The Ultimate Galapagos and Amazon Adventure

Edwin, Belen and Wilson went above and beyond to make our trip amazing. They are passionate about their country, friendly, kind and knowledgeable. Every part of the trip was special and i'm super grateful to have been a part of it. Isabela Island and our Amazon rainforest experience were my favourites. Our tour group was the best. I would 100% recommend this trip.

An absolutely amazing trip, made all the more perfect by our fantastic guides Wilson, Stefi and Edwin. Would thoroughly recommend this trip to anyone regardless of age. You will not be disappointed!!

5* trip, I made memories that will last a lifetime. I booked this trip with a friend to celebrate our 30th birthdays - and to cross the Galapagos Islands off my bucket list. I'm so glad we booked this version with the Rainforest too as some of my best times were had kayaking down the river and seeing wildlife up close on the night hike. In the Galapagos, highlights were snorkeling in crystal clear waters surrounded by fish, sea lions, and sea turtles, learning about the formation of the islands, and visiting tortoise breeding and research centres. Every day was just better than the last.

We were a small group (just me, my friend, and one other lady), so we made firm friends and still keep in touch! All the guides treated us like family and nothing was too much trouble. Stefania in the Galapagos was so knowledgeable and passionate about her home and work. Wilson and Edwin were there for us every step of the way. If we ever had a question/request we could put it in the WhatsApp chat and within minutes one of them would have responded. During the kayaking and rafting in the Rainforest we were looked after by Ben and his family, and they were wonderful. I was extremely nervous going into the kayaking having never done it before (especially with rapids!) but Ben got me in with him and within minutes was distracting me from my worries by pointing out birds and telling me exactly when to paddle and what was happening. We all stopped for a water break and the first thing I said to the others was "I LOVE kayaking!" He made me feel so safe and well looked after, and made what could've been the worst part of the trip my favourite part instead.

Every person we met and every activity we did was phenomenal. The food was tasty and plentiful, and there's lots of opportunities to buy and try local snacks and souvenirs too. They are full days with lots of activities, you will go to bed tired!! Some days are more physically taxing than others. I wouldn't say there are any "rest days" but there are some that have less activities than others, which is a welcome break and gives you chance to explore your immediate surroundings and relax. This trip was my introduction to Ecuador, South America, and MBA, and I am confident I will see every single one of them again. I love that the guides are all local to the area and clearly know their stuff, and that all the activities are supporting local businesses and people.

Edwin, Wilson and their team, from the minute we landed in Quito were incredible. They worked tirelessly to provide, look after and entertain us throughout the 2 weeks. The Galápagos Islands were our highlight. So many wonderful animals to see at every step, pedal or swim and our very knowledgeable and delightful naturalist, Steffi, was always on hand to explain and answer all our questions. The range of activities and visits were a perfect combination and meant we really felt we had a good understanding of life in this part of the world. The Amazon provided a different experience, fascinating and thrilling in its own way. Throughout our holiday, Wilson second guessed and ensured that we never wanted for anything, from our daily updates of what we were doing, what to wear and timings to meals, safety and dealing with the inevitable dodgy stomach problems. Their whole philosophy of supporting and using local businesses, families and the indigenous peoples is highly commendable. Back home with so many memories and photos, and marvelling at how much we did in our two weeks away.

Absolutely brilliant hosts. Wilson, Steph and Winston thought of everything to make our epic adventure run as smoothly as possible. Nothing was too much trouble, they were by our sides in the rivers, seas, mountains, bars and restaurants.

From start to finish the whole trip was fantastic. The local company that MBA engage to organise and manage the trip were incredible. All of the local team- Edwin, Wilson, Stef, Eric, Eric’s dad, Ben et al were so passionate about their country and very knowledgeable. The involvement of local communities is a special feature of MBA holidays and this was no different. Every day was packed with different activities and lots of “wow” moments. If you’re considering it, go for it. You won’t regret it.

A trip I would highly recommend to anyone. The wildlife you see in the Galápagos is amazing and the itinerary is so full of activities, there is no way you could match this without a guide. Wilson takes care of you every step of the way - the entire team were brilliant. The hotels, meals and taxis were all organised and always waiting ready for us which really helped us make the most of everyday. Steffi’s knowledge of the Galápagos Islands was great and no question was ever too much for her - she even went away to research if she wasn’t sure. All meals were large and filling. The white water rafting was my favourite activity - it took over 5 hours!! I felt safe throughout the trip. Would highly recommend to anyone.

This was a brilliant trip through Ecuador from Quito to the Galapagos to the Amazon. Every day was busy with great activities but not too overloaded. The food was excellent, the accommodation comfortable and the organisation perfecto. Just reflecting back over snorkelling with sea lions, penguins and sea turtles, getting close and personal with tortoises and iguana, biking around Isabella island, kayaking and rafting through the Amazon and trekking through rainforest to walk behind a waterfall… highlights how much we did in 2 weeks. And then there was the chocolate tasting, the speedboat, the coffee plantation, the magic swing, the artisan woodworker, the hot springs and the monkey! Steph was a great nature guide in the Galapagos and every instructor and driver so friendly. What really made the trip special was the incredible leadership of our trip manager, Wilson. He was knowledgeable, humorous, organised and extremely thoughtful and caring. He looked after us so well and went far above and beyond to ensure every trip member enjoyed every moment. I have travelled the world over 30 years and haven’t had a better guide. Check out also their newly launched trip to the Andes. I would highly recommend visiting Ecuador with Wilson.

I cannot speak highly enough about this amazing trip. I went as a solo female traveler for my 40th birthday. I'm SO GLAD. I felt 100% safe, well taken care of, and well communicated with the entire time. Wilson and Edwin treated me, and the two other girls on the trip, like family. I got to do everything I could've wanted and then some, while in both the Galapagos and the Amazon. I almost booked a trip just to the Galapagos and am so glad I found this option to do the trip with the Amazon as well. I am a huge nature nerd and saw more animals and insects than I could've dreamed of. I cannot speak highly enough about the entire experience.

This was a once in a lifetime, "Bucket List" destination adventure which exceeded all of our expectations. From the moment we landed in Quito and met our guide, Wilson, all of our needs were taken care of and nothing was too much trouble for him to make this a holiday of a lifetime and he always brought his positive vibes with him every single day. We were lucky enough to arrive in Quito for the carnival and managed to take part in that and join in with the locals as well as exploring the local area. The Galapagos was truly amazing with all of the wildlife and adventures which were laid on and kept us fully occupied during our stay, especially with our guide Belen who knew so much about the Islands. The rainforest was something else and just as exciting with the night walk, kayaking and white water rafting which were professionally organised with safety being the main feature at the same time as allowing us to have great fun. The food never disappointed and the portions were always hearty and we were fortunate enough to have a great group of people sharing the trip with us which made this trip even more enjoyable. If you're thinking of booking this trip don't hesitate, just do it. You wont be disappointed, especially if you're lucky enough to have Wilson and Belen as your guides.

The trip lives up to its 5* reviews. I had an amazing 2 weeks with a wonderful group of people. I've done several group trips solo and this has been one of the best organised and most fun. The itinerary is a perfect blend of being active and enjoying nature without feeling too rushed. The varied geography, fauna and animals across the Galapagos and Amazon were really fab, and made the trip so interesting The range of activities were really fun, and tailored for those with different experience levels.

Wilson is fantastic and a key reason the trip was as good as it was. He's knowledgeable, extremely helpful, super friendly and great fun. Belen (our Galapagos guide) was the same. The accommodation was a great standard- better than expected. The food was fab too. . . . great variety and quality. You wont go hungry.

Tips- you can do laundry at least 3 times, so you can pack lighter. Don't underestimate the sun- bring lightweight long sleeves and factor 50/block.

Fabulous trip with a really great range of activities that keeps you on a high every minute.

Although the difficulty level of the activities has an 'easy' rating, it is still a full on trip. This is what I liked about it, but it is not the trip for you if you want time out to sit and read a book!

I found it really hard to choose the right trip before booking this one, wanting the seemingly impossible mix of culture, history, wildlife, lots of activity and nice places to stay. I must say that I got many of those with this trip.

All the activities were a lot of fun. Having Belén as additional specialist guide in the Galapagos was great and something that MBA should shout about more in its marketing of the trip as I was almost put off coming thinking we didn't have that.

The element that really made it fabulous was Wilson our tour leader. He really was outstanding. I have done about a dozen group trips now with different companies and Wilson is one of the best. Nothing was too much trouble for him. He went out of his way to make sure that he catered for everyone's needs, no mean feat with 10 very different people and requirements. His help wasn't restricted to the two weeks of the tour either, he was responding to messages and helping me book additional accommodation for weeks before the tour began and checking in with me afterwards to make sure I was ok. He has endless infectious enthusiasm and 'positive vibes' for everything that we did and saw. He was so passionate about his country he was an absolute joy to be with.

The mix of activities was amazing, from kayaking, whitewater rafting, exploring waterfalls and even hiking with a monkey in the Amazon, to snorking with turtles, rays, shaks and sea lions instead Galapagos. Seeing giant tortoises in the wild, hiking volcanoes and a couple of cycle rides in there too make this the perfect trip for people who love an adventure.

One tip: Most of the bike tour is not compulsory, but if you're going to do it, wear bike gloves if you have them to stop getting sunburnt hands.

The only couple of things I would change is firstly better accommodation. I love the fact that MBA chooses all local businesses, but the accommodation is very basic, verging on uncomfortable at times. The exception to this is the lodge in the Amazon. That was perfect. Really nice standard, without being too much. Big comfortable beds and lovely lodges with fresh flowers in. I had my best nights' sleep here - I would really opt for better accommodation elsewhere though.

The only other 2 recommendations I would make are: It would be great to make the trip a day longer and do a trip to the cloud forest. It seems a bit mad that this famous location isn't included.

Secondly it would be great to have a specialist wildlife guide in the Amazon. An equivalent of Belén in the Galapagos. I have been on trips with other companies where they have had this and it really makes the rainforest come alive.

Those recommendations aside it was a really great trip in a beautiful and interesting country. I highly recommend it and it's just left me wanting to return to Ecuador again.

A fantastic trip, we were a group of 6 for the trip and we had many great moments and laughs through the tour. The Galapagos days were stunning, the activities we did were all fun, relaxed and teamed with wildlife and nature. The Amazon was equally lovely the kayaking and rafting were great days with lots of laughs. Special shoutout to all the guides, Belén in the Galapagos was lovely to hang out with, she has ton of knowledge, was able to adapt sessions so everyone felt included and looked after us all. Wilson in Quito and Amazon was all about the good vibes and keeping us safe on the rafts. The rafting guides who navigated us through the rafting and kayaking were superb too, it was great to have them with us on both days. The hotels were great, much higher standard than I expected. We were well fed throughout, in the Galapagos it was great to visit so many local restaurants and in the Amazon the staff at the lodge really looked after us - it really is an oasis there. It's a great 2 weeks and I highly recommend it.

This adventure was the best organised trip I have been on. Wilson was an incredible leader. Belen an amazing guide/person in the Galapagos. Nothing was too hard even when illness had the plans changing. The kayaking/rafting guides so professional and fun to be around. The people of Kuyana lodge were excellent. As was Romona. The animals, scenery and activities were out of this world. If I could give 10 stars I would. Do not hesitate to book this adventure with MBA.

This trip exceeded all expectations. The itinerary was very well planned our days were packed but not tiring and guides adapted as needed to maximise our experiences. Wilson shares his expertise and passion for his country with care and a continuous smile. Our guide Belen in the Galapagos was also fantastic. Again she shared her passion and knowledge of the islands so well. The excitement in the group when we saw giant tortoises and blue footed boobies for the first time are some of the many memories I now cherish. The rainforest stay provided a good range of experiences. We were a little nervous about the kayaking and rafting due to inexperience. However this was not an issue as Wilson and the specialist rafting guides he recruited were phenomenal. The perfect balance of serious safety instructions and let loose and have fun. The hotels and food were of a good standard and better than the rustic style we prepared for. MBA are clear about being open, flexible and good vibes only. This isn’t a cliche it is what bonded our group and made this trip so memorable and fun.

This was my first group trip, and I signed up alone. The Galapagos was a bucket list thing, so I hoped it would live up to my imagination and that there would be some fun people. I never could have guessed how much beyond my hopes it would become. The guides, Wilson in Quito and the Amazon and Belén in the Galapagos were absolutely outstanding. They could not have been more friendly, knowledgeable, and on top of everything. They alone would have made the trip worth it. But the animals! Everything and more then I could have hoped, turtles everywhere, seals and iguanas so ubiquitous that I almost stopped noticing. Boobies, penguins, rays, sharks, sea turtles, pelicans, frigate birds, and so much more. And that was just in the Galapagos! The Amazon was a whole new world, birds and flowers, waterfalls and monkeys. The rafting and kayaking guides were amazing, very skilled, very fun, and they clearly loved doing it. The enthusiasm and clear love of the job and the country from every single guide made the trip an order of magnitude better then advertised. On top of all that, the other 5 people on the trip were amazing. We had a smaller group, and while we started as strangers, we ended up retiring at the end of many days exhausted with abs sore from laughing. From hammerheads to salmon launches to immortal lavender, the stories and jokes will live with me forever. I could not have asked for a better group, and am legitimately concerned that this experience has ruined any future group trips I do, as they can't possibly live up to the totality of this unforgettable 2 weeks. 12/10 and 1000% worth it. Would do again.

This was a bucket list trip for me and it exceeded all expectations. We saw and did so many incredible things. I loved every second. The guides are super knowledgeable, professional and fun to hang out with. The way it’s all planned means you do loads but are never exhausted. I’m so sad to be heading home. I would start this trip from the beginning today if I could!

This trip was just incredible, you get to do so much, it feels much longer than 14 days away. I was apprehensive about the kayaking and rafting, having not done this before, but the guides are fantastic making you feel safe, and making the experiences so much fun. The rapids are a suitable level for novices, but still thrilling, these became the standout activities of the holiday. Our group of people were wonderful, getting on well together. There was great support for each other when doing things that pushed our nerve, enhancing the trip even more. But I cannot say a big enough thank you to our organizers and guides, Wison, Steph, Edwin and Eric, couldn’t ask for more helpful and kind people. Wilson goes the extra mile, making sure everything runs smoothly, we never had to wait, or have delays, it was a seamless string of food, fun and activities. The wildlife and landscapes are something else. Mountains, Volcanos, Blue Seas and white beaches. Penguins, Sharks, Rays, Marine Iguana’s, Giant Tortoises, hummingbirds and many more exotic creatures. I am so glad I took my DSLR camera, as I nearly just packed the iPhone for simplicity. To anyone who like photography, this trip is a must! So, anyone wondering if you should do this trip, just go for it. Ecuador is beautiful, the people are lovely and Galapagos is a glorious and peaceful dream.

I read the reviews before booking this trip and thought they might be a bit over the top, no way! We had an incredible time over Christmas and New Year. I have done group travel with other providers and wasn't sure what to expect with MBA but the organisation, quality of experience and packed itinerary was first class. Full credit to Wilson, Stef and Edwin for making sure the group had nothing to worry about except enjoying themselves and their endless patience for questions about kit and what we need in our bags each day! I managed to do the whole trip with a 40L rucksack, you don't need as much as you think - I had one pair of sturdy trainers so didn't bring walking boots. I suggest you pack with the intention of hiding from the sun, it's the easiest way (long sleeves!) and accept that whatever you take to the amazon won't be dry until you get home. I had the time of my life with such a great group of people, don't hesitate, book the trip!

After this amazing trip we arrived home feeling like we have been away for months - so many animals and varied landscapes! All these reviews are correct in noting Wilson’s good care of every group member - his infinite patience and maintenance of ‘positive vibes’ safely contained us throughout the trip, mirrored by the friendliness of all the locals we encountered. Delicious chocolate, giant tortoises, pink flamingos, sleeping sea lions, swimming turtles, land & marine iguanas, islands, rainforest, white-water rafting…

Everything about my Galápagos and Amazon journey was top-notch. The organization of the guides allowed me to just relax and enjoy the experience. I was able to push my boundaries by snorkeling and rafting for the first time, which was a huge highlight. Between the incredible animals and the fantastic local food, it was a once in a lifetime experience.

This trip was everything we’d hoped for, and more. Everyday was a different activity (or a few), packed with new experiences and many memories made - the days really are jam packed so be prepared to be up and out early and back for dinner. The trip was seamlessly organised & clearly communicated - thanks to Wilson’s exceptional organisational skills and patience.

Aside from the big ticket activities, the trip was made even more special with visits to local craftspeople, coffee roasters and more.

Standouts include snorkelling with turtles, sea lions, sharks, rays, marine iguana and huge shoals of fish in the Galapagos; hiking through the Amazon with a monkey on my shoulder for several miles; various water sports and the most memorable New Year’s Eve I’ve had to date! That and excellent food along with a great group of people to spend the 2 weeks with.

My tip would be to take a lot of quick dry leggings and long sleeved tops for activities and take a decent pair of grippy trainers you can hike in rather than boots. You can do laundry at least twice.

Just want to start out with a massive shout out to Wilson, Edmund and steff that looked after us on the trip. They where incredible at assisting us in any needs that we had and sorting all the events that we did. I dont think that they could have done anything more to make the trip better for us. Regarding the actual trip it was fantastic. Visiting the Galapagos and seeing all of the amazing wild life out there. A favourite memory of mine is pulling into that first ranch and playing spot the tortoise. Then snorkling through the islands was my next highlight. I only wish we did more of that! On to the amazon. The lodge was amazing, Definitely a high light accommodation wise. Doing the night hike and the waterfall hike where awesome. Again the only thing i would ask for would have been more time at the waterfall. But by far my favourite activity of the trip was the rafting day. Lorenzo our rafting guide was phenomenal and madde it the most memorable physical activity. This is the 3rd trip that i have done with much better adventures and as experiences goes this is a winner. The best holiday Ive ever had.

We came on this trip as part of our honeymoon and we both loved it. Wilson was so organised and fun! We really feel like we got our money's worth. We will definitely be coming on more MBA trips.

We did this trip for our honeymoon and loved it. We are both active, thrill seekers and the balance between wildlife loving days on the Galapogas and extreme sports in the Amazon really suited us. Wilson was a fantastic host, everything was so well organised and he took care of those who were ill incredibly well. The Galapogas has wildlife everywhere and does not disappoint (you visit two islands and get a boat between them). Be aware there isn't much downtime planned in so be prepared for day that start at 8ish and finish at 5ish. We would recommend adding days on to the trip to see more of Quito or another south American city.

It was an amazing, action-packed trip which was made even better by our guide, Wilson. He was so attentive to everyone and the trip was run really well. Easily one of the best group tours I've been on!

Swimming with sealions and sea turtles in Isabella was a bucket list dream come true, then rafting in the Amazon was so much fun- we crammed a lot into 2 weeks and I can't thank Wilson enough for making it all happen.

WOW!!!!! got back this absolutely incredible adventure and it’s still sinking in! Firstly I would like to say a huge thanks to Wilson + Steph and Edwin who were absolutely brilliant!! And then for the tour in terms of highlights - there were SO many, white water rafting, laying in the rapids, snorkelling with turtles and sea lions, the giant tortoises, the cooking class, hiking the volcano, I could go on for a long time. Kudos to Wilson, it was so fast paced it feels like we were away months we did so much. The group was fantastic, I feel like I’ve come away with lifelong friends too. On a practical note, I would recommend to people to pack an overnight bag that folds down but is big enough to you can leave a lot in it as it will help when travelling between places (as at some spots you can leave stuff), lots of quick dry clothes, and good trainers (even better if you can hike in them, then you won’t actually need hiking boots). Thank you Wilson and MBA for such an incredible time, I’d go back in a heartbeat!

This Galapagos and Amazon adventure was truly a five-star experience from start to finish, and easily one of the most memorable trips imaginable. The itinerary flowed beautifully, blending snorkeling with sea lions and turtles in the Galapagos, hiking volcanic landscapes, and then diving deep into the lush Amazon for rafting, kayaking and jungle walks, all without ever feeling rushed or exhausting. Every day brought a new highlight, yet there was still enough downtime to soak it all in and appreciate just how special Ecuador is as a destination.

Wilson, our guide, was the heart of this trip and a huge reason it felt so exceptional. His hospitality went far beyond expectations—he was endlessly patient, attentive and incredibly organized, always seeming to know what each person in the group needed before they even asked. He shared his knowledge and love for Ecuador with warmth and humor, managed logistics and safety flawlessly, and made everyone feel included and cared for, whether it was arranging little surprises, adapting plans smoothly, or offering quiet encouragement to anyone feeling nervous about an activity. The Amazon hotel stay was another standout that absolutely deserves a glowing mention, along with the wonderful team who run it. The lodge is beautifully set in the rainforest, with comfortable rooms, peaceful jungle views and thoughtfully prepared meals that showcase fresh, local ingredients, making it feel like a serene haven in the middle of the wild. The staff were consistently kind, welcoming and hardworking—greeting us with genuine smiles, taking care of every detail, and creating an atmosphere that felt warm, safe and deeply personal, as if we were guests in their home rather than customers passing through.

What an incredible 2 weeks of adventure!! Our guide Wilson was an absolute legend and always brought the vibes. The wildlife, the scenery and the adventures were incredible

Just finished a couple of weeks with Much Better Adventures in Ecuador (Quito, Galápagos, Amazon rainforest). Wow what an adventure it was. I was part of a group of 9 and over the fortnight our guides (Edwin, Wilson and Erika) made it very special for us all.

Everyday was jam packed with the sights/sounds and tastes of each location and we really did pack so much in. I will leave Ecuador with lifelong memories (and some of the best photos I you could imagine).

Thank you MBA, and thank you Erika, Wilson and Edwin. You helped to make it super special for me and the group.