Last updated on January 25th, 2021 at 10:02 am

Luxury Ecuador Tours: Galapagos Cruises and Lodges 

Looking for luxury in Ecuador? Here are five hand-picked, luxurious lodges and cruises that will highlight the abundant biodiversity, colorful markets, deep blue waters, sprawling jungles and traditions of Ecuador without sacrificing the comfort and amenities of a 5-star hotel.

#1. The Petrel Luxury Galapagos Catamaran

If you are looking for a deluxe cruise in the Galapagos, you don’t need to look further than the newest ship on the islands: The Petrel Luxury Galapagos Catamaran. This ship is set apart by it’s attention to detail in accommodations and experience. There are only nine cabins, so you’ll have a VIP experience with small groups to explore the different islands. Each 400 sq ft cabin has its own balcony, so you are guaranteed a spacious and light room. In the common areas, there is a modern lounge, an intimate dining area and a sun deck featuring a shaded bar, and jacuzzi. The naturalist guides aboard the Petrel are experts on flora and fauna of each island. Choose from 6 different itineraries ranging from 4 to 8 days, depending on the islands that are most important to you. You’ll enjoy guided hikes and shore excursions, with additional activities, including diving, kayaking, and snorkeling. There is no better way to visit the magical Galapagos Islands! Check out our Luxury Ecuador Tour >>

#2. Anakonda Amazon Cruise

Cruise the Amazon River in style as an extension to your trip in Ecuador, on the Anakonda Amazon Cruise. This is the only luxury ship in the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. With 18 spacious suites equipped with enormous windows, you can view the river from your room, your private balcony (available in the Deluxe Suite) or from the observation deck. All suites come with air conditioning, an additional sitting area, full sized beds and panoramic windows. The restaurant serves traditional and delicious Ecuadorian dishes which you can enjoy in the indoor dining room or the outdoor lounge. There is a large sundeck with two outdoor Jacuzzis and loungers. For a truly luxurious experience, you can visit the Spa for a range of massages. You can choose from 3-night, 4-night or 7-night cruise itineraries. Each day, you can participate in navigations by boat, or land excursions with certified naturalist guides. Read more >> The 5 Reasons Amazon Tours and Cruises are the Best

#3. Galapagos Safari Camp – Island Hopping

Inspired by African Safari Camps, the Galapagos Safari Camp is the most luxurious way to island hop in the Galapagos. The camp is located on Santa Cruz Island and is the ideal eco-luxe spot to visit the neighboring islands. There are nine private luxury tents and one 3-bedroom suite. The luxury tents give new meaning to “glamping”. Each tent is raised on wooden platforms, and have custom furniture, en-suite bathrooms with hot water and private balconies with ocean views. If glamping isn’t on your agenda, there is one family suite located next to the main lodge that can house six guests. The camp includes an infinity pool, main lodge, library, fireplace, a bar, panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, and a viewpoint terrace which hosts yoga sessions, private lunches, and sundown cocktails. Many of the ingredients in the restaurant’s delicious meals come directly from a 55-hectare farm located in the camp. Which makes each dining experience a true Galapagos farm to table treat. The farm also has many animals including birds, giant tortoises, cattle and more. You can choose from a 4-night or 5-night safari which will allow you to visit the islands via boat and include unique activities like mountain biking and sunrise walks. The Galapagos Safari Camp also offers a dive safari and cruise extensions. This is a great option for people who love luxury and having more independence than is allowed on the cruises! Read more >> How to Visit Mainland Ecuador – Beyond the Galapagos

#4. La Selva Amazon Lodge

La Selva Amazon Lodge, located in the Yasuni National Park, sits at the Amazon Basin. The National Park is one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. With strict conservation efforts, you’ll be able to enjoy wildlife and beautiful landscapes with a truly spectacular lodge as your base. Due to its remodel in 2012, this unique eco-lodge provides luxury in a highly remote area of the country. The rooms have much more amenities than the majority of the lodges in the Amazon. Enjoy beautiful linens, private balconies, hammocks, panoramic views, electricity, hot showers and spacious bathrooms. A restaurant and bar overlook Lake Garzacocha where you can enjoy delicious meals traditionally prepared by chefs using local ingredients. For a truly luxurious experience, you can even enjoy a massage while overlooking the lagoon. La Selva has local naturalist guides who will take you on daily activities to explore the surrounding jungle. Should you have a particular focus you can even hire a private guide. The Lodge will cater to all of your needs throughout your stay. Discover more >> Amazon Lodges

#5. The Tren Crucero

Ride across Ecuador’s landscapes including the towering Andes, mysterious cloud forests and tropical coasts via a luxury train. The Tren Crucero has been recognized as the Leading Luxury Train in South America in 2014, 2015 and 2016. This beautifully restored train carries only 50 passengers, so it is sure to be an exceptional experience. Although it is not a sleeper train, you stay in traditional boutique hotels and haciendas in each majestic destination. Drinks and snacks will be available to you while on board, and then meals will either be at the hotel, on the train or during your tours. The meals served on the train will come from local farms. You can choose to go from Quito to Guayaquil or vice versa, each package lasting four nights. Along the way, hike rainforests, roam colorful markets, visit local workshops, and experience the life of indigenous communities alongside expert guides. This is one of them most unique ways to travel in South America and is unparalleled in quality, comfort, and experience. Read more >> The Best Ecuador Train Tour

Check out our newest Luxury Ecuador Galapagos & Train Tour!

Contact your travel consultant today to start planning your luxury trip to Ecuador!