February 13-23, 2025: GROUP IS FULL
Ready for the trip of a lifetime? If you've always dreamed of exploring South America and the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos Islands you'll love this boutique, small group Culinary & Culture experience!
Your trip starts in beautiful Ecuador, nestled in the spectacular Andes mountains on the west coast of South America. Next you'll island hop through Ecuador's world-renowned Galapagos Islands, located just 600 miles off her coast.
This high end, all-inclusive trip features exclusive food & artisan experiences, incredible 5 star & historic properties, plus knock your socks off wildlife, vistas, and seascapes!
Don't wait! THIS GROUP IS FULL - get on the waitlist for future trips below!
✔️ 10 nights of 4-5 star hotels as listed or equivalent
✔️ 9 full days of experiences in Quito, Otavalo, Zuleta, and multiple Galapagos Islands
✔️ Full transportation including to and from Quito International Airport
✔️ Private bilingual expert local guides and drivers for the duration of the trip
✔️ Roundtrip flights to/from the Galapagos with our group
✔️ Breakfast daily and most meals as per the itinerary
✔️ $220 Galapagos Park Entrance Fees
✔️ All speedboats, snorkeling, and private boat excursions as we island hop in the Galapagos
NOT INCLUDED:
✔️ Mandatory International Medical Insurance
✔️ Flights to/from the US to Quito
✔️ Meals not listed on the day by day itinerary
✔️ Optional additional activities such as: horseback riding, e-biking, massages, thermal spa visits
✔️ Andes indigenous garden-to-table picnic or "Pamba Mesa" celebration
✔️ Ecuadorian Welcome Wine Pairing Dinner at Somos with world renowned chef Alejandra Espinoza
✔️ Ecuadorian bean to bar chocolate demo
✔️ Colonial Quito Cooking Class & Rum Tasting
✔️ Learn to make local specialties including Ceviche, Empanadas, Bizcochos, & more
✔️ Farm to Table Dinner at Latin America's Top 50 Restaurant Muyu with Noma chef Luciana Bianchi
✔️ Farewell Tapas Party with Ecuadorian Masterchef Andres Arrata at Ayora Resto
✔️ Island hopping and snorkeling in the Galapagos including iconic Kicker Rock & Tortuga Bay
✔️ Quito Historical Center Walking Tours & Colonial Mansion Visits
✔️ Visit to the equator line & one of the world's only inhabited volcanos Pululahua
✔️ Stay at a gorgeous Presidential Hacienda tucked away in the Andes mountains
✔️ Local Otavalo artisan market visits & weaving/embroidery
✔️ Private ferries and yachts to uninhabited islands & private beaches
✔️ Explore natural lava tunnels & meet endless Galapagos wildlife by land and by sea!
NOTE: A limited number of Private Rooms (single occupancy) are available on a first-come, first-served basis for an additional fee of $1665 per person.
$6,495 PER PERSON
Pay $500 now to secure your spot
50% balance ($2,997.50) due by September 15, 2024
Remaining balance ($2,997.50) due by December 1, 2024
$8160 PRIVATE ROOM
Pay $500 now to secure your spot
50% balance ($3,830) due by September 15, 2024
Remaining balance ($3,830) due by December 1, 2024
Thursday, February 13, 2025
Arrive to Quito International Airport & enjoy a warm welcome and driver to had to our design-forward boutique hotel in the colonial capital city of Quito - Casa Carlota. We’ll check in and enjoy a group kickoff dinner together on our hotel rooftop overlooking one of Quito’s most beautiful squares.
Stay: Casa Carlota
Included: Pickup at the airport & group kickoff dinner!
Friday, February 14, 2025
After breakfast at our hotel we’ll head out to visit the inhabited volcano Pululahua Crater and then enjoy a walking tour of the Quito Historical Center.
Next we’ll learn to make classic Ecuadorian dishes at a fun-interactive lunchtime cooking class and rum tasting at hip Claro Scuro restaurant.
That afternoon you’ll visit one of the oldest monasteries in Quito and learn about local chocolate making.
Get ready for an incredible introdution to high end Ecuadorian cusine! For dinner, we’ll visit one of Quito’s hippest neighborhoods for a private, multi-course Ecuadorian wine pairing dinner at Somos Restaurant run by world renowned chef Alejandra Espinoza.
Lodging: Casa Carlota
Included: breakfast, lunch, cooking class with rum tasting, chocolate tasting, posh wine pairing dinner at Somos
Saturday, February 15, 2025
Today we'll check out & leave Quito to head north into the Andes mountains and the countryside towards historic Otavalo - known for its indigenous tribal culture and artisan markets.
Along the way we’ll stop at a family run bakery to learn to make the iconic Ecuadorian treat Bizcochos - served with fresh cheese and homemade dulce de leche (paired with coffee or hot cocoa).
Next you're in for a lunch to remember! We'll visit Claudia Ferrez, the talented founder of Kawsayme, an organic farm and cooking experience honoring her local Kichwa tribal traditions. Claudia is one of the 1st in her village to attend higher school and open her own business- she'll show us how to prepare a traditional picnic or Pamba Mesa with ingredients from her own garden.
We’ll drive past rural farms and then arrive to our mountain retreat - the historic hacienda and former home of the President of Ecuador “Hacienda Zuleta” in time for wine by the fireplace, dinner, and a bonfire.
Lodging: Hacienda Zuleta
Included: Breakfast, Bizcochos class, Pamba Mesa lunch experience, dinner at Hacienda Zuleta
Sunday, February 16, 2025
Today you’ll enjoy and explore the Andes Mountainside and the sprawling grounds of our hacienda.
Try horseback riding, take a guided hike, relax with time in their spa, get an optional massage, visit their on premise, condor preserve, try a hands on embroidery experience, or take an optional day trip to the nearby indigenous artisan markets of Otavalo. Famous for their hand weaving, wood carving, jewelry making and more.
Don’t miss the exclusive cheese tasting and wine by the fireplace at happy hour at our hacienda! They make over 15 hand-crafted European style cheeses on the property including all your favorites like Manchego, Gouda, and Cheddar.
Lodging: Hacienda Zuleta
Included: breakfast, lunch, wine and cheese tasting by the fire, and dinner at Hacienda Zuleta
Monday, February 17, 2025
After breakfast we’ll say goodbye to Zuleta to continue our adventures. First we'll stop at "Cosas Lindas" to support local indigenous artisans at this small cooperative run by 4 generations of women.
Next you'll visit Hacienda La Compania near the snow-capped mountain of Cayambe. Founded in 1584 this historic property has its own chapel, and one of the world's biggest rose growing farms!
You’ll enjoy an incredible 3 course lunch of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine in an unforgettable setting filled with decor from the mansion's colonial era.
We'll end the day with a quick overnight to rest for our early flight to the Galapagos in the morning! Our hotel has two restaurants, a full bar, game room, heated pools, a sauna, and 10 acres of lush gardens.
Lodging: Hotel San Jose de Puembo
Included: breakfast, 3 course lunch
Tuesday, February 18, 2025
We’ll be up early to head to the nearby airport for our flight together to the Galapagos! We'll land in San Cristobal - home to 1000's of sea lions, private beaches, and crystal blue waters.
We'll grab our snorkeling gear, enjoy a private ceviche making class run by the most popular beach town chef Barbara. After lunch you'll enjoy a private snorkel lesson and time in the water immersing yourself into the wonders of the Galapagos.
You’ll stay at the posh, waterfront Hotel Golden Bay directly on the beach filled with adorable families of frolicking sea lions. Enjoy a stroll through the cute town just steps away for nightlife and dinner on your own tonight
Lodging: Hotel Golden Bay
Included: airfare & fees to Galapagos, breakfast, ceviche class lunch, snorkeling
Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Get ready for a full day’s adventure on a private chartered boat to world famous Kicker Rock! (It's shaped like a shoe...get it?!)
One of the most photographed spots in the Galapagos, this iconic snorkeling spot is home to schools of fish, slowly swimming giant Sea Turtles, Golden Rays, and peaceful Hammerhead Sharks.
We’ll start with some snorkeling in a bay on an private beach followed by deep water snorkeling off our boat at Kicker Rock. Bring your water tight phone case for this day! We'll have lunch on the boat with a celebratory cocktail too.
That night we’ll enjoy a spectacular dinner at one of Latin America’s Top 50 restaurants: Muyu!
This incredible farm, forest, & sea to table restaurant is right in our hotel run by world renowned, Noma experienced Chef Luciana Bianchi - here she shares her mission for sustainability paired with incredible high end dining and her important work as founder of the Galapagos Foundation.
Lodging: Hotel Golden Bay
Included: breakfast, boat trip, catered lunch on the boat, snorkeling, posh tasting dinner at Muyu
Thursday, February 20, 2025
After all that fun we'll relax with a leisurely morning to sleep in and stroll San Cristobal (plus take those memory making photos with the adorable Sea Lion families and Blue Foot Boobies that are EVERYWHERE)
That afternoon we'll head to the pier for a speedboat ride to our next Galapagos Island, the capital of Santa Cruz!
After an exciting 2 hour ride we’ll arrive to our boutique hotel in the buzzing town of Porta Ayora.
After a dip in the pool you'll have time on your own to explore this lively waterfront mini city for live music, shopping, and dinner.
Lodging: Hotel Acacia
Included: breakfast
Friday, February 21, 2025
This morning we’ll take a private ferry to gorgeous Tortuga Bay on the south side of the island - on this pristine stretch of white sand you’ll see marine iguanas, as well as the brightly colored Sally Lightfoot crab.
Brown pelicans can also be found here as well as sea turtles nesting in the white sand on the beach. Flamingos can even be seen at times in the lagoon which sits behind the beach as well as blue footed boobies.
If you opt to snorkel you may get to see a variety of colorful tropical fish, as well as white tip reef sharks, and if you are very lucky, maybe a tiger shark.
After a quick stop back at the hotel to dry off and change we’ll head up to the Highlands of Santa Cruz to visit one of the Galapagos’ most famous residents, the gentle Giant Tortoises (some up to 150 years old!) in their natural habitat.
During the visit you’ll also be able to grab lunch at the cafe paired with Galapagos brewed beer, see Galapagos finches and other birds as well as explore naturally formed lava tunnels!
That night you’ll enjoy dinner on your own with time to wander the town of Porta Ayora.
Lodging: Hotel Acacia
Included: breakfast
Saturday, February 22, 2025
Today we’ll be up early to head to one of the most beautiful and photographed uninhabited islands in the archipelago! “Bartolome” is a volcanic islet just off the east coast of Santiago Island inhabited ONLY by wildlife.
The main attraction is Pinnacle Rock a giant lava formation that’s eroded over time. We’ll speedboat there and then follow a trail to the top of an exctict volcano where you’l be rewarded with a spectacular view of the island.
Later, we’ll snorkel from the shore to spot lots of marine wildlife including the possibility to see Galapagos penguins who swim to the island through underwater lava tunnels.
We’ll return to our hotel at 5pm to shower and change before our final group celebration together - an incredible Ecuadorian Tapas and wine tasting experience with Ecuadorian Masterchef winner Andres Arrata.
Lodging: Hotel Acacia
Included: breakfast, lunch on our boat, dinner
Sunday, February 23, 2025
Today after breakfast we'll check out to head home or optionally continue your travels through South America!
We’ll take a private morning transfer from the hotel and then a ferry to the airport right on our island of Santa Cruz to take you back to the Quito airport where you can take your return flight home that night (after 5pm to be safe)
OR you can extend your trip with optional additional South American or Ecuadorian adventures that Julie can help arrange!
Note: Late night “redeye” flights are available back to the US. If you prefer to stay overnight and fly home on Monday, Julie can help arrange an airport hotel for you.
Optional Additional Travels! Since you’re already in South America- why not continue the journey?
Just one hour from Quito you’ll find an incredible Thermal Bath Spa and Resort nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Rainforest - if you’d like to extend your trip you can add on one night at the resort, including private drivers, to unwind and rest from your adventures for just $550.
We can also arrange for you to extend your trip to spend time and tour the nearby Ecuadorian Rain Forest. Columbia, or Peru and Machu Picchu while you’re in South America.
Included: breakfast and all transfers back to the Quito airport where we started!
A few of our beautiful boutique hotels and historic haciendas.
This design-forward boutique hotel in a French style former mansion is in the heart of Quito with spectacular views from their rooftop lounge. See more here!
This jewel in the heart of the Andes was chosen as one of the world’s “Top Ten Finds” by Outside magazine and named one of the best hotels by National Geographic Traveler. This stunning 17th century hacienda and farm features fireplaces, a spa, endless mountain views, and was the home of two former presidents of Ecuador. Learn more about this incredible property here.
Situated on the Golden Beach on San Cristobal Island directly in front of the sea where sea lions, blue-footed boobies, iguanas, and other animal citizens of the Galapagos frolic. Their focus on luxury without ostentation and sustainability mission makes Golden Bay a gem of the Galapagos. More here!
This boutique hotel features a gorgeous pool and personalized service - it's just steps from the buzzing town of Porto Ayoro in Santa Cruz. More here!
Julie Hartigan is an NYC-based Trained Chef and lifelong Travel Lover who designs and hosts boutique Culinary & Culture tours around the globe.
Her fun-loving personality, perpetual curiosity, plus deep culinary knowledge and chef network make her the perfect person for foodies to travel the globe with!
Julie believes some of the most memorable moments in life come when immersed in another culture, enjoying the good life with locals and fellow food & fun loving travelers.
She’s tasted her way through Ecuador, Japan, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Italy, France, Cuba (and as many more spots as she can squeeze in this lifetime.)
Follow Julie on Instagram @juliehartigan for more of her travel adventures & go to JulieHartigan.com for more about her group tours, private trip planning services, and recipes too!
YOU MAY BE WONDERING...
That’s a big YES! These tours are specifically designed to be welcoming and fun for people traveling on their own to make new friends.
We’ll host several online meet and greet happy hours ahead of the trip where we’ll get to know each other and Julie will help coordinate a roommate for you for a shared room.
Nope! Just a $500 deposit to secure your spot and then payments are spread out over the months leading up to the trip.
We’ll be sending you additional information soon where you can specify a roommate if you sign up for this trip with someone. We’ll also be having online happy hour meet and greets before the trip so we can get to know each other and Julie can help guide you to a wonderful roomie match.
Yes! You’ll be able to specify your specific dietary needs after signing up for the trip so Julie can make sure you’ll have delicious options throughout the tour.
No problem! Julie will help you with her recommended trip interruption insurance through her preferred provider so you can get a refund should something happen that impedes your trip.
Definitely! After you sign up for the trip Julie will be there to help you with travel logistics including packing tips, and even how to use points to source reduced rate or free flights.
Julie also hosts a series of group calls leading up to our trip together to answer questions about the destination we're headed to.
Yes! If you’d like to stay longer or continue your South America adventures Julie and her local trip planners can help you with those arrangements.
Mainland Ecuador is nestled high in the mountains so year round temperatures average in the 60’s with nights in the 50’s (and occasional pop up showers) The Galapagos are set in a tropical environment in the South Pacific with warmer air and water temps in the 80’s. No matter what? Plan to don a hat and sunscreen!
We’ll be going over specific packing details once you’ve signed up for the trip, but no special gear beyond walking shoes, a rain jacket, a bathing suit, and water friendly sandals (like Tevas) are required.
No previous snorkeling experience is required and we'll provide the gear. We will be walking quite a bit on our tours as well as spending time on boats and in water with guides. Floating vests are included to keep you feeling secure while swimming.
Not at all! As long as you’re up for walks in the outdoors and getting in the water with a snorkeling mask on (with a local guide to teach and assist you) you’ll be all set for this trip. We include life vests for the utmost safety too.
Do note that we move around a bit by transport, plane, and even speed boat.
Downtime, free time, spa time, and rest time is built into this itinerary but it’s more adventure than “lay on the beach” vacation.
You also have the option to add on a day or two at a thermal bath spa hotel at the end of our tour to rest from your Galapagos outdoor adventures!