Morris Murdock Escorted Tours

So, you’re thinking of taking your next vacation up a notch? Let me tell you about the adventure I just had—picture group travel, immersive cultural experiences, and snorkeling that’ll make you believe you’ve found paradise on earth. I’m talking about Ecuador and the Galápagos, two places that changed how I see the world. This wasn’t just a “relax by the pool” trip; it was full of culture, nature, and life-changing moments. Grab your sunblock and sense of adventure because here’s how it went down.

Quito: Sky-High Vibes and Volcanic Views

Our group trip kicked off in Ecuador’s capital, Quito—a city that literally sits high up in the Andes. After landing, the first thing we did was hop on the TelefériQo, one of the world’s highest aerial lifts. Let me tell you, the 10-minute ride up the flanks of Volcán Pichincha gives you all the dreamy mountain vibes you didn’t know you needed. The views from Cruz Loma at the top? Unreal. I felt like I was floating in the sky.

But the day just kept getting cooler. Lunch was served inside the crater of an extinct volcano (talk about dining with a view!). And then we hit up the Middle of the World Monument, a place where you can literally put each foot on different sides of the equator. At the nearby Intiñan Museum, we did science experiments like balancing an egg on a nail and learning how the Incas figured out the middle of the Earth. Smart people, right?

Pachamanca, Andean Culture & Otavalo Market Shopping Spree

Next day, we drove out to Otavalo Market, the largest market in South America! If you’re into handmade crafts, Jewelry, colorful ponchos, and stunning wall hangings, this is your place. I spent way too much money on souvenirs, but hey, when in Ecuador!

One of the most unique parts of the trip was going to an elementary school where the children were so happy to meet the group. The group was informed before that trip to bring some special things to the children like crayons, coloring books, playdough. One person in our group brought slap bracelets which were a huge hit with the kids. The group next took part in a Pachamanca ceremony—a traditional Andean way of cooking food by burying it underground with hot stones. It’s like being part of something ancient and sacred. We then explored local workshops and chatted with the locals. Ecuadorians are some of the friendliest people you’ll meet. They make you feel right at home.

Cuicocha Crater Lake and Chocó Cloud Forest

We headed north to Cuicocha, a lake that sits in the crater of—you guessed it—another extinct volcano. Then a sail around the lake that was breathtaking, both literally (altitude!) and figuratively. Our guide was amazing, teaching us about the indigenous peoples' relationship with nature, which just made the views even more special.

Afterward, we explored the Chocó cloud forest, which is like stepping into a living dream. It’s a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve full of hummingbirds and waterfalls that look straight out of a fairy tale. The birdwatching here is world-class, and if you’re into chocolate (who isn’t?), you’ll love learning how Ecuador’s famous cacao gets turned into rich, delicious chocolate. Yes, there were samples!

Snorkeling Heaven in the Galápagos

If you think Ecuador sounds magical, wait until you hear about the Galápagos. We flew to Baltra Island and hopped on the M/Y Monserrat yacht. Our first stop? Bachas Beach, where we jumped into the clearest water I’ve ever seen. But snorkeling in the Galápagos isn’t your typical fish-spotting experience—it’s next-level. Imagine sea lions, penguins, sea turtles, marine iguanas, and even sharks all swimming around you at once. The second I hit the water, I felt like I was in a nature documentary. Hands down, the best snorkeling in the world. Trust me, you need to experience this.

Final Thoughts: Why You Need to Book This Trip ASAP

I met incredible people in my group and our adventures will bond us forever. If you’re into group travel but want more than just sitting on a bus, this trip is for you. You get a perfect mix of cultural and experiential travel—everything from learning about ancient Andean traditions to snorkeling with sea lions in the Galápagos. Ecuador is a place where you can slow down, take in the natural beauty, and connect with the world in a deeper way.

This journey was all about living in the moment, experiencing different cultures, and pushing my sense of adventure. It’s the kind of trip you’ll remember for a lifetime.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gang or some adventurous friends and get ready for an unforgettable ride through Ecuador and the Galápagos!