Discover All Ecuador in 9 Days: personalized Journey

We embark on our journey northward along the Pan-American Highway towards the province of Imbabura, where we will discover the vibrant town of Otavalo. Next stop: Middle of the World Museum

you can straddle the line between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Here, delve into the history of our ancestral villages and witness the mesmerizing effects of the sun on our solar cycle. Step back in time as you explore our centuries-old huts, grasp the intricacies of earth's physical phenomena through interactive demonstrations, and observe the sun's path (Intiñan) at the Acoratene. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this unique setting while gaining insight into the ancestral worldview and ethnoecological habitat at the heart of the world. Afterward, journey onwards to Imbabura Province, nestled in the Andes Mountains at an elevation of 8,441 feet.

cundo, in the province of Pichincha, Ecuador. It's a strategic point to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes, making the Pisque Lookout an option you won't want to miss. (Transfer time to Pisque-Miralago Lookout: 25 min)

nce to acquire authentic products from the region. Additionally, you can indulge in Andean coffee while taking in the spectacular views of the picturesque San Pablo Lake and its surroundings. From this strategic vantage point, you can admire the majestic presence of Taita Imbabura, a mountain of great significance to the local indigenous communities, as well as the fascinating Mojanda knot and the Cajas. (Travel time from Miralago to Peguche: 20 minutes)

ns, with its name meaning "steam or sacred water vapor descending from above." In the Kichwa language, "steam" translates to sami, samay, or ashnac, signifying the energy or power of Yacumama (the Power of Water). Special ceremonies and festivities occur at this location during the solstices and equinoxes. (Continue to Ñanda Mañachi's House: 10 min)

ll have the chance to witness a diverse array of traditional musical instruments from the Andean regions, utilized in crafting folk music. During this visit, you'll have the opportunity to engage closely with the artists, gaining a deeper insight into their culture and profound affection for art and Mother Earth.

stands as the largest indigenous market in all of Latin America. Here, you'll be captivated by a colorful array of textiles, jewelry, bags, alpaca toys, necklaces, leather goods, hats, and countless other treasures. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you engage with artisans and witness their craftsmanship firsthand. After your free time to explore the market, we'll take a break for lunch (lunch not included) before continuing our journey towards Cuicocha Lake.

chi, at an altitude of 3,06S meters above sea level. It stands out as the most beautiful and picturesque lake in northern Ecuador. This lacustrine gem is a crater or caldera of ancient formation, captivating with its three-kilometer diameter and crystal-clear waters. In its center lie the Teodoro Wolf (the largest) and José María Yerovi islets, divided by "The Channel of Dreams." In this region, the mountain guinea pigs, known as "cuyes," inhabit, lending their name to this fascinating lake.

The charming town of Cotacachi is nestled at the foothills of the volcano that bears its name. Renowned for its leather industry, the community excels in every aspect from production to marketing. Leather goods stand out as one of its prime attractions, with numerous shops offering a wide variety of crafts, garments, and footwear. Particularly famed for its high-quality dairy products, the city also engages in the export of flowers and asparagus. The name Cotacachi originates from the Quechua language, meaning "The Salt of Powder," adding a touch of history and significance to this vibrant community. The return to Quito not only marks the conclusion of a day filled with discoveries but also the anticipation of sharing our experiences. Dinner Not included Cotacachi Lodging

On the route, our first stop is the Quinche Church.

e most miraculous virgin in the northern Sierra of Ecuador. The word "Quinche" originates from the Maya language "Cakchiquel," composed of two words: "Quin," meaning Sun, and "Chi," meaning Mountain. (Continue to Papallacta Hot Springs: 60 min)

67 kilometers (42 miles) east of Quito, the capital city. It is situated within the Cayambe-Coca National Park, nestled in the Andean highlands at an altitude of around 3,300 meters (10,827 feet) above sea level. Is the perfect sanctuary to break away from the hustle and bustle of city life and the monotony of daily routines. It's more than just a destination; it offers a holistic experience that will invigorate all your senses.

gering for days before or after venturing into the rainforest. With its friendly population, stunning backdrop of jungle-covered hills, and vibrant malecón, Tena offers a captivating experience. It's a magnet for white-water enthusiasts, drawing rafting and kayaking aficionados from around the globe who come to paddle and play on the abundance of nearby rivers.

Situated at the confluence of the Misahuallí and Napo rivers, this tranquil town at the end of the road boasts beautiful jungle scenery and a spacious sandy beach. The most beloved residents of Misahuallí are the monkeys, often spotted strolling along the beach and venturing into the central park of the town.

era equipment; all other luggage will be handled by the lodge staff. It's just a 10-minute walk to reach the lodge. The manager will be there to welcome you with a refreshing beverage and a brief orientation about your stay in the rainforest. They'll provide information about jungle activities, spa therapies, night walks, and other tips to enhance your experience. The aim is to equip you with a basic understanding of the incredible place you've just arrived at before you embark on your activities.

Departing from the Lodge, your guide will lead you along a variety of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, lasting anywhere from half an hour to 4 hours. These trails wind through the dense and humid rainforest, connecting to the river or lake, traversing muddy paths, and always searching for the elusive wildlife of the area. 5H00 PM | FLOATING DOWN THE RIVER After a hike in the jungle, the water offers a refreshing respite. In this enjoyable activity on a buoy, your ability to paddle with your hands will be crucial. As you gaze at the sky and the tree-lined banks, you'll feel like you're part of a dream. Whether you choose to undertake this adventure solo or with a partner, it's one of the most serene ways to experience a river in the Amazon. Life jackets will be provided.

9:00 PM | NIGHT WALK All you need is a flashlight and your camera to witness the jungle come alive at night. Accompanied by your guides, you'll have the chance to encounter amphibians, insects, reptiles, birds, and nocturnal mammals as you explore the surroundings. Return to the Eco-lodge and relax deeply in the heart of the tropical rainforest.

ets to continue to the confluence of the Pusuno River and the Napo River.

Get your camera ready to capture photos of monkeys or toucans perched atop the trees.

This rescue sanctuary for Amazon animals houses a diverse range of species, from caimans to macaws, all of whom have faced challenges in readapting to the wild after being taken by poachers, sold on the black market, or forced into domestic lives. Your visit to AmaZoonico contributes to the protection of these creatures, ensuring their well-being and future survival.

This paradise is perfect for bird enthusiasts and photographers, offering opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife. From caimans in the lagoon to prehistoric birds like the "Hoatzin" and woolly monkeys, along with squirrel monkeys, there's plenty to see and capture with your camera.

arning about the jungle way of life from indigenous families. They will share their cultivation practices, knowledge of medicinal plants, and ancestral hunting techniques using blowguns and handmade traps in the forest. As part of this immersive cultural exchange, you'll have the opportunity to taste chicha de yuca, a traditional beverage of the tropical forest.

Ceramics Workshop: Experience the mesmerizing process of indigenous women shaping clay sourced from the riverbed into delicate bowls. During this encounter, a local artisan will demonstrate how their community crafts crockery using natural materials found in the forest, showcasing techniques for sealing and decorating. You'll also have the chance to purchase these exquisite items for yourself. Then, return to the Eco-lodge. Dinner & Jungle Lodging

Our guide will explain tomorrow's activities, which will take us through the jungle to the Andes.

rovince to Baños de Agua Santa in Tungurahua Province. Along the way, you'll be mesmerized by the stunning Ecuadorian landscapes. Our adventure begins with a balsa craft tour in Puyo City, located in Pastaza Province.

tal of Pastaza Province in the heart of the Amazon. Situated in the eastern Andes at an altitude of 3051.18 feet, it's home to over 50,000 residents and offers enchanting natural beauty. One must-visit spot is the House of the Balsa in the El Dorado neighborhood, where visitors can find a variety of handcrafted souvenirs made from Balsa wood, Chonta, Clay, and Amazonian seeds.

point presents a breathtaking blend of the Amazon rainforest, Andes mountains, and the majestic Pastaza River. Visitors can indulge in the exhilarating experience of swinging or relaxing in a nest-like swing, capturing unforgettable moments to cherish for a lifetime. (Entrance fee: $3 USD per person)

visit destination when exploring the Baños area. Located just 17 kilometers before Baños city in the small settlement of Rio Verde, it can be a short visit or a half-day trip depending on your chosen mode of transport. This awe-inspiring 80-meter waterfall, situated on Rio Pastaza, offers a constant water supply and is one of the most powerful waterfalls near Baños. Here, we provide tips on how to get there and plan your day for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Lunch not included

untains, rivers, jungle, and breathtaking natural landscapes. While these adventure sports are not included in the package, you have the freedom to choose which ones you'd like to try. Rest assured, the facilities and insurance provided ensure a phenomenal experience. Get ready for a day packed with excitement on water, land, and in the air. Entry price: Starting from $10 USD per person.

Here, we'll journey across the canyon via cable car, soaring above the magnificent Pastaza River canyon for a closer look at the waterfalls. Don't forget to bring a light jacket, as the wind can be strong, but the view from up high is absolutely breathtaking.

wcasing a giant hand emerging from the earth. It provides tourists with a unique perspective to admire the landscape and capture spectacular photos, including the Active Tungurahua Volcano in the backdrop.

Ask our guide to make a stop at El Café del Cielo coffee shop. From here, you can appreciate Baños de Agua Santa, nestled in a valley surrounded by volcanoes, green hills, and rivers, offering such perfect views and superb waterfalls.

se, also known as the Swing at the End of the World. Here, you can capture a photo while swinging, with the backdrop of smoke rising from the active Tungurahua volcano. Completing the scene is the natural channel indicating the route through which lava would descend. This experience truly immerses your senses, placing you amidst the Andes mountain range and with just a turn, you can take in the lush canopy of the rainforest. Afterwards, we'll proceed to our accommodation in the city of Baños de Agua Santa.

At 8:20 PM, we'll embark on a City by Night tour, where you'll discover more about this special city and everything it has to offer. Please note that dinner is not included.

Based on the recommendations we have received from tourists who have enjoyed our Tour through Ecuador, we have noticed that one of the suggestions was to have a second free day in this charming city. This is why this day is a pause, and Baños de Agua Santa is the perfect place to take a break as the city has hot springs and many spa places with relaxing massages, hot tub baths, or hydrotherapies... with the best prices in all of Ecuador. Also, if you don't want to stop and your goal is to keep exploring, there are many offers for half-day excursions to the outskirts of the city, on foot, horseback riding, or renting a quad bike... They also offer full-day tours such as the excursion to Quilotoa Lagoon, Tours to Cotopaxi Volcano... among others. Keep in mind that lunch and dinner are not included.

This makes it an ideal spot if you're seeking souvenirs to bring home or equipment necessary for hiking in the mountain refuges near Chimborazo Volcano. Exploring the Salasaka culture provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in tradition and gain insight into Ecuadorian indigenous heritage. By acquiring unique pieces, you're not just obtaining special items but also directly contributing to the livelihoods of local artists and artisans.

As we journey along the road to the first refuge of Chimborazo Volcano, keep an eye out for several herds of vicuñas roaming freely within the reserve area. Today marks the culmination of our altitude acclimatization efforts over the past two days as we embark on the ultimate challenge: reaching the snow-covered summit of Ecuador's highest peak, the majestic Chimborazo Volcano.

located at an impressive altitude of 5042 meters (16,541.99 feet). Remember to layer up with warm clothing, as temperatures can drop rapidly at higher elevations. The trek to Edward Whymper Refuge will take approximately 90 minutes.

Our experienced guide will ensure an enjoyable journey as we ascend to 16,541.99 feet (5042 meters) above sea level at Whymper Refuge. From this point, we will continue 1640.42 feet (500 meters) along a trail to Condor Cocha Lake, situated at 16,732.28 feet (5100 meters) above sea level on the majestic Chimborazo Volcano.

Don't hesitate to ask our guide about the legend of the ice gatherers, and be sure to capture plenty of selfies to commemorate the experience. Afterwards, we'll return to the parking area and head to a special restaurant for lunch.

Indulge in the specialty organic dishes cooked with volcanic stone... Enjoy your meal! Please note that lunch is not included. The towering natural rock walls, likely formed during an eruption of Chimborazo Volcano thousands of years ago, create a vast canyon known as Chorrera Mirador, located close to Riobamba city. This attraction offers hiking trails and serves as an ideal spot for birdwatching and capturing stunning landscapes through photography, thanks to its strategic location. Situated at an altitude of 13,123 feet (4,000 meters) on the southwestern flank of Chimborazo, the site experiences cold weather, with temperatures ranging from 45 to 52 degrees Fahrenheit (7 to 11 degrees Celsius).

Please note that dinner is not included. For an even more immersive experience, we invite you to consider arranging accommodation with our travel experts at a lodge near the majestic Chimborazo Volcano. Contact us to customize your experience to perfection.

tering humitas (traditional corn cakes) and rich hot chocolate with Andean cheese, setting the stage for your Andean journey. Transfer to Palmira Desert.

La Balbanera holds significant historical and cultural importance, making it one of Ecuador's most revered churches.

in Ecuador, is one of the most unusual and striking destinations in the central Andes. Situated between 10,663 and 11,253 feet (3250 and 3430 meters) above sea level, this desert is nestled amidst páramos, pine trees (not native to Ecuador's forests but used for their wood and to attract moisture), and indigenous communities. The desert is divided into two areas: the Low Dunes, which are relatively flat and close to the Pan-American Highway, and the High Dunes or Galte Laime community, which offers a more authentic experience with contrasting landscapes. Visitors can explore this unique environment and learn about the indigenous communities that have adapted to its distinctive living conditions.

Located in Cañar province, it houses the best-preserved Inca architectural complex in the country. Situated at 3,160 meters above sea level amidst a unique natural landscape, Ingapirca is a symbol of Inca dominance before the Spanish conquest of America. Spread over four hectares, this archaeological complex is a must-visit for those interested in the Qhapaq Ñan – Andean Road System. It was not only a focal point of the Cañari culture (500 AD) but also a crucial ceremonial area that united various cultures under the Tahuantinsuyo, similar to Machu Picchu in Cuzco, Peru. Open days available from Wednesday to Sunday. Lunch is included, beverages not included.

Its small, manageable size and relaxed atmosphere make it a delight to explore. The UNESCO-preserved historic center blends seamlessly with its picturesque natural surroundings, drawing visitors in with its charm. Wandering through Cuenca's cobbled streets, visiting its churches, and relaxing in its plazas feels like stepping back in time to the colonial era. Here, old traditions are upheld, and culture holds significant meaning. Known as the safest city in Ecuador, Cuenca also attracts many expat retirees seeking a peaceful haven. Let's discover what makes Cuenca so special! Please note that dinner is not included. Enjoy an overnight stay at the historic center of Cuenca, immersed in the charm and beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site

eautiful city, with a captivating half-day city tour. Explore its historic center, designated a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site in 1999. Delve into Cuenca's historic heart, where highlights include the imposing Old and New Cathedrals, distinguished by their towering blue domes. Explore bustling plazas like Central Plaza Calderon and the intimate San Sebastian, each offering glimpses into the city's vibrant cultural tapestry.

for its panoramic views of the iconic blue domes of Cuenca Cathedral. This charming plaza is an ideal spot to unwind, savor a coffee or local craft beer, and soak in the ambiance of this historic city.

e charming banks of the Tomebamba River, which gracefully meanders through the heart of the city. Serving as a natural divider between the historic old town and the contemporary urban area, the Tomebamba River offers a serene ambiance with its lush green banks and crystalline waters. Numerous bridges span across the river, providing delightful crossings and picturesque vistas of Barranco's majestic historic buildings that line the waterfront. Don't miss the chance to capture these enchanting scenes with your camera!

ng exporter of Panama Hats, a fact that may surprise many. While visiting, we highly recommend delving into the fascinating history of this elegant attire. Two notable places to explore are Homero Ortega and the Barrancos Panama Hat Museum. Here, you'll discover informative exhibits detailing the art of hat weaving and finishing, along with the opportunity to purchase some of the finest Panama Hats available worldwide. Be sure to inquire with your guide about the intriguing tale of how Panama came to overshadow Ecuador in the fame of these iconic hats.

a mere taxi ride away from the old town district. The sweeping views of red-tiled rooftops and the iconic blue cathedral towers are simply breathtaking and well worth the visit. Head back to your hotel for the evening. Dinner arrangements are not included.

Known as the lake district of Ecuador, this stunning reserve boasts over 270 lakes nestled amidst mountain peaks and glacial valleys. It's a prime example of Andean Paramo habitat, hosting a diverse array of fauna including Andean bears, condors, and pumas. Moreover, visitors can marvel at the world's highest-altitude tree, the resilient Polylepis tree. With numerous trails to explore, El Cajas offers a captivating outdoor adventure for all.

a stroll along the Malecon 2000 & Las Peñas. Lunch not included.

Our journey concludes here in Guayaquil, offering you various options for further adventures. You can choose to explore the iconic Galapagos Islands, venture deeper into South America with trips to Peru or Colombia, or coordinate with our guide for your preferred departure location. If you need assistance with hotel bookings or inclusive return to Quito from Cuenca city, please reach out to us in advance for personalized assistance.