Discover the beauty of the Ecuadorian Andes and cloud forest regions. Enjoy extreme biodiversities such as butterflies and bird watching. Experience the cloud rain forest with beautiful waterfalls and witness chocolate making at its source in the tropical paradise of Mindo. Venture back to the highlands to visit Cuicocha crater-lake and the famous indigenous market of Otavalo; and then, live a unique experience sharing an organic lunch prepared, side by side, with local people in the heart of the Andes. Relax and acclimatize at a luxury hot springs resort before you visit the Cotopaxi National Park and admire the highest active volcano in the world. Immerse yourself in the cultural and natural wonders that make Ecuador one of the most unique countries in South America. We promise you will never want to leave!
7 Days / 6 Nights
Day by Day
- Day 1 Arrive to Quito, Illa Hotel
Welcome to Quito! The largest, best-preserved colonial city of America declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Depending on arrival time, you can spend your day exploring the old town of Quito and the surrounding area. ADVENTURE JOURNEYS can help you to organize a day trip (please request in advance).
- Day 2 Equator Line/ Rio Blanco, Mashpi Lodge
The adventure begins at around 08:30 am at one of the main hotels in Quito, when you will be collected by Mashpi transportation for your journey to the northwest corner of the Metropolitan District of Quito. The road passes along the western flank of the Andes next to the “Middle of the World” (“La Mitad del Mundo”) which marks the equatorial line. We then continue westwards, downhill, following the course of the Rio Blanco, watching as the vegetation changes with every significant drop in altitude.
- Day 3 Secret Wildlife of Mashpi, Mashpi Lodge
The next day might begin at first light on the panoramic terrace, watching – and hearing – a menagerie of birds stirring around the Lodge. After breakfast, you could hike towards a waterfall, bathing in the tremendous crash of water, head to the Hummingbird Garden, or discover the winged wonders of the Life Centre’s butterflies.
- Day 4 Otavalo Market, La Mirage Garden Hotel & Spa
Drive back up into the highlands and reach the Pan-American Highway heading north on the way to the famous indigenous town of Otavalo. Here, admire the endless number of handicrafts from the local people. Take time to stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets, which are filled with Otavalo indigenous people wearing the traditional blue ponchos.
- Day 5 Cuicocha Crater Lake & Papallacta Hot Springs – Papallacta, Termas Papallacta
We will first visit Cotacachi Cayapas ecological reserve to see the breathtaking scenery of the crystalline-clear waters of this active volcano and the amazing surrounding landscapes. At the end of an hour long hike along the rim of the Cuicocha Crater Lake, we will take a boat ride to the center of the crater to observe the activity of this volcano, watching bubbles coming up from the center of the caldera.
- Day 6 Cotopaxi Volcano – Quito, Illa Hotel
We will drive south on the Pan-American Highway to the highest active volcano in the world, Cotopaxi. The snow-capped volcano is surrounded by the national park, home to abundant plant life, a rich fauna and Inca ruins. We will begin our visit at the interpretation center at the entrance of the park, before continuing our drive across the páramo to the Limpiopungo Lake.
- Day 7 Departure Day
Today our trip will end and you will have your International departures. Take with you your memories and photos and leave a piece of your heart, as you will want to return to Ecuador soon to experience more of this enchanted land. We wish you a “buen viaje”!
Price
Price from $4,355. Based on double occupancy, standard room.
Contact us for pricing and to connect with your personal travel expert.
