises
Overview
Combining decades of experience with a state-of-the-art expedition vessel designed specifically for Galapagos exploration, the newly launched Santa Cruz II brings a new level of luxury and eco-credentials to the archipelago.
The new boat is just over 70m long and features 50 Swedish-designed cabins and suites, with room for up to 90 guests. All enjoy sea views out of large windows and en-suite bathrooms. 36 cabins can be interconnected, ideal for families and small groups.
Communal areas include the Sky Deck, overlooking the bow, where guests can enjoy the sunshine or exercise in the fitness room. The aptly named Panorama Deck has an elegant bar, lounge and an al fresco dining area to the stern. On the same deck, guests are also welcome to visit the bridge, featuring state-of-the-art electronic navigation equipment, to meet the crew and captain. Below this is the library, hot tubs, the Discovery Room and the Beagle Dining Room.
Much of the food served on board is locally sourced, such as fish, sea food and organically grown produce, and is a combination of Ecuadorian specialities and international cuisine. You can choose to dine al fresco which lets you enjoy the stunning scenery as you eat.
Aboard the Santa Cruz II, explore the Galapagos Islands in a range of ways, from snorkelling in its waters with reef sharks and frolicking sea lions, to glass-bottomed boat tours, kayak expeditions and expertly guided hikes on land that focus on birdlife, wildlife and geology. Cruise itineraries vary in length from four to ten nights, and encompass the entire archipelago.
→ Find out moreExploring the islands
On land
On the water
Guided nature walks
You’ll have the chance to walk a number of varied nature trails with your guides, depending on which islands feature on your itinerary. As well as spotting wildlife, these offer the chance to take in the astonishing geology of the islands.
Panga rides and snorkelling
Setting off on small group excursions by inflatable ‘panga’ Zodiac boats, you’ll see the islands’ dense marine life, perhaps donning a snorkel to dive beneath the surface of the waves.
Two nights on Santa Cruz Island
Complete your Galápagos adventure with two nights relaxing on dry land. You can discover the island of Santa Cruz at your own pace while staying in a luxury lodge. This is the place to get up close to giant tortoises in the wild, mountain bike, scuba dive, bird watch, or simply enjoy some laid-back family time around the pool before returning to the mainland.
Where you could stay
Luxury Galapagos Hotels
Highlights
- Included activities such as snorkelling, hiking, biking and boat trips
- Open-plan lounge, bar and dining room
- Infinity pool
- 9 luxury en-suite tents with private deck
- Private three bedroom family suite
Overview
A truly unique way to enjoy the wonderful nature of the Galápagos islands. Set in 55-hectare grounds in a remote corner of Santa Cruz island, the GSC camp has just nine large and very well appointed safari style tents.
Each is appointed with private bathroom with a hot water shower. The tents are spaced well and have a large double bed and private balcony from which to enjoy the views. The new family suite has three bedrooms suite (master and two twins), and its location next to the main lodge makes it an ideal option for families who favour more private and cohesive lodging.
All the tents surround the main and very elegant contemporary lodge complete with restored antiques and furnishings installed by its well-travelled owners. There is a large main communal area where meals are served and a lounge to relax in. The hotel also boasts an infinity pool from which to admire the landscape. A variety of activities to explore the island and surrounds are possible from the camp. The camp is also renowned for its sustainable and positive impact efforts, including projects aimed at reforestation and protection of endemic flora.
→ Find out moreLuxury Galapagos Hotels
Highlights
- 21 rooms and 6 suites
- Private yacht
- Restaurant and bar
- Swimming pool
- Sailing trips around the islands
- Scuba diving and birdwatching
Overview
Set on the island of Santa Cruz, Finch Bay Eco Resort is one of the best and most convenient beachfront hotels in the Galápagos. With a calm protected beach in front and a pleasant pool area, it makes for a wonderful place to relax before or after your Galápagos cruise.
The hotel has a good restaurant and offers tours around the island or boat trips to other surrounding islands can also be organised. The hotel is decorated in a relaxed contemporary style, with the best rooms offering a private veranda and views out to the sea.
→ Find out moreLuxury Galapagos Hotels
Overview
Set among the top of an extinct volcano crater, this brand new lodge is the perfect choice if you are looking for a land-based and environmentally friendly Galapagos hotel. Pikaia’s central location on Santa Cruz Island, along with its own private tortoise reserve and yacht, promises heaps of wildlife discovery.
Opened in September 2014, Pikaia Lodge not only boasts the title of the first carbon neutral accommodation, but also superbly scenic views. Guests are invited to take part in their reforestation programme where endemic trees are planted around the grounds.
Soak up the sights of misty volcanoes and the dramatic Pacific Ocean as you relax in the infinity pool, at the ‘Sumaq’ spa or from your room with its panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows.
Guestrooms here range from deluxe and superior rooms to lavish suites, one of which offers its own pool, while all provide contemporary comforts, generous bathrooms and a private terrace. Meanwhile dining is taken care of with the ‘Evolution’ Restaurant and its sophisticated menu of Peruvian and Ecuadorian cuisine. However, BBQs and romantic candle-lit dinners can also be enjoyed alfresco by the pool.
→ Find out moreWave goodbye to Ecuador in Guayaquil
The largest city in Ecuador and located on the Pacific coast, Guayaquil is the country’s economic hub. You’ll find a good selection of fine restaurants and cultural establishments here, we can help you make the most of your short stop before heading home.
Where you could stay
Guayaquil
Overview
Located close to the airport, the Hilton Colon is an excellent option for Guayaquil. It’s the best hotel in the city with the level of service and finish that one comes to expect from this brand.
Recent refurbishment means that the interiors are elegant and contemporary. Features include a large outdoor pool area, an excellent spa and a choice of different restaurants. There is also an adjoining complex with shops and banks.
→ Find out moreWhy book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
Start planning
your adventure
How it works
- Simply click ‘Start Planning’ or give us a call.
- We’ll get in touch within 24 hours and work with you to perfect the details of your trip.
- Sit back and relax while we plan a bespoke itinerary for you.