When you think of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands surely come to mind. Stunning beauty and an abundance of wildlife are the trademarks of these volcanic islands. For years to come, you and your children will reminisce about all of the wonderful species you saw on these islands – many of which are found nowhere else on earth.

The Galapagos Islands are home to more than 25,000 species of plants, 6,000 species of butterflies and 1,600 species of birds. On Santa Cruz Island, enormous tortoises find refuge at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Tiny Rabida Island is home to pelicans, pink flamingos and pintail ducks in its shallow salt water lagoons and red sand beaches. On San Cristobal, the incredible wildlife includes iguanas and the rare Chatham mockingbird. Walking on lovely, remote Española Island, your family may encounter sea lions, blue-footed boobies or sea turtles as you stroll past lava cliffs where sea water jets high in the air.

Charles Darwin visited the Galapagos Islands in 1835 on his return to England after repatriating the Fuegians. He collected various birds, which he took back to John Gould, a famous ornithologist, in England. While Darwin initially thought the birds were not closely related, Gould concluded that the birds were in fact, "a series of ground Finches which are so peculiar" as to form "an entirely new group, containing 12 species." This story made the newspapers and formed the basis for Darwin’s groundbreaking theory.

Famous for the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador’s Andean Highlands are often overlooked. With a history dating as far back as 3,500 B.C. and a stunning landscape, the area north of Quito is a hidden gem. From the rolling highlands and snow capped peaks of the Ecuadorian Andes to the villages where locals are happy to share their ancient culture and traditions, to an indigenous Latin American market where local artisans sell Panama hats, colorful handmade weavings and sweaters, the highlands are not to be missed.

We take family vacations to get away from the daily grind of our normal lives and just be with our families. The Galápagos Islands offer the perfect opportunity to leave it all behind and enjoy each other’s company. Many of the islands you’ll visit are virtually uninhabited by humans, because they are protected lands of delicate ecological splendor, so you will be far away from any kind of hustle and bustle.

  Our adventure offers you the best of all worlds. In the Andean Highlands you'll spend time in Cuenca, where you’ll tour the colonial sites of the city and stay at Hosteria Uzhupud.  Set on the grounds of an old hacienda,  your home base will offer opportunities for games, swimming and relaxing. Our families return raving about how unexpectedly wonderful their time in the Andean Highlands was. Next we head west into the Pacific for our three or four night nature cruise among the Galapagos Islands. Our ship holds only 100 passengers, so you have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the passage. Experienced naturalists will take you on shore to seek out, and learn about, the wildlife on these volcanic islands. You will visit San Cristobal and Espanola islands, where you will enjoy exploring, swimming and interacting with wildlife that is unfazed by your presence. And three or four nights in the Galapagos is perfect for most families; enough time to see the highlights and the vast array of wildlife, but not so much time that kids start to get bored.

This old hacienda has been family-owned since the end of the colonial era in Ecuador. The grounds here feature various playing fields, beautiful gardens, a pool, and an outdoor dining area. You'll have plenty of opportunities to play or relax here while taking in the amazing scenery. You can even head out through the grounds on horseback if you're feeling adventurous!

On board the Galapagos Explorer II, the wonderful crew gives you VIP treatment. The cruise ship is 293 feet long and holds only 100 passengers, so families have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the journey. Our experienced naturalists lead two onshore expeditions each day, to help you seek out wildlife and learn about the fascinating natural history of these volcanic islands. When not snorkeling or discovering the islands on foot, you can enjoy all the amenities this first class ship has to offer — a Jacuzzi, solarium, reading room, internet access and comfortable air-conditioned cabins.

Thomson families love this program! Children traveling with us can choose to exchange letters with a local child of a similar age before leaving on their adventure. In Ecuador, your child will get to meet his or her pen pal through a fun activity like soccer or hacky sack. It’s amazing how much kids learn about one another — and the appreciation they gain for one another’s culture — when they meet through this eye-opening program.

When was the last time your extended family got together? A Thomson trip is the perfect way for your entire family – near and far – to spend time with relatives that you might not see as often as you would like. Pick a destination and a date, and we’ll do the rest! Let Thomson help you plan the perfect family reunion amidst the beauty and splendor of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

While in the Andean highlands, our expert mountaineers (yes, we even have expert mountaineers!) will show you the ropes and help you learn how to rock climb at Cojitambo – a mountain sacred to the area’s Cañari people. Rock climbing is phenomenal exercise, a rewarding challenge, and an excellent way to experience the region’s scenery.