Quito's bustling markets and colonial architecture are the backdrop for our first three days. We explore the palaces and plazzas of this historic city, and visit the Equator line monument and museum. We also participate in a service project with a local foundation dedicated to helping the under-privileged children of Quito.
We spend a week volunteering in the community of Río Muchacho, an ecologically conscious city along the Pacific coast of Ecuador. Community service is our focus in Río Muchacho as we work on the community's organic farm, the primary school and in the community gives us the opportunity to share, learn and contribute to Ecuador's unique culture.
Leaving the mainland, we fly to the Galapagos Islands to explore the turquoise waters and abundant wildlife of the region. We sail, sea kayak, hike and snorkel around the majestic islands of Isabela, San Cristobal and Santa Cruz. We see giant tortoises as well as sea lions, marine iguanas, penguins, pink flamingos and blue-footed boobies. We also have the opportunity to hike or horseback ride to volcanoes and lava tunnels, and snorkel with Manta Rays and the harmless Galapagos shark.
