There is something special about a country that gives you both the misty heights of the Andes and the wildlife rich shores of the Pacific. This June, we spent sixteen days exploring exactly that on our Lesbian group adventure through Ecuador and the Galapagos.
From the moment the trip began on the 16th, it was clear this was not just a holiday or vacation. It was an experience carefully curated to blend relaxation, culture and connection. Ecuador proved to be the perfect backdrop, with breathtaking landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and just the right energy to recharge, reset and celebrate the joy of being present.
Arrival & First Impressions on our hosted Lesbian Group Trip
We started our journey in Quito, the largest and best preserved colonial city in Ecuador. We wandered through vibrant streets, soaking in the rich history and warm hospitality. Our adventure began with a local chocolate making workshop at Cruz Verde, a well known artisan whose family has prepared the local candy "Colaciones" for the last 100 years, keeping alive Quito's tradition.
Every detail was taken care of, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience from day one. We sat with locals and enjoyed a tasty meal freshly prepared using local products and flavours, laughter already filling the air, and new friendships forming instantly. It was the perfect start.
Sun, Sea & Sisterhood in the Galapagos
The heart of the trip was connection, and the Galapagos Islands provided the most spectacular setting. We explored the most amazing archipelago on the Pacific coast, the very place where Charles Darwin based his theory on the evolution of species.
Staying on the island of San Cristobal, we visited "La Loberia", which is both a home beach and nursery for large Galapagos sea lions. We snorkelled amongst these playful creatures, an optional experience that left everyone beaming. We spotted yellow warbler birds, frigate birds, and several species of Darwin's finches along the beach.
A boat ride to the nearby Isla Lobos offered a guided tour with a chance to observe frigate birds, blue footed boobies, manta rays, sea lions and sometimes sharks that all inhabit the island. There is nothing quite like connecting with Lesbians from around the world while swimming and snorkelling with exotic fish and marine life in Academy Bay.
Cultural Highlights on our Lesbian Group Trip
Our days were a beautiful balance of relaxation and adventure. The adventures took us deeper into the heart of Ecuador, where history, tradition, and storytelling came alive. We took a speedboat ferry to Santa Cruz Island to visit the famous giant tortoises in the beautiful Rancho Primicias, an unforgettable experience.
We also visited the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn more about many of the endemic species seen in the wild. In the famous indigenous town of Otavalo, we explored the vibrant Otavalo Market. A truly special hands on cultural experience was the Sacha WarmiKuna Women's project (women from the mountain), which provides women of the village with an alternative side work besides housekeeping. We were part of the preparation of "Aji", a local spicy salsa which is part of their identity. We shared precious time with them and a tasty traditional lunch in which local women used fresh products harvested the same day from the surrounding organic fields.
First Exploration to the Amazon
The journey then took a fascinating turn as we observed how the landscape and vegetation change drastically between climates. We stopped at the "Guacamayos-Macaw Lookout," located between Antisana and Sumaco National Reserves, to observe the magic blanket of clouds that covers the Amazon rainforest.
We hiked to explore the Tropical Rain Forest and visited an Amazonian Kichwa community to learn about their way of life and the interaction they have with the forest. We appreciated the skills of the indigenous women manufacturing handmade pottery. It was a reminder that travel is not just about where you go, but how you experience it.
The Road of Waterfalls & The Andes
Our adventure continued along the Road of Waterfalls in Chimborazo. We visited Rio Verde, located in the UNESCO World Heritage site, Sangay National Park. Here, we hiked down to the second-highest waterfall in Ecuador, the Pailon Del Diablo. We also visited another incredible waterfall called El Manto de la Novia, where we rode in a cable car traversing the canyon of the Pastaza River.
Until Next Time…
As the trip came to an end, goodbyes were bittersweet. But one thing was certain: this would not be the last adventure for the group. We left Ecuador with tired legs, full hearts and a group of women who started as strangers and left as friends.
Ecuador and the Galapagos in June? Absolutely iconic. And with us leading the way, it was nothing short of extraordinary.
