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Ecuador & Galapagos

Where ancient cultures, rare wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes come together in perfect harmony.
A trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos opens up a world of wonders. From standing on the equator to swimming with sea lions, exploring lush cloud forests to trekking volcanic trails, you’ll explore diverse landscapes shaped by nature, fire and time. Here, learning comes alive, igniting curiosity and compassion.
Icon for nights 10 - 14 nights
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Ideal for Geography, Biology & Conservation, Sustainability

Highlights

  • Amazon wildlife conservation

  • Hike the Sierra Negra Volcano

  • Stand next to a giant tortoise

  • Discover Galápagos ecosystems

  • Swim with sea turtles, fish, and sea lions in a marine paradise

  • Discover volcanoes

Sample itinerary

Here’s how your school trip to India could look. Take this as a starting point and tailor it to your school (including duration, locations and activities).

Day 1

Your trip begins in Quito – arrival & transfer to Puyo

At a airport, you will be met by your Gapforce Leader and transferred to Puyo for the first stage of your adventure. On the way, enjoy photo-stops with views of volcanoes. On arrival at the hotel, you will be given a welcome & safety briefing followed by dinner.

Day 2–4

Puyo – Amazon Wildlife Conservation Volunteer

You will be assisting sanctuary staff in their efforts to rescue and rehabilitate amazon wildlife. Some of the animals you will encounter include monkeys, ocelots, pumas, macaws, eagles, to name just a few!

Activities can include:

  • Food preparation and feeding of animals

  • Clean enclosures

  • Provide enrichment for wildlife

  • Prepare animals for release

  • Site maintenance projects.

Day 5

Banos – Scenic walk and local market; transfer to Quito

Today we say goodbye to the sanctuary and begin our journey back to Quito. On the way, you’ll stop at the popular town of Baños where you will enjoy a scenic walk and have the chance to buy souvenirs from the local market stalls.

Day 6

Santa Cruz – Giant Tortoise Reserve and lava tunnels

Today you will fly to Santa Cruz in the Galapagos. In the afternoon, you will visit a reserve where giant tortoises choose toc ongregate allowing you to observe them in their natural environment. Here you will enjoy a guided walk, including through a lava tunnel formed millions of years ago.

Day 7

Isabela – Wetlands and snorkelling

After breakfast you take an early morning boat to Isabela Island. Today you will visit the wetlands and Las Tintoreras, one of the most visited and best snorkelling spots in the island – get ready to see some mind-blowing marine life!

Day 8

Isabela – Hike to rim of Sierra Negra volcano

Today you hike to the rim of Sierra Negra Volcano, the largest basaltic caldera in Galapagos offering impressive views. Spot unique species such as Darwin’s finches and Galápagos hawks and experience the transition from lush highland vegetation to barren lava fields.

Day 9

Santa Cruz – Charles Darwin Research Centre & Tortuga Bay

Early morning transfer to Santa Cruz in time for breakfast, followed by a visit to the world-famous Charles Darwin Research Centre. In the afternoon, walk to Tortuga Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Along the way, see vegetation typical of the arid zone, including the giant cactus Opuntia and Jaminocereus.

Day 10

Santa Cruz – Day trip to North Seymour Island

Today is a full-day tour to North Seymour Island, a natural haven for some of the most sought-after residents in the Galapagos Islands, the Blue-Footed Booby. There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy the wildlife and nature by hiking, swimming and snorkelling.

Day 11

Santa Cruz — visit the twin craters & fly to quito

Whist traveling to the airport to return to mainland, we stop at Los Gemelos – two dramatic volcanic sinkholes formed by the ancient collapse of a magma chamber. Upon arrival in Quito, transfer to your accommodation and relax.

Day 12

Quito – middle of the world museum & depart Ecuador

This morning, visit the Mitad del Mundo Museum where you can stand slap bang in the middle of the world! The guide will play various tricks on your mind and senses as everything in the middle of the world is just a little different from the norm. In the afternoon, take time to reflect on your journey and what you’ve learned in Ecuador. Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Learning beyond the classroom

A few suggestions of how we can link to your curriculum.

  • Biology:

    Evolution, biodiversity and unique island ecosystems.

  • Geography:

    Volcanoes, rainforests and dynamic natural landscapes.
    Ecuador hero image

  • Environmental Science:

    Conservation, habitat protection and species rehabilitation.

  • Community Impact:

    Support wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and conservation efforts.

  • Adventure & Outdoor Learning:

    Hiking, exploration and immersive field experiences.

  • Citizenship:

    Global responsibility through wildlife conservation and sustainability.

  • Geology:

    Volcanic processes, lava formations and tectonic activity.

  • Cultural Studies:

    Discover Ecuadorian communities, traditions and perspectives.

learning outcomes

Students will:

  • See the curriculum come to life through real-world experiences.

  • Gain cultural and historical awareness, as well as appreciation and respect for global communities.

  • Embrace environmental stewardship and conservation with hands-on experience caring for animals.

  • Observe diverse ecosystems and learn about geological processes.

  • Tackle physical challenges – promoting fitness, resilience and teamwork.

feeling inspired

If you like what you see and want to find out more, download our brochure, or fill out the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

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postcards

from previous trips

Hear the amazing experiences our travellers have had over the years.

"Gapforce were really supportive right from the start, helping with organisation and coming in to speak to parents. The trip was amazing and the pupils loved learning all about the wildlife, vegetation and history of the Galapagos Islands."

KB | St Helen's School | Ecuador and Galapagos Trip

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Whether you’re ready to book or want some further information and inspiration, we’re here to help. Fill in the form below or call us on 0207 384 3028.

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