Hotel San Sebastian

Pricey, but worth it

by swinny about Hotel Sebastian

We recommend the Hotel Sebastian, located just on the outskirts of Mariscal Sucre. It's a bit pricey, but it's truly elegant in every manner and you'll spend a lot less than at the Hotel Colon or one of the other megahotels.

Ecuador

by hembeelicious

"Itinerary for Ecuador"

Day 8: Cuzco/Quito (Ecuador). Today fly to Quito, the colonial capital of Ecuador. This attractive city, located just 15 miles from the equator, is surrounded by ice-capped volcanoes. Your Ecuador tour director escorts you to your deluxe hotel with a brief orientation en route.
Hilton Colon Hotel or Dann Carlton Hotel. (B)

Day 9: Otavalo Excursion. On today’s excursion to the Ecuadorian countryside, visit the small town of Calderon where miniature bread figurines are made. Descend into spectacular Guayllabamba Gorge before arriving at Otavalo, a sprawling Indian market. Here, you’ll find unique handicrafts made by the indigenous locals. Lunch is included at a charming restaurant. Later, visit the small town of Cotacachi, Ecuador’s center of leatherworks. Return to Quito later this afternoon. (B,L)

Day 10: Quito/Galapagos Cruise: San Cristobal Island. Over the next four days cruise along and visit the enchanted Galapagos Islands, where you’ll see a variety of exotic wildlife. This morning, fly from Quito to San Cristobal, the easternmost gateway to the islands. Board your first class cruise boat, your base while exploring the islands. This afternoon a naturalist guide will lead you on a short walk to Ochoa Beach, an excellent spot to view pelicans, sea birds and anemones. Observe the thick vegetation and mangrove trees. Free time to walk on the beach, snorkel or swim before returning to the boat. MV Galapagos Explorer. (B,L,D)

Day 11: Galapagos Cruise: Española Island. Upon landing at Suarez Point on Española Island, the southernmost in the archipelago, learn about lava terrain while crossing inactive lava fields. Aside from the sea lion colonies, this is a great site for bird watching. You may spot marine iguanas, lava lizards and colorful Sally Light Foot Crabs. You may also encounter a large colony of Waved Albatross. Later, visit the famous blowhole, where water shoots high into the air. After lunch, arrive in Gardner Bay situated on the opposite side of Espanola Island. The beach here is one of the most magnificent in the Galapagos and is home to many sea lion colonies. (B,L,D)

Day 12: Galapagos Cruise: Santa Cruz Island/ Rabida Island. This morning arrive in Santa Cruz Island where you'll visit the fascinating Darwin Station and learn about the research conducted on the island. The station is a breeding and rearing center where tortoises of different subspecies are prepared for reintroduction to their natural habitats. Later sail to Rabida Island, a small island covered with dry coastal vegetation. This is a beautiful island with stunning contrast between the red-tinted sand of its beaches and the vivid green of its mangroves. It is home to sea lions, blue-footed boobies and pelicans. Enjoy a short walk to the top of the trail where you may take photos of the clear waters and the volcanic peaks. (B,L,D)

Day 13: Galapagos Cruise: Santa Cruz Island/Quito. Arrive at Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz Island where you may observe bodysurfing sea lions, marine iguanas and sea turtles. Swim or stroll along the white-sanded beach. Later, disembark and fly back to Quito. Hilton Colon Hotel or Dann Carlton Hotel. (B)

Day 14: On a guided tour of Quito learn about its colonial past, history and culture. Visit the old town and see the Church of San Francisco, the first religious building constructed in South America by the Spanish. See La Compania, the city’s most ornate church. Admire the spectacular views of the Valley of Tumbaco. On a clear day see the impressive volcanoes surrounding the city. Afternoon at leisure. This evening savor a farewell dinner at a famous local restaurant. (B,D)

Day 15: Quito/USA. Final morning at leisure for independent pursuits. Later, board your return flight. Your memorable journey ends as you arrive the USA later this evening. (B)