Most travelers to Ecuador arrive for the Galápagos Islands, a wildlife destination that unfolds like the pages of National Geographic.
What often surprises them, however, is the diversity of the mainland packed into a space roughly the size of Colorado. The Amazon, the Andes, the Cloud Forest, and the Pacific Coast are neighbors rather than distant destinations.
The mainland delivers on wildlife, active adventure, cultural and historic exploration. To us, Ecuador's richness lies in how its history remains a functional part of the present. Indigenous traditions show up in daily market life, master-level textiles, and a world-class culinary scene built on ancestral ingredients and techniques. |
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As advisors, 99% of our Ecuador inquiries came through for the Galápagos. On that first call with a client, we'd start by discussing the Galápagos, narrowing down dates, wildlife, activities, duration, and lodging (cruise vs. hotel).
Once that's out of the way, we always ask "how much time would you like to dedicate for the mainland?". With just 2-3 additional nights, travelers can visit Quito, the Cloud Forest, the Amazon, or the Andean Highlands like Cotopaxi or Otavalo. Each of these places offers a contrast to the Galápagos, and adds dimension to the Ecuador experience.
On a very high level, we've broken down mainland highlights and sales tips on the chart below: |
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We go into far more detail in our 1-on-1 country trainings, answering questions like, "What does 'The Andean Highlands' actually entail?" and, "What's the difference between the Amazon and the cloud forest?" |
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We love the mainland, but we're not going to leave you hanging on the main event: The Galápagos Islands!
- Check out our blog, An Advisor's Guide to the Galápagos, which offers practical tips on how to work through a Galápagos trip with a client. It's designed to make you feel and sound like an expert, even if you've never been.
- Download our unbranded Galápagos Guide to share with your clients prior to your Galápagos call, ensuring everyone's educated and prepared for the conversation around myriad lodging and touring options the Galápagos offers. Get Your Guide.
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The Amazing Ecuador Experience |
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| Paúl and Santi are your Ecuadorian advocates and friends. Easy to work with, incredibly knowledgeable, well-connected, kind and FUN! They are the very best of our industry. Paúl (front right) grew up on a farm at the foot of the Carihuairazo volcano, and brings a lifetime of connection to the Andean landscape and fifteen years of luxury travel management. Santi (front left), an outdoorsman who served as Ecuador's Vice Minister of Tourism Promotion, provides an unmatched understanding of the country's infrastructure and community-led conservation. |
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On June 18th, I'm hosting a guided tour of El Museo del Barrio in New York City. Travel advisors and industry professionals are invited to join - it should be a great way to get inspired by Latin America, and take a (short) break from high season craziness. Details can be found here. Spot are limited, reply to this email to RSVP.
If you are based in NY but can't make the museum event, get in touch to schedule a coffee-catch up with me on June 16, 17, or 18. I can't wait to chat all things Latin America with you! |
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Our curated portfolio of DMCs and lodges represent what we love about Latin America. They are owner-run, locally-owned, sustainability-minded, and fun to work with. |
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Cabra Collection
4711 Spicewood Springs Rd.
Austin, TX 78759 |
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