Ecuador & Galapagos travel
 

We have justed returned from our holiday in Ecuador.

Our main interests were history, culture and nature. For this reason we picked Galapagos and Ecuador as our travel destination.

After doing research (guide books, internet forums & searches) we narrowed down our plans and started to contact various companies on the internet. We contacted Andando Tours, Guide2Galapagos, Zenith Travel, Metropolitan Touring and Quasar Nautica.

After getting all the responses, we decided on Guide2Galapagos (www.guidetogalapagos.com) as they were not only the fastest to reply but were the most helpful and responsive.

We enjoyed Hotel Cafe Cultura, in Quito, with its special charm. A visit to Bellavista Lodge for a day trip is not to be missed, along with the Otovalo market, and the Colonial part of Quito.

La Selva Lodge provided a well rounded experience of the rainforest. The huts were comfortable, the meals all very good and the staff very good. We saw a variety of insect, plants and birds. The only complaint I have is that the programs were very structured. They put you into groups and then went on those activities. I was under the impression that you chose your activities from day to day.

We loved the Beluga, the guide (Silvia) and the crew. They all took great care of us all the time and the boat was well kept. The food was magnificent. The itinerary provided a good experience of the islands. I loved being on a smaller boat and would definately not go for anyhting shorter than 8 days.

James

8-)

Just curious. Have you also been to Costa Rica? If so, how would you compare Ecuador and Costa Rica as regards the cost of lodgings/food, plane fare, and, the amount of wildlife you saw? Thanks!

I haven't been to Costa Rica yet, put it's high on my list!

I visited Costa Rica about 10 years ago. I found Galapagos a lot more expensive. The variety of wildlife in Galapagos was outstanding, where as maninland Ecuador was okay. I don know if Costa Rica is more expensive than it was 10 years ago. Both Costa Rica and Ecuador are excellent destinations for nature lovers!