Ecuador Highlights: San Cristóbal, the Galápagos & the Amazon

Ecuador surprised us in the best possible way, offering an incredible mix of landscapes and experiences that felt completely different from one another. From the wild beauty of the Galápagos Islands to the lush depths of the Amazon rainforest, this trip delivered moments we’ll never forget.

Our time in the Galápagos Islands, specifically on San Cristóbal, was truly special. The scenery alone was phenomenal—clear blue waters, rugged coastlines, and wide-open views that felt untouched and peaceful. One of the biggest highlights was experiencing the wildlife up close. Seeing animals freely roaming in their natural habitat, often just steps away, was unforgettable and unlike anywhere else we’ve traveled.

It’s important to note that if your goal is to visit multiple Galápagos islands, this Exoticca tour may not be the best fit. The experience is centered around San Cristóbal, and while it’s incredible, there are other tours that are more specifically designed for island hopping. That said, if you’re looking for a well-paced introduction to the Galápagos with stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, San Cristóbal is a fantastic choice.

Another thing to keep in mind is snorkeling. While the beaches are beautiful and snorkeling is a popular activity, snorkeling gear is not included in the tour. Fortunately, the island has plenty of rental shops where you can easily find everything you need, making it simple to enjoy the underwater experience.

One unexpected highlight of Ecuador was our time in the Amazon. We were a bit hesitant about this portion of the trip at first, unsure of what to expect, but it ended up being one of our favorite experiences. The setting was immersive, the excursions were fascinating, and the meals—fully included—were hands down the best we had throughout the entire trip. Enjoying such high-quality food deep in the rainforest was an unexpected and delightful surprise.

Overall, our experience in Ecuador was overwhelmingly positive. From the wildlife-filled shores of San Cristóbal to the rich, vibrant Amazon rainforest, the trip offered variety, adventure, and unforgettable moments. Ecuador is a destination that rewards travelers with open minds, and it’s a place we would absolutely recommend experiencing firsthand.