Marin Catholic
April 3, 2026 – April 12, 2026
Key Information
This is Ecuador
Live with Indigenous communities, practice Spanish in daily life, and connect through meaningful cultural exchange in the Andes. Along the way, explore Ecuador’s incredible diversity, from colonial Quito to the snowcapped Cotopaxi Volcano, and from the waterfalls of Baños to the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands. This program blends Spanish immersion, hands-on learning, and community connection with just the right touch of adventure.
April 3
Land in Quito, Ecuador’s historic capital high in the Andes. Meet your local guides and transfer to the hotel. Evening welcome and orientation.
April 4
Discover Quito’s UNESCO-listed historic center with its stunning plazas and colonial churches. Then head north to the Equator for the “Middle of the World” monument and hands-on science at the Intiñan Museum.
April 5
Visit the Kichwa Salasaca community for a cultural immersion in ancestral traditions like weaving, agriculture, and medicine. Continue to Baños, a vibrant town at the gateway to the Amazon.
April 6
Adventure day! Raft through rainforest canyons on fun, beginner-friendly rapids. Afterwards, hike to the roaring Devil’s Cauldron waterfall before returning to Baños.
April 7
Travel along the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Cotopaxi National Park. Hike near Limpiopungo Lake with views of llamas, wild horses, and the snowcapped Cotopaxi Volcano. Evening return to Quito.
April 8
Board a flight to the Galápagos Islands. Explore the highlands of Santa Cruz, home to the famous giant tortoises, lava tunnels, and lush volcanic scenery.
April 9
Take a boat to South Plazas Island, where sea lions, land iguanas, and seabirds thrive along dramatic cliffs. Snorkel at Carrion Point with tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles.
April 10
Kayak through the turquoise waters of Tortuga Bay, spotting marine iguanas and reef sharks. In the afternoon, enjoy a coastal tour with stops at La Lobería sea lion colony, Shark Channel, and La Grietas.
April 11
Fly back to the mainland. Celebrate with a festive Chiva bus ride through the streets of Quito and a farewell dinner with new friends.
April 12
Transfer to the airport for flights home. A life-changing adventure in Ecuador comes to an end!
