Welcome to
ECUADOR
Natural
Exploring Ecuador's Natural Wonder
Ecuador is home to unparalleled biodiversity. Explore the lush Amazon rainforests, where life thrives in every corner, or venture into its four worlds, a natural laboratory that is home to species found nowhere else on Earth. Our section will take you on a detailed journey through the unique ecosystems that make Ecuador a premier natural destination.
Discover Unique Biodiversity
Adventures
Biodiversity
Tips
OUR OPTIONS
Discover the diversity and excitement that await you with Ecuador Natural's programs.
We invite you to explore our exciting travel options and get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience. Remember that our options are designed to serve as the foundation for your personalized adventure planning, so tailor them to your individual needs and tastes.
We are here to turn your travel dreams into an unforgettable reality.
Natural Ecuador
- 9 days
- 8 nights
We will discover majestic landscapes, impressive volcanoes, and a great diversity of fauna and flora through the Andes Mountains. One of the highlights will be a visit to Ingapirca, the most important pre-Columbian archaeological site in Ecuador. We will also explore the Cajas National Reserve, with its extensive 29,000 hectares of Andean páramo, which offer the opportunity to enjoy experiences in direct contact with nature. Finally, our tour will take us to the Coastal Region, known for its tropical climate, active trade and exports, and beautiful beaches that offer unparalleled sunsets. Get ready for a unique adventure!
This is the perfect tour to discover the most representative aspects of Ecuador, starting in the Andes and ending in the coastal region. We will discover majestic landscapes, volcanoes, and diverse fauna and flora throughout the Andes mountain range.
INCLUDES
- Bilingual guide
- Transportation for transfers and excursions
- Accommodation
- Meals according to itinerary
- Tickets to tourist attractions
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Foods not specified
- Items not specified
itinerary
1
Arrival in Quito
Arrival at Mariscal Sucre Airport in Quito, where you will receive a warm welcome. We will provide you with private transportation from the airport to your hotel, which is located in a central area with easy access to restaurants, bars, craft shops, and parks. On this first day, you will have time to explore the city on your own and begin to discover its beauty. Quito is located 2,800 meters above sea level, so we recommend that you relax and prepare for the exciting adventure that awaits you. Enjoy your stay in this beautiful city!
2
Quito City Tour - Middle of the World
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will head to the Historic Center of Quito, considered the largest and best preserved in Latin America. Our first stop will be at the impressive Basilica del Voto Nacional Church, famous for its neo-Gothic style and ornate gargoyles and details of Ecuadorian fauna.
We will continue our tour to Independence Square, also known as Plaza Mayor, which is surrounded by important buildings such as the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, the municipal building, and the majestic Metropolitan Cathedral. This iconic location offers us a historical and cultural overview of the city.
The interior is decorated and crafted with gold leaf. We will visit the open square of San Francisco and its monumental church and convent, known as El Escorial de los Andes, built in the 16th century by the indigenous people of the School of San Andrés. Passengers will enjoy lunch at a fine dining restaurant located in the Historic Center. We will continue to El Panecillo, a hill crowned by the winged Virgin of Quito, from where we will have a beautiful view of the city and the impressive Andean landscape. In the afternoon, we will continue our tour to Mitad del Mundo, located 22 km north of the city of Quito, where the equatorial line is located. This location was determined in the 18th century by the French Geodesic Mission together with Spanish and Ecuadorian geographers. We will experience standing in both hemispheres and visit the Intiñán Museum to perform a series of dynamic experiments that confirm the location of the equatorial line. Return to the hotel at the end of the afternoon.
3
Cotopaxi National Park
Write it better and make it more user-friendly: Breakfast at the hotel. Then, we will leave the city of Quito taking the Pan-American Highway south and arrive at Cotopaxi National Park after a two-hour drive. The Cotopaxi volcano is the second highest peak in Ecuador at 5,897 meters above sea level. It is an active volcano with a conical shape, snow on its summit, and surrounded by beautiful Andean páramo vegetation. The visit begins with the registration of travelers at the southern checkpoint of the National Park, and then we will move to the interpretation center to learn about the fauna and flora of the area and general information about the volcano and the Andes mountain range. After this stop, we will take a walk of approximately 1 hour around the Limpiopungo lagoon, an ideal place to admire the majestic volcano and take beautiful photographs. Optionally, it is possible to drive to the parking lot of the José Rivas mountain refuge and walk 200 meters to reach the refuge, which is used as a base camp by hikers climbing to the summit of the volcano. The parking lot is located at 4,600 meters above sea level. Passengers will enjoy lunch while observing the Cotopaxi volcano from the only hotel located inside the National Park. At the end of the day, we will head back to the hotel.
4
Quilotoa Crater Lake - Riobamba
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will head to the impressive Quilotoa Lagoon, located in the western Andes mountain range at an altitude of 3,900 meters above sea level. This place is one of the most beautiful and spectacular in Ecuador, notable for its natural surroundings that convey tranquility and its green and turquoise waters found within an extinct volcanic crater. We will have the opportunity to descend to the shore of the lagoon to admire its waters up close. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
The climb from the lagoon is an excellent but physically demanding exercise. As an alternative, the local community offers mules for travelers who need assistance and wish to hire this service. After visiting the lagoon, we will enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant run by the local indigenous community. After lunch, you will have time to explore the small village and buy handicrafts.
The trip to Quilotoa is a scenic route, and along the way, you can visit the picturesque traditional Andean villages of Pujilí, Zumbahua, and Tigua, which still preserve their traditions and culture. On Saturdays, the indigenous market of Zumbahua takes place, where you can admire the colors and vitality of this important tradition. Tigua is especially known for being a community of visual artists who depict the indigenous lifestyle in the countryside and the landscapes of the Andes in colorful paintings. We will continue our journey to the city of Riobamba, where we will rest tonight.
It will be a day full of breathtaking scenery, culture, and traditions!
5
Ruins of Ingapirca
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will continue our journey along the inter-Andean corridor for approximately 3 hours until we reach the archaeological complex of Ingapirca. This complex, built during the pre-Columbian period, is the largest and best preserved in Ecuador. Along the way, we will enjoy interesting Andean landscapes, highlighted by the colorful costumes worn by the inhabitants of the area.
Ingapirca offers us the opportunity to take an important journey into the past to discover the Inca culture, its delicate construction techniques, and the worldview of the Cañari culture, native to these territories and conquered by the Inca empire. Here we can visit the remains of temples and learn about the solar calculation system and traditions of these pre-Columbian cultures.
Throughout the trip, we will make brief stops to admire the traditions and cultures of this central region of the country up close. One of these stops is at the Balbanera Church, the first Catholic church built in the country in 1534, and the Palmira Desert, an unusual and unique place located more than 3,000 meters above sea level.
At the end of the day, we will transfer to a cozy hotel located very close to the archaeological complex, where we will enjoy a traditional dinner prepared with typical products from the Ecuadorian highlands.
It will be a day full of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery!
6
Bowl
Breakfast at the hotel. We continue our journey to the beautiful city of Cuenca, which was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. During our tour, we will visit the city's most emblematic sites, such as the charming San Sebastián neighborhood, the Museum of Modern Art, Calderón Park (the central park), Plaza de las Flores, and the impressive Sagrario and Inmaculada Concepción cathedrals, the latter considered the largest in Latin America. In addition, we will have the opportunity to visit a "toquilla straw hat" factory and learn about the making of these fine hats.
During the tour, you will have free time to enjoy a delicious lunch and savor the local cuisine.
It will be a day full of history, culture, and beauty in the charming city of Cuenca!
We will continue our visit to the region's artisan villages, such as Gualaceo, known for its woven crafts, and Chordeleg, famous for its gold and silver jewelry.
The hotel is located in the city center, just a few steps from the central park and the El Barranco neighborhood, where you can find a wide variety of bars and restaurants to enjoy the rich local cuisine.
I hope you are enjoying this trip full of culture, landscapes, and traditions. The Cuenca region offers so much to see and learn. Have a great day exploring this beautiful city!
7
Cajas National Park – Guayaquil
After breakfast, we depart from Cuenca for Guayaquil, making a brief stop at El Cajas National Park. Here we can enjoy a pleasant walk within this beautiful lake complex, consisting of approximately 240 lagoons, surrounded by an Andean moorland full of grasslands, Polylepis forests (paper tree), rocks, and streams.
The journey of about 200 km between the two cities takes place along a road with breathtaking scenery. We will make a stop so you can enjoy a delicious lunch.
Upon arrival in Guayaquil, we will head to the hotel located in the city center, near the Malecón, an ideal place to stroll along the Guayas River and admire the views. Guayaquil is a vibrant city that offers a wide variety of seafood dishes in restaurants serving national and international cuisine.
8
Guayaquil
Good morning. After breakfast, we will begin a tour of the charming city of Guayaquil, the second most important city in Ecuador.
We will begin by visiting the beautiful Plaza de la Administración, where the neoclassical municipal building is located. Then we will head to the Clock Tower, with its Moorish architecture, to walk along the Simón Bolívar Malecón, a 3 km promenade on the banks of the Guayas River.
At the La Rotonda monument, we will learn about the libertarian movements in South America. Later, we will visit the historic Las Peñas neighborhood and its wooden houses. From the Santa Ana hill viewpoint, we can admire the views of the city and the mangrove swamp.
For lunch, we will enjoy delicious local cuisine. In the afternoon, we will visit the Historical Park to learn about the culture and history of the region through its native flora and fauna, including some endangered species.
I hope everyone enjoys this tour to learn more about the rich culture of Guayaquil, its people, and its landscapes. Have a great time!
9
Return
It's time to head back home. We will transfer from the hotel to Guayaquil's José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport to board our return flight. It has been a pleasure to have you as part of this trip, and we hope you have enjoyed and learned about Ecuador's diverse culture and natural beauty.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- All rates are in US dollars and per person.
- Rates apply throughout the year, except on Ecuadorian holidays.
- Tours for 1 to 3 passengers are conducted with a guide-driver; if a different service is required, a supplement applies.
- If local taxes change, rates will be updated, tour operators will be informed, and itineraries will be updated.
- Outlet Viajes reserves the right to modify itineraries due to unforeseen events or national regulations. Tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated accordingly.
ANDES + THE GATEWAY TO THE AMAZON
- 8 days
- 7 nights
On this tour, you will have the opportunity to admire beautiful volcanic landscapes while photographing active volcanoes such as Antisana. You will also be able to observe a wide variety of high-altitude Andean birds, such as the majestic condor, Ecuador's national symbol. You will also be able to spot curiquingues, Andean gulls, and high-mountain ducks.
The excursion will also take you to cloud forests and Amazonian jungles, where you can enjoy the abundant flora and sightings of species such as macaws, toucans, and parrots. If you wish, you can stay in rustic camps for total immersion in nature.
This is a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Ecuador's impressive biodiversity, while capturing spectacular landscapes and birds on your camera. I hope you enjoy it!
During the Andes + Amazon observation tour, you will have the opportunity to photograph volcanoes such as Antisana and observe high-altitude birds such as the Andean condor, curiquingues, seagulls, and Andean ducks.
INCLUDES
- Transportation for visits and excursions
- Bilingual guide
- Accommodation
- Meals according to itinerary
- Tickets to tourist attractions
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Foods not specified
- Items not specified
itinerary
1
Arrival in the city of Quito
Welcome to Quito, the beautiful capital of Ecuador. Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, our representative will be waiting to transfer you privately and comfortably to your hotel in the city center.
The hotel is strategically located, allowing you easy access to restaurants, bars, craft shops, and parks during your stay.
This first day in Quito is yours to begin exploring at your own pace through the colonial streets and discover the charms of this city located 2,800 meters above sea level. We recommend taking advantage of the afternoon to settle in and rest, so you are prepared for the exciting activities you will have during your visit.
2
city tour + middle of the world
Breakfast at the hotel. The guide will pick you up at the hotel to begin the tour of the largest and best-preserved historic center in Latin America. The first stop will be the Basilica del Voto Nacional church, known for its neo-Gothic style with gargoyles and Ecuadorian fauna among its ornaments. We will continue the tour at the Plaza de la Independencia or Plaza Mayor, surrounded by the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, the municipal building, and the emblematic Metropolitan Cathedral Church.
Your next stop will be at the Church of La Compañía, whose interior is decorated and crafted with gold leaf. You will visit the open square of San Francisco and its monumental church and convent, known as El Escorial de los Andes, built in the 16th century by the indigenous people of the School of San Andrés. Then you will continue to El Panecillo, a hill crowned by the winged Virgin of Quito, from where you will have a beautiful view of the city and the impressive Andean landscape.
In the afternoon, you will continue your journey to Mitad del Mundo, located 22 km north of the city of Quito, where the equator is located. This location was determined in the 18th century by the French Geodesic Mission together with Spanish and Ecuadorian geographers. You will have the experience of standing in both hemispheres and visiting the Intiñán museum to perform a series of dynamic experiments that confirm the location of the equator. At the end of the city tour, your transfer will be ready to take you back to your hotel.
3
Antisana National Park
After breakfast, your transportation will be ready at the agreed time to begin your birdwatching trip in Antisana National Park, home to incredible biodiversity: 418 species of birds, 73 species of mammals, and 61 species of amphibians and reptiles. The reserve has its own species of amphibian, the Antisana toad, which is endangered, and other species that inhabit the moors such as the spectacled bear, cervicabras, white-tailed deer, dwarf deer, mountain tapirs, pumas, Andean cats, wolves, condors, curiquingues, Andean seagulls, lizards, and guagsas.
4
TAMBO CONDOR + SAN ISIDRO Cloud Forest Lodge
Early in the morning, we will head to the condor observatory near the lodge, hoping that you will be able to see these majestic birds take flight. You will then return to the lodge for breakfast, and on the way back you will encounter bird species such as tanagers, curiquingue hawks, and various species of hummingbirds in the pools.
Once you have checked out, your transfer will be ready to begin your journey to the eastern mountain range, the gateway to the Amazon, the San Isidro Lodge. We will arrive at the San Isidro Cloud Forest Lodge in the afternoon to settle into our comfortable accommodations, surrounded by hummingbirds and other colorful birds. After a short rest, we will embark on an evening hike along the San Isidro interpretive trail, which will give us a first glimpse of the diverse cloud forests that surround us. We will return in time to relax and shower before dinner.
At dinner, we will have our first taste of Ecuador's famous aguardiente; this delicious drink is made with native guayusa leaves and a touch of cane alcohol, which is sure to help us warm up. After dinner, we will go on a night walk, where we will look for owls, frogs, strange insects, nocturnal mammals such as night monkeys, or any other creatures that may entertain us with their presence.
5
SAN ISIDRO Cloud Forest Lodge
After breakfast at 8:00 a.m., we will immerse ourselves in the great cloud forest reserve of San Isidro and walk toward the picturesque Cosanga River along a trail that leaves civilization behind. We will return to the lodge in time to freshen up for lunch and enjoy another spectacular meal in the dining room overlooking the reserve.
After a midday break, optional afternoon activities include the following: cooking class, craft class, archery, trout fishing, heated pool. Just let your guide know your preferences and have fun! After dinner, we will take another tour of the lodge to check the lights, where we are sure to find a variety of beetle species and colorful moths that have descended, their designs and patterns seemingly endless.
6
SAN ISIDRO Cloud Forest Lodge + SAN JOSÉ DE PUEMBO
For those who wish to wake up early, bird watching around the lodge gardens is an option where there is plenty of activity. After a buffet breakfast at 8:00 a.m., we may catch a glimpse of black agoutis, large native forest rodents that come to feed on corn around the cabins. At 11:30 a.m., your transfer will be ready to return to the city of Quito to the Hostería San José de Puembo, where you can enjoy your last night.
7
AIRPORT TRANSFER
Depending on your flight time, you still have the opportunity to continue exploring the area and then embark on your transfer to the airport.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- All rates are in US dollars and per person.
- Rates apply throughout the year, except on Ecuadorian holidays.
- Tours for 1 to 3 passengers are conducted with a guide-driver; if a different service is required, a supplement applies.
- If local taxes change, rates will be updated, tour operators will be informed, and itineraries will be updated.
- Outlet Viajes reserves the right to modify itineraries due to unforeseen events or national regulations. Tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated accordingly.
GREEN DESTINATIONS AND CULTURE
- 8 days
- 7 nights
On this exciting birdwatching tour, we will explore the magnificent Andean foothills, known as "the land of waterfalls." There we will find dreamlike landscapes and a paradise for birdlife. You will be able to spot rare and endemic species from the Chocó region, such as toucans of different colors, anteaters, mountain cotingas, tanagers, and countless hummingbirds.
At night, venturing into the darkness of the forest will bring us wonderful experiences. We will hear its unique acoustics and perhaps see glass frogs, owls, and other nocturnal species. If you love nature photography, this tour will allow you to capture unforgettable images of amphibians and, with luck, some reptiles such as snakes.
I invite you to experience this adventure and enjoy the lush biodiversity of this natural paradise, full of landscapes and sounds that will remain etched in your memory.
Endemic birds of the Chocó Territory, explore the darkness of the forest at night to photograph amphibians and, with luck, some reptiles.
INCLUDES
- Transportation for visits and excursions
- Bilingual guide
- Accommodation
- Meals according to itinerary
- Tickets to tourist attractions
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Foods not specified
- Items not specified
itinerary
1
ARRIVAL IN QUITO
Welcome to Quito, the beautiful capital of Ecuador! We hope you have a pleasant stay. Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito, our shuttle service will be waiting to take you safely and comfortably to your hotel in the historic city center. A day to discover Quito Located in the most active area, your hotel is close to numerous restaurants, bars, and shops where you can sample the rich local cuisine and purchase handmade crafts. At an altitude of 2,800 meters above sea level, you may feel a little tired at first. We recommend that you take advantage of this first day to familiarize yourself with your surroundings by walking through the streets of the historic district and admiring its beautiful colonial buildings.
2
CITY TOUR + MIDDLE OF THE WORLD
A day filled with history and culture
After an energizing breakfast at your hotel, your guide will be waiting to take you on a tour of the most iconic sites in Quito's historic center. The first stop will be the Basilica of the National Vow, recognizable for its neo-Gothic style and beautiful stone details. Next, you will visit Independence Square, the heart of the city, surrounded by important buildings such as the Presidential Palace.
Continuing the tour, you will admire the works of art in the Church of La Compañía, famous for its golden murals. In the Plaza de San Francisco, you can appreciate the architecture of the imposing church and convent, built by indigenous people. To end the morning, you will climb El Panecillo and enjoy panoramic views of Quito and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes.
Experience on the equator
In the afternoon, the trip will continue to Mitad del Mundo, located on the equator. There, you can participate in dynamic experiments that demonstrate the phenomenon of the equinoxes. We hope you enjoy these historic sites to the fullest. Have a wonderful day of discovery!
3
ALAMBI - SACHATAMIA
Exploring ecological reserves.
After breakfast, we will travel to the Alambi Reserve, a family project dedicated to the conservation of the cloud forest in the Tandayapa Valley. Located between 1,450 and 2,200 meters above sea level, it protects endemic species in more than 120 hectares of primary forest.
We will continue our journey to Sachatamia, a 120-hectare private reserve of cloud forest. It is world-renowned for its great diversity of bird life. Some of the activities you can enjoy here include hiking, canopy ziplining, and wildlife watching.
Observing the rich birdlife
Birdwatchers will enjoy the hummingbird feeding stations, where different species can be seen throughout the day. It is also common to spot brightly colored tanagers, and there is even a lek of Long-tailed Parrotbills within the reserve. We hope you take full advantage of this opportunity to learn about the biodiversity of these important protected areas.
4
SACHATAMIA CLOUD FOREST
Early in the morning at 6:00 a.m., you can start bird watching. After breakfast, you can choose from a variety of adventure activities to enjoy the morning in the Mindo area.
• Provençal breakfast
• Guided hike (Spanish) in our forest reserve
• Flying on vines
• "CANOPY" cable crossing of ravines
• Observation of flora and fauna in the reserve
• At 11:30 a.m., your transportation will be ready to take you to the Maquipucuna reserve.
5
MAQUIPUCUNA
Observations in Maquipucuna
At 11:30 a.m., we will travel to the Maquipucuna reserve. There, you can enjoy different activities:
Before lunch: You may spot ducks from the stream under the Umachaca River bridge. You can also see up to 8 species of hummingbirds in the dining room.
After lunch: We will walk along the Bear Trail and part of the Palmito or River Trail in search of spectacled bear tracks.
This moderate hike through secondary and primary forest allows you to spot a wide variety of birds, such as the Lanceolated Monklet, the Chocó Toucan, and the Emerald Antbird. It is also possible to see woodpeckers and birds of prey.
The trail shows the regeneration of the forest, dominated by the Pacche tree, which produces mini avocados when in season.
We hope you make the most of these wildlife viewing opportunities in Maquipucuna.
6
MAQUIPUCUNA
This last day in Maquipucuna offers you several options:
In the morning: If you are an early riser, you can start bird watching at 6:30 a.m., taking advantage of the early hours of the day when birds tend to be most active.
After breakfast: You can choose to rest until the next activity or continue exploring the birdlife.
Afternoon: The guide will be available until 6pm for further birdwatching excursions, depending on how much you wish to explore.
At night: Before dinner, you can venture into the dark forest and experience the sounds of the night, as well as encounter a wide variety of insects, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles that only come out under the moonlight.
We hope you make the most of your last few hours in this natural paradise.
7
MAQUIPUCUNA + LA JIMENITA FARM
Before breakfast: Make the most of the early hours of the day and go bird watching from 6:30 a.m., when birds tend to be most active.
After breakfast: You can take a short walk along the trails on the property to continue exploring the local birdlife. Other options include visiting the waterfalls or relaxing at the hotel.
Continuing the journey
After check-out: You will travel by private transport to the city of Quito, where you will stay at Hacienda La Jimenita.
Exploring Hacienda La Jimenita
Located near Quito, this family-run hacienda offers tranquility surrounded by nature. It is home to more than 90 species of birds and features nature trails where you can admire the views of the Andes.
After lunch: You can explore the trails, watching birds and hummingbirds at the feeders. We hope you enjoy your last activities before continuing your journey.
8
Airport transfer
Depending on your flight time, you still have the opportunity to continue exploring the area before heading to
to board your transfer to the airport.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- All rates are in US dollars and per person.
- Rates apply throughout the year, except on Ecuadorian holidays.
- Tours for 1 to 3 passengers are conducted with a guide-driver; if a different service is required, a supplement applies.
- If local taxes change, rates will be updated, tour operators will be informed, and itineraries will be updated.
- Outlet Viajes reserves the right to modify itineraries due to unforeseen events or national regulations. Tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated accordingly.
Andes & Amazon
- 10 days
- 9 nights
This tour will allow you to discover the natural and cultural wonders of Ecuador over several days. We will start in Quito, where you can visit the historic center, declared a World Heritage Site. Enjoy its colonial and religious architecture, with a large concentration of pre-Hispanic buildings.
Then we will visit Otavalo, famous for its colorful indigenous market. Known locally as "Plaza de los Ponchos," it is one of the largest markets in South America, ideal for purchasing handicrafts. In addition, you will be able to observe the rich biodiversity of two contrasting Ecuadorian regions. From the Andean moors to the lush tropical forest, you will appreciate ecosystems full of endemic flora and fauna. You will also learn about aspects of the culture of its indigenous peoples, who preserve ancient traditions.
We hope you make the most of this tour to discover Ecuador's natural and ethnographic diversity.
Explore the essence of Ecuadorian culture on a captivating journey.
INCLUDES
- Transportation for visits and excursions
- Local guide
- Accommodation
- Meals according to itinerary
- Tickets to tourist attractions
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Foods not specified
- Items not specified
itinerary
1
Arrival in Quito
Arrival at Mariscal Sucre Airport in Quito. You will be transferred privately from the airport to your hotel, which is located in a central area with easy access to restaurants, bars, craft shops, and parks. On this first day, you will have time to explore the city on your own and begin to discover its beauty. Quito is located at an altitude of 2,800 meters above sea level, so we recommend that you relax and prepare for the exciting adventure that awaits you.
2
Quito City Tour - Middle of the World
The day begins with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Then we will transfer to the impressive historic center of Quito, declared a World Heritage Site for its exceptionally well-preserved colonial architecture.
Our first stop will be the Basilica of the National Vow, recognizable for its neo-Gothic style and details of native fauna. We will continue to Independence Square, surrounded by iconic buildings such as the Presidential Palace. Then we will visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Church of La Compañía, whose interior is adorned with gold leaf. In San Francisco Square, you will admire the monumental Spanish-style church and convent.
We will climb El Panecillo to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the impressive Andean landscapes. In the afternoon, we will head to Mitad del Mundo, where the equator is located. There we will conduct experiments that demonstrate this geographical location.
We hope you enjoy this introduction to Quito's history and culture through its iconic religious and architectural sites.
3
Otavalo and Cotacachi
After breakfast, we will head to the province of Imbabura, declared a Global Geopark for its geological and cultural wealth. We will begin by visiting indigenous communities with a local guide. We will observe the craftsmanship involved in working with natural fibers such as sheep and alpaca wool, and the totora plant.
We will also visit a workshop where indigenous musical instruments are made. We will take a short walk to admire the impressive Peguche waterfall. Then we will travel to Cotacachi, known as Ecuador's Magic Town, famous for its fine leather goods. Nearby is Cuicocha Lagoon, located inside a volcanic crater, where we can hike trails and admire the natural surroundings, including two small islands.
We hope you appreciate the artisanal traditions and scenic beauty of this region of northern Ecuador. Before nightfall, we will return to Quito.
4
Cotopaxi National Park
After breakfast, we will head south on the Pan-American Highway, arriving at Cotopaxi National Park after a two-hour drive.
The conical Cotopaxi volcano, surrounded by moorland, is Ecuador's second highest peak at 5,897 m. After registering, we will visit the interpretation center to learn about its flora, fauna, and geology. We will take a one-hour walk around Limpiopungo Lake, with impressive views of the volcano. Optionally, we can head to the José Rivas refuge at 4,600 meters above sea level.
We hope you enjoy this unique opportunity to admire the beauty of Cotopaxi and learn more about its páramo ecosystem. We will return to the hotel before nightfall.
5
Quilotoa Crater Lake
Early in the morning, we will begin a scenic journey through the western Andes to the Quilotoa lagoon, located at 3,900 meters above sea level. This lagoon, situated within an extinct volcanic crater, stands out for its peaceful natural surroundings and its green and turquoise waters. We will be able to descend to its shore to admire it up close.
Visitors can take a kayak trip on the lagoon (additional cost). This activity and the nature reserve are managed by local indigenous communities. The climb from the lagoon is physically demanding, but an excellent activity. Alternatively, mules are available for hire. We will enjoy lunch at the community tourist center. During the trip, we will stop at villages such as Tigua, known for its pictorial art.
We hope you enjoy the natural and cultural beauty of this area. At the end of the tour, we will transfer to the hotel in Baños de Agua Santa.
6
Full Day Baths
We will have a brief introduction to Baños, a unique place for its biodiversity and outdoor activities. We will observe flora such as chuquiragua and birds such as swallows. We will cycle 17 km south, passing through Agoyan, the first waterfall where we will rest. Then we will cross the Pastaza River by cable car, with views of Manto de la Novia.
We will continue to Río Verde, where we will visit Pailón del Diablo after a half-hour walk through the cloud forest. If we have time, we can continue to Machay, the final waterfall. Once we have finished swimming and admired Machay, we will return to Río Verde by transport. In the afternoon, we will visit the Tree House to take photos on the swing at the end of the world.
We hope you enjoy this opportunity to discover the nature and culture of Baños while cycling among its impressive waterfalls.
7
Amazon Napo
We will travel to Misahuallí, a village located on the Napo River, to take the boat to La Casa del Suizo, where we will spend two days.
This lodge offers several activities guided by locals:
Misicocha:rafting trip and nature hike.
Cosano:walks through the Amazon rainforest.
Amazoonico:wildlife rescue sanctuary.
We can also go alligator watching, visit indigenous communities, attend pottery workshops, and more.
We hope you make the most of this unique opportunity to learn about the culture and immense biodiversity of the Ecuadorian Amazon in a sustainable and respectful way.
HAKUNA MATATA LODGE
Depending on our arrival time at the lodge, we recommend participating in an optional activity or enjoying the facilities, which include:
- Guided walk through the 120-hectare private reserve to learn about Amazonian flora.
- Horseback riding to admire the tropical landscape.
- Handcrafted chocolate workshop.
In the evening, we will enjoy a three-course gourmet dinner. We hope you make the most of your stay at this lodge in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon.
8
Amazon Napo
After breakfast, we will head to the Napo River by motorized canoe to the Amazon rescue center, where we will meet monkeys, parrots, tapirs, and ocelots. We will take a walk to learn about the flora, insects, and medicinal plants, and understand the importance of the rainforest for local cultures.
After a picnic lunch on the riverbank, we will visit a Kichwa family who will explain how to prepare chicha. We will finish at the colorful market in Tena to learn about local products.
We hope you appreciate this opportunity to discover the culture and immense biodiversity of the Ecuadorian Amazon.
9
Papallacta Hot Springs
We will leave the lodge and head to the Papallacta Hot Springs. Upon arrival, we will take a short walk to learn about the native flora and fauna of the area.
We will enjoy the thermal pools, unique in the world for their healing properties. The Papallacta lagoon covers an area of 32.4 hectares and its waters come from the melting snow of the Cayambe and Sarahurco mountains and springs in the páramo.
We hope you take advantage of this opportunity to relax in the midst of Andean nature, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
9
Airport Transfer Out
After breakfast at the hotel, passengers will be transferred to Mariscal Sucre Airport to catch their return flight.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- All rates are in US dollars and per person.
- Rates apply throughout the year, except on Ecuadorian holidays.
- Tours for 1 to 3 passengers are conducted with a guide-driver; if a different service is required, a supplement applies.
- If local taxes change, rates will be updated, tour operators will be informed, and itineraries will be updated.
- Outlet Viajes reserves the right to modify itineraries due to unforeseen events or national regulations. Tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated accordingly.
A Perfect Trip with the
Expert Advice
Our highly qualified team is ready to put their knowledge and passion to work to make your dreams of traveling through Ecuador come true, taking care of every detail of your itinerary to ensure that every moment is exceptional. Your perfect trip begins with us.
