Go small – and discover it all – in Ecuador. That’s the promise behind the NEW Small Group Discovery tour from Globus: Ecuador: Natural Wonders & Ancient Cultures (Tour Code: SE). This 11-day journey from Quito to Guayaquil offers a rich tapestry of cultures, climates and contrasts – crafted exclusively for an average of 18 guests (and no more than 24).
“Ecuador may be compact, but its travel rewards are colossal,” said Chris Hall, managing director Asia Pacific, Globus family of brands. “We designed this new Small Group Discovery tour from the ground up to showcase the country’s incredible diversity – pairing boutique stays with iconic moments, from the cloud forests of the Amazon to the cobblestones of colonial Cuenca.”
From mountaintop to jungle floor, this new Small Group Discovery tour traces a one-of-a-kind route through Ecuador – layered with cultural richness, natural beauty and wow-worthy accommodations.
- Quito: Guests will start their adventure in the Andes with a three night stay at Hotel Patio Andaluz – a 16th-century mansion turned boutique hotel nestled near the city’s vibrant historic centre. While in the capital, they’re treated to a private, behind-the-scenes experience at the El Alabado Museum – home to one of the best collections of pre-Colombian art in South America. This exclusive tour showcases artifacts and spaces not open to the general public.
- Otavalo: Guests are invited to enjoy a full-day journey to Otavalo, where they’ll stand at the Quitsato Sundial Monument – marking the true equatorial line – before diving into local tradition. Highlights include a visit to one of the last remaining family-run weaving workshops in Ecuador and a visit to the famous local market.
- Amazon Basin: Then, they cross the continental divide into the Amazon Basin for a two-night stay at the riverside Casa del Suizo Eco-Lodge, nestled along the Napo River. Here, they’ll explore jungle trails with Quichuan guides, glide through rainforest waterways in search of diverse fauna and relax in hammocks with a view.
- The Andes: Guests then travel west through dramatic valleys and snowcapped peaks, tracing the ancient Inca road system. Highlights include rose plantations, sacred waterfalls, volcanoes, the ruins of Ingapirca and artisan-rich towns steeped in history and tradition.
Plus, boutique stays that steal the show:
- The Samari Spa Resort (Baños). A 10-acre, 300-year-old horse ranch turned luxury retreat, featuring just 37 rooms, Turkish baths and a full-service spa in the shadows of the Andes.
- The Hotel San Juan (Cuenca). The belle of the ball. This 25-room historic residence sits in the heart of Cuenca’s cathedral-lined square – blending colonial charm with boutique luxury in Ecuador’s most beautiful city.
From learning to weave Panama hats with local artisans to indulging in cacao tastings at a women-owned plantation, this journey celebrates the flavours, traditions and heart of Ecuador. Along the way, travellers enjoy the comfort of private transportation, the insights of expert Local Guides and the peace of mind that comes with a fully curated, perfectly planned Small Group Discovery.
To add to this amazing adventure, Globus is also inviting travellers to extend their journey with an optional, four-day Galápagos Islands cruise.
The new Ecuador: Natural Wonders & Ancient Cultures joins other South American Small Group Discovery itineraries – including Costa Rica: Coast to Coast and Patagonia: Journey to the End of the World – further reinforcing Globus’ commitment to small groups, offering immersive, inclusive and intimate journeys across the continent.
