Best Galápagos Tour Extensions: Where to Go Before or After Your Trip
For many travelers, the Galápagos Islands are treated as a standalone destination. But what if we told you that the journey to and from the Galápagos can be just as rewarding as the islands themselves?
It’s a common misconception that the islands are difficult to reach. In reality, it’s surprisingly easy to get to the Galápagos. Most travelers fly into mainland Ecuador, either Quito or Guayaquil, before catching a short domestic flight to the islands. That layover in Ecuador is the perfect opportunity to add more depth and adventure to your trip.
Whether you want to see howler monkeys deep in the Amazon, wander through Andean markets, or go further to visit Peru and explore Machu Picchu, there are countless ways to extend your experience beyond the Galápagos Islands. In this guide, we’re sharing some of our favorite Galápagos tour extensions so you can make the most of your time in this incredible part of the world.
Explore the Amazon Rainforest (Ecuador’s El Oriente)
If time and other factors allow, visiting the Amazon Rainforest is one of the most rewarding additions you can make to your Galápagos itinerary. You’ll find yourself surrounded by towering ceiba trees, glassy lagoons, and the constant wildlife noises that bring the jungle to life. Visiting the Amazon is the perfect extension for nature lovers, photographers, or adventurous families.
Beyond the incredible wildlife, the Amazon is a great destination for anyone looking for a cultural travel experience. Some of the lodges we partner with are owned and operated by Indigenous communities, offering travelers a rare and respectful window into local traditions, food, and ways of life.
Staying at places like the La Selva Jungle Lodge or the Napo Wildlife Center gives you the chance to directly support local conservation efforts while also getting up-close with the Amazon’s remarkable biodiversity. If you're looking for a more immersive overview of what's possible, check out our Amazon Rainforest Adventure for a sample itinerary.
Getting to the Amazon Rainforest is easier than you might think, and there’s more than one way to do it. Most travelers fly into Quito and then take a short domestic flight to the jungle gateway town of Coca, where the real adventure begins. Our adventure consultants are here to help guide you through the planning process, taking into account your group’s interests, pace, and priorities. We’ll help plan a journey that’s not only logistically smooth, but everything you’ve been dreaming of.
Andes Highlands & Colonial Ecuador
Adventures in Ecuador’s highlands are another great way to extend your Galápagos Islands vacation. Just a short drive from Quito, this region offers snow-capped volcanoes, local markets, and a feel for rural Ecuador. It’s a destination often chosen by hikers or travelers looking to experience Ecuador’s culture and natural beauty up close. Below are a few common ways to explore the highlands.
- Otavalo & Indigenous Markets: Just a couple hours north of Quito, Otavalo is best known for its colorful market and strong Indigenous roots. It’s a great place to shop for textiles, handmade crafts, and local goods. You can also explore nearby crater lakes or visit surrounding villages known for their artisan traditions.
- Cotopaxi National Park: Just a short drive from Quito, Cotopaxi is home to one of the world’s tallest active volcanoes and some of the most iconic high-altitude views in Ecuador. It’s a great spot for hiking, horseback riding, or photography. Staying at a nearby hacienda makes for cozy evenings and early-morning adventures.
- Quilotoa Loop: This scenic route takes you through quiet Andean villages and ends at the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake, shown in the image above. It’s a favorite for travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path hikes, local culture, and beautiful mountain drives.
- Papallacta Hot Springs: Tucked in Ecuador's cloud forest about 90 minutes from Quito, Papallacta is the perfect place to unwind before or after your Galápagos trip. Soak in natural hot springs surrounded by misty hills, and enjoy a peaceful change of pace.
Coastal Ecuador
Coastal Ecuador is a great option if you’re craving more beach time before heading home. The Pacific coast is full of small towns, warm water, and far fewer crowds than more developed beach destinations across the globe.
Most travelers head to the coast from either Quito or Guayaquil. From Guayaquil, it’s only a 3–4 hour drive to reach some of the best coastal spots. Since you’ll likely be spending plenty of time on or near the beaches during your Galápagos trip, we typically recommend this extension for dedicated beach lovers who know they’ll want even more time by the water before heading home.
Some favorite coastal stops include:
- Puerto López & Isla de la Plata: Ideal for snorkeling, boat tours, and seasonal whale watching (June through September).
- Montañita: A colorful surf town known for its great vibe. Montañita is a good spot for learning to surf or enjoying the beachside nightlife.
- Machalilla National Park: A beautiful stretch of protected coastline with dry tropical forest, quiet beaches, and even archaeological sites to explore.
Combine Your Galápagos Trip with Peru
If you’re looking to add another iconic adventure to your your Galápagos trip, adding on a visit to Peru is a great way to do it. After just a short flight from Ecuador, you can find yourself in the heart of the Andes. Potentially even exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu! It’s a totally different kind of experience from the Galápagos, but it pairs surprisingly well with a trip to the Islands.
Traveling to Peru from Ecuador is relatively simple. There are direct flights from both Quito and Guayaquil to Lima, and from there, it’s a quick connection to Cusco. Cusco is the gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
This extension is a great fit for cultural travelers, history lovers, hikers, or anyone looking to add more variety to their South American adventure. We recommend setting aside 4–6 days to explore at a comfortable pace and adjust to the higher elevation. Our team can help coordinate flights, guides, and custom itineraries to make your transition from sea to summit smooth and seamless.
Planning Tips
One question we hear a lot is whether to plan your mainland extension before or after your Galápagos trip. The good news is either works. Some travelers like to start with a few days on the mainland and then unwind in the Galápagos, others do the opposite. It really depends on your schedule and what kind of pace you’re looking for.
In terms of logistics, Ecuador is pretty easy to navigate. Entry requirements are simple for most travelers, and domestic flights between Quito, Guayaquil, and the Galápagos are straightforward once they’re booked correctly. That’s where we come in.
We take care of all the details: lodging, guides, transfers, timing—everything. Our team has been to these destinations, stayed in the lodges, and experienced the activities firsthand. We’ll help you figure out what fits best for your group and make sure the whole trip runs smoothly from start to finish.
Keep the Adventure Going
The Galápagos Islands might be the main reason you’re heading to Ecuador, but as we’ve explored, they don’t have to be the only part of your trip. Whether you’re paddling through a lagoon in the Amazon, exploring Andean villages, or walking the ancient paths of Machu Picchu, these extensions add a whole new layer to your adventure. Let us know what you're curious about, and we’ll help you piece together something perfect that’s tailored to your travel style.
