Galapagos With The Kids

Your Ecuadorian family adventure begins in the capital, Quito, a city high in the foothills of the Andes famous for the Spanish colonial architecture of its old town. Quito is a great family destination and has much to offer kids of all ages. For children who are old enough, a walking tour of the old town can be a rewarding experience, taking in the elaborate Church of the Company of Jesus and the art collections of the Monastery of San Francisco.

If legs are starting to drag, just south of the old town is the brilliant Science Museum, home to a range of interactive exhibits that are by turns fun and educational. The Aviation Museum, meanwhile, housed in a military base, will capture young imaginations with its outdoor collections of old planes and indoor exhibit of model aircraft.

Those of all ages will love the view over the city from the neighbouring Pichincha volcano, reachable by a ride in the TeleferiQo cable car. Your home for two nights is the grand Casa Gangotena, a restored classical mansion in the heart of the old town.

Next, your Galapagos adventure begins as you board a short flight from Quito to to Baltra Island. Transferring to the harbour, you’ll board the luxury yacht La Pinta, your home for the next six nights. You and your family will enjoy a brilliant cruise on a western route through the Galapagos Islands, encompassing the unique volcanic landscapes and distinctive wildlife for which this region is famous.

On Fernandina you’ll spot a vast array of bird life, including hawks, flightless cormorants and blue-footed boobies, before continuing to Isabela, where at Urbina Bay you can enjoy an opportunity to swim with adorable Galapagos penguins. Children will also love visiting Tagus Cove on Isabela, a former hideaway for pirates and smugglers. On Santa Cruz, you’ll meet the iconic giant tortoise in the wild in the highlands, while on Floreana you’ll have the chance to snorkel (or take a glass-bottomed boat ride) with sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, and sea lions.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll be very well looked after aboard the luxurious La Pinta, which has comfortable guest facilities as well as expert guides who will ensure you and your family have a fun, safe and educational experience. Children in particular are well catered for with the Pirates Aboard programme of fun and educational activities.