Highlights



	Ecuador Mainland excursions from GALAPAGOS TRAVEL

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		HIGHLIGHTS OF ECUADOR Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a quiet, beautiful city. Flanked by the tall, snow-capped peaks of the Andes, Quito itself is at 9300 ft, yet located almost directly on the equator. On a clear day, as they say, you can see the snow cones of the volcanic peaks, giving the city an air of a mountain retreat. Based on your expectations of a bustling South American city, the serenity and the dramatic setting take you by pleasant surprise. While the population of Quito is over two million, making it the second largest city in Ecuador (Guayaquil is the largest), it has a tranquil small town feel to it (the rush hour and center city traffic notwithstanding). The people, the city, and the setting seem to blend together, all part of the rich artistic and cultural heritage. The following selected list is but a small representation of the vast number of half-day, full-day, and multi-day mainland tours that are available. The more time you have, the greater the number of possibilities, including tours of the Andean Highlands, Indian Markets, and the Amazon; from natural history, to bird watching to adventure trips. Most tours (excluding La Selva Jungle Lodge and some adventure tours) are private excursions for just your Galápagos group. Most include a private vehicle, driver & guide. Many can be completely customized depending on your interests. When you arrive in Quito, our sister company (GALAPAGOS TRAVEL PROINVERTUR CIA, LTD) will be ready to help you put together tours of the mainland, based on your time and interest. We are also more than happy to work with you in creating an itinerary prior to your departure (it is often a good idea to make reservations in advance to get the best guides available and secure the nicest accommodations). GALAPAGOS TRAVEL PROINVERTUR CIA, LTD accepts cash or traveler's checks for payments made locally. If you wish to pay by personal check or by credit card, you must do so in advance through our office in California. All prices are set in Ecuador and are subject to change without notice. Please call our office for current prices.


	Colonial Quito ("Old Town") & Archaeological Museum Here at the foot of Mt. Pichincha (15,700 ft), an active volcano, you are in the Andean highlands in what was once an Inca city. When the approaching conquistadors finally fought their way here in 1534, they found Quito in ruins. The Incas chose to destroy their city rather than surrender it. The city was rebuilt in grand colonial style architecture. UNESCO formally recognized this legacy in 1978, proclaiming Quito a "Cultural Patrimony of Mankind," and sanctions were passed to preserve the character and architectural integrity of what is called Old Town. Thus, entering Old Town (located in the central section of Quito) and walking down the narrow, winding cobblestone streets, one is immediately immersed in 16th century colonial architecture, by whitewashed walls, red-tiled roofs, heavy wooden doors, and fountained courtyards. Starting at the Plaza de Independencia, your tour of Old Town takes in the Palacio Municipal (City Hall), Palacio de Gobierno (the Presidential offices), La Catedral (the site of the first church in Quito), and Palacio Arzobispal (the Archbishop's Palace), now a series of shops. Nearby is the most impressive architectural treasure Quito has to offer, La Compañia Church, whose interior is a virtual blaze of gold. It is decorated in renaissance style, and almost entirely in gold leaf; it is truly amazing. Other attractions include the Church of San Francisco (the largest of Quito's 86 churches) and San Augustine Church & Monastery. Your tour will also include a visit to Panecillo Hill (offering the best panoramic view of the city) and the Archaeological Museum of the Central Bank - here you will find the most complete collection of pieces from Ecuadorian prehistory, dating back to 10,000 B.C. This is a half-day tour, daily except Monday. City by night, with Jacchigua Folkloric Ballet This tour offers wonderful panoramic views of modern and colonial Quito at night from several areas, including a stop at la Plaza Grande. The guide will prepare you for the folkloric show by explaining the history, art, religion, geography, races & traditions of Quito & Ecuador. The award winning show features the music & dance of the Andean highlands (the lavish costumes alone are worth the visit). (Wednesday only) Equatorial Monument If you always wanted to be right on the Equator, here's your chance. Located 15 miles north of Quito at latitude 0°00'00", La Mitad del Mundo (The Center of the World) is one of the most important geographical landmarks in South America. It's customary to have your picture taken straddling the northern and southern hemispheres; with the drifting clouds and the beautiful mountain scenery in the background. The interior of the monument is a very nicely done Ethnographic Museum. In addition there is a section describing the 18th century French/ Spanish geological expedition that established the exact location of the equator. This is a half-day tour. Quito options: • Highly recommended is a full-day version of the cultural Quito tour, including Colonial Quito, the Archeological Museum, plus the Equatorial Monument and neighboring sites. Additional visits will include the otherworldly Quito Basilica (adorned with numerous gargoyles and rainspouts, all representing the various animals of Ecuador). A picnic lunch is included. • A half-day combination tour is also possible; Colonial Quito, but without the visit to the Archeological Museum, plus a quick visit to the Equatorial Monument. • Another twist on the Quito option is a half-day tour of the city’s three most famous art galleries: Olga Fish, Galería Latina and Guayasamin.


			Imbabura Province Located north of Quito, the 2-hour drive to this exciting province offers a unique blend of natural history, dramatic mountain scenery, local culture, and handicrafts - a very thorough 1-day trip, and probably the most popular of the tours. Your first stop will be at the village of Calderon (noted for its bread dough figurines) and then through the Guallabamba Valley, where you will have the opportunity of tasting the exotic fruit of the region the cherimoya (seasonal). Continuing on, you will cross the Equator at the city of Cayambe - on the foothills of the imposing (19,000 ft) Mt. Cayambe. Ecuador is noted for its native markets, a tradition that predates even the Incas, to a time when agricultural products were first carried down from the Andean Highlands on the backs of llamas and traded for goods from the Amazon region, which were also transported to the "marketplace." Of these markets, none is more famous than the one at Otavalo, your next stop on this tour. The Otavalo region is known for its skilled weavers, and the most popular items at the Market are ponchos, blankets, scarves, sweaters, belts, tapestries, and rugs. Bargaining is the rule, and transactions are in cash. Also on the itinerary is the village of Peguche (where the best weavings of the Otavalo Indians are actually made) as well as lunch at a local hacienda. On the return to Quito visit the villages of Cotacachi, where you will find excellent leatherwork, and San Antonio de Ibarra, known for its artistic woodcarvings. This is a full-day tour. Imbabura Trails A full day visit to the Imbabura Province, including the famous Otavalo Indian Market. The market, centered on the main town plaza, literally overflows with local venders and their wares. While the Otavalo Indians are especially known for their intricate weavings, you will likely also discover a range of woodcarvings, leatherwork, beadwork and jewelry. Following lunch at a local hacienda it is time to slow the pace down a little. A hike through the rural villages and along the shores of Lago San Pablo will reveal the quiet, proud, and challenging lives of the locals - farmers toiling in their fields, cowboys on horseback, children doing their chores (and sometimes eager to practice their English on you), and women washing clothes at the lake shore. Savor the fresh air and quiet beauty of the high Andes this afternoon before returning to Quito. Imbabura Province 2 days Similar to the one-day tour of the area, this tour allows for a more in-depth look at the local culture. A great way to slow down the pace and explore some of the villages and maybe do some walking in the countryside. Also visit the beautiful crater lake; Cuicocha. Includes overnight at one of several haciendas or hosterías in the province:

Hostería Chorlavi: This is a more economical hostería, with the traditional styled buildings surrounding a lovely garden courtyard (where some meals are served, and there is often noon-time entertainment). It tends to be very popular at lunchtime with tour groups, but quiet at night. The rooms are smaller, and decorated with antiques. Chorlavi offers a pool, jacuzzi, squash & tennis courts, and a good restaurant (with much of the produce grown on the grounds).

Hacienda Cusin: The main buildings are old (founded in 1602), but with many of the guest rooms in newer buildings (most rooms with fireplaces). While totally renovated in the last few years, the hacienda retains a wonderful working atmosphere. The grounds are beautiful (nicer than many botanical gardens) and the food always gets rave reviews. Horses & bikes are available for use by the guests, as well as squash and badminton areas. Located a short walk from Lago San Pablo.

Hostería La Mirage: Very nice hotel and excellent restaurant. La Mirage is newer construction, but built in the colonial style. All rooms are unique and decorated with antiques and finished very tastefully; all with fireplaces. The dining room features, in addition to wonderful food, suburb views of the surrounding countryside. The lush grounds are beautifully landscaped, and include a tennis court and solar heated swimming pool. This is the most luxurious (and expensive) of the accommodations in the area. It has a nice location on the edge of the town of Cotacachi


	Cotopaxi National Park Cotopaxi (an Indian word meaning "Throne of the Moon"), at 19,700 ft, is the world's highest active volcano and is considered one of the most important ecologic reserves in Ecuador. If you have the time, it is definitely worth a look. The Park, established in 1975, offers spectacular views of lava fields, colorful highland flora, llamas, deer, wild horses, and mountain birds, including an occasional glimpse of an Andean condor. If the clouds decide to part, you will be treated to a beautiful sight - the higher slopes of glaciatic blue ice and the snow-covered peak, a perfect cone if ever there was one. This is a full day tour and includes a lunch at Hacienda La Cienega, a beautiful 300-year-old estate now functioning as a country inn. Cotopaxi National Park/Zumbahua Market 2 days This is an expanded version of the standard Cotopaxi trip. The trip begins with an early morning departure; the driver will take the Pan American Highway south for about 95 miles along the Central Valley, flanked by two parallel ranges of high mountain volcanoes (most are still active). This is the famous "Avenue of the Volcanoes", aptly named by the German explorer, Alexander von Humboldt. Driving past the towns of Latacunga and Pujili, you will arrive at the Zumbahua Market. The Zumbahua Market is not the best known, but many consider it to be the most unique and interesting. It has retained its traditional character; here llamas and riding horses are still traded, goods and products are still bartered - currency is generally not part of the transaction process. The colorfully dressed Indians and the thatched houses add to what is already a great photographic opportunity. The day continues as you drive past the crater lake of Quilotoa and on to Hacienda La Cienega, where you will spend the night. This beautiful 300-year-old estate now functions as a country inn. Many rooms in this romantic hacienda have 20-ft ceilings. Early the next morning, you will arrive at Cotopaxi National Park for a full day of exploration. Highlands of Cotopaxi A trip similar to the regular 1-day Cotopaxi tour, but for the more adventurous. This full day complete tour via 4-wheel drive will travel farther & higher into the park (to the hikers' refuge at 13,000 feet). Traveling the dirt/ gravel roads up the mountain offers spectacular views, seldom seen by most tourists. The best opportunities for wildlife viewing are also found deeper in the park. This trip is only recommended for people in good physical condition due to the altitude. Box lunch included. Cotopaxi Train Adventure Another take on the regular 1-day Cotopaxi tour: At the Chimbacalle Train Station on the outskirts of Quito, you, and your guide, will board one of Ecuador’s classic trains for a three hour journey south. Trains in Ecuador are rustic, with the cars most likely being a combination of old passenger cars, boxcars and flatbeds. The route is roughly parallel to the Pan American Highway, through the heart of the Avenue of the Volcanoes, past small villages and scenic farming country. A car and driver will meet you at the last station and whisk you off to lunch at one of the local haciendas. Following lunch visit Cotopaxi National Park before returning to Quito by car. (Saturday & Sunday only)


			Saquisili Indian Market Located about 2 hours south of Quito, just past Mt. Cotopaxi, along the Avenue of the Volcanoes. This crossroads community is host to a vibrant once-a-week Indian Market (Thursdays only). Very much a locals market, with each plaza or street having a different focus or specialty (everything from farm animals to fresh produce, weavings to housewares, fabric to furniture). As this market is not oriented towards tourists expect to find few handicrafts. However, if your goal is to experience the sights, sounds, smells and colors of a bustling market, then this is a wonderful choice. Lunch at Hacienda La Cienega. Note: The Latacunga and Pujili Indian markets are similar, but on a smaller scale. Latacunga is in operation on Tuesday and Saturday, and Pujili on Sunday.


	La Selva Amazon Jungle Adventures La Selva (Spanish for "the jungle") is located .25 degrees below the Equator in the lush upper Amazon neotropical rain forest of the eastern portion of Ecuador (or El Oriente, as the area is called). The trip begins with a 40-minute plane ride from Quito to the jungle frontier town of Coca where you will be met and transferred via motorized dugout canoe to La Selva Lodge, about 60 miles downriver and a half mile inland from the river itself. Awarded the "Best Ecotourism Destination" in 1992 by the World Congress on Tourism and the Environment, La Selva Lodge overlooks beautiful Heron Lake (Garzacocha). Accommodations are in 16 double cabins, each with private facilities (including hot showers). The style is rustic, with the construction of the traditional split bamboo and thatch. Comfortable twin beds are draped with mosquito nets. Separate buildings house the lounge (where you will find electricity for recharnging camera batteries) and dining room. The quality of the food is excellent, and all meals at the lodge are included. Most important, they have excellent itineraries that blend guided dugout canoe rides and trail walks to show you the magic of the jungle. Your guiding team will include both a local native tracker and a naturalist guide. In this way you can be assured of experiencing the most the jungle has to offer, by day and also by night. Explore the virgin forest while following rough trails and animal tracks. Fish for piranha in a stream. Sample lemon ants (a local delicacy, really.) Learn about the medicinal properties of the local flora. Enjoy the antics of monkeys in the trees, and look for sloths, tapir, deer, caiman, frogs & snakes. Additional highlights include a 95-foot observation tower affording you a birds-eye view of the surrounding jungle, and an elaborate walk-thru butterfly farm. Itineraries are either 5-day/4-nights or 4-day/3-nights. The programs include round-trip airfare from Quito, all transfers, and all meals at the lodge. Other days travel days or different length stays can also be arranged. If you're a birder you are in for a treat with perhaps the highest list in the Neotropics. They have specialized programs and excellent birding Guides at no additional cost. You don’t have to be a birder (or keep a birder’s schedule) to appreciate the birds of the area though - macaws, toucans, parrots, herons and hoatzins are among the many species that can be seen from the lounge balcony. Yellow fever shots and malaria pills are recommended for the Ecuadorian jungles in some of the literature; consult your physician. While the Ecuadorian Amazon would be a great natural history destination all by itself, we recommend it as a pre-extension - that is, visit the Amazon before the Galápagos. What happens is that, simply put, the Galápagos spoils you. You get used to seeing and photographing the animals within 4 - 6 ft; these animals have few natural predators, and have not learned fear. This is not the case in the Amazon, where the animals need (and expertly use) the jungle as camouflage.




					Click here for: La Selva sample itinerary & prices La Selva bird list


			Cuenca Cuenca is considered by many to be the most beautiful city in Ecuador. Not as crowded as Quito, without the extensive high-rise business district, Cuenca offers the rich flavor of colonial history and traditional architecture. This trip is highly recommended for those that have 3 days to spend and have a cultural orientation - especially those who were interested in seeing Machu Picchu in Peru. Two hours north of Cuenca, one can visit the most significant Inca ruins in Ecuador - the Ingapirca Fortress. No, it's not Machu Picchu, but it's safer than Peru, more logistically feasible, (for starters, you don't have to overnight in Lima), and much less expensive. Your 3-day visit begins with a morning flight from Quito and includes a half-day City Tour of Cuenca. In addition to viewing cathedrals, museums, and pre-Columbian ruins, you will have the opportunity to visit one or more of the factories where "Panama" hats are made. On the second day, you will visit the beautiful area west of Cuenca called Las Cajas. This is a day of hiking and enjoying the scenic and varied landscape of the lake country. You will spend the day observing the flora, fauna, and birdlife of the region. The third day is spent at Ingapirca, the Inca fortress complex, where each wing (built around a central structure called an usnu) was designed to offer the inhabitants a direct visual and religious orientation to the sun at a particular time of the day. After visiting the Ingapirca ruins, you fly back to Quito. This 3-day tour includes round trip flights, hotels, and most meals. Cuenca by Train A 4-day trip combining the best of several trips. The first day you will travel south by car (with a driver & guide), visiting a local market (depending on the day) or Cotopaxi National Park. Following lunch at a local hacienda, continue to the town of Riobamba for a brief afternoon tour. After an overnight in Riobamba, there is a very early morning start the following day on the train for El Nariz del Diablo (the Devil's nose), the famous achievement in train construction along a sheer mountainside between Alausi and Huigra. From here you will again be met by a car (driver and guide) and continue on to Ingapirca, the best-preserved Inca site in Ecuador. The 3rd day will be a full day of exploration in Cajas National Park. The last morning will be spent touring Colonial Cuenca prior to transferring to the airport for your return flight to Quito. Tour includes return flight, hotels and most meals. Cuenca Option: Gualaceo Valley You may extend either Cuenca tour by adding a day in the Gualaceo Valley, or you may substitute it for the visit to Cajas National Park. The Gualaceo Valley is located 25 miles east of Cuenca, at an elevation of 7,000 feet. From Cuenca your route will take you into the high Andes before dropping down into a rich valley filled with orchards and sugar cane plantations. Scattered through the valley are several picturesque villages including Gualaceo, Chordeleg and Sigsig (home to a colorful Indian market - Sundays only). Traditional handicrafts of the region are ceramics in shades of green and yellow, shawls and scarves woven in a traditional Icat technique, musical instruments, and excellent gold and silver work. This is also the source of toquilla straw the material used in the finely woven Panama hats. Lunch at a local country inn.

Bellavista Tropical Forest Exploration:
Departing Quito between 6:30-7am, transfer directly to the Bellavista lodge a drive of less than 2 hours via the direct road. Bellavista is situated within an 1800 acre cloud forest reserve, with sweeping views down the valleys. At the lodge a local guide will lead a variety of small-group nature walks (from easy to difficult) sure to open the doors to the wonders of this fantastical forest. Hummingbirds are so plentiful, and remarkably tame, that you will likely grow used to the sounds of being “buzzed!” Mid-day the lodge will serve lunch. Transfer back to Quito late afternoon.

Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve Birding Tour
Early morning (5:30am) pickup at Hotel Alameda Real by your Bellavista birding guide. Beginning at nearly 10,000 feet, we will descend through 3 distinct vegetation zones along the old Nono/Mindo road with a private birding guide, finishing at 5,000 feet. The mountain route, scenic vistas, and small villages make this trip a delight even if you are not a confirmed birder. However, as you would expect in a small area with such diversity, the birding can be spectacular. A hint of what you might see includes Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager, Buff-breasted Mountain Tanager, Metallic-green Tanager, Masked Trogon, Turquoise Jay, Great Thrush, Cinnamon Flycatcher, Torrent Duck, Toucan Barbet, Plate-billed Mountain Toucan, and Red-billed Parrot. Following lunch at the Bellavista Lodge we will also briefly explore the tropical forests of the surrounding Cloud Forest Reserve. In addition to being home to a multitude of birds, the area hosts the largest diversity of epiphytes; the trees are festooned with a veritable profusion of bromeliads, orchids, mosses and more. A short walk will also bring you to a neighbor’s property which features a proliferation of flowers and feeders that attract up to 16 species of hummingbirds (including our favorites, the Violet-tailed Sylph and Booted Racket-tail). Travel is via private transportation (car or jeep), although you should expect to walk a good deal. Early morning temperatures at high altitude can be quite chilly, while mid-day in the tropical forest can be hot; be prepared to layer your clothing. Late afternoon return to Quito via the “fast road”.

Bellavista Birding Tour 2 days
This tour can also be extended to include a second day to further explore the Bellavista grounds. As with any area, the more time you spend, the more you will see and nowhere is this more evident than out in nature. On the second day you have your choice of an expert birding guide, or a natural history guide. Overnight is in the simple, but comfortable, lodge at Bellavista.

Birding the Old Nono-Mindo Road with NEBLINA FOREST
NEBLINA FOREST is the pre-eminent birding company in Ecuador. All of their tours include both an expert level birding guide, and a separate driver, to afford you the most flexibility. This is a 2-day trip taking in the best birding areas within easy reach of Quito. We will traverse some of the old roads and out-of-the-way places enroute to the towns of Nono and Mindo. The altitude changes so dramatically (from over 10,000 feet to 5,000 feet) that we will pass through three types of forest in just a few hours: subtropical forest, páramo, and cloud forest. Dinner and overnight at Septimo Paraiso Lodge or similar. Very early (5am) departure the next morning for the Mindo Natural Reserve and our chance to see the famous Cock-of-the-Rock and many other birds including toucans, hummingbirds, mountain tanagers and raptors. Return to Quito in the afternoon.

Note: A 1-day version of this tour is also possible, but it is an exceedingly long day featuring some of the worst roads in Latin American (they don’t seem as bad if spread out over 2 days). Also, your chances of seeing the Cock of the Rock at sunset are not as good as at sunrise.

Other birding locations and highlights: Freelance birding guides specialize in birding throughout Ecuador. Equipped with a box lunch, binoculars, field guides and a wealth of information they are ready to show you the highlights of their country from your base in Quito.

Papallacta Pass: Leaving Quito we cross the Eastern Cordillera along a dramatic glacier carved canyon. The route will soon pass through the dry scrub habitat of the central valley heading towards the high páramo at about 12,000 feet elevation. Birds found along this stretch include Giant Hummingbird, Black-billed Shrike-Tyrant, Red-crested Cotinga, and Black Flower-piercer. In the wind-swept grassy páramo and Polylepis woodlands we will search for high elevation birds such as Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe, Ecuadorian Hillstar, Blue-mantled Thornbill, Tawny Antpitta, Bar winged and Stout-billed Cinclodes, Red-rumped Bush-Tyrant, Giant Conebill, and Black-backed Brush-Finch. After crossing the pass, the lush vegetation soon begins to blanket the valleys. The forested roadsides and trails in the vicinity of the town of Papallacta are great for hummingbirds and tanagers. We have great chances of finding Buff-winged Starfrontlet, Great Sapphirewing, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Viridian Metaltail, and Shining Sunbeam. Mountain-tanagers such as Scarlet-bellied, Buff-breasted, and Lacrimose often turn up as well.

Yanacocha: This is a temperate forest site 90 minutes east of Quito on the Pacific slope of the Andes. Before dawn Imperial Snipe are usually in flight and calling through the mist. The area is home to the Black-breasted Puffleg, which has been called one of the 50 most difficult birds to see in the world. There is really only one trail here, which is relatively flat and goes far enough to occupy the better part of a day. Hummingbird feeders currently attract as many as 12 species in the area. Depending on conditions a Polylepis stand is accessible, where Giant Conebill may be found. The overall setting atop the mountains is truly beautiful.

Pasochoa Forest Preserve: Located 1 hour south of Quito along the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Pasochoa is home to some of the higher temperate elevation species. Most of the vegetation in the preserve is Chusquea bamboo dotted with patches of cloud forest; secondary forest at the lower reaches, and primary forest with a hard hike uphill. In the woodlands you might find Andean Guan, Red-crested Cotinga, warblers, Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Flammulated Treehunter, White-browed Spinetail, Undulated Antpitta, and Ocellated Tapaculo. Expect any of the shorter loop hiking trails to take a minimum of 2+ hours to complete, and longer for the higher trails.

Cotopaxi National Park: The rocky, flat, plains near the 12,000-foot elevation reserve lake (Limpiopungo lagoon) are haunting, and harbor some intriguing birds. Cotopaxi is one of the best sites for such high páramo birds as Andean Teal, Andean Gull, Carunculated Caracara, Yellow-billed Pintail, Slate-colored Coot, Andean Lapwing, Noble Snipe, and Black-winged Ground-Dove. On a clear day, views of the perfect glacier covered volcano are also tremendous.



	Arashá Tropical Forest Resort & Spa More than just Ecuador’s top resort and spa, Arashá is a chance to experience and learn about the rich environment of the Andean tropical rain forests. The lodge is located on the western face of the Andes, less than 2 hours from Quito. Guided activities at the resort include daytime and nocturnal walks through the primary and secondary forests of Macallares, birding from a tower blind, and hiking to several lagoons and waterfalls. There are also hands-on workshops on making your own chocolate from cacao seeds, jewelry making from local products, tropical flower arranging, and yoga, in addition to wellness seminars on medicinal plants. If you’d rather slow the pace down you can relax mid-forest on the white sand beach of the Rio Negrito, or soak in the spring fed resort pool or Jacuzzis. Accommodations are in ecologically sensitive luxury bungalows, and meals are exquisitely prepared using the freshest ingredients. A wide range of spa services is available, with one treatment per person included with your visit. Either two or three day stays are available. Hot Springs and Relaxation If you are back from the Galápagos, and in the mood for a little rest and relaxation, and maybe a little pampering, then Termas de Papallacta may be just the place. A favorite of upscale Ecuadorians, the Termas (hot springs) are located less than 50 miles east of Quito, on the eastern slope of the Andes. The drive over the stark Papallacta Pass will traverse several distinct vegetation zones (which are home to numerous bird species) and afford you sweeping vistas. The resort features half a dozen thermal pools in varying temperatures (from cold plunges to “too hot”) spread through the lushly landscaped grounds. Additional spa services may also be arranged on site, including massage/ reflexology/ facials/ aromatherapy. Includes lunch at Termas de Papallacta. Baños - 2 days This 2-day trip travels south from Quito (in part along the Pan American Highway) along the "Avenue of the Volcanoes". Starting with an early departure on the first day you will visit one of the local markets (depending on the day) or Cotopaxi National Park. Following lunch at a local hacienda you will continue to Baños. Dinner and overnight at Hosteria Luna Runtún (Moon Fortress) high above the city on the mountainside. This new hotel/resort was built in beautiful colonial style to blend with the breathtaking scenery. Baños is known for its beautiful scenery, waterfalls and hot springs, plus the Basilica (painted black for some unknown reason) and the Virgin of the Holy Water, and the many miracles attributed to her. The murals of the Basilica will tell many of the more interesting local tales. Towering over town is the still active Tungurahua Volcano. The town is also known for 2 very different taste treats; hand pulled salt-water taffy, and roasted cuy (cuy is the pre-Inca Andean delicacy, guinea pig) yummy, yet neither is recommended (for sanitary reasons)! Return to Quito in the afternoon. Toachi River Whitewater Rafting An early morning departure from Quito towards Santo Domingo, taking you on a two and a half hour drive through the Andean cloud forest, along spectacular mountain roads. We put-in near the town of Santo Domingo and, following a safety briefing, will navigate through approximately 20 kilometers of whitewater (class II, III & IV). The river flows west from the cloud forests of the high Andes to the tropical rainforest of the Ecuadorian coast, through an area characterized by great biodiversity. Along the way you will encounter spectacular rain forests and an abundance of wildlife (in addition to many species of birds, Iguanas and Southern River Otter are also possible). Depending on the water level, the trip will take us over three hours. After lunch at the end of our run, we will return to Quito, arriving in the late afternoon. Note: A 2-day version of this tour is also possible, camping along the river. Downhill Mountain Biking All bike tours are fully guided and supported, and will use top quality mountain bikes and safety equipment, and include a picnic lunch. In all cases you should be in good physical condition to participate due to the altitude, remote areas, rugged terrain, and potential hazards, which could be encountered.


		Pichincha to Nono route: Morning departure from Quito (by jeep) for the old road up Pichincha volcano, that leads to the town of Nono. We start pedaling on the highest point of the road, over 10,000 feet, and start a thrilling downhill descent with an incredible landscape of highlands, patches of cloud forest and old haciendas. The trail will be a combination of blacktop roads, old cobblestone roads, and short sections of dirt road. At the end our jeep will be waiting with a picnic lunch and to take you back to the city. Cotopaxi National Park route: Morning departure from Quito (by jeep) heading south along the "Avenue of the Volcanos." Our destination is Cotopaxi National Park; the highest active volcano in the world. Traveling the dirt/gravel roads up the mountain to the refugio (hiker's refuge) offers spectacular views, seldom seen by most tourists. Weather permitting, you will be rewarded for your trip with spectacular views of this perfect snow-capped cone. Beginning above 13,000 feet we will begin our bike decent/exploration. A favorite stop will likely be Lago Limpiopungo, located at an elevation of 12,000 feet know for a multitude of birds in the area. The trail will be mostly unpaved (dirt or gravel) roads. Temperatures within the park can range between the 30's-60's throughout the year. Indian Markets and the Avenue of the Volcanoes route: Early morning departure south of Quito (by van) along the "Avenue of the Volcanos." Our route to these colorful Indian markets will take us past Mt. Cotopaxi. These traditional street markets (Latacunga on Tuesday and Saturday, Saquisili on Thursday, and Pujili on Sunday) fill their respective central town plazas. Here you can find everything from fresh produce to prepared foods (not recommended), to flowers and spices, clothing to housewares. However, as this is a local's market there will be few handicrafts available. Following the market visit, we begin our mostly flat or downhill bike through the rolling rural farming country, villages and Andean valleys of the area. The support van will follow the group should anyone need its services at any time.


	Trekking up Mt. Pichincha Early morning (5am) departure from Quito by 4-wheel drive. After about 2 hours we reach the small lot by the hiker's refuge. From here we begin hiking to the crater rim (1 hour roughly), at an altitude of 15,650'. Weather permitting you will be greeted with wonderful views of the crater, and back down the mountain and over Quito. After descending to the jeep we will continue down the southern flank of the mountain to the picturesque valley of Lloa, where we will stop for a picnic lunch. From here we will continue back to Quito for a mid-afternoon arrival. While no special climbing equipment is necessary, it is advised to wear hiking boots and dress in warm layers (including jacket, hat and gloves). Early morning temperatures at the summit can be below freezing. The excursion should only be attempted after having been in Quito (or at altitude) for at least a day participants should also be in good physical condition.

Guayaquil Tour Options:
Guayaquil is, in addition to being Ecuador’s primary port and commercial center, the largest city in the country. Several half-day and full-day tour options are available please call for further information on the area.

Create your own adventure
We are happy to help you design a custom adventure just the way you like it. You might begin with some of our side tours, then add other sights or activities you’re interested in. Maybe join two or more extensions or regions together, and do away with some of the driving (and hotel nights in Quito). Visit one of Ecuador’s flower growers sure! Heard good things about a different jungle lodge and want to check it out no problem! Summiting Mt. Cotopaxi or Chimborazo cold, but doable! Birding at Tinalandia of course! Intensive one-on-one Spanish classes si! Laying on the beach in Esmeraldas and resting up after Galápagos why not! Trekking or horseback riding can do! Want a bit less structure and a bit more free time on the tours easy! Whatever you are looking for, we’ve probably done it before and are happy to help you put it together if at all possible. We encourage you to think outside the brochure it’s your vacation so spend your time how you would really like!



Further afield in South America...

	Peru • This 1-week tour takes in the best of the ancient Inca sites, from Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, to Cuzco with its rich mix of Inca ruins and colonial Spanish architecture. click here for sample Peru itinerary	Easter Island • Savor the culture and history of this mysterious island, with your own private Rapa Nui guide - learn the legends and secrets the island holds to this day. click here for sample Easter Island intinerary


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