One day in Quito or its vecinity represents an excellent opportunity to learn about colonial art, archaeology, anthropology and have a direct contact with an indigenous handcraft market or magnificent natural environments like a snow covered volcano or a cloud forest, favorite environment for birds and orchids.

City Tour with Museum:
5-Star Hotel Option (Swissotel or Patio Andaluz) $157 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star Hotel Option (Mercure Hotel) $119 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days for City Tour with Museum Visit:
Tuesday - Sunday for Cental Bank Museum
Monday: Guayasamin Museum

Program Description

Starting early in the morning we will have time to visit the colonial section of Quito on a walking tour along its narrow streets among buildings that date from the 16th to the 19th centuries. We will also visit Independence Square where the Presidential Palace is located, and marvel at the ornate interior of the Baroque/Moorish Church of San Francisco as well as the golden interior of La Compania church. We will then proceed to the Central Bank Museum, with the largest and most complete art collection of the country, the National Museum has permanent exhibits dating from 12.000 BC to 21st century in its different displays like the Archaeology Court, the Gold Court, the Colonial Art Court, Republican and Contemporary exhibitions as well as itinerant ones. If you take this tour on a Monday, we will go to Guayasamin Museum instead, home of a private pre Columbian and colonial art collection, as well as the best works of painter Oswaldo Guayasamin at La Capilla del Hombre.

(5 hours, no meals) Overnight at Selected Hotel - Breakfast included

Family City Tour:
5-Star Hotel Option (Swissotel or Patio Andaluz): $160 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star Hotel Option (Mercure Hotel): $125 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days for Family City Tour: Every day

Program Description:

After pick up from your hotel our tour begins at the Itchimbia Mountain with an outstanding view of Quito

Yaku Water Museum: Our transport will take us to the Yaku Water Museum; located in the historical El Placer neighbourhood, where the first water tanks of the city were placed; the complex has a spectacular view of the old city. The family will enjoy an enriching experience where learning about this precious resource is an amusing interactive experience, with games for kids of all ages the water museum is a great option for families.

Quito's Cable Car, known as Teleferiqo, a perfect location for families! The cable car will take you up to 13000 feet for a breathtaking view of the Andean corridor, in a clear day you might be able to watch three snows capped volcanoes at once while you are watching the whole city and surrounding valleys. For the small members of the family the complex offers an amusement park with a rollercoaster, go karts and electronic games, every activity in a beautiful surrounding and with a great view.

(5 hours, no meals) Overnight at Selected Hotel - Breakfast included

* Included in the tour: Private guide and private transportation, entrance to visited areas and credits on the amusement park at the Cable Car complex. Overnight at hotel of choice, breakfast included.

5-Star Hotel Option (Swissotel or Patio Andaluz) $222 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star Hotel Option (Mercure Hotel) $185 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description:

Just one and a half hours north of Quito, among the lush volcanic highlands, is the village of Otavalo . This land is rich in friendly and colorfully attired indigenous people, historic working haciendas and towering volcanoes with verdant slopes. Our destination is the Otavalo Indian craft market. As we pass into the highlands, we are treated to a sweeping view of Imbabura and Cotacachi Volcanoes, rising above San Pablo Lake. Our first stop is the Otavalo market, famous throughout the Andes for its handicrafts, textiles and tapestries. Then it is on to the village of Peguche for a weaving demonstration, followed by Cotacachi, home to Ecuador's finest leather craftsmen. We will stop by lunch time at one of the local haciendas with a typical Andean ambience. Arrive in Quito late in the afternoon.

Overnight at selected hotel, breakfast included.

5-Star Hotel Option (Swissotel or Patio Andaluz): $247 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star Hotel Option (Mercure Hotel): $209 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday (for Latacunga Market), Wednesday (for Pujili market), and Thursday (for Saquisili market)

Program Description:

South of Quito, standing tall among the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes' is Cotopaxi. At 19,348 ft (5,897 m) above sea level, it is the highest active volcano in the world, and home to Cotopaxi National Park. The park offers a tundra-like environment and is surrounded by other volcanoes both active and extinct. The area offers good hikes with the opportunity to study its geology and flora and chances to see local fauna, including wild horses, Andean birds and the possibility of seeing the Andean Condor, the world's largest flying bird. After a relaxed stroll in the region we will return to Quito. If possible, we will also visit a local indigenous market. Arrive to Quito late in the afternoon.

Overnight at selected hotel, breakfast included

5-Star Hotel Option (Swissotel or Patio Andaluz): $270 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star Hotel Option (Mercure Hotel): $233 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description:

Just an hour and a half north of Quito stands a primeval cloud forest set in the mountains above the Tandayapa River. Here a North American who used to work in the Monte Verde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica has discovered what could be the birders' paradise of the world. Even without counting the seemingly endless species of hummingbirds who frequent the feeders of this former cow pasture, the list of bird species seen here would rival - and may well surpass - any single location in the world. After a relaxed picnic lunch watching birds, we will continue to an orchid reserve where you will have the opportunity to discover some of the 2,725 species of orchids found in Ecuador. Arrive to Quito late in the afternoon.

Overnight at selected hotel, breakfast included

If you would you like to experience the charm of a colonial hacienda, native hand-crafters, non-tourist indigenous markets, snow covered volcanoes, andean lakes or a thermal spa high in the mountains, our 2 day extensions will give you a taste of the Ecuadorian Andes and its cultural and natural treasures.

Rates below include 1 hotel night in Quito and 1 night at local hacienda (ranch)

5-Star accommodations: $722 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $512 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description:

Day 1: Saquisili Indigenous Market
Early in the morning we travel South of Quito, through the Avenue of Volcanoes to enjoy the experience of visiting one of the non tourist indigenous markets in the area. This is a weekly gathering of sellers and buyers coming from the surrounding villages and mountains; your senses will be overwhelmed by the variety of colors, textures, fragrances and noise of a typical Andean market and you will find an incredible variety of fruits, vegetables, roots, grains, herbs, spices, live small and large animals, forage, typical clothing, agricultural tools, traditional prepared foods and more! We will shop for some freshly harvested products and then proceed to a “hands on” Ecuadorian cooking lesson at a local restaurant. In the afternoon we visit Pujilí’s colonial church and a traditional ceramics museum.

Overnight at Hacienda Hato Verde (4 stars) or San Agustin de Callo (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 2: Cotopaxi Volcano, flora and fauna
After a relaxed breakfast at the hacienda we will go to nearby Cotopaxi volcano. Standing tall among the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes' at 19,348 ft (5,897 m) above sea level, it is the highest active volcano in the world and home to Cotopaxi National Park. The park offers a tundra-like environment and is surrounded by other volcanoes, both active and extinct. The area offers good hikes with the opportunity to study its geology and flora and offers chances to see local fauna, including wild horses, Andean birds and the possibility of seeing the Andean Condor, the world's largest flying bird. After a relaxed stroll in the region we will return to Quito.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Hotel Mercure (4 stars)

Rates below include 1 hotel night in Quito and 1 night at local hacienda (ranch)

5-Star accommodations: $624 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $505 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description:

Day 1: Otavalo Indigenous Market
Just one and a half hours north of Quito, among the lush volcanic highlands is the village of Otavalo. This land is rich in friendly and colorfully attired indigenous people, historic working haciendas, and towering volcanoes with verdant slopes. As we pass into the highlands, we are treated to a sweeping view of Imbabura and Cotacachi Volcanoes rising above San Pablo Lake. Our first stop is the Otavalo market, famous throughout the Andes for its handicrafts, textiles and tapestries. We will follow to the food market to see the variety of products consumed daily by the local population and finally we will visit some local communities.

Overnight at Hacienda Cusin or Pinsaqui (4 stars) or La Mirage (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner Included

Day 2: Cuicocha Lake Crater & Cotacachi village
After a relaxed breakfast we will go to Cuicocha Lake for a wonderful partial hike around the crater lake or a ride in a motorized canoe to get a close look at the islets. This will give you the opportunity to see highland hummingbirds and orchids besides the spectacular Andean scenery. We will follow to Cotacachi for fine leather shopping and then visit an indigenous weaver of Peguche to witness the ancient back-strap weaving in process. We arrive in Quito late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Hotel Mercure (4 stars)

Rates below include 1 hotel night in Quito and 1 night at local hacienda

5-Star accommodations: $619 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $581 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description:

Day 1: Antisana Volcano & Reserve
We depart from Quito after breakfast and start this tour visiting Antisana volcano and Ecological Reserve. The 90,000 hectares Ecological Reserve is one of the most important sanctuaries for a number of endangered species in the Ecuadorian Andes, home to the magnificent Andean condor, spectacle bear, puma, paramo wolf, ibis, hawks, falcons, Andean gulls, doves and much more. We will reach the plateau close to the snow line passing by impressive remains of the huge lava flows produced by past eruptions of the giant snow covered volcano. The paramo of this reserve is covered by pristine lakes and green farmland. After a picnic lunch we travel to Papallacta Thermal Springs to spend the night.

Overnight at Termas de Papallacta. Breakfast, picninc lunch and dinner included.

Day 2: Papallacta Thermal Springs & Spa
After breakfast you will have the opportunity for an early hike in the cloud forest and pristine highland moors at walking distance from the hotel, just before you start pampering yourself in this spectacular spa to enjoy the natural springs and excellent service. Located at 10,800 feet above sea level, the Spa has 26 pools with temperatures ranging from 85 to 157°F, while the air temperature is 57°F; the spa also offers facials, massages, baths, reflexology, mud & clay body wrap; aromatic clay body wrap, hydro-massage, herbal bath, massage with pressure water and more. Return to Quito by mid afternoon.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Hotel Mercure (4 stars)

If you like physical activities you have plenty to choose from our 3 days extensions; hiking near active volcanoes, horseback riding & biking. If you prefer cultural activities you have indigenous markets, Inca ruins and colonial cities, all this with overnights at charming haciendas or country inns.

Rates below include 1hotel night in Quito and 2 nights at local hacienda

5-Star accommodations: $762 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $724 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description:

Day 1: Pujili Indigenous Market
Early in the morning we travel South of Quito, through the "Avenue of Volcanoes" to enjoy the experience of visiting one of the non-tourist indigenous markets in the area. The market is a weekly gathering for sellers and buyers coming from the surrounding villages and mountains; your senses will be overwhelmed by the variety of colors, textures, fragrances and noises of a typical Andean market and you will find an incredible variety of fruits, vegetables, roots, grains, herbs, spices, live small and large animals, forage, typical clothing, agricultural tools, traditional prepared foods and more. We will buy some recently harvested products and then proceed to a “hands on” cooking lesson of Ecuadorian cuisine at a local restaurant. In the afternoon we travel towards the town of Baños and arrive by mid-afternoon to enjoy the hacienda ambiance.

Overnight at Hacienda Manteles (4 stars) or Luna Runtun Spa (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner Included

Day 2: Baños and Surroudings
The extreme vertical nature of this region makes for stunning views, but the real eye-catcher is the 16,000-ft (5016-m) erupting Tungurahua volcano. Today we will explore waterfalls, crystal clear rivers, hike or horseback ride with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys in an environment ideal for bird watching and orchid-searching in cloud forest as well as transitional forest between the highlands and the jungle.

Overnight at Hacienda Manteles (4 stars) or Luna Runtun Spa (5 stars). Breafast & Dinner included

Day 3: Baños and Return to Quito
After a relaxed breakfast, we will go to the small town of Baños, cradled in a deep sub-tropical valley, on the slopes of Tungurahua volcano, this village developed due to its rich agricultural soil, thermal springs and mild temperature throughout the year. The last stop for travelers and settlers of the Ecuadorian Amazon basin, the town became also a commercial center for jungle products and a religious destination for pilgrims. Today we will visit the zoo, the Virgin's shrine, handcraft stores for beautiful balsa or vegetable ivory figures and hike up to the cross to take a bird's eye look of the town. By mid afternoon we will return to Quito, arrive late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Hotel Mercure (4 stars)

Rates below include 1 night in Quito and 2 nights at local hacienda

5-Star accommodations: $725 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $688 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Wednesdays only

Program Description:

Day 1: Chimborazo Volcano and Reserve
We begin the trip by traveling through the "Avenue of Volcanoes" to the snow covered slopes of Chimborazo, an extinct volcano and the highest peak in Ecuador (6,310m / 20,703 ft above sea level), to view the flora and fauna of the Andean paramo. En route we will pass by some of the most outstanding and least traveled routes of the highlands, passing by agricultural fields, tiny indigenous communities with straw-braided huts and llama or sheep herds. Our aim is to reach Carrel Refuge at 4,800 m / 15,749 ft by car and from there take a 30 min. walk to Whymper Refuge at 5,000 m / 16,405 ft. If you you are able to get there, you may brag to your friends about climbing Chimborazo, one of the highest peaks on the planet. We will stop for lunch en route and arrive at Riobamba late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Hosteria Abraspungo or Andaluza. Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 2: Guamote Market and Ozogoche Lakes
After a relaxed breakfast we will aim to discover charming tiny local communities and the indigenous market of Guamote, which takes over an entire town with its different plazas or squares. The market offers live animals and forage, potatoes, vegetables, cereals, poultry, guinea pigs, prepared foods, traditional attiress and all this hidden under the red ponchos of sellers and buyers. We continue to Ozogoche lakes (at 4,000 m / 13,000 ft above sea level) to view their mysterious and impressive surroundings. We return to Riobamba early in the afternoon for our second treat of the mysterious Altar volcano with its enticing peaks like “Bishop”, “Nun”, “Canon” and “Friar”, a perfect canvas for the small colonial city below.

Overnight at Hosteria Abraspungo or Andaluza. Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 3: Devil's Nose Train
Today we have a very early start to get on the roof of the 100 year old train which will take us across the highlands, at low speed, with full view of Chimborazo, Altar and Carihuairazo snow-covered volcanoes. We will pass by agricultural fields and tiny indigenous communities - with their traditional straw-covered huts - as we watch people of the different towns waving to us (the crazy people who chose to ride on top of the train instead of the comfortable interior seats!). Our aim is to reach the "Devil's Nose", going back and forth until we get to the bottom of the gorge and then up the same way. We return to Quito by car around mid-afternoon.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Hotel Mercure (4 stars)

Rates below include 1 night in Quito and 2 nights at local hacienda or hotel in Cuenca

5-Star accommodations: $1,020 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $908 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description

Day 1: Cuenca: A UNESCO colonial city
After an early breakfast we transfer from the hotel in Quito to board a 30 minute flight to Cuenca. Upon arrival we transfer to the hotel to leave our luggage. Cuenca is ideal for those looking to blend into the relaxed setting of a truly romantic colonial city. A walk along its cobblestone streets or just watching people go by in its town square is both peaceful and inspiring. Declared a Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999, Cuenca is considered the most beautiful city in the country due to its architecture, surroundings and small town ambiance. The city is crossed by four rivers and surrounded by green valleys. Its inhabitants create some of the finest crafts in the country. Sights to be visited include the blue-domed Cathedral, the flower market and the Cañari and Inca ruins of Pumapungo. We also recommend the Ethnographic and Conceptas Museums, the latter with a fine collection of religious art.

Overnight at Santa Lucia Hotel (4 stars) or Mansion Alcazar Hotel (5 stars). Breakfast included

Day 2: Inca Ruins of Ingapirca
One-and-a-half hours north of Cuenca and passing by small Andean towns and indigenous villages, surrounded by rich agricultural fields is the Inca astronomical observatory and fortress of Ingapirca. This is the most important Inca site in Ecuador, where the Inca and his entourage would rest during trips to this northern part of the Empire. The structure of the Central Temple offers classic Inca architecture: walls formed by square or polygonal blocks, trapezoidal doorways, niches and windows, rectangular rooms and the typical circular highland fortress of that period. After lunch on site we return to Cuenca by mid-afternoon.

Overnight at Santa Lucia Hotel (4 stars) or Mansion Alcazar Hotel (5 stars). Breakfast included

Day 3: El Cajas National Park
About 1 hour outside of Cuenca is the rugged and beautiful El Cajas National Park. With over 200 lakes and ponds of ancient glacial origin, it has a total extension of 28,800 hectares with altitudes ranging from 2500 to 4,500m / 7500 to 14,700 ft above sea level, although most of it is over 3,000m / 9,843 ft above sea level. The National Park is home to hummingbirds, partridges, condors, hawks, spectacle bears, white tail deer, tapir, and many other Andean species that are commonly spotted while we are surrounded by the typical tundra-like environment of the paramo and among amazing geological formations. We return to Cuenca in time to board our late afternoon flight back to Quito and transfer to the hotel.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Mercure Hotel (4 stars). Breakfast included

Our 4 day extensions offer an impressive blend of destinations to fit all travel styles. These range from cloud to rainforest adventures, visits to current artisans and colonial art / archaeology galleries, to tours of indigenous markets and bird-watching paraidses. Get a taste of Ecuador's National Parks, snow covered volcanoes, colonial cities, and different microclimates / ecological niches, great for nature and culture lovers!!

Important: Rates below include 1 hotel night in Quito, 3N/4D at Amazon Lodge of your choice, roundtrip airfare Quito - Coca - Quito and 2 airport transfers for Amazon flight. Please contact us if you require a price quote for the Amazon Lodge only.

5-Star accommodations: $1,023 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $985 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Everyday
* $40 departure surcharge may apply, depending the day of the departure and the lodge of choice

Program Description:

Day 1: Flight to Amazon and 1st day at Lodge
After breakfast you will meet your guide at the hotel and transfer to the airport to board your flight to Coca. Upon arrival you will be met by the lodge guide, after a short ride to the river pier you will start a wonderful experience traveling in a motorized canoe by the Napo river, passing bye small communities of the local population, amazed at the thick vegetation of the river bank and the ability of adults and children to handle dugout canoes in the river. You will reach the lodge early in the afternoon, with a final segment that is part walking through the jungle and part gliding the lakes in a dugout canoe, already listening and discovering the jungle inhabitants. After lunch and a briefing you start exploring the Amazon basin based on your personal selection of desired physical activity level.

Overnight at the lodge of your choice. Full board included.

Day 2: Lodge Adventure Continued...
Breakfast is served early in the morning and soon after we depart to the route designed for your group. Among the activities that you will have are hikes in the primary forest, spotting some of the 600 varieties of birds like tinamous, herons, egrets, ibis, spoonbills, vultures, haws, falcons and all in the company of a naturalist English-speaking guide and a native guide. You will discover medicinal plants, fruits, mammals, insects, different types of monkeys traveling in groups, the almost impossible to spot Sloth and much more. We return to the lodge for lunch and enjoy a good siesta afterwards. By mid afternoon we start another expedition in a dugout canoe with the aim of finding species that live on the lake shore where the lodge is located. This is a great opportunity to see curious howler and spider monkeys, river turtles, the strange looking hoatzins and more.

Overnight at the lodge of your choice. Full board included.

Day 3: Lodge Adventures Continued...
If the morning is sunny and dry we will travel by motorized canoe to the parrot lick, an exposed clay bank where hundreds of brightly colored parrots and macaws perch on and eat the exposed clay. We will also aim to reach the canopy of the primary forest after a hike and an easy walk all the way up to the top of a kapok tree, about 40 meters from its base and the tallest tree in the area. We will have a birds eye view of the forest, to try and spot many different types of birds like parrots, toucans, macaws, falcons, vultures, etc in addition to the great view of the seemingly endless Amazon Basin. At night there will be a dugout canoe ride by the lake shore looking for caimans or also a night walk in the vicinity of the lodge looking for night wildlife like armadillos, bats, owls, etc.

Overnight at the lodge of your choice. Full board included.

Day 4: Departure and Return to Quito
Escorted by the naturalist guide we bid farewell to the lodge crew after an early breakfast. We start our voyage back to Coca in a motorized canoe for a last ride on one of the many tributaries of the mighty Amazon river. Upon arrival at Coca, some 3 hours later, we will board the flight back to Quito where you will arrive around noon. You will meet your guide at the airport terminal and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Mercure Hotel (4 stars). Breakfast & lunch included

Rates include 1 hotel night in Quito and 3 nights at local hacienda

5-Star accommodations: $1,473 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $1,123 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description:

Day 1: Otavalo Market & Cotacachi Village
Just one and a half hours north of Quito, among the lush volcanic highlands, is the village of Otavalo . This land is rich in friendly and colorfully attired indigenous people, historic working haciendas and towering volcanoes with verdant slopes. Our destination is the Otavalo Indian craft market. As we pass into the highlands, we are treated to a sweeping view of Imbabura and Cotacachi Volcanoes, rising above San Pablo Lake. Our first stop is the Otavalo market, famous throughout the Andes for its handicrafts, textiles and tapestries. Then it is on to the village of Peguche for a weaving demonstration, followed by Cotacachi, home to Ecuador's finest leather craftsmen. We will stop by lunch time at one of the local haciendas with a typical Andean ambience and visit local communities in the afternoon.

Overnight at Hacienda Cusin or Hacienda Pinsaqui (4 stars) or La Mirage Spa (5 stars). Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 2: Cuicocha Lake and Peguche Village
After a relaxed breakfast we will go to Cuicocha Lake for a wonderful partial hike around the crater lake or a ride in a motorized canoe to get a closer look at the islets. This will give you the opportunity to see highland hummingbirds and orchids, besides the spectacular Andean scenery. From here we will head to Cotacachi village for some fine leather shopping, followed by a visit to the indigenous weavers of Peguche to witness the ancient back-strap weaving in process. Afterwards we travel South through the Avenue of Volcanoes until we reach the Cotopaxi Area to spend the night at a local Hacienda.

Overnight at Hacienda Hato Verde (4 stars) or San Agustin de Callo (5 stars). Breakfast & dinner included

Day 3: Saquisili Market
Early in the morning we depart the hacienda to enjoy the experience of visiting one of the non tourist indigenous markets in the area. This is a weekly gathering of sellers and buyers coming from the surrounding villages and mountains; your senses will be overwhelmed by the variety of colors, textures, fragrances and noise of a typical Andean market and you will find an incredible variety of fruits, vegetables, roots, grains, herbs, spices, live small and large animals, forage, typical clothing, agricultural tools, traditional prepared foods and more! We will shop for some freshly harvested products and then proceed to a “hands on” Ecuadorian cooking lesson at a local restaurant. In the afternoon we visit Pujilí’s colonial church and a traditional ceramics museum.

Overnight at Hacienda Hato Verde (4 stars) or San Agustin de Callo (5 stars). Breakfast & dinner included

Day 4: Cotopaxi Volcano and National Park
After a relaxed breakfast at the hacienda we will go to nearby Cotopaxi volcano. Standing tall among the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes at 19,348 ft (5,897 m) above sea level, it is the highest active volcano in the world, and home to Cotopaxi National Park. The park offers a tundra-like environment and is surrounded by other volcanoes, both active and extinct. The area offers good hikes with the opportunity to study its geology and flora and offers chances to see local fauna, including wild horses, Andean birds and the possibility of seeing the Andean Condor, the world's largest flying bird. After a relaxed stroll in the region we will return to Quito.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Mercure Hotel (4 stars). Breakfast included

Rates below include 4 hotel nights in Quito

5-Star accommodations: $915 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $765 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description:

Day 1: Quito City Tour & Central Bank Museum
Starting early in the morning we will have time to visit the colonial section of Quito on a walking tour along its cobblestone streets among buildings that date from the 16th to the 19th centuries. We wll also visit Independence Square where the Presidential Palace is located and marvel at the ornate interior of the Baroque/Moorish Church of San Francisco as well as the golden interior of La Compañia church. We will then proceed to the Central Bank Museum, which offers the largest and most complete art collection of the country and has permanent art exhibits - dating from 12.000 BC to the 21st. century - in its different displays like the Archaeology Court, the Gold Court, the Colonial Art Court, Republican and Contemporary exhibitions as well as itinerant ones. If you take this tour on a Monday, we will go to the Guayasamin Museum instead, home of a private pre Columbian and colonial art collection as well as home to the best works of painter Oswaldo Guayasamin found at La Capilla del Hombre. Rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Mercure Hotel (4 stars). Breakfast included

Day 2: Tandayapa Reserve
Just an hour and a half north of Quito stands a primeval cloud forest set in the mountains above the Tandayapa River. Here a North American who used to work in the Monte Verde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica has discovered what could be the birders' paradise of the world. Even without counting the seemingly endless species of hummingbirds who frequent the feeders of this former cow pasture, the list of bird species seen here would rival - and may well surpass - any single location in the world. After a relaxed picnic lunch watching birds, we will continue to an orchid reserve where you will have the opportunity to discover some of the 2,725 species of orchids found in Ecuador. Arrive to Quito late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Mercure Hotel (4 stars). Breakfast included

Day 3: Otavalo, Cotacachi & Peguche
Just one and a half hours north of Quito, among the lush volcanic highlands, is the village of Otavalo . This land is rich in friendly and colorfully attired indigenous people, historic working haciendas and towering volcanoes with verdant slopes. Our destination is the Otavalo Indian craft market. As we pass into the highlands, we are treated to a sweeping view of Imbabura and Cotacachi Volcanoes, rising above San Pablo Lake. Our first stop is the Otavalo market, famous throughout the Andes for its handicrafts, textiles and tapestries. Then it is on to the village of Peguche for a weaving demonstration, followed by Cotacachi, home to Ecuador's finest leather craftsmen. We will stop by lunch time at one of the local haciendas with a typical Andean ambience. Arrive in Quito late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Mercure Hotel (4 stars). Breakfast included

Day 4: Antisana Volcano
We depart from Quito after breakfast and start this tour visiting Antisana volcano and Ecological Reserve. The 90,000 hectares Ecological Reserve is one of the most important sanctuaries for a number of endangered species in the Ecuadorian Andes, home to the magnificent Andean condor, spectacle bear, puma, paramo wolf, ibis, hawks, falcons, Andean gulls, doves and much more. We will reach the plateau close to the snow line passing by impressive remains of the huge lava flows produced by past eruptions of the giant snow covered volcano. The paramo of this reserve is covered by pristine lakes and green farmland. After lunch we return to Quito.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Mercure Hotel (4 stars). Breakfast included

Rates include: 4 nights at Swissotel

5 star accommodations: $964 per person (min 2 guests)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description:

Day 1: Quito City Tour & Central Bank Museum

Starting early in the morning we will have time to visit the colonial section of Quito on a walking tour along its cobblestone streets among buildings that date from the 16th to the 19th centuries. We

Overnight at Swissotel, breakfast included

Day 2: Tandayapa Reserve

Just an hour and a half north of Quito stands a primeval cloud forest set in the mountains above the Tandayapa River. Here a North American who used to work in the Monte Verde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica has discovered what could be the birders

Overnight at Swissotel, breakfast included

Day 3: Otavalo, Cotacachi & Peguche

Just one and a half hours north of Quito among the lush volcanic highlands is the Otavalo village. This land is rich in friendly and colorfully attired indigenous people, historic working haciendas, and towering volcanoes with verdant slopes. Our destination is the Otavalo Indian craft market. As we pass into the highlands, we’re treated to a sweeping view of Imbabura and Cotacachi Volcanoes rising above San Pablo Lake. Our first stop is the Otavalo market, famous throughout the Andes for its handicrafts, textiles and tapestries. Then it is on to the village of Peguche for a weaving demonstration followed by Cotacachi, home to Ecuador’s finest leather craftsmen. Lunch will be served at one of the local haciendas built between the 17th and 18th centuries with a typical Andean ambience. Arrive in Quito late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Swissotel, breakfast included

Day 4: Cotopaxi Volcano

South of Quito, standing tall among the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes' is Cotopaxi. At 19,348 ft (5,897 m) above sea level it is the highest active volcano in the world, and home to Cotopaxi National Park. The park offers a tundra-like environment and is surrounded by other volcanoes both active and extinct. The area offers good hikes with the opportunity to study its geology and flora and chances to see local fauna, including wild horses, Andean birds and the possibility of seeing the Andean Condor, the world's largest flying bird. Lunch is included. After a relaxed stroll in the region we

Overnight at Swissotel, breakfast included

The more time you spend on mainland Ecuador, the more you will learn about what makes Ecuador so attractive. It is the great variety of microclimates, various indigenous nationalities, colonial cities, volcanoes, agricultural fields, white sand natural beaches, rainforest and much, much more. All this combined with first class service & accommodations and exclusive destinations.

Rates below include 1 hotel night in Quito and 4 nights at local hacienda

5-Star accommodations: $1,327 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $1,289 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Mondays only

Program Description:

Day 1 : Baños & Surroundings
We depart from Quito early in the morning and arrive to Baños by lunch time, passing by the beautiful Avenue of Volcanoes. The extreme vertical nature of this region makes for stunning views, but the real eye-catcher is the 16,000-ft (5016-m) erupting Tungurahua volcano. Today we will explore waterfalls, crystal clear rivers and hike or go on a horseback ride around the area. We will be surrounded with spectacular views of the mountains and valleys in an environment ideal for bird watching and orchid-searching in a cloud forest as well as a transitional forest between the highlands and the jungle.

Overnight at Hacienda Manteles (4 stars) or Luna Runtun Spa (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 2 : Baños & Riobamba
After a relaxed breakfast we will go to the small town of Baños, cradled in a deep sub-tropical valley, on the slopes of Tungurahua volcano. This village developed due to its rich agricultural soil, thermal springs and mild temperature throughout the year. The last stop for travelers and settlers of the Ecuadorian Amazon basin, the town became also a commercial center for jungle products and a religious destination for pilgrims. Today we will visit the zoo, the Virgin’s shrine, handcraft stores for beautiful balsa or vegetable ivory figures and hike up to the cross to take a bird's eye look of the town. By mid-afternoon we will continue to Riobamba where we will arrive late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Hosteria Abraspungo or Andaluza. Breakfast & Dinner Included

Day 3 : Devil's Nose Train Ride
Today we have a very early start to get on the roof of the 100 year old train which will take us across the highlands, at low speed, with full view of Chimborazo, Altar and Carihuairazo snow-covered volcanoes. We will pass by agricultural fields and tiny indigenous communities - with their traditional straw-covered huts - as we watch people of the different towns waving to us (the crazy people who chose to ride on top of the train instead of the comfortable interior seats!). Our aim is to reach the "Devil's Nose", going back and forth until we get to the bottom of the gorge and then up the same way. After lunch we return to Riobamba by car.

Overnight at Hosteria Abraspungo or Andaluza. Breakfast & Dinner Included

Day 4 : Guamote Market & Ozogoche Lakes
After a relaxed breakfast we will aim to discover charming tiny local communities and the indigenous market of Guamote, which takes over an entire town with its different plazas or squares. The market offers live animals and forage, potatoes, vegetables, cereals, poultry, guinea pigs, prepared foods, traditional attiress and all this hidden under the red ponchos of sellers and buyers. We continue to Ozogoche lakes (at 4,000 m / 13,000 ft above sea level) to view their mysterious and impressive surroundings. We return to Riobamba early in the afternoon for our second treat of the mysterious Altar volcano with its enticing peaks like “Bishop”, “Nun”, “Canon” and “Friar”, a perfect canvas for the small colonial city below.

Overnight at Hosteria Abraspungo or Andaluza. Breakfast & Dinner Included

Day 5: Chimborazo Volcano and Reserve
We begin the trip by traveling through the "Avenue of Volcanoes" to the snow covered slopes of Chimborazo, an extinct volcano and the highest peak in Ecuador (6,310m / 20,703 ft above sea level), to view the flora and fauna of the Andean paramo. En route we will pass by some of the most outstanding and least traveled routes of the highlands, passing by agricultural fields, tiny indigenous communities with straw-braided huts and llama or sheep herds. Our aim is to reach Carrel Refuge at 4,800 m / 15,749 ft by car and from there take a 30 min. walk to Whymper Refuge at 5,000 m / 16,405 ft. If you you are able to get there, you may brag to your friends about climbing Chimborazo, one of the highest peaks on the planet. We will stop for lunch en route and arrive at Riobamba late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Mercure Hotel (4 stars). Breakfast included

mportant: Rates below include 1 hotel night in Quito, 4N/5D at Amazon Lodge of your choice, (Sacha Lodge, Napo Wildlife Center or La Selva Lodge) roundtrip airfare Quito - Coca - Quito and 2 airport transfers for Amazon flight. Please contact us if you require a price quote for the Amazon Lodge only.

5-Star accommodations: $1,203 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $1,165 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Everyday
* $40 departure surcharge may apply, depending the day of the departure and the lodge of choice

Program Description:

Day 1: Flight to Amazon and 1st day at Lodge
After breakfast you will meet your guide at the hotel and transfer to the airport to board your flight to Coca. Upon arrival you will be met by the lodge guide, after a short ride to the river pier you will start a wonderful experience traveling in a motorized canoe by the Napo river, passing bye small communities of the local population, amazed at the thick vegetation of the river bank and the ability of adults and children to handle dugout canoes in the river. You will reach the lodge early in the afternoon, with a final segment that is part walking through the jungle and part gliding the lakes in a dugout canoe, already listening and discovering the jungle inhabitants. After lunch and a briefing you start exploring the Amazon basin based on your personal selection of desired physical activity level.

Overnight at the lodge of your choice. Full board included.

Day 2: Lodge Adventure Continued...
Breakfast is served early in the morning and soon after we depart to the route designed for your group. Among the activities that you will have are hikes in the primary forest, spotting some of the 600 varieties of birds like tinamous, herons, egrets, ibis, spoonbills, vultures, haws, falcons and all in the company of a naturalist English-speaking guide and a native guide. You will discover medicinal plants, fruits, mammals, insects, different types of monkeys traveling in groups, the almost impossible to spot Sloth and much more. We return to the lodge for lunch and enjoy a good siesta afterwards. By mid afternoon we start another expedition in a dugout canoe with the aim of finding species that live on the lake shore where the lodge is located. This is a great opportunity to see curious howler and spider monkeys, river turtles, the strange looking hoatzins and more.

Overnight at the lodge of your choice. Full board included.

Day 3: Lodge Adventures Continued...
If the morning is sunny and dry we will travel by motorized canoe to the parrot lick, an exposed clay bank where hundreds of brightly colored parrots and macaws perch on and eat the exposed clay. We will also aim to reach the canopy of the primary forest after a hike and an easy walk all the way up to the top of a kapok tree, about 40 meters from its base and the tallest tree in the area. We will have a birds eye view of the forest, to try and spot many different types of birds like parrots, toucans, macaws, falcons, vultures, etc in addition to the great view of the seemingly endless Amazon Basin. At night there will be a dugout canoe ride by the lake shore looking for caimans or also a night walk in the vicinity of the lodge looking for night wildlife like armadillos, bats, owls, etc.

Overnight at the lodge of your choice. Full board included.

Day 4: Lodge Adventures Continued...
Today we will take different paths to explore the forest which may be divided in the same area between flooded forest (in which case we will use dugout canoes) and dry forest. Hopefully we will encounter shy indigenous inhabitants harvesting cassava from their tiny parcels amongst giant trees and thick vegetation. While on this excursion we may learn about their eating habits from our indigenous guide as we keep on looking for more birds or try to identify the tracks that mammals like tapirs, armadillos, honey bears, ocelots or jaguars leave while roaming for food. At night we may enjoy another night walk through the forest

Overnight at the lodge of your choice. Full board included.

Day 5: Departure and Return to Quito
Escorted by the naturalist guide we bid farewell to the lodge crew after an early breakfast. We start our voyage back to Coca in a motorized canoe for a last ride on one of the many tributaries of the mighty Amazon river. Upon arrival at Coca, some 3 hours later, we will board the flight back to Quito where you will arrive around noon. You will meet your guide at the airport terminal and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Mercure Hotel (4 stars). Breakfast & lunch included

Rates include 1 hotel night in Quito, 4 nights at Mantaraya lodge, roundtrip airfare Quito - Manta - Quito and 2 airport transfers.

5-Star accommodations: $1,199 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $1,162 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day (Whale season is from June - December)

Program Description:

Day 1: Montecristi, Puerto Lopez and Salango
We take an early morning flight from Quito to Manta and upon arrival take a transfer by private bus to Machalilla National Park, visiting on the way Montecristi village, to witness the manufacture process of the erroneously named "Panama Hats". Besides hats its inhabitants also produce place mats, beach mats, baskets in different sizes and colours. All these articles produced with the leaf of the Toquilla tree. We follow to Puerto López where Mantaraya Lodge is located. After lunch we visit nearby Salango beach to enjoy some snorkeling.

Overnight at Mantaraya Lodge. Full board included.

Day 2: Isla de la Plata
After an early breakfast we start our trip. About 40 km off the cost of Puerto Lopez is Isla de la Plata, part of Machalilla National Park. The small island is a favourite nesting place for blue footed and Nasca boobies, frigate birds, pelicans and giant albatross. We will walk on trails around the island, swim and snorkel in crystal clear waters off the coral reefs while escorted by playful sea-lions. From June to September this is the best opportunity to see humpback whales and other whale species that come all the way from the Antarctic for mating or delivering their calves. We return back to Puerto Lopez in the afternoon for a late briefing and dinner.

Overnight at Mantaraya Lodge. Full board included.

Day 3: Agua Blanca and Los Frailes beach
Today we will visit Agua Blanca, a small community of about 50 families located 12 km North of Puerto Lopez. The community still lives in a similar way as the Manteño Cultura (800 BC to 1532 AC) . There is a small museum with pre-Columbian ceramics and a special stroll of about 1,5 km to the unique dry forest. Among the bird species that live in the area are the little woodstar, Esmeraldas woodstar and saffron siskin. There are also healthy populations of pale-browned tinamou, gray-cheeked parakeet and ochraceous Attila. All of these species are only found in Ecuador's dry forests and are at risk of extinction. Mammal species include the black howler monkey, white-fronted capuchin, collared peccary and the Sechuran desert fox. We return to the hotel for lunch and in the afternoon enjoy the beautiful Los Frailes beach, perfect for sunbathing or snorkeling in the clear water and white beach. We return to the hotel late in the afternoon for a briefing and dinner.

Overnight at Mantaraya Lodge. Full board included.

Day 4: Ayampe and La Playita
Today we will go to Ayampe River tropical forest, one of the few areas that due to its location and condensation still has a tropical forest. The activities on the forest will take all morning and we wil return to the hotel for lunch. In the afteroon we will visit La Playita beach to go snorkeling or just enjoy some relaxing time at the beach. We are back to Mantaraya Lodge late in the afteroon for our final briefing and dinner.

Overnight at Mantaraya Lodge. Full board included.

Day 5: Salango and Mantaraya Lodge and return to Quito
In the morning we will visit the small museum of Salango which boasts 5,000 years of history and culture. This archaeological museum exhibits mostly jewelry made with spondylus, a giant mollusc that could measure up to 25 cm in diameter and that is harvested mostly on the beaches of Manabi province and traded with other indigenous communities throughout the Andes. After lunch at the lodge depart back to Manta to board our flight back to Quito. We arrive in Quito and transfer to the hotel.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Mercure Hotel (4 stars). Breakfast & lunch included

Alexander Von Humbolt described the Andes of Ecuador as “The Avenue of Volcanoes” due to its 2 main Andean ranges where most of the 35 volcanoes are located. With any of these extensions you will get a glimpse of the unique environments which are not far away one from another. We offer visits to snow covered volcanoes, ancient cultures, thermal springs, waterfalls, lakes, indigenous markets and cloud forests, combined with activities like bird-watching, hiking or horseback riding. We invite you to discover mainland Ecuador.

Rates below include 1 hotel night in Quito, 5 nights at local hacienda or hotel, roundtrip airfare to Cuenca and 2 airport transfers.

5-Star accommodations: $2,177 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $2,069 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Thursday, Friday and Sunday

Program Description:

Day 1 : Cotopaxi Volcano, flora and fauna
South of Quito, standing tall among the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes' is Cotopaxi. At 19,348 ft (5,897 m) above sea level, it is the highest active volcano in the world, and home to Cotopaxi National Park. The park offers a tundra-like environment and is surrounded by other volcanoes both active and extinct. The area offers good hikes with the opportunity to study its geology and flora and chances to see local fauna, including wild horses, Andean birds and the possibility of seeing the Andean Condor, the world's largest flying bird. After a relaxed stroll in the region we will return to Quito. If possible, we will also visit a local indigenous market. We proceed to Baños late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Hacienda Manteles (4 stars) or Luna Runtun Spa (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 2: Baños and Cloud Forest
The town of Baños is cradled in a deep sub-tropical valley. The extreme vertical nature of this region makes for stunning views, but the real eye-catcher is the 16,000-ft (5016-m) erupting Tungurahua volcano. Today we will explore waterfalls, crystal clear rivers, hike or horseback ride with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys in an environment ideal for bird watching and orchid-searching in cloud forest as well as transitional forest between the highlands and the jungle.

Overnight at Hacienda Manteles (4 stars) or Luna Runtun Spa (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 3: Baños and Riobamba
After a relaxed breakfast we will go to the small town of Baños, cradled in a deep sub-tropical valley, on the slopes of Tungurahua volcano, this village developed due to its rich agricultural soil, thermal springs and mild temperature throughout the year. The last stop for travelers and settlers of the Ecuadorian Amazon basin, the town became also a commercial center for jungle products and a religious destination for pilgrims. After lunch we travel to Riobamba, passing by the majestic Chimborazo, an extinct volcano and the highest peak in Ecuador (6,310m / 20,703 ft above sea level), where we can view the flora and fauna of the Andean paramo and one of the most outstanding sceneries of the highlands. We arrive late in the afternoon at Riobamba to spend the night at country inn.

Overnight at Abraspungo or Andaluza. Breakfast and Dinner included

Day 4: Devil's Nose Train & Ingapirca Ruins
Today we have a very early start to get on the roof of the 100 year old train which will take us across the highlands, at low speed, with full view of Chimborazo, Altar and Carihuairazo snow-covered volcanoes. We will pass by agricultural fields and tiny indigenous communities on this train ride. We will then continue our trip passing by small Andean towns and indigenous villages, until we arrive at the Inca astronomical observatory and fortress of Ingapirca. This is the most important Inca site in Ecuador, where the Inca and his entourage would rest during trips to this northern part of the Inca Empire. The structure of the Central Temple offers classic Inca architecture: walls formed by square or polygonal blocks, trapezoidal doorways, niches and windows, rectangular rooms, and the typical circular highland fortress of that period. We arrive at Cuenca late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Santa Lucia Hotel (4 stars) or Mansion Alcazar (5 stars). Breakfast included

Day 5: Cuenca City Tour
Cuenca is ideal for those looking to blend into the relaxed setting of a truly romantic colonial city. A walk along its cobblestone streets or just watching people go by in its town square is both peaceful and inspiring. Declared a Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999, Cuenca is considered the most beautiful city in the country due to its architecture, surroundings and small town ambiance. The city is crossed by four rivers and surrounded by green valleys. Its inhabitants create some of the finest crafts in the country. Sights to be visited include the blue-domed Cathedral, the flower market and the Cañari and Inca ruins of Pumapungo. We also recommend the Ethnographic and Conceptas Museums, the latter with a fine collection of religious art. The hotels here are especially romantic, the best ones are colonial houses built around a central plaza with a fountain, while others look out onto one of the rivers.

Overnight at Santa Lucia Hotel (4 stars) or Mansion Alcazar (5 stars). Breakfast included

Day 6: Gualaceo / Chordeleg Craft Villages and return to Quito
Close to Cuenca, located in enchanted valleys bathed by rivers, there are two particular small towns famous for their craftsmanship where most of the population is dedicated full or part time to the handcraft production. We will have the opportunity to get in direct contact with weavers of Panama hats, ikat shawls, straw baskets, filigree jewelers, embroiderers, pottery manufacturers and much more. We will also visit a local produce market if it is being held on the day we visit these villages. We will return to Cuenca in time to board a late afternoon flight back to Quito. Upon arrival to Quito we transfer to the hotel.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Mercure Hotel (4 stars). Breakfast included

Rates below include 1 hotel night in Quito and 5 nights at local hacienda or hotel

5-Star accommodations: $2,185 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $1,808 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description:

Day 1: Otavalo Market with Peguche & Cotacachi villages
Just one and a half hours north of Quito, among the lush volcanic highlands, is the village of Otavalo . This land is rich in friendly and colorfully attired indigenous people, historic working haciendas and towering volcanoes with verdant slopes. Our destination is the Otavalo Indian craft market. As we pass into the highlands, we are treated to a sweeping view of Imbabura and Cotacachi Volcanoes, rising above San Pablo Lake. Our stop is the Otavalo market, famous throughout the Andes for its handicrafts, textiles and tapestries. We will visit small indigenous communities in the afternoon

Overnight at Hacienda Pinsaqui or Cusin (4 stars) or La Mirage Spa (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 2: Cuicocha Crater Lake & Surrounding Communities
After a relaxed breakfast we will go to Cuicocha Lake for a wonderful partial hike around the crater lake or a ride in a motorized canoe to get a closer look at the islets. This will give you the opportunity to see highland hummingbirds and orchids, besides the spectacular Andean scenery. From here we will head to Cotacachi village for some fine leather shopping, followed by a visit to the indigenous weavers of Peguche to witness the ancient back-strap weaving in process. We stop at lunch time at a colonial hacienda on the shores of San Pablo lake.

Overnight at Hacienda Pinsaqui or Cusin (4 stars) or La Mirage Spa (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 3: Antisana Volcano
We depart from Quito after breakfast and start this tour visiting Antisana volcano and Ecological Reserve. The 90,000 hectares Ecological Reserve is one of the most important sanctuaries for a number of endangered species in the Ecuadorian Andes, home to the magnificent Andean condor, spectacle bear, puma, paramo wolf, ibis, hawks, falcons, Andean gulls, doves and much more. We will reach the plateau close to the snow line passing by impressive remains of the huge lava flows produced by past eruptions of the giant snow covered volcano. The paramo of this reserve is covered by pristine lakes and green farmland. After a picnic lunch we travel to Papallacta Thermal Springs and Spa to enjoy the natural springs and excellent spa service.

Overnight at Termas de Papallacta. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

Day 4: Papallacta Thermal Springs
After breakfast you will have the opportunity for an early hike in the cloud forest and pristine highland moors at walking distance from the hotel, just before you start pampering yourself in this spectacular spa to enjoy the natural springs and excellent service. Located at 10,800 feet above sea level, the Spa has 26 pools with temperatures ranging from 85 to 157°F, while the air temperature is 57°F; the spa also offers facials, massages, baths, reflexology, mud & clay body wrap; aromatic clay body wrap, hydro-massage, herbal bath, massage with pressure water and more. Late in the afternoon we dapart towards Cotopaxi.

Overnight at Hacienda Hato Verde (4 stars) or San Agustin de Callo (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner included.

Day 5: Indigenous Market & Quilotoa Crater Lake
After a relaxed breakfast we visit one of the indigenous markets held throughout the week in the area to experience a non-tourist market. Your senses will be overwhelmed by the variety of colors, textures, fragances and noises of a typical Andean market andyou will find an incredible variety of fruits, vegetables, roots, grains, herbs, spices, small and large animals, clothing and agricultural tools.. Afterwards we head to Quilotoa, a volcano that does not stand out like other volcanoes (as it does not have a cone shape) and its crater rim only raises itself gradually from its surroundings with an average altitude of 3,500 m. The crater itself is filled with alkaline water that gives the lake inside its unique emerald color. Almost the entire outer wall (and even some of the steep inside wall) is used for farming with small fields and pastures, reaching right up to the top. Due to its altitude, the scenery en route to Quilotoa includes other volcanoes like Cotopaxi, Illinizas, Tungurahua, Pichincha, Rumiñahui and on a clear day even the gigantic Chimborazo. Small indigenous communities like Zumbagua and Tigua add the human touch to an impressive scenery of mountain ranges, agricultural fields, llama and sheep herds.

Overnight at Hacienda Hato Verde (4 stars) or San Agustin de Callo (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner included.

Day 6: Cotopaxi Volcano, flora and fauna
After a relaxed breakfast at the hacienda we will go to nearby Cotopaxi volcano. Standing tall among the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes' at 19,348 ft (5,897 m) above sea level, it is the highest active volcano in the world and home to Cotopaxi National Park. The park offers a tundra-like environment and is surrounded by other volcanoes, both active and extinct. The area offers good hikes with the opportunity to study its geology and flora and offers chances to see local fauna, including wild horses, Andean birds and the possibility of seeing the Andean Condor, the world's largest flying bird. After a relaxed stroll in the region we will return to Quito.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Hotel Mercure (4 stars). Breakfast included.

Rates below include 1 hotel night in Quito and 5 nights at local hacienda or hotel

5-Star accommodations: $1,736 per person (based on double occupancy)
4-Star accommodations: $1,553 per person (based on double occupancy)

Departure Days: Every day

Program Description:

Day 1: Otavalo Market with Peguche & Cotacachi villages
Just one and a half hours north of Quito, among the lush volcanic highlands, is the village of Otavalo . This land is rich in friendly and colorfully attired indigenous people, historic working haciendas and towering volcanoes with verdant slopes. Our destination is the Otavalo Indian craft market. As we pass into the highlands, we are treated to a sweeping view of Imbabura and Cotacachi Volcanoes, rising above San Pablo Lake. Our stop is the Otavalo market, famous throughout the Andes for its handicrafts, textiles and tapestries. We will visit small indigenous communities in the afternoon

Overnight at Hacienda Pinsaqui or Cusin (4 stars) or La Mirage Spa (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 2: Cuicocha Crater Lake & Surrounding Communities
After a relaxed breakfast we will go to Cuicocha Lake for a wonderful partial hike around the crater lake or a ride in a motorized canoe to get a closer look at the islets. This will give you the opportunity to see highland hummingbirds and orchids, besides the spectacular Andean scenery. From here we will head to Cotacachi village for some fine leather shopping, followed by a visit to the indigenous weavers of Peguche to witness the ancient back-strap weaving in process. We stop at lunch time at a colonial hacienda on the shores of San Pablo lake.

Overnight at Hacienda Pinsaqui or Cusin (4 stars) or La Mirage Spa (5 stars). Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 3: Antisana Volcano
We depart from Quito after breakfast and start this tour visiting Antisana volcano and Ecological Reserve. The 90,000 hectares Ecological Reserve is one of the most important sanctuaries for a number of endangered species in the Ecuadorian Andes, home to the magnificent Andean condor, spectacle bear, puma, paramo wolf, ibis, hawks, falcons, Andean gulls, doves and much more. We will reach the plateau close to the snow line passing by impressive remains of the huge lava flows produced by past eruptions of the giant snow covered volcano. The paramo of this reserve is covered by pristine lakes and green farmland. After a picnic lunch we travel to Papallacta Thermal Springs and Spa to enjoy the natural springs and excellent spa service.

Overnight at Termas de Papallacta. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

Day 4: Papallacta Thermal Springs
After breakfast you will have the opportunity for an early hike in the cloud forest and pristine highland moors at walking distance from the hotel, just before you start pampering yourself in this spectacular spa to enjoy the natural springs and excellent service. Located at 10,800 feet above sea level, the Spa has 26 pools with temperatures ranging from 85 to 157°F, while the air temperature is 57°F; the spa also offers facials, massages, baths, reflexology, mud & clay body wrap; aromatic clay body wrap, hydro-massage, herbal bath, massage with pressure water and more. We return to Quito late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Hotel Mercure (4 stars). Breakfast included

Day 5: Tandayapa Reserve - A birdwatchers paradise
Just an hour and a half north-east of Quito stands a primeval cloud forest set in the mountains above the Tandayapa River. Here a North American who used to work in the Monte Verde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica has discovered what could be the birders’ paradise of the world. Even without counting the seemingly endless species of hummingbirds who frequent the feeders of this former cow pasture, the list of bird species seen here would rival—and may well surpass—any single location in the world. We then proceed to Sachatamia lodge, to explore different routes of the cloud forest and encounter another variety of birds.

Overnight at Sachatamia Lodge. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 6: Sachatamia and El Pahuma
After a very early breakfast we continue exploring the wonders of the Sachatamia Reserve for the duration of the entire morning. After lunch we return to Quito and en route visit El Pahuma Orchid Reserve, a 650 hectare (approx 1,500 acre) cloud forest reserve located only one hour from Quito.. The lush vegetation is fed by abundant moisture from the mist-laden air and provides home to a multitude of epiphytes (“air plants”) including bromeliads, orchids, mosses and ferns. The astonishing diversity of species that make up the reserve provides limitless enjoyment for visitors interested in orchids, bird watching or simply taking in the sights and sounds of the forests and its three spectacular waterfalls. We arrive at Quito late in the afternoon.

Overnight at Swissotel or Patio Andaluz (5 stars) or Hotel Mercure (4 stars). Breakfast & lunch included