Quito & The Galapagos Islands Founder’s TripOur Magazine
July 10 –16, 2026, Exeter founder, Greg Tepper leads a tour that’s equal parts culture and adventure. Spend two nights in Quito exploring colorful markets and hsitoric squares before flying out to the Galápagos for four nights aboard the Hermes Mega Catamaran. Your days will be filled with encounters with the famous blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises, while nights end in comfort—from the boutique Illa Experience Hotel in Quito to your floating sanctuary at sea.
Learn more about the tour here.
(Sea) Lions, Boobies, & Tortoises, Oh My!
The Galápagos is one of those rare places where wildlife sets the schedule. July is particularly lively: tortoises trek toward the highlands of Santa Cruz, sea lions begin their dramatic breeding rituals, and boobies—blue-footed, masked, and red-footed alike—start nesting in plain view. You won’t need binoculars to witness the action; much of it happens just steps from where you stand!
Float On: Life Aboard The Hermes
Forget “roughing it.” The Hermes is less a ship and more a boutique hotel gliding across the Pacific. Each suite has a wall of windows, a balcony for morning coffee, a walk-in closet, and even a private jacuzzi. Step outside your room and you’ll find a bar stocked for sunset cocktails, a lounge for movie nights, a spa for post-excursion massages, and a dining room wrapped in glass so the scenery is never out of sight. On deck, you can sun, sip, or simply stare out at the horizon as frigatebirds wheel overhead.
Quito, Then & Now
Your introduction to Ecuador begins in Quito’s San Francisco Market, a sensory overload of tropical fruit stalls and herbal remedies. From there, wander through the UNESCO-listed old town, climb to the rooftop of the San Francisco Church, and enjoy a private tour of Casa del Alabado, home to exquisite Pre-Columbian art. At La Compañía, prepare to be dazzled by South America’s most ornate baroque interior. Evenings are spent at the Illa Experience Hotel, a 17th-century residence turned twelve-room retreat. With its rooftop bar, spa, and warm hospitality, Illa lives up to its name—sacred light, good fortune, and a gentle welcome to Quito.
Reach out to our team today and discover the Founder’s Tour with Exeter Latin America!
“Wow! We had the most amazing trip thanks to Exeter. Our tour guide in Quito was a gem. Without giving too much away…she asked what we wanted to see and experience and she delivered. We were whisked from place to place with ease given our busy travel schedule. Our nautical trip around the Galapagos was spectacular. The crew and guide onboard were on point. We felt like we were the only people exploring the Galapagos. I just wish we had more time hanging with the tortoises! Joe at Exeter helped plan our trip with ease and made it enjoyable. I recommend them 100%.”
Rupal P. –Exeter Latin America Traveler