Ecuador & the Galapagos Adventure Tour for Teens
Bienvenidos! Come experience it all on this summer program for high school students in South America. Experience a fascinating visit to the equatorial line in Quito, snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands, ziplining in the jungle, and hiking on beautiful beaches. What’s even more special than the things you will see and do in South America is feeling the warm hospitality of the Ecuadorian people. Led by outstanding staff, this small-group adventure tour is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
About This Program
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What It's Like
Experience new cultures and thrilling activities in a smaller, tight-knit travel group.
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Cultural Sensitivity
This program requires an open mind to experience a different culture, new foods and new surroundings.
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Meals
Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
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Activities
All recreation and entertainment listed included.
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Transportation
Air-conditioned, professionally-driven vehicles (from deluxe motor coaches to passenger vans).
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Local Guide
A professional guide accompanies the group to assist, educate and immerse the students into the local culture.
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Accommodations
Basic hotels.
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Group Sizes
Up to 24 participants.
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Dietary Options
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.
Program Highlights
- • Hike through Santa Cruz’s lava tunnels.
- • Canopy zip line through the Mindo Cloud Forest.
- • Snorkel in the Galapagos Islands.
- • Visit the famous giant tortoises of the Galapagos Islands.
- • Sunbathe with the marine iguanas at Tortuga Bay.
- • River tube the rapids within the Mindo Cloud Forest.
- • Straddle the Equator at La Mitad del Mundo - Center of the World.
- • Hike and kayak Tortuga Bay.
Itinerary
1-3
4-8
9-10
Accommodations
Quito, Ecuador
The Hotel Embassy is strategically located in the lively Mariscal District, an exclusive area of the city near museums, galleries, theaters, historic city center, and other tourist attractions. Each room features Wi-Fi, phone and a safe.
Santa Cruz, Galapagos
The Villa Laguna is a three-story hotel set in front of a fresh-water pool. The rooms have Wi-Fi and are clean & comfortable with spaces to take in the majesty of the islands. Poolside, there are plenty of spaces to lounge in the rich Galapagos breeze.
More Details
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?
Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
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What if I need to contact my teen during the program?
Participants may bring their cell phones so parents may call and message their kids directly. You may also contact our Communication Centers which serve as the official link between programs on the road and parents. We are staffed every day during the summer and have somebody on call for after hours emergencies ready to assist you 24/7.
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What is the difference between an Active Teen Tour and a Global Adventure program?
Our Active Teen Tours offer larger group sizes (generally 35-48 participants) and travel in deluxe motor coaches. Accommodations include quality hotels and occasional fun college residences.
Global Adventures are smaller group experiences (generally up to 26 participants on all itineraries other than the 17, 20 or 25-day Greece & Italy, 20-day Greece & Portugal or 10-day Greek Islands, which varies from 24-36 participants.)
Groups travel by private motor coaches and occasional public transportation internationally, and use passenger vans in the USA. Select European programs travel exclusively by train and public transportation. While these programs have a slightly bigger focus on adventure travel, we stay in quality hotels and lodges, always ensuring a good night’s rest.