Ecuador, from the Andes to the Amazon: traditions and biodiversity

A day dedicated to visiting the Ecuadorian capital, Quito. The city is nestled on verdant hills and benefits from privileged climatic conditions. Its numerous churches and colonial buildings testify to a long history of struggles and cultural syncretism. From the viewpoints, you will have a breathtaking view of the city. In the heart of its historic center, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, you will discover the Jesuit church of the Company, the cloister of San Francisco and the national cathedral, which are so many gems of Baroque art. This exploration of Quito's streets will also give you an insight into the incredible cultural diversity that the city harbors, in an environment full of life and colors.

More than 1,200 butterflies from over a hundred different species live in the mariposario in Mindo. Varying in size and colors, they will amaze you and this visit will be an opportunity to learn more about their lifestyle, reproduction, as well as their different phases of evolution, from caterpillar to butterfly.

You will also be able to admire the splendid waterfalls of Mindo, thanks to the tarabitas system, small suspended cabins in the air, which get your adrenaline pumping and allow for excellent photography opportunities.

Finally, you will be able to admire the orchids of Mindo at the Orchid Garden, which has more than 400 species. At the national level, there are approximately 4,000 different species, of which 30% are endemic. These surprising flowers greatly contribute to making Équateur a megadiverse country. Present from sea level up to 4,500 meters, they have adapted particularly well to the different Équateur climates.

A small paradise of cloud forest, Mindo lends itself to adventure activities to be carried out in the open air. Here are a few described and all can be booked the day before, upon your arrival or even improvised the same morning:

• Zip-lining (Canopy): over 3000m of cables spread across several lines to fly over the jungle canopy (from ~$10 to $20)

• River tubing: Descend the rapids of the Mindo river sitting on a raft made of large tires tied together (approximately $6).

• Tarzan Swing & Ciclo Canopy: Swing into the void like Tarzan or pedal on a bike suspended above the forest.

Or for those with a sweet tooth: The Chocolate Tour: Visit an artisanal factory (such as Mindo Maya Chocolate or Yumbos) to follow the cacao process from bean to tablet, with tastings and chocotherapy (approximately $7.50 to $10).

The next day, our exploration of Ecuadorian biodiversity continues: at the Hummingbird Garden, you will be able to observe these fascinating little birds, typical of Équateur, which beat their wings between 25 and 80 times per minute!

On Saturday, (and Wednesday) Otavalo comes alive with its famous market, where Quechua Indians, wearing their felt hats and dressed in traditional ponchos, descend from the hills to trade.

All other days of the week, many permanent shops offer a wide range of local crafts. The beating heart of the town is the Plaza de Ponchos, an open-air market that explodes with colors and activities every day of the week.

In the afternoon, transfer a few kilometers from Otavalo, for an excursion around the lagoon of Cuicocha, the slopes of the Cotacachi volcano offer unique natural scenes. Perched at 3100 meters altitude, this crater lake 3km in diameter was born following a volcanic eruption, as were the two islets in its center. One of them, which is said to have the shape of a guinea pig - cuy in Kichwa - gave its name to the lagoon. On a loop of several hours, this highly varied trail allows you to discover very diverse flora and breathtaking views of the Imbabura region.

To experience something truly authentic and understand the cultural richness of the region, you absolutely must visit the workshops in the surrounding villages, mainly Peguche, Agato and Iluman. This is where artisans open their doors to share their ancestral weaving techniques, spinning and natural dyeing.

The Cotopaxi Volcano National Park opens its doors to us! Upon entering, the Andean páramo transports us immediately to another world. We hike on lands of tall grasses spread at the foot of Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano on the planet, whose snow-capped cone reaches 5,897 m. It will not be uncommon to see wild horses on these high plateaus.

This day is dedicated to an in-depth discovery of the Cotopaxi Volcano National Park. At our own pace, we traverse the Andean páramo, this high-altitude steppe with varied flora that extends at the foot of Cotopaxi, whose icy cone reaches 5,897 m.

We ascend by vehicle to the high-altitude parking area, before beginning a foot ascent over the last 200 meters, leading us to the refuge located at 4,800 m.

If weather conditions and desire permit, we have the option to continue to the Cotopaxi glacier, for an immersion into this spectacular glacial landscape.

Visit to the thermal spa city of Baños. Located at 1800 meters altitude in a subtropical area, the city benefits from numerous hot water pools due to its proximity to Tungurahua volcano. In the morning, stroll through tropical fruit plantations. Then enjoy a relaxing bath in the city's thermal springs.
Other outdoor activities are available as optional paid activities: zip-lining, paragliding, horseback riding or mountain biking, rafting, canyoning, bungee jumping, massages, spa, etc.

In the morning, you will head towards the Amazon and take the "Avenue of Waterfalls", along the Pastaza river gorge. The trail crosses a valley dotted with numerous waterfalls, each more surprising than the last, including the famous Pailon del Diablo. The mist that envelops the forest bears witness to the proximity of the Amazon.

Arrival in the afternoon at your lodge situated in the heart of the Amazonian forest.

On this first day of adventure in Ecuadorian Amazon, you will set off on a hike through the tropical forest to admire its amazing biodiversity. The sounds of insects and the cries of monkeys will tickle your ears, while you can observe multicolored parrots above your heads, while remaining watchful for the more discreet animals that will sometimes appear before you…

In the afternoon, at your convenience, you can go to meet a native community to learn about their know-how, traditions and spirituality, visit an animal protection center or even participate in the transformation of cocoa into chocolate.

If you prefer a moment of relaxation, certain spots on the river are conducive to swimming, in complete safety. Canoe rides to observe aquatic fauna, and in particular caimans, are also possible.

Full Day Immersion in the Heart of the Amazon

A full day dedicated to discovering the Amazon rainforest and its inhabitants, at your own pace and according to your interests. You can choose from various activities to explore this exceptional environment from different perspectives:

• Rainforest Hiking: a walk on foot through lush vegetation, toward a viewpoint offering a panoramic view of the canopy, a river suitable for swimming, or a waterfall.

• Canoe Navigation: discovering the forest from the river, to observe nature, fauna and flora from a different angle.

• Visit to Amazoonico: discover this rescue and rehabilitation center for Amazonian wildlife.

• Meeting with a Local Community: participation in their daily activities, discovery of their way of life and sharing special moments with its inhabitants.

• Cultural Immersion: discovery and demonstration of traditions, ancestral know-how and cultural heritage of Amazonian communities.

An authentic and enriching experience to discover the Amazon in a different way, between nature, human encounters and ancestral traditions

Depending on your international flight schedule, last free moments to enjoy the capital, its colonial center, the craft market, the botanical garden, the Wikiri center or its beautiful museums,

Then transfer to Quito international airport.

We hope you had a wonderful stay in Équateur and thank you for your trust in our agency.

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